The Writing Life

I’ve been a marketing executive, creative director, author, speechwriter, and journalist, each role a different embodiment of my ability to build consensus and discover the true heart of the story.

Leading by example, I engage clients and creative teams in a joyful collaborative exchange that generates powerful ideas that change human behavior.

I have defined the vision and created compelling narratives for a host of global brands, including Nike, Starbucks, Virgin, Microsoft, University of Washington, and myriad local and national nonprofits.

But as ol’ Hemingway suggests, “show don’t tell”—so here’s what I create: thought-leadership articles, white papers, case studies, magazine features, viral video campaigns, commercials, websites, video art, blog posts, keynote videos, speeches, technical videos, books, poetry, executive posts, newsletters, video anthems, voice overs, essays, and podcasts.

For a deep dive into my work history, publications, and skills, please peruse my LinkedIn profile.

  • How fortunate we are—Rob Dalton is back in the house!!! I’m bowing as I type! Do that magic again, make a million-dollar company in revenue look like billions on the global fabric!

    —Will Stewart, Executive Chairman, Fiùtur

  • Rob is passionate beyond belief with an admirable, wicked confidence. His imagination is wild yet focused, leaving you in awe of his ability to craft work that pulls your heartstrings or makes you fall off your chair. He is equal parts kind human being and crazy talented artist. If you want fresh perspectives, passion and honesty, Rob's your guy.

    —Maureen Estep, Head of Strategic Initiatives, REI

  • Rob tells stories to win business! A good storyteller can see the big picture and he possesses this skill at a Jedi level. Rob saves money by doing the jobs of four people in 1/4 the time. It's like magic!

    —Colin Redding, International Sales Manager, KLN

  • Rob’s ability to put a creative message around comms delivery while being focused on real impact is second to none. I very much hope we get to work together again!

    —Charlie Morrow​, Global Head of Sustainability, Cognito

  • Rob is a genius at synthesizing lots of different ideas into crisp, creative language. He has helped us with every aspect of our brand and messaging. He is also extremely kind and fun to be around—he lights up a room!

    —Jennifer Kim, VP of Philanthropy, IslandWood

  • Rob​ makes the most complex, piecemeal accounts into an easy​-to​-consume narrative. He is a natural storyteller​, a great person to work with​, and an even better person to just be around.

    —Arun Talwar​, Founder & Director,​ Agency Noir 

  • Rob builds trust, grows relationships, and encourages his team to evolve. If he's on your team, know you will have superior thinking, innovative creative strategies, superb outputs, and outstanding delivery. His storytelling is second to none.

    —Riccardo Zane, Director, Accenture Song  

  • Rob is exactly who I think of when I think about what a creative director should be. He is quirky, fun-loving, vivacious, charismatic, and witty, but he is also passionate about his work and the work of his team. He is a team player who truly believes ideas can come from anywhere.

    —Jessica Larson, Global Director of Brand & Communications, Fluke

  • In many years of working with Rob, his ability to view business problems through a narrative filter—mapping the power of storytelling into new technologies and then executing with stunning spark and genius—became the secret weapon for bowling over client after client. He's what a true Creative should be: smart, gifted, insightful, and so multi-talented it hurts.

    —Robert Holmes, Digital Producer and Strategist, Pinkerton Road

  • Rob shot and edited a beautiful video for IslandWood. Not only was it done in a tight timeline—it also perfectly captured the essence of our "why" and our impact in a highly emotional way. Both staff and supporters loved it! Can't wait to do more together.

    —Rachel Getty Samuelian​, Director of Communications, IslandWood

  • Rob is a brilliant strategist, artful poet, and extraordinary videographer. Best of all, he is a consummate professional—even when he's working pro bono.​ I am proud to say that our capital campaign has been a success and we are now preparing to break ground. As much as anyone, Rob can claim credit for turning this dream into a reality.​ Thank you, Rob!

    —Dean Lierle​, Development Manager, Helpline House

  • Rob is one of the best partners a marketer could ask for - understands the problem, diligent in working with various stakeholders, fast and thorough on edits, and creates magical pieces of content that drive brand awareness. I could not give a higher recommendation. I look forward to working with him again soon! P.S. I should have asked Rob to rewrite this for more significant impact...

    Erika Gammon, VP of Marketing, FLINTpro

“No one ever made a decision because of a number. They need a story.”

—Daniel Kahneman, Nobel Prize-winning psychologist