There had to be a more accessible, efficient, and cost-effective path to creating rich narrative experiences. That realization became the seed that grew into Tiny Ghost Studios. Let's dive in!
By Jenny Holly Hansen | WBN News | May 5, 2025
In the ever-evolving world of storytelling, one startup is on a mission to open doors for authors to enter the dynamic $31 billion interactive story market—without needing to write a single line of code. Meet Tiny Ghost Studios, the brainchild of Mayumi Rollings, Luke Minaker, and Zack Gans—three creatives who first crossed paths at a game studio, united by a passion for stories and a desire to do things differently.
Their inspiration traces back to their work on the award-winning Weirdwood Manor, a beloved interactive story that combined artistry and technology in a way that captured hearts. Though proud of that success, the team knew there had to be a more accessible, efficient, and cost-effective path to creating rich narrative experiences. That realization became the seed that grew into Tiny Ghost Studios.
Reimagining the Future for Authors
Tiny Ghost is not just another tech company—it’s a movement toward financial equity for authors in a traditionally gatekept industry. Their proprietary platform allows published writers to transform their existing scripts into engaging, interactive stories without requiring coding knowledge. Unlike many emerging platforms that rely heavily on generative AI, Tiny Ghost takes a human-first approach.
Their tech doesn’t generate content—it amplifies it. Using a modular “digital Lego” asset system and ethically sourced artwork, they preserve creative integrity while reducing the costs and barriers of entry. This isn’t just a technical solution—it’s a creative empowerment tool.
With royalty rates of 70/30 in favour of authors—dramatically higher than the publishing industry’s standard—Tiny Ghost offers a meaningful path for creators to earn more from their work while reaching new, often younger, digital-native audiences.
Built with Empathy and Intention
Mayumi brings a strong foundation in operational finance, where she’s seen the power of diverse teams firsthand. It’s one reason inclusivity and collaboration are baked into Tiny Ghost’s DNA. From hiring practices to leadership, the team fosters a culture grounded in empathy, curiosity, and adaptability. They look beyond resumes, welcoming individuals with life experience, fresh perspectives, and a willingness to explore uncharted creative territory.
And they walk the talk. Whether it’s welcoming team members’ families into conversations or making room for personal balance and mental health, Tiny Ghost is shaping a workplace that honors both the art and the artist.
Innovation With Heart
Their biggest early challenge? Finding a Chief Technology Officer who understood their vision. Enter Lenka—an industry-experienced technologist whose values aligned perfectly with the team's. With her on board, Tiny Ghost’s prototype began to take shape, drawing enthusiastic feedback from early users who see themselves in the platform—be it dungeon masters animating epic campaigns or death doulas crafting comforting stories of transition.
Tiny Ghost is also making waves in meaningful ways—partnering with Indigenous storytellers to preserve language and culture through interactive media. This approach to growth isn’t just about scaling—it’s about impacting communities, inspiring creators, and conserving identity through digital expression.
What’s Next?
With a North American launch underway and expansion into Asian markets on the horizon, Tiny Ghost Studios is building momentum. Key advisory announcements are coming in May, and early release lists are growing steadily. If their trajectory continues, the next five years could see Tiny Ghost embedded in schools, studios, and storytellers’ homes worldwide.
Because, as Mayumi puts it, “Storytelling is at the foundation of our humanity—it reminds us of who we are.” And with Tiny Ghost Studios, more people than ever can share those stories with the world.
Let’s Keep Talking:
Jenny is a business insurance broker with Waypoint Insurance.
She is also a business development consultant with Impresario Partners, helping Canadian Business expand overseas.
She can be reached at 604-317-6755 or jholly-hansen@wbnn.news. Connect with Jenny on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenny-holly-hansen-365b691b/. Connect with Jenny at BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/jennyhollyhansen.bsky.social
Let’s Meet Up:
Jenny Holly Hansen is a cohost with Chris Sturges of the Langley Impact Networking Group. You are welcome to join us on Thursday’s from 4pm to 6pm at: Sidebar Bar and Grill: 100b - 20018 83A Avenue, Langley, BC V2Y 3R4
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