Brian Forkner
Product & Experience Strategist
River Guide | Map Guy
Whether guiding 0-to-1 strategy for emerging tech platforms and new product experiences or rowing rivers and navigating the backcountry, my core instinct remains the same: understand the goal, read the water, and chart the best line forward. Then, execute.
For nearly three decades, I’ve applied that ethos at the intersection of technology, storytelling, and human experience, helping turn complex ideas into products people understand, use, and value. Over my career, I’ve led platforms used by millions, brought over 25 new products and businesses to market, and helped an AI startup go from seed to Series A.
Before the tech, before the systems, before the growth metrics and optimizations, I was an artist who happened to love maps and the outdoors.
Today, I run Fall Line Studio, a Narrative Cartography practice dedicated to creating hand-illustrated maps that visualize why a place matters – to help people connect with and protect the places worth preserving. I work with conservation and preservation orgs, outfitters, eco-hospitality brands, publishers, and nonprofits. While pursuing this work, I also selectively partner with mission-driven teams that need senior-level product, GTM, and user experience support in physical and digital environments.
What They Say
“Brian’s ability to deliver consistent and measurable results on time and under budget, makes him an essential part of our team. CanvasCamp has grown 30% year-over-year for the last 3 years and Brian has been at the table every step of the way. I rely on Brian for no nonsense, data driven input on the biggest decisions we make as a company as much as his precise execution of technical detail.“
Robyn S. VP Business Development
“Brian is a gifted product leader, designer, and marketing professional. He is also an excellent problem solver. Brian has a calm, “can do” attitude. I am always confident when Brian takes the lead position that the task will be completed on time and more importantly that it will be done right. I have never been disappointed in this regard.
Recently, I worked with Brian on a challenging “startup” initiative. The nature of a startup means people must be willing to take on new tasks that are outside their normal job description. Brian immediately took a leadership and quickly gained the confidence of everyone on the team. Thanks to his great work; the project is on budget, is ahead of schedule and is gaining momentum.”
Tim F. CEO
“I have known and worked with Brian at two different companies over the last nine years in both marketing and product development. I can attest to his breadth and depth of experience. He is exceptionally well-rounded and versed in User Experience, UX Design, Engineering, Marketing Acquisition and Retention Strategies.”
Amy B. President & COO
“Brian came onto my marketing staff 3 years ago. After redesigning our internet presence he was instrumental in dramatically increasing our visibility and conversions across the search engine spectrum. All without the additional expense of buying location and “paying” for hits. Most business owner’s search high and low to find a guy with Brian’s knowledge and experience. Lots of providers say (or wish), they could do what Brian actually does.“
Greg K. Owner