
At iNNOVATION Insights…We transform our clients' career journeys through the art of storytelling via our consulting, coaching, and career management services.

Have you ever met someone and felt like you had known them forever? That is precisely how I felt during my conversation with Mark Travis Rivera, a remarkable individual whose journey has inspired me deeply. From the moment we connected, I was captivated by his energy, brilliance, and passion for storytelling.
A Creative Powerhouse
Mark is a creative powerhouse who uses storytelling to bridge gaps and foster inclusion. As the founder of The Professional Storyteller, his work transcends boundaries and uplifts voices that often go unheard. Whether through dance, writing, or speaking, Mark’s ability to connect and create is unparalleled. His accolades are impressive: award-winning creative entrepreneur, TEDx speaker, published author, choreographer, and advocate for disability and queer inclusion.
Rising Above Challenges
When I learned about Mark’s journey, I was struck by his unwavering determination. As a Puerto Rican, queer, and disabled man, Mark has faced challenges that could have deterred others. Yet, he chose to rise, defy expectations, and create space for himself and others in ways that inspire meaningful change.
The Marked Dance Project: A Story of Perseverance
One of the most memorable parts of our conversation was hearing about the Marked Dance Project, a company he founded at just 17 years old. He spoke candidly about the hurdles he faced, from receiving hate mail early on to navigating financial and logistical obstacles. Yet, Mark poured his heart into his work, providing opportunities for dancers with disabilities to thrive. Listening to him recount the first time he was paid for a performance—a modest $50 check that he immediately used to treat his team to Frosties at Wendy’s—brought tears to my eyes. It was not about the amount; it was about the validation and joy of being paid to do what he loves.

Taking a Leap of Faith
Mark’s story is one of persistence and faith. He shared how stepping into full-time entrepreneurship was a leap of faith guided by a calling he could not ignore. As he described it, “The very nature of faith is to leap, even when you cannot see the other side.” His honesty about the challenges of entrepreneurship resonated with me. It is not an easy road, but Mark embraces it with grace, determination, and the support of his community.
The Power of Gratitude
Another powerful aspect of Mark’s journey is his dedication to journaling, which he started during the height of the pandemic. He calls it his gratitude journal—a place to reflect on three things he is grateful for daily. This practice, inspired by Oprah, has become a grounding force in his life. I could not agree more when he said, “It is hard to be grateful and anxious simultaneously. Gratitude and joy are linked.”

The Importance of Storytelling
Throughout our conversation, Mark emphasized the importance of storytelling as a form of creative expression and a tool for connection and inclusion. His advice to those wanting to share their story is simple yet profound: “We all have a story worth telling. Knowing what part of your story you are ready to share.”
He offered three filters to guide storytelling:
Have you shared this part of your story with a therapist or trusted confidant?
Have you shared it with the people whose opinions matter most to you?
Does the idea of sharing it publicly cause a shame-storm, or are you at peace with it?
For Mark, storytelling is not just about self-expression but about building bridges. He believes that listening to each other’s stories can help us recognize our shared humanity in a divided world. This sentiment rings true for me and, I am sure, for so many others.

Mark’s Definition of Innovation
As our conversation drew close, I asked Mark how he defines innovation. His response was as poetic as it was insightful: “Innovation is the willingness to create something out of nothing over and over and over again until it works.” Those words have stayed with me, a reminder of the persistence and creativity that define his life and work.
A Source of Inspiration
Mark Travis Rivera’s journey is a testament to the power of resilience, faith, and community. He inspires me not only as a creative professional but also as a human being. I feel so fortunate to have met him and look forward to continuing to learn from his wisdom and brilliance. I encourage you to join his weekly live LinkedIn conversations on THE SHIFT: Stories of Resistance + Resilence by connecting with Mark on LinkedIn and connect with Mark via Instagram and Facebook.

We All Have a Story Worth Telling
To anyone reading this, I encourage you to connect with Mark’s work and let his story remind you of the power within your own. As Mark said so beautifully, “We all have a story worth telling.”
Keep innovating!
Eulanda
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