The Friday Reporter

On the eve of International Women’s Day, The Friday Reporter welcomes Dr. Kathleen McInnis, a leading voice in global security and the director of CSIS’s Smart Women, Smart Power initiative. As a seasoned expert in international security and defense policy, Dr. McInnis brings a unique perspective to the conversation—one that highlights not only the biggest challenges in global affairs but also the essential role of women in shaping policy and national security.Lisa and Dr. McInnis explore the evolving landscape of global threats, the importance of amplifying diverse voices in security and defense, and how her work with Smart Women, Smart Power is creating space for dynamic female leaders in the field. Tune in today! Get full access to Authentically Speaking at thefridayreporter.substack.com/subscribe

Roger Fisk is a global communications and marketing strategist who brings the hard-earned lessons of the Obama and Biden campaigns to private sector challenges around the world.Today, he joins Lisa for a conversation about how a simple volunteer role on a campaign evolved into a distinguished career in politics. As a frequent counterpoint to Lisa’s perspective, these two former staffers swap stories on how their experiences translate to consulting in today’s Washington, D.C.Tune in for insights into Roger’s communications expertise, his global outlook, and a shared appreciation for the district’s top TV booker. Get full access to Authentically Speaking at thefridayreporter.substack.com/subscribe

In this episode of In the Lobby, I sit down with David Castagnetti, a seasoned lobbyist and now advisor for DGA Group with deep expertise in navigating the complexities of government relations and advocacy. David shares his journey into lobbying, the strategies that have helped him succeed and how the industry continues to evolve.We discuss his path to becoming a lobbyist and lessons learned along the way; the shifting landscape of advocacy and government affairs; and how relationships and reputation shape lobbying efforts.David brings a wealth of knowledge and insights into the art of influencing policy — a knowledge base that he now shares with his students at American University — making this a must-listen for anyone in public affairs, government relations, or curious about the behind-the-scenes world of lobbying.We also share a moment about his go-to Italian meal — and a meatball challenge — you can preview that below!Listen now and get an insiders’ perspective on what it truly means to be In the Lobby. Get full access to Authentically Speaking at thefridayreporter.substack.com/subscribe

Today’s guest is Garrett Bess, president and CEO for Two River Pictures. His passion for television and creative has been fueled steadily since his early days of high school.He’s the host and executive producer of, “Bikes to Bites,” a wildly-successful food and travel show — among so many other creative and successful projects in the NY / NJ Metropolitan area and across the globe.Garrett shares insights from the advertising world, the changes he’s seeing in the industry and his own predictions for trends to watch in the future of content creation. His network of experts is unmatched and his vision for successful programming is beyond comparison.Listen in today to meet Garrett Bess and to hear more about the industry that continues to evolve on a nearly hourly basis. Get full access to Authentically Speaking at thefridayreporter.substack.com/subscribe

Jonathan Zaback (with his business partner and best friend, Jay Kolbe) was told that building a public relations practice that would include family office clients could not be done. They’re pleased to have proven the critics wrong. Jonathan credits their experience in the traditional public relations space for seeing an opportunity and building a “best in class” business around it. He’s also highly insightful about the future of PR and shares his wisdom in today’s conversation. His passion for earned media is palpable in today’s conversation — sharing a similar vision with Lisa about how difficult, but critical, it is in today’s media environment. Jonathan also talks frankly about the rapidly changing industry we’ve known for 30 years and how he sees emerging technologies and non-traditional means of communication emerging at the highest rate of speed. Tune in for a lively conversation about the PR industry and meet my friend who proudly advises his clients about building their legacies. Get full access to Authentically Speaking at thefridayreporter.substack.com/subscribe

