Pathfinders: The Power of Storytelling
October 10, 2025
When Jeff Lamb launched Pathfinders, he had no idea how quickly the idea would resonate. What started as a seed of inspiration during a chance dinner at a conference has since blossomed into a dynamic platform where professionals from all walks of life share stories that shape industries, careers, and communities. As Pathfinders continues to evolve, it’s become more than just a podcast; it’s a movement that’s reframing how we learn through the timeless art of storytelling.
The Dinner That Sparked a Conversation
The origin of Pathfinders can be traced to an evening that, on the surface, seemed typical—a conference dinner where industry experts gathered to unwind after a day of presentations. But for Jeff, something clicked that night. The conversations were unlike anything he’d heard on stage earlier that day. People were opening up, sharing personal stories about their challenges, triumphs, and the human side of their work.
Jeff recalls the moment vividly: "I learned over that dinner table that story-based learning was more impactful than sitting in a conference and watching technology buttons be pushed." That insight would stick with him and plant the idea for what would later become Pathfinders. It was in those authentic, unscripted moments that Jeff saw the potential for deep learning, where complex ideas became accessible through lived experiences.
The Birth of Pathfinders: A Community for Storytelling
Determined to turn his newfound inspiration into something tangible, Jeff began conceptualizing a platform that could replicate the magic of those dinner conversations. Pathfinders was created as a space for professionals to connect through storytelling, where lessons were learned not through technical demonstrations but through personal narratives that highlight the paths people take in their careers and lives.
"The stories are what connect us," Jeff explains. "I wanted to create a platform where these conversations could happen, where professionals could share their journeys in a way that is both relatable and inspiring."
Why “Pathfinders”?
Choosing the name for the project was a crucial moment in its formation. While walking with his family, Jeff reflected on the work ahead and the vision for the platform. That’s when the name "Pathfinders" hit him.
"I was thinking about how the people I'd met and talked to were guiding others. They were helping to create paths—whether in their careers, industries, or communities. The name 'Pathfinders' just felt right," he recalls. It was more than a name—it was a call to action, an invitation for individuals to lead the way and guide others through their stories.
The Brave Early Pathfinders
The early days of Pathfinders required a leap of faith from both Jeff and the initial participants. The first episode featured Paul Giroux, a professional whom Jeff describes as "living the Pathfinder way in how he works and who he is." It wasn’t just about success; it was about resilience, passion, and the willingness to share the raw and real moments that define a career.
The courage of these early Pathfinders set the tone for what would follow. By sharing their stories, they created a foundation for others to build upon, proving that authentic storytelling could bridge gaps between industries, roles, and backgrounds.
A Movement Takes Shape: The Early Reactions
Pathfinders was initially just a "small idea eating away" at Jeff’s mind, but once it was out in the world, the response was overwhelming. "I feel humbled," Jeff says. "The community's reaction has been more than I could have expected. It’s clear that people are hungry for these kinds of conversations."
The response from listeners, hosts, and guests alike has been heartwarming. Feedback from across the globe poured in, with suggestions, praise, and enthusiasm for what Pathfinders was trying to accomplish. People weren’t just listening—they were participating. The project had struck a chord with professionals eager to engage in meaningful conversations about their work and lives.
Pathfinders Today: Shaping the Future of Learning
As Pathfinders continues to grow, Jeff has maintained a vision that is flexible and community-driven. The platform isn’t just about interviews; it’s about building a community where people can share stories, learn from one another, and find inspiration in the journeys of others. Each episode features a "Pathfinder" host—a seasoned professional—interviewing a guest who shares their personal experiences and insights.
What makes Pathfinders unique is the way it flips the script on traditional professional interviews. Rather than focusing on accomplishments and accolades, the emphasis is on challenges, personal growth, and the human elements that often get overlooked. And at the end of each episode, the guest is asked to look directly into the camera and answer the closing question: "Hi, my name is [guest name], and I want to change the world through the use of [their industry] by [answer]."
This simple yet powerful moment encapsulates the spirit of Pathfinders: it’s not just about sharing knowledge—it’s about showing how each of us can shape the future through our work and passions.
What’s Next for Pathfinders?
Looking ahead, Jeff is focused on expanding Pathfinders, guided by the community itself. "If you're watching or listening, we want to know: What would you like this to become? This is a community project, and the path it takes will be shaped by those who engage with it," Jeff emphasizes.
As the Pathfinders platform evolves, it will continue to tap into the power of storytelling as a tool for growth, connection, and learning. It’s not just a podcast—it’s a community-driven movement aimed at empowering individuals to share their journeys and inspire others.
With plans to explore new verticals, including AI, and ongoing efforts to grow its sponsorships, Pathfinders is poised to become a go-to resource for professionals seeking not just information, but insight. Jeff Lamb’s vision for storytelling-based learning has already made waves, and the future holds even more exciting possibilities for this trailblazing initiative.
One thing is clear: the path ahead is full of opportunity, and Pathfinders is just getting started.