Empathy + Story + Technology

I believe that human beings are wired for story. That stories have the power to transform, inspire, and move people to action.  To tell those stories well, we must have a deep understanding and respect for the people we’re trying to reach. And with technology, we can tell stories at scope and scale, with soul.

Voltaire Santos Miran wearing a short-sleeve button-up shirt, sitting on a leather couch in a room with dark walls, a framed abstract painting, and wooden decorative panels.

Strategies for the future of education. Stories for the here and now.

For more than 25 years, I’ve stood at the intersection of creative storytelling and institutional strategy. From co-founding and leading mStoner for two decades to driving web and brand strategy and execution as an executive vice president at Carnegie, I’ve focused on helping higher education institutions and other mission-driven organizations find their voice and tell their stories with confidence, clarity, and conviction.

Learn More About Me

  • “Voltaire has an uncanny ability to find the golden kernel in any story, and to identify the turning point in any challenge.”

    —Jess Dennis, Client

  • “Voltaire is an expert storyteller, a teacher at heart, and the kind of leader you wish you could clone and take with you everywhere.”

    —Mallory Willsea, Industry Leader

  • “Voltaire is, hands down, the best presenter of ideas I’ve ever seen. He could take something tedious and deliver it in a way that was smart, clear, and funny. He’s a great storyteller.”

    —Ben Bilow, Creative Director, Isadora Digital Agency

Recent Blog Posts

Featured
Honoring the Story: What We Learn When We Actually Listen
Honoring the Story: What We Learn When We Actually Listen

A recent brand assessment revealed a fascinating disconnect between marketing intent and community reception. Here is what we learned about the power of authentic details when we listened to the people who live the brand.

The Creative Edge: Why I’m Heading to Orlando (and Why You Should Too)
The Creative Edge: Why I’m Heading to Orlando (and Why You Should Too)

Can we scale education without losing its soul? I’m heading to the 2026 Carnegie Conference in Orlando to discuss “The Creative Edge.”

A New Chapter: Returning to My Roots in Web and Brand Strategy
A New Chapter: Returning to My Roots in Web and Brand Strategy

I’m stepping into a new role as EVP of Brand and Web Strategy at Carnegie. Read about my return to client leadership and what this "full circle" moment means for the future.

Strategy. Systems. Story.
Institutions often treat brand, web, and content as separate challenges. In reality, they are parts of a single ecosystem. I help leadership teams connect the dots—combining deep user research and personality science with the rigorous governance needed to build sustainable digital platforms.

Consulting & Expertise

Explore Voltaire's Expertise
Voltaire speaking at the head of the main ballroom for CUPRAP's annual conference.

Speaking Engagements

No Boring Slides. Just Real Talk.
The best presentations aren't lectures — they’re conversations. Whether I am delivering a keynote on the future of higher education or leading a hands-on storytelling workshop, my goal is simple: to leave your audience with more energy than they walked in with.

Ask Voltaire to Speak