As Washington, D.C., gears up for a busy inaugural weekend, I’m thrilled to share my conversation with Anita McBride of American University. Throughout her remarkable career, Anita has served three U.S. Presidents in key personnel and management roles, including as Chief of Staff to First Lady Laura Bush.In our discussion, she shares her journey from campaign work to senior leadership, reflecting on the evolving role of the First Lady. Anita has co-authored a collegiate text and written the novel Remember the First Ladies, inspired by Dolley Madison’s iconic words. As a highly sought-after thought leader in this fascinating area of history, her insights are both engaging and enlightening.Join me for a conversation with someone whose career I deeply admire, on a subject that is uniquely and quintessentially American. Get full access to Authentically Speaking at thefridayreporter.substack.com/subscribe

Missy Edwards is one of a few Washington, D.C. locals, brought to town because her dad was also a lobbyist. Influence runs in the family.She credits good fortune for her first job on Capitol Hill, but those that know her know it’s her hard work and good nature that has brought her success. This Senate creature by nature, shares how she frequently “cuts through the noise,” for her clients in policy areas such as tax, energy and financial services. She also offers that a big part of being a lobbyist is assuring the client that everything is going to be ok.Missy Edwards is the Founder and CEO of Missy Edwards Strategies and the very first guest of the new Friday Reporter vertical, “In the Lobby." Get full access to Authentically Speaking at thefridayreporter.substack.com/subscribe

Mark Preston is Vice President of Political & Special Events and Senior Political Analyst for CNN — but that doesn’t even begin to describe his role at the network. He cut his teeth covering the Jon Benet Ramsay case, the Olympic bombing and then decided he needed more excitement — so he came to Washington, D.C. For as good as he is at his work, he spends half of today’s conversation giving credit to those who mentored him, those he learned alongside of, and those he credits for the long list of awards he has earned. Mark Preston’s humor shines through in this winding tale of how we got here — and it’s his self-deprecating humor that keeps everyone around him laughing. Come for the war stories, stay for the lightning round. It’s the first of 2025, and it’s a fun one. Get full access to Authentically Speaking at thefridayreporter.substack.com/subscribe

This week’s Friday Reporter guest is someone who has deeply influenced my appreciation for journalists, the concept behind this podcast, and even my own career. Ron Bonjean, my friend for over 20 years, joins me for a conversation filled with wisdom, humor, and some incredible stories.Ron’s career spans Capitol Hill, where he worked at the highest levels in both the House and the Senate, to advising a cabinet secretary and eventually becoming a successful businessman. Along the way, he earned a reputation in D.C. as the host of a legendary holiday party. In this episode, Ron shares the story behind that iconic event, how it evolved from a frat-style bash to a professional networking phenomenon, and his encounters with some unforgettable B-list celebrities.We also dive into Ron’s insights on success in public affairs, the value of treating others with respect, and—wait for it—his time as the announcer for the Wisconsin County Zoo’s Dolphin Show.Tune in for an inspiring and entertaining episode with one of the best in the business. Get full access to Authentically Speaking at thefridayreporter.substack.com/subscribe

Four years ago I called two reporter colleagues and asked, “if I start a podcast about journalists, would you be a guest?” They said yes and the rest is history.Today I’ve got 175 episodes of conversations with some of the brightest journalists, content creators, authors, communications experts and so many other brilliant guests. Each of which trusted me to ask them questions about themselves. This week, University of Maryland Philip Merrill College of Journalism’s Caley Fox Shannon interviews me. And she doesn’t go easy. Thanks for listening to my show and thanks for being a part of the conversation. Get full access to Authentically Speaking at thefridayreporter.substack.com/subscribe

Shawna Thomas is executive producer for CBS Mornings, an award winning journo and a media superstar. She's also been nominated by dozens to do the Friday Reporter, so this one has been a long time coming. Shawna shares her remarkable stories about breaking into the media herself, her DC-NYC intersections and the grueling and rewarding side of morning television. Tune in today to learn more about this dynamic media pro who firmly believes that, "if the storytelling is good, the people will watch."Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Get full access to Authentically Speaking at thefridayreporter.substack.com/subscribe

