"Smith believes firmly in the power of stories to teach, educate, provide guidance and set examples."
—The Grand Rapids Press

"Greg Smith is changing the conversation."
—Prof. Travis West, Western Theological Seminary

"Greg Smith is a wordsmith of the first order."
—Dale Van Steenis, Exec. Dir., Leadership Strategies International


Greg Smith is a prolific writer, editor, and public speaker. More than a storyteller, Greg understands how and why stories work, and how to harness their power for books, brands and businesses.

After growing up in Huntington Beach, California, he graduated from the University of Colorado in Boulder. He has a masters degree from Calvin College, and went on to study marketing at UCLA. Over his career he has worked in the non-profit sector, marketing for technology and architecture firms, and in publishing.

Greg has written, co-authored or edited almost two dozen books, including fiction and non-fiction on subjects as diverse as business management, history, contemporary events and religion. He is in demand as a ghost writer, collaborator and freelance editor. He is the owner and Chief Creative Officer of Black Lake Studio and Press.

Greg lives with his wife and two children in Holland, Michigan.


Greg has always worked simultaneously in the areas of secular business leadership, creative arts, and spiritual faith.

  • Regular speaker at conferences, colleges, and churches across America and in five other countries.
  • Author, collaborator, or editor of almost two dozen books.
  • Currently owner and chief creative officer for Black Lake Studio & Press.
  • Vice president and senior director roles in three corporations, in the areas of marketing and business development.
  • Consulted with US and global clients on messaging, marketing, and business development.
  • Co-founder and part-time teaching pastor at Manna Vintage Faith in Holland, Michigan. Planted two previous churches, holds a Master of Divinity degree.
  • Board member for multiple organizations, including Calvin College, Hope for the Nations, and Student Volunteer Movement 2.
  • Graphic designer with dozens of brands, marketing assets, and book covers in his portfolio.