The Friday Reporter

Jeff Nelligan is a senior exec at the U.S. FDA, but that's not nearly all that keeps him busy. He's the proud author of two great books -- "Four Lessons from My Three Sons, How to Raise Resilient Kids" & "Your Kid's Rebound from Pandemic Lockdowns."With a 7 year old start at politics, donning a clip-on bowtie to campaign for his mom, Jeff prides himself on his careful and considerate approach to parenting and all things political communications. He had an early stint at journalism before taking some tremendous posts in government -- both Administration and Capitol Hill.Dive in today to learn more about Jeff's common sense approach to raising resilient kids and how his political background informed it all. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Get full access to Authentically Speaking at thefridayreporter.substack.com/subscribe

Brad Todd is the co-founder of On Message and co-author of The Great Revolt, but he confessed today that he's also a recovering journalist.Heard weekly on TV and radio, he's offering keen insight into political mindset and voter dispositions. Brad's point of view is sought from both elected and private sector clients alike. He shares his projections on '24, the challenges facing traditional polling and how to make an impact outside of politics -- through philanthropy. His Coach to Cure MD charity is making tremendous strides for Duchenne muscular dystrophy though partnerships with college football coaches.Tune in to hear Brad's point of view on politics, journalism and the importance of giving back.Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Get full access to Authentically Speaking at thefridayreporter.substack.com/subscribe

This week's guest is podcast host and superstar Corey Nathan -- host of Talkin' Politics and Religion Without Killing Each Other.At a time when polarization is at an all-time high, Corey launched and continues to host a super successful podcast with some of the most intriguing and compelling hosts in the U.S. today. His own amazing personal story inspired the concept and it's grown exponentially since then.Tune in to get some great insight about how to talk these tough topics with friends and family, without having to call your lawyer after. Corey is a gem and a new friend and I'm thrilled to share him with you today.Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Get full access to Authentically Speaking at thefridayreporter.substack.com/subscribe

Brooke lee Smith is a beauty creative and makeup artist in the D.C. area, but that doesn't confine her to one coast. Brooke's remarkable work can be seen on the faces of so many media hosts, politicians and D.C. elite -- but also has earned her credits on some of the best known entertainment spaces, as well. Today's conversation focuses on the importance of makeup for public appearances, but homes in on the origins of the craft and why it is imperative. If for no other reason, to avoid any distractions from the message you hope to convey. Brooke is actively working on a book about the psychology of makeup and can be found at www.brookeleesmith.com. Don't miss this fun conversation for tips and tricks to looking flawless. For women and MEN!Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Get full access to Authentically Speaking at thefridayreporter.substack.com/subscribe

Wendy Benjaminson is senior editor at Bloomberg News and shares that journalism is truly a family business. With an impressive pedigree from University of Maryland, Wendy's career has taken her to so many remarkable and interesting news outlets.She shares some of the favorite stories she's covered, the infrastructure of Bloomberg News in D.C., the changes that have come to the newsroom and what it's like to write "the first draft of history."Don't miss this fun episode with a remarkable D.C. journalist -- in the first-ever in studio production. Tune in!Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Get full access to Authentically Speaking at thefridayreporter.substack.com/subscribe

Margo Lilly is a D.C.-based stylist with a clientele that spans the globe. Her childhood love of dressing-up has become a booming business of styling her clients.After three years of joggers and slippers the business world is struggling to figure what it is we should wear. Margo goes through the new rules for women and men (minute 14) so that we can more easily get up and out daily.With a world that is so dominated by images and online personas, it's good to get some insight from someone who knows. (spoiler alert: break out your penny loafers!)Tune in to meet my friend Margo from MargoLillyStylist.com!Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Get full access to Authentically Speaking at thefridayreporter.substack.com/subscribe

Friday Reporter by the Numbers125 episodes12K downloadsPartnered with PR DailyPart of The Big Whig Podcast NetworkSo many new pitches in, guests will continue to be journalists, the news-adjacent and other newsmakers!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 journalist that has been a pioneer in the reporting of climate in America and across the globe. Coral Davenport is the energy and environment policy correspondent for the New York Times and over her career she has seen and advocated for the expansion of this important news coverage.She shares her early interest in journalism -- from travel to possibly foreign correspondent -- to several well-known D.C. publications -- and finally landing at the New York Times. She was once among just a few, but is now joined by nearly 15 journalists that cover the many contours of possibly one of the most important issues of our time.Listen in today to meet Coral and her unique perspectives on climate and energy exploration, while she also offers some hopeful storylines that we ought to follow.Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Get full access to Authentically Speaking at thefridayreporter.substack.com/subscribe

Some deals get made on the golf course, while lots of others get made over a great meal. My public affairs pro friend and colleague Shelley Hymes has seized on the concept and has turned lunch into a podcast. How delicious!With a long and robust career in politics and public affairs, Shelley Hymes delights her podcast guests with a thoughtful set of questions, while also enjoying some of the most amazing meals in Washington, D.C. Hosting a successful podcast of her own, we decided it would be fun to trade hosting and guest opportunities with one another.Listen in today to hear more about Shelley and her fantastic show !Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Get full access to Authentically Speaking at thefridayreporter.substack.com/subscribe