Madeline Fetterly is the CEO and Founder of Be the Brand Collective. A DC-based, worldwide company that is partnering with individuals who are ready to take their professional and personal brand and translate it online. To make themselves more visible, to raise their credibility and to open new doors to opportunity. At a time when we're all trying to build and grow and expand our reach, learning from a seasoned professional Madeline and her team is critical to your own personal success. Tune in!Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Get full access to Authentically Speaking at thefridayreporter.substack.com/subscribe

Trust relations is not only a concept April White has embraced in her many columns and high profile speeches -- it's also the name of her own innovative firm built of former journalists with over 300 years experience. She shares the erosion of trust in media, along with the challenges inside of public relations that encouraged her to forge this tremendous alliance of experts. At a time when trust in nearly every pillar of society is being challenged, this is a conversation that felt so needed and appreciated. Thanks to my friend April for coming on the show!Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Get full access to Authentically Speaking at thefridayreporter.substack.com/subscribe

Traci Scott is the author of, "Take off your Hoop Earrings Before Putting on your Gas Mask." It's a story of how a civilian public affairs pro found herself in Iraq during Operation Iraqi Freedom. As an aspiring journalist, Traci was encouraged to reach for the highest goals in her career. It may have come from her own family heritage of service or her own instincts in the competitive field of media, but her desire to serve was one that was insatiable. It's this experience, her remarkable story and her tenacity that has her in a key role in corporate America today. It's her story of resilience that will bring you to the front lines and keep you engaged from start to finish in her remarkable book. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Get full access to Authentically Speaking at thefridayreporter.substack.com/subscribe

Katie Cochran is the founder and host of a new podcast miniseries, "This Election," where she takes on the trauma response we're all having. With guests in the field of psychology, mindfulness, musical therapy and others, each episode gives you a takeaway -- a way to help yourself heal from the trauma that elections and politics have caused. Katie's guests help us understand why we're having the reactions we are having, and gives us some tools to use so we can begin to heal. This Election is a bit of a family affair, in that Katie's own son composed the music for the show. Join me in listening in and easing a bit of the burden that 2024 (and the years leading up to it) have laid on all of our shoulders. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Get full access to Authentically Speaking at thefridayreporter.substack.com/subscribe

Wendy Rabin is Founder and CEO and fashion director at Wrabyn. This beautifully curated business tailors their clients' services to their own unique style and brand -- and they're empowering their clients everyday.Wendy shares her background in strategic communications, her evolution to empowerment through style and her own researching instincts behind her empire. She talks us through the concept of empowered cognition -- the "white coat theory" -- and a dozen other ways to make getting up and out there a breeze.Listen in today to learn more about Wendy and the science behind looking and feeling terrific.Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Get full access to Authentically Speaking at thefridayreporter.substack.com/subscribe

John Booty's pathway to the NFL was by no means direct. He joins the Friday Reporter today to talk about his own unlikely path and his mother's unwavering belief in his abilities.Fast forward to today, John is coach and player for the Congressional Football Game -- wrangling members of Congress in a game of skill against the U.S. Capitol Police. The game is scheduled this year for September 18th at Audi Field in Washington, D.C. Get your tickets today to support this amazing cause!Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Get full access to Authentically Speaking at thefridayreporter.substack.com/subscribe

Dropping in the week of Labor Day to talk with Misty Chally, executive director of the Critical Labor Coalition. With years of Capitol Hill and Washington, D.C. experience, Misty has built an alliance of employers and organizations to advance the importance of labor issues.She shares the importance of bipartisan efforts, the obstacles of political messaging and the power of harnessing the U.S. job market. As a small business owner herself, Misty has built this powerful organization with her own smart and intuitive nature -- one that will only grow this effort even more over time.Drop in today to meet Misty and hear more about where the workers are!Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Get full access to Authentically Speaking at thefridayreporter.substack.com/subscribe

