Stories are powerful tools that can create change in several ways. They can grab people's attention on important issues, make abstract concepts more concrete, shape understanding of events, provide vicarious experiences, increase empathy, and influence norms. Research found that storytelling helped lower blood pressure as much as drug regimens for some patients. Effective stories feature characters audiences relate to, depict consequences of behaviors, and teach knowledge and skills through ongoing storylines. Transmedia stories spread across media can drive behavior change through immersive engagement combined with real world impact.