This Is The Story of How One Storytelling Guru Is Empowering Creators to Build Global Franchises
As the CEO of Starlight Runner Entertainment, Jeff Gomez has revolutionized how stories are told, working on some of the world’s biggest franchises like Avatar, Transformers, and Pirates of the Caribbean. But it’s his work beyond the blockbusters that truly sets him apart.
Jeff believes storytelling is more than an art; it’s a tool to change the world.
His work is proof that your story matters, your perspective matters, and with the right tools, your story can become a catalyst for something much bigger. If you’ve ever doubted the power of your own voice, keep reading. Jeff’s story will not only inspire you but might just give you the push to start changing the world—one narrative at a time.
For those unfamiliar with your work, who is Jeff Gomez and what do you do?
I’m the CEO of Starlight Runner Entertainment, a New York-based studio specializing in transmedia storytelling. Essentially, we develop intellectual properties that operate seamlessly across various platforms—whether it’s movies, video games, novels, or other media. My team and I ensure these universes are coherent and engaging for fans, tracking every narrative thread to maximize impact. We’ve worked on massive franchises like Avatar, Transformers, and Pirates of the Caribbean. More recently, we’ve started advising international clients on creating meaningful, uplifting stories that resonate globally.
You’ve recently worked on notable projects like Ultraman. Can you tell us about that?
Ultraman is an iconic Japanese franchise, but it hasn’t had a significant presence in the U.S. since the 1990s. With the growing interest in Japanese anime and pop culture among American audiences, the timing was perfect for a relaunch. My role has been to bridge cultural gaps between Japan and the U.S., ensuring Ultraman’s message resonates with Western audiences. This includes everything from licensing and merchandising to cultivating a dedicated fanbase. It’s about creating a smooth cultural and creative path for the franchise’s reintroduction.
For creatives developing their intellectual properties, how should they approach building a transmedia universe?
It starts with systemic narrative design. Your story world should function as a system—one with a central flaw that drives conflict and growth. The key is understanding how characters, whether heroes or villains, interact with this flaw. Great transmedia stories aren’t about simply defeating a villain; they’re about addressing a systemic problem that affects the entire world. This creates endless opportunities for storytelling across different platforms, each medium exploring unique aspects of the narrative.
For example, a video game might focus on action and dynamic environments, while a novel delves into a character’s internal struggles. It’s about weaving these pieces together like a puzzle, ensuring they complement each other while standing strong on their own.
You’ve applied your storytelling expertise to real-world challenges, even consulting with governments. How does storytelling contribute to societal change?
Storytelling has always been about survival. Historically, it was a tool for sharing vital knowledge and uniting communities. Today, it’s no different. I’ve worked with governments, NGOs, and coalitions to use narrative design for social good—bridging divides, fostering understanding, and addressing global challenges.
We’ve worked on crisis situations in Mexico, Colombia, and Australia. When people feel isolated or threatened, storytelling can offer a path to empathy and connection. By crafting narratives that reveal shared humanity, we can inspire collective action and improve lives. It’s powerful work, and it reminds me why I fell in love with storytelling in the first place.
What advice do you have for independent creators navigating the world of transmedia storytelling?
First, be excellent at your craft. You must commit to mastery—whether it’s writing, art, or filmmaking. Second, develop a unique perspective. What do you have to say as a result of your personal experiences and feelings? Authenticity resonates. Finally, approach your story world as a multi-perspective narrative. Even your antagonists should have relatable motivations. When every character feels real and justified, your story becomes richer and more engaging.
You often speak about the “Collective Journey.” Can you explain what that means?
The Collective Journey is about the author’s understanding that every character’s perspective must hold some validity, even if it’s flawed or contradictory. Instead of a hero’s journey centered on individual triumph, the Collective Journey explores how a group navigates shared challenges. This approach mirrors real life, where change often requires reconciliation, collaboration and mutual understanding.
In storytelling, this means empathizing with all your characters, even your villains. Why do they feel the way they do? What fears or desires drive their actions? By addressing these questions, you create complex, relatable narratives that reflect the real-world complexities of conflict and resolution. Collective Journey is not about defeating the antagonist, it is about the dynamics of what it takes to fix the system.
What role does storytelling play in bridging political or social divides?
Storytelling is essential for understanding. When we argue, we often focus on what’s right or wrong. But beneath that surface conflict are legitimate feelings—fear, scarcity, helplessness. By addressing these emotions through storytelling, we can foster empathy and build bridges.
The Collective Journey framework helps us see that everyone’s perspective has a story behind it. By acknowledging those stories, we open the door to dialogue and reconciliation. It’s a powerful tool for uniting people in an increasingly divided world.
For aspiring consultants or speakers, what steps can they take to build their careers?
Share your expertise publicly. Write articles, post on platforms like LinkedIn, and engage in discussions about your field. Offer practical, actionable insights rather than just theories. Highlight use cases and examples that illustrate your points.
On social media posts, when you credit and amplify others’ ideas—adding your unique perspective—you not only showcase your expertise but also expand your network. Over time, this consistency builds credibility and attracts opportunities for speaking and consulting.
Jeff Gomez’s work exemplifies the transformative power of storytelling. From reshaping entertainment franchises to fostering global empathy, his systemic narrative approach demonstrates that great stories aren’t just entertainment—they’re tools for change.
Connect with Jeff Gomez at: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeffgomez/