Eleanor Hawkins is communications strategist and writer for Axios after starting her career in politics and communications. It's her early career experience that has delivered her to a place in journalism that reports on the trends and moves inside the world of public relations.As the weekly author of Axios Communicators newsletter, she spends a great deal of time connecting with leaders, brands and employers to demonstrate the impacts of their communications strategies.Dig in today with Lisa to find out more about Eleanor and her must-read newsletter for communicators.Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Get full access to Authentically Speaking at thefridayreporter.substack.com/subscribe

If you've ever been to Capitol Hill, you've likely met today's guest. Mike Johnson got his start as a journalist in a small corner of Illinois, but quickly was recognized as an excellent communicator -- and his D.C. story began.From the White House to Capitol Hill and ultimately K Street, Mike Johnson's experience and understanding of the halls of Congress is unmatched. It's in his newest book, Fixing Congress - Restoring Power to the People -- that he outlines some of what could be restored and what needs to be revamped.Tune in today to hear more about the importance of teaching civics and giving power back to the people.Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Get full access to Authentically Speaking at thefridayreporter.substack.com/subscribe

Wendy Bounds is an award-winning journalist and author of multiple books, including her newest -- Not Too Late: The Power of Pushing Limits at Any Age. She shares the moment she realized she wanted to make a change in her life, the thrill of being an adventure racer and the impact that change had on her new career trajectory.Wendy and Lisa have a fun conversation about aging, exercise and the balance that both together can mean for longevity. With the dialogue around the Olympics being centered on remarkable athletes, we discuss how some are advanced ages for their sport! Keep an eye on this guest, because Wendy is going to be on a podium near you soon -- for Spartan racing among other amazing achievements.Buy a copy of her book and join me in a future Spartan race -- your purchase gets you a free entry!Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Get full access to Authentically Speaking at thefridayreporter.substack.com/subscribe

In a rare and exclusive interview -- today is the day that Christine Gunderson's first published novel -- Friends with Secrets -- is available for purchase!This brand new -- AMAZON FIRST READS choice -- author shares her tales from the carpool line that have now hit the bookshelves with a resounding roar. Christine Gunderson is a former journalist turned flack tells Lisa about her journey to full-fledged published author in today's special episode.Tune in and get your copy today!Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Get full access to Authentically Speaking at thefridayreporter.substack.com/subscribe

Allison Taylor Levine is the founder and CEO of the Local Journalism Initiative and Spotlight Delaware. She has dedicated herself to reinventing local journalism in Delaware, and other states are taking note.Allison talks about local news and information -- as opposed to just news -- because what Spotlight Delaware is committed to getting both news and critical information to their residents. Her point of view is that local news and information is the backbone is democracy and community -- and I agree with her 100%.Learn more about and support Allison's work here -- and tune in today to hear more about non-profit news that's making a huge impact.Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Get full access to Authentically Speaking at thefridayreporter.substack.com/subscribe

Holly Harris is Founder and President of the Network, and oversees all operations, activities, and personnel at the organization.Through the Network, she connects lawmakers to America’s premiere policy experts, fosters bipartisan cooperation on evidence-based solutions, and works with top philanthropists and advocates to create platforms that lift up bold leaders working together on big ideas.Tune in today to hear more about Holly's work and the remarkable leaders she and her organization have identified across the country!Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Get full access to Authentically Speaking at thefridayreporter.substack.com/subscribe

Jodi Schneider went off to college with a law degree in her sights -- but after just one journalism class, her mind was forever changed. Today she is the political news director for Bloomberg TV and Radio -- and she's loving it. From her college years in Madison, WI to Washington, D.C. today - Jodi has been in news markets all across the globe and she's been in every medium that news is made. She says she's had to reinvent herself many times because the news business has changed so much since she got her start. Catch up with Jodi and I as she heads back to the midwest to cover the political convention in Milwaukee. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Get full access to Authentically Speaking at thefridayreporter.substack.com/subscribe

