Meet Our Team
RANDY
Founder + Chief + Creative Guru
"As a photographer and filmmaker, no matter the walk of life, I am finding that after all of these many years, of tending to my relationship between me and this thing called a camera, that I am driven more and more by the important and inspiring stories of each and every ‘one’. Stories that impact, empower and heal lives. Stories filled with raw, unfiltered truth that are full of compassion, love, hope, wisdom and strength that will punch people in the heart - stories to create positive change and understanding within our world. We are constantly seeing how people are finding community, empowerment, healing and hope through 8 Billion Ones, and it is incredible!
MANDY
Movement Firestarter + Director +
Artist Manager
Once upon a time, I shared my story as part of the Art of Being ME exhibition for Randy and 8 Billion Ones and I knew right then; this movement and this work was powerful and I wanted to be a part of it however I could. And, here we are.
I believe this life is a continuous journey of personal and communal evolution. I love learning what I don’t know, in order to better understand myself and others’ experiences. Storytelling is a gift as old as time and the power of sharing our stories with one another, allows us to truly “see” each other in a way that empowers and transforms our hearts and minds. It is an honor to be in the business of humans and to provide a space for all the unique and beautiful “Ones” to vulnerably share themselves with us, and in turn with the rest of the world.
JODY
Director of Kansas City Chapter +
Story Warrior Extraordinare
"I once read that opportunity starts with a conversation. I can't think of truer words. Our conversations have the opportunity to educate, empower, help heal, warm a heart and create change.. The opportunities are endless. At 8 Billion Ones we want to keep the conversations rolling. We are a You Matter Movement and we believe in the power of ONE. The stories I have helped share have wrecked my heart in a good way. Keep talking and remember your story counts #YOUMATTER."
HEIDI
Merchadiser Tour De Force +
Designer + Board Member
“What is so intriguing and also so powerful to me about the 8 Billion Ones movement is that it actually puts the enormity of the world into a personal, intimate perspective. I find myself becoming more aware and inspired by the, "Ones."
I know that the sharing of my story (my voice) has healed me tremendously and is the reason I celebrate my 16th year of sobriety this year. I also know that those that have come before me who have been willing to share their stories have been invaluable in my recovery. We "Ones," are forming a new tribe, a tribe of inclusiveness, understanding and beauty, all are invited and celebrated.”
OUR BOARD NINJAS + STORY WARRIORS
KRISTA
Story Warrior + Board Member
"What makes you…well, YOU? The one in seven billion, YOU. It is your story. 7 Billion Ones is a platform unlike any other to share your story. One story at a time, the 8 Billion Ones movement is changing lives by illuminating the unique beauty inside each and every person. 7 Billion Ones helped me express one of the most difficult periods of my life into words and portraits and the process changed my life for the better."
AMY JO
Story Editor + Story Warrior + Board Member
"I have always been a believer in the power of storytelling, and I have seen firsthand what it can do over and over again in the time I’ve spent with 8 Billion Ones. My world is wrecked and my perspective changed every time I read a story, attend an event, or help out with a shoot. 7 Billion Ones has created a community full of incredible and beautiful individuals, of both storytellers and listeners, that truly has the power to change lives. I am honored for the part I've been able to play in this movement!"
HANNAH
Story Editor
“I believe in 8B1 because I've witnessed the power of sharing first hand. When I met Randy he told me that everyone has a story to tell and you never know who needs to hear yours. Those words made such an impression on me and have stuck with me as an important reminder. Each and every story I've read on 8B1 has made an impact on me. I'm so grateful for this platform, not only to have the chance to share myself, but to learn from others who have shared as well. I love the way 8B1 is giving people a voice and amplifying those voices to reach as many people as possible.”
MICHELLE
Story Warrior + Board Member
“I am so honored to have been able to be a part of 8 Billion Ones since the very beginning. Seeing the power of story and connection in such a real and tangible way is life-changing in the best way possible.”
MATT
Story Warrior + Board Member
“In a world filled with Snapchat stories and Facebook profiles, it can be challenging to know who someone “really is”! I’ve always tried to listen to people, because eventually they will share what path they’ve taken. Whether homeless or a corporate executive, your life and story do matter. From it’s inception, 8B1’s has given a platform to those who want to share. It’s an honor to be involved in such a life changing movement that empowers healing through testimony, and Hope for those still in life’s battles.“
CAROLINE
Story Warrior + Board Member
"I believe in the power of stories. Releasing our journeys to the world validates that each of us are unique and full of purpose. The 8 Billion Ones Movement not only captures incredible images, it captures the curves and lines of lives lived within the truth of what it is to be human, to love and be loved, to lose, to win and to survive through it all."
MARK
Story Warrior + Board Member
“I’ve seen and experienced the power of 8 Billion Ones to transform and empower real people. It was cathartic for me to tell my story. It helped pick me up. By recounting my story, I was reminded of strength within that I’d forgotten I had. I’m a lot more open to tell my story as a matter of fact. The experience with 8 Billion Ones has definitely made it easier for me to help others in very similar situations.”
MELODY
Story Editor + Story Warrior
“I absolutely love being a part of 8 Billion Ones! Everyone has a story and everyone deserves to be heard. There is no greater gift than to feel loved and know you are valued....no matter your circumstances.”