Message Development

What is the essence of what you do? What is the change you want to see in the world? What is the one action you can ask everyone to take? You need short, effective answers to these questions for your members, your clients, your supporters, and the press. I work with you and your key stakeholders to develop the core messages of your campaign and your brand.

Strategic Communications Planning

Knowing what to say doesn’t matter if nobody hears you. With 20 years of experience in journalism, politics, and activism, I can help your organization or campaign develop an effective plan, one which leverages your strengths to reach the audiences key to your goals. Learn how social media, press relations, and paid outreach can combine for an effective campaign.

Writing that Makes an Impact

Sometimes you just need a little help getting your thoughts onto the page. Whether you’re struggling to find the right words, or just need some additional capacity during a busy time, I can deliver effective copy that educates, motivates or captivates. I'll help you determine you goals for a piece and find your voice. I have experience with op-eds, essays, speeches, press releases, social media copy, website copy, donor solicitations, and more.

Media Relations

Strong campaigns that want to build and wield power almost always will need to do press, and press is itself a way to build and wield power. My approach to media relations work is from a campaigner’s perspective. I don’t want to get you into the paper just because we’re checking a box—I want to do it because it serves your campaign or organization. That means smart, targeted pitches that advance your message to the right audiences. With experience in national media, I specialize in supporting small- to mid-sized campaigns, organizations or non-profits that want top-notch service but can’t afford or attract the service of a marquee national firm.

Campaign Planning

Pick an issue, map the power structure, choose a target, know your resources, and finally choose your tactics. Planning an effective social change campaign is not just about passion. It’s about understanding that, as Frederick Douglass said, “power concedes nothing without a demand.” Using methods from Midwest Academy, and with experience as the campaign director of a national social justice organization, I can help you plan and execute an effective grassroots or advocacy campaign.

Media Training

I offer many different levels of media training, covering everything from how to develop your own message and media plan to the best ways to pitch press, give an interview, or conduct a TV appearance.