Kim Borchers is the President of Bird Dog Recruiting and Consulting. As she tells her story, it was from her own exit ramp in her career that led her down an unexpected path to public service.She served in two prominent roles in Kansas Governor Sam Brownback's administration and credits that experience to owning her own brilliant placement firm. Her expertise is in identifying and placing high ranking c-level executives in cabinet and senior level posts in Governor's offices.Kim also serves as associate director of civic engagement for the Policy Circle Team and shares the remarkable work of this organization in today's episode. Tune in today to enjoy a mutual appreciation session on state government, public service and home state pride.Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Get full access to Authentically Speaking at thefridayreporter.substack.com/subscribe

Today's guest is a known powerhouse in the public affairs industry and the founder of the Women's Leader Series. Emily Lampkin has been at this for a minute and she's been taking notes.Emily is keenly in tune with the power of the female leader and is proud to have helped elect dozens of females to elected office. It's from this experience that the WLS was born. Emily walks us through the contours of the WLS -- From selling You, to the power of your network. to "going now," Emily shares wisdom and guidance that is otherwise intuitive, but absolutely brilliant.Tune in today to meet Emily and hear more about how her series is building leaders in the United States and across the globe.Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Get full access to Authentically Speaking at thefridayreporter.substack.com/subscribe

Byron Tau joins me today to talk about his new book, Means of Control, and how he evolved from political and influence writer to privacy and data expert. He shares that it's this part of journalism - the ability to be a quick study of a new topic --that is his favorite.With a generous break from journalism and an awareness of distractions, Byron found himself a cabin in upstate New York and dove deep into this writing process. While he was still reporting while authoring this deep dive into data privacy, Bryon says getting away was the best way for him to create. Tune in today to learn more about Byron Tau, his new book, his reporting for NOTUS and his pride in the work being conducted by the Allbritton Journalism Institute. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Get full access to Authentically Speaking at thefridayreporter.substack.com/subscribe

Boathouse President Peter Prodromou previously spent over 15 years helping to build and lead Racepoint Global. His early career started in the newsroom and delivered him into the technology sector where he finds himself cautiously optimistic about the use of artificial intelligence.Peter's vision comes from his vast experience in the world of the Internet and has him advising clients about how people come to consume information and the value of self publishing platforms. He suggests that as AI continues to get rolled out, regulatory guidance must be thoughtful in order to make use of the newest platforms and means for communication sharing.Tune in today to meet Peter and hear more about the work does in the tech space from a public affairs point of view.Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Get full access to Authentically Speaking at thefridayreporter.substack.com/subscribe

Richard Just is managing editor for long form for News of the United States and head of the Albritton Journalism Institute's Admissions process. He joins Lisa today in advance of announcing the second (ever) class for the AJI.With a magazine background, Richard takes us into the process of developing and delivering journalism that is not on the usual breaking news track -- rather at the intersection of news and opinion, as he explains.Tune in today to hear more about his role at this amazing new opportunity for journalism students, their exciting news platform and how they're bringing together seasoned journalists and aspiring ones for a great new venture.Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Get full access to Authentically Speaking at thefridayreporter.substack.com/subscribe

When Kailey Leinz realized her dream to be a ballerina was fleeting, she turned her attention to broadcast journalism, and she hasn't turned back.From her early days at NBC in Charlottesville, VA to a meteoric rise at Bloomberg News, Kailey Leinz is one to watch. Hosting Balance of Power radio (and broadcast online) and BOP in the evenings on Bloomberg TV, this host is fearless in her interviewing of high-power guests.Tune in to hear more about her remarkable journalism journey and her keen sense of the intersection of politics and policy.Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Get full access to Authentically Speaking at thefridayreporter.substack.com/subscribe

