The Next Step Coin: Stories That Save Lives
At The EO Report, we believe talented communicators use their craft to tell stories that matter – stories that create change, stories that endure, and stories that serve the greater good.
Brandon Sanderson understands that responsibility deeply.
Sanderson is one of the most beloved fantasy authors of our time. With more than 70 published books, he has built expansive worlds and a fanbase who always wants more. They dress as his characters. They travel to conventions. They form communities with inside jokes and theories about what’s coming next.
And over time, Sanderson began to notice something else.
As a storyteller and world-builder, Sanderson recognized a responsibility. He understood the power of stories not just to entertain, but to anchor people and give them something to hold onto.
So he chose to act.
At a recent convention, Sanderson shared the story behind years of quiet work that culminated in the unveiling of the Next Step coin – a small token inspired by the worlds he created, meant to be carried in a pocket as a “last line of resort” for those in crisis.
The idea is simple: when someone is in their darkest moment, the coin serves as a reminder to take one more step, hailing to a character who did the same. Coin holders also sign a pledge promising to keep the coin with them in case of an emergency.
The coin directs people to free, accessible mental health resources where they can find immediate support.
And here’s the most powerful part: the Next Step coin is offered for free to anyone who needs it.
Because Sanderson understands community, he also designed the program to sustain itself. Fans who want the coin but don’t personally need it can purchase one, with proceeds helping fund ongoing access for those in crisis. And, fans have been eagerly purchasing the coin.
Stories have power. Sometimes fiction becomes the strongest tether we have to reality. Sometimes stories build communities that quite literally save lives. And sometimes, the worlds we imagine inspire solutions that create lasting change beyond them.
For communicators, that’s an important reminder.
Thank you, Brandon Sanderson, for showing what that looks like.
If you or someone you know is in crisis, please know you are not alone.
In the U.S., dial 988 to contact the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline and speak with a trained counselor right now. Tomorrow needs you.