OVERVIEW

The Curiosity Mobile is a cross-country storytelling project created and hosted by curiosity expert and author Scott Shigeoka.

Too often, the stories we see about America are ones of division and despair—while everyday acts of curiosity, care, and courage go unseen.

That’s why Scott is traveling across the United States: to share hopeful stories of what it looks like to belong, participate, and care for one another. He’ll spotlight people and communities who are building a better country for all. 

As the nation approaches the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence, the Curiosity Mobile invites audiences on social media to engage with a more optimistic and human narrative at a time when such stories are rarely amplified or purposefully drowned out.

This project runs from January to June 2026 and is made possible through a partnership with Visit Philadelphia, in the lead-up to its flagship event, TED Democracy Philadelphia: Founding Futures.

OUR MAIN CREW

I couldn’t do this work alone. I am so grateful for the incredible team that has been hard at work to make all of this possible:

  • Missy Rentz, Lead Project Producer

  • Iylla Jean Dosenbach, Head of Creative

  • Alyxandria Ang, Social Media Manager & Strategist

  • Kate Barranco, Distribution Lead

  • Justin Riestra, Consulting Producer

  • Video Editing Team

    • Victor Dantas

    • Carlos Alcala

    • Elizabeth Linneman

    • Alan McKee

    • Grace Louessa

    • Angelina Sargeant

We are also deeply grateful for the teams at Visit Philadelphia and Perception for their support.

OUR JOURNEY FRIENDS

Scott will have an on-site storyteller at every stop, an inspiring crew of humans that includes:

  • Lauren Ito, poet & research leader

  • Justin Riestra, filmmaker & nurse

  • Missy Rentz, storyteller & producer

  • Kate Barranco, storyteller & futurist

  • Mark Magellan, storyteller and designer

  • Luisa Covaria, artist and creator

Scott is also supported by an incredible group of advisors, including:

  • Sophie Harris, Story Advisor

  • John Zhang, Social Advisor

  • Neil Frauenglass, Creative Advisor

  • Priya Patel, Connections Advisor

  • Mara Abrams, Ecosystem Advisor

  • Laila Minnis, Accounting Advisor

About Us

About Us

Let’s Connect

■

■

Feel free to contact us by filling out this form to discuss any ideas, opportunities, or journey stops you’d like to suggest. We’re excited to get curious with you, and hope to bring the Curiosity Mobile to your community!