Don't miss this week's episode with Brody and Luke Mullins -- two D.C.-native, investigative journalist brothers who teamed up to report on the dynamics of lobbying and it's origins in the nation's capital. These two superstars (one at Wall Street Journal and the other at Politico Magazine) have produced one of the most anticipated books of the year -- illustrating the contours of lobbying through the investigation of the most-known characters in the business.Tune in today to hear how the project came to be, the process of producing this killer book and the difference between reporting and now selling a sure to be best-seller.Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Get full access to Authentically Speaking at thefridayreporter.substack.com/subscribe

Amie Parnes is Senior Correspondent for The Hill newspaper, covering the White House, among many other D.C. and political things. She tells us in this episode that she has always wanted to be a journalist and shares some fun anecdotes about her courage in advocating for herself.Fast forward to 2024 and an abrupt change in her employment situation, it is that same tenacity that has her restored to a top spot at one of the busiest D.C. newsrooms.With three best selling books (co-authored with her colleague) and another on the way, Amie Parnes still finds time to balance work and life in a way that we can all admire.Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Get full access to Authentically Speaking at thefridayreporter.substack.com/subscribe

With an extraordinary career of anticipating trends in marketing, Beth Sidhu is now chief brand and communications officer for Stagwell. She joins Lisa today for a conversation about important trends in business and the culture of sports -- as she plans to deliver a second successful year of Sport Beach at the Cannes Lions International Festival of Creativity.Beth's career has been truly at the intersection of business, news and politics and is well-known inside the beltway as a true visionary. She shares her pathway through media driven events, elevated brand engagement at an authentic level and the power of the digital age at even the youngest generation level.Tune in today to hear more about Beth Sidhu, Sport Beach and her remarkable work at Stagwell.Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Get full access to Authentically Speaking at thefridayreporter.substack.com/subscribe

Will Kinzel is the Founder of Parafossam, a new and booming business inside of Washington, D.C. With a keen insight into running policy campaigns, Will is deciphering Washington, D.C. for private equity clients in a way like no other.Will's experience from inside political committees, top offices inside the U.S. Capitol and high perches inside corporate America have given him a killer instinct and his clients are thriving because of his intuitive nature.Tune in to better understand how government affairs could unlock doors and see around corners for investors long before difficulty arises.Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Get full access to Authentically Speaking at thefridayreporter.substack.com/subscribe

Today's guest is a strategist, an author, a publisher and a podcaster with a passion for making people famous for what they do. Torund Bryhn is the author of "Fame Revolution," and she's captured the essence of today's public life in a way no other author has yet done. Listen in today to hear Torund share wisdom about how to live your own personal brand. Her positive approach to this kind of marketing is inspirational. She insists we're in the golden age of public relations and to hear her tell the story, it's clear we absolutely are. Tune in today!Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Get full access to Authentically Speaking at thefridayreporter.substack.com/subscribe

Jason Blevins from the Colorado Sun tells me he was a ski bum that snuck in the back door to journalism, but anyone that knows this killer journo knows its instinct and grit that makes him a must-follow. After a long tenure at the Denver Post, Blevins took a leap of faith and struck out on his own to build what is now a non-profit publication with a team of great talent.We get into the business of journalism, the thrill of living in the West and the health of the ski industry. Big thanks to my hubs for this recommendation. If you're a skier or just curious about how they cover news in Colorado, drop into this episode and meet a legend.Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Get full access to Authentically Speaking at thefridayreporter.substack.com/subscribe

Maggie Hroncich is a staff reporter for the New York Sun, and to hear her unfold her daily playbook is a complete inspiration. At a time when we're regularly hearing about newsrooms shrinking or disappearing altogether, today's conversation is a hopeful one with a brilliant journalist.Tune in today to learn more about Maggie's journalism path, her focus on trends in local media and how TikTok and other media platforms are quickly becoming pipelines for news coverage.Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Get full access to Authentically Speaking at thefridayreporter.substack.com/subscribe

Emily Hanford is senior producer and correspondent for APM Reports. She's the host of the hit podcast, "Sold a Story," the second most shared show on Apple Podcasts in 2023 and Time Magazine top THREE podcasts of the year joins Lisa today for a conversation reading instruction.Her entire career has been dedicated to public radio -- much to her English degree's surprise -- and has really made a tremendous name for herself. While her hit podcast launched at a time when parents, educators and the world was curious about the effect of the pandemic on today's students, it's proven to be an enduring and sought-after source of information.Tune in to hear her insights and incredible passion for a topic that not only impacts tomorrow's future, but today's everyday.Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Get full access to Authentically Speaking at thefridayreporter.substack.com/subscribe

The National Press Foundation is dedicated to investing in the future of young journalists and my guest today has made this organization a top priority. Amos Snead is the chair of the NPF and also president of D.C. public affairs firm Adfero. Today, he's a guest of the Friday Reporter.As an avid supporter of journalism and communications, Amos famously tells everyone he mentors that we're in the "friend-making business," and it shows. His success in public affairs, his authoring of a smart bipartisan book, "Climbing the Hill," to a publicity platform called, "Famous D.C.," Amos is a well-regarded innovator in D.C.Tune in for this fun conversation today.Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Get full access to Authentically Speaking at thefridayreporter.substack.com/subscribe

Yolanda Brignoni started her career as a journalist in Macon, Georgia, but quickly found that her willingness to help and advocate became her passion. Fast forward a few years to today, she's VP External Affairs & Communications for the Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric AIDS Foundation. (www.pedaids.org).Her passion for advocacy has taken her into and onto some of the most rewarding communications posts and even in corporate communications for a D.C. based news outlet.Yolanda shares her remarkable story, the amazing work she's doing for pediatric AIDS all across the globe and reminds us not to take ourselves too seriously -- and letting curiosity lead us on our journey. Listen in to meet Yolanda and hear more about the Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric AIDS Foundation.Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Get full access to Authentically Speaking at thefridayreporter.substack.com/subscribe

Patrick Wohl is a Washington, D.C. political professional and author of an insightful new book -- Down Ballot, How a Local Campaign Became a National Referendum on Abortion.Today, Lisa and Patrick unpack how an Illinois state primary ignited a national conversation about abortion, while also setting a precedent for counting electoral ballots -- without giving up too much about this smart new book. Patrick also offers a window into the process of writing and having a book published. Tune in today and download your copy of Down Ballot!Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Get full access to Authentically Speaking at thefridayreporter.substack.com/subscribe

Mark Penn is the Chairman and CEO of Stagwell, Inc., but also a best selling author and former advisor to U.S. Presidents, prime ministers and so much more. He joins Lisa today from CES, one of the biggest tech trade shows in the world. Penn shares his early love for polling, the needle corporations must thread in these dicey political times, and even a story about how he almost got tossed out of school early on his political path. At the start of a very busy election season, this conversation was so appreciated and insightful. Tune in together his take on the tech industry, 2024 and so many other topics. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Get full access to Authentically Speaking at thefridayreporter.substack.com/subscribe

Sterling Marchand is partner at Baker Botts law firm and host of "The Lawful Influence Podcast."2024 promises to deliver many stories about campaign finance, so today's guest helps us understand the contours. Sterling Marchand is known in D.C. as a man who can break down the complexities of this issue in a way that all of us can understand. That's why he's chosen to take to the airwaves and host his brand new show -- don't miss this one!!Additionally, Sterling shares his fantastic philanthropic empire -- Be The Good Project -- that he started with his brilliant wife Amber during the pandemic in 2020. Not only should you immediately subscribe to his show, you need to follow and figure out how to help their efforts to help the food insecure in our community.Tune IN!Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Get full access to Authentically Speaking at thefridayreporter.substack.com/subscribe

Tim Murtaugh has served at the highest levels of political communications, as his career encompasses serving as communications director for the Trump 2020 campaign – plus work on statewide campaigns, congressional races, and in senior leadership positions at national political committees.But Tim's path wasn't always easy, as he details in a raw and personal account in his upcoming book, "Swing Hard In Case You Hit It." In today's episode, Tim shares a preview of his own struggles to quit alcohol and his professional rise in the world of political communications for the President of the United States.Listen in today to this remarkable redemption story and the final Friday Reporter episode of 2023.Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Get full access to Authentically Speaking at thefridayreporter.substack.com/subscribe

Evan at a very young age in Mumbai, Sarakshi Rai knew her path was journalism. From watching her father produce a magazine to interning for numerous publications, her passion was pure and has secured her upon a super impressive path.The Hill's Director of Audience and Social Media visits with Lisa today to talk through her own literal journey to the busy news town of Washington, D.C. She shares some insight into successful audience capture and how important it is for her team to take a trail and error approach to success. Listen in today to learn more about the Hill's exciting plans for 2024 election coverage and more.Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Get full access to Authentically Speaking at thefridayreporter.substack.com/subscribe

Today's guest is David Pollack, the host and creator of the David Pollack Radio Show on 94.9 FM /950 AM. https://www.thedavidpollackshow.com/As a Seminole County native, this passionate conservative talk show host uses his voice and his expertise to engage his audience in ways -- and lots of others are following his lead. As an attorney and former candidate for office, David found himself wanting to increase the volume of his own voice and built a show that is turning fast into an empire.David shares tactics such as Twitter Spaces, along with some other tricks he has used to become one of the most sought after voices on the conservative side of the discussion. Join me today to meet David and hear more about his show and his smart approach to engaging conversation with his listeners.Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Get full access to Authentically Speaking at thefridayreporter.substack.com/subscribe

Jade Davis is the co-founder and chief strategy officer for Thornton Buckeye Group in Cleveland, OH. He started the firm with his wife Crystal nearly a decade ago - and has turned his attention to growing this business that is connecting people in state and across the country.As senior vice president at the Port of Cleveland, Jade oversaw public affairs and energy policy while witnessing record economic growth at this important trade port in the U.S. Though a lifetime of hard work and tremendous experience, Jade was proud to bring prosperity back to his hometown community.Jade shares how he got his start in politics from a very young age -- thanks to his parent's commitment to civics and community - worked on super high-level campaigns, the Ohio state house, and landed in D.C. on a critical issue campaign. That's where he saw 39 states and his career path crossed with Lisa's to forge a lifelong friendship.Listen in today to meet Jade Davis and hear more about the exiting things happening in Cleveland, OH and at Thornton Buckeye Group. (www.thorntonbuckeyegroup.com)Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Get full access to Authentically Speaking at thefridayreporter.substack.com/subscribe

Frank Larkin is a national advocate for veterans suicide prevention and traumatic brain injury research. As a former Navy Seal himself with a long and decorated career in the U.S. Secret Service and as U.S. Senate Sergeant at Arms, Frank joins Lisa today to raise awareness for an organization near and dear to his heart.Frank shares his own personal story about the loss of his own son, Ryan, and how the efforts of families affected like his are truly making a difference in how we continue to honor and serve our veterans after their service has concluded.Warrior Call Day is every year on November 12, reminding us all that reaching out and making connections with our friends and family that have served could truly make a difference.Join me for this special episode today -- and learn more about Frank's efforts at www.warriorcall.org.Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Get full access to Authentically Speaking at thefridayreporter.substack.com/subscribe

After several years overseas covering OPEC, landing impossible-to-get guests and breaking news, Annmarie Hordern returned to D.C. for Bloomberg to cover the White House. Her easy and brilliant approach to news coverage is the envy of many of her colleagues and sources.Annmarie's point of view on the difference between international and U.S. news, along with the importance of having a worldview, is an important conversation in today's environment.Tune into today's conversation with the hardest working woman in media.Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Get full access to Authentically Speaking at thefridayreporter.substack.com/subscribe