If you've been around me in the last few weeks, you know I'm helping my first kid with college applications. And by help, I mean recruit every single friend and resource I can to figure this out. It's not like when we did this all those years ago.So today is a special edition -- back to school style -- with my friend and counselor Chris Hammer. As the CEO, President and Chief of CMH Tutoring and Consulting, Chris Hammer preps his clients for the SAT, helps them write a killer essay, and (if you're lucky) he also gives you great food recipes and recommendations.If you find yourself in the same college prep predicament, check out my friend Chris' biz at www.linkedin.com/in/ChristopherHammerAnd for those of you that are looking for journo and comms content - regular programming resumes next week!Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Get full access to Authentically Speaking at thefridayreporter.substack.com/subscribe

Jennifer Johnson joins Lisa today for a fresh conversation about lobbying, Capitol Hill and the importance of spelling and grammar - above all else.Jennifer's remarkable dedication to her clients and her causes has delivered a rare legislative win in a divided government - and a tumultuous political environment - and she counts her good reputation and her best practices for that victory.Listen in today to hear more about the behind the scenes of a lobbyist's work and why loyalty to your home state can lead to some of the most remarkable experiences.Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Get full access to Authentically Speaking at thefridayreporter.substack.com/subscribe

Chris Brennan is a political writer and columnist for the Philadelphia Inquirer, authoring his gossipy-style Clout newsletter and breaking down all the news from the Commonwealth. Hat tip to Jonathan Tamari for nominating him!With a long family lineage that heralds from the City of Brotherly Love, Chris Brennan breaks down the nuances of Pennsylvania politics with Lisa for today's episode. With all reports that the road to the White House will run through his state, this political journalism legend is keeping very busy.Luckily, he found thirty minutes to talk about his career, his killer network of pols and his all-time favorite Philadelphia sandwich. Spoiler alert -- it's NOT the cheesesteak. Tune in!Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Get full access to Authentically Speaking at thefridayreporter.substack.com/subscribe

Quite possibly my favorite podcast host, creator and journalist is out with another "must listen" show. The Washington Post's Lillian Cunningham has hosted Presidential (44 episodes a week about each of the U.S. Presidents); Constitutional (timely because we all needed a reminder), Moonrise (about the race to the moon) and now Field Trip (about the National Parks).With 13 years at the Washington Post, Lillian pitched her first show at a time when audio was not nearly as prevalent (making her a quick study on how-to) to a time now when she is joined by a remarkable team of experts in the field of audio production. She tells us today about how Field Trip is a full experience that will deliver you to the beautiful U.S. locations she is featuring.Listen in today to find out more about Lillian Cunningham, her remarkable new podcast that has launched this week! (June 28, 2023), and her career path to podcast magic.Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Get full access to Authentically Speaking at thefridayreporter.substack.com/subscribe

Joe Ruffolo is the senior vice president and general manager for The Hill and NewsNation and after a whole month of meeting his team, our conversation reflects on his vision for their future.With a remarkable career in the news and media business, Joe is focused on the audience and the value their content delivers. Join in today to hear more about his background, his vision for the future and his commitment to this great team of journalists.Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Get full access to Authentically Speaking at thefridayreporter.substack.com/subscribe

Mychael Schnell is a Congressional staff writer for The Hill -- and the fourth episode of the monthly Hill / NewsNation takeover. With just a year under her belt at the publication, Mychael reports that access to sources is "unmatched" on Capitol Hill.From the coverage of the overturning of Roe v Wade to the Speaker election to the debate on the debt ceiling - Mychael Schnell has had a front row seat to history in just a short period of time.With an early interest in journalism, she describes her initial path toward sports journalism as a solid foundation for what is similar in the reporting on politics and policy. Mychael Schnell is already crushing this beat and she's only just begun.Tune in to meet this remarkable journalist!Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Get full access to Authentically Speaking at thefridayreporter.substack.com/subscribe

Ali Bradley is the National Correspondent for NewsNation reporting everyday from the southern border of the U.S. Her early career story is not dissimilar to others in the broadcast space, but the strength she draws from her faith is what guides and grounds her in likely one of the most challenging in the continental U.S.Ali shares the perspective of a border wall -- as a beacon of hope for those coming -- and a symbol of trespass for those guarding. It's a fun and lively conversation with a journalist that is passionate about her work. Listen in today to meet Ali Bradley -- the third of five The Hill / NewsNation June podcast takeovers.Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Get full access to Authentically Speaking at thefridayreporter.substack.com/subscribe

Brian Entin is NewsNation's senior congressional correspondent -- and to hear him tell his story, it's an incredibly busy and meaningful experience.Brian spends much of his weeks traveling from city to city and covering some of the biggest stories in the news. He prides himself on following up on stories after they've broken to continue to follow the impacts. From the murders in Iowa, to the Surfside residential building collapse, to hurricanes and mass shootings -- Brian Entin is covering some of the most emotional and personal stories in the U.S.Tune in today to hear how he approaches these stories, greets naysayers and brings the most important stories of our lifetime into our homes with a style and grace that is unmatched.Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Get full access to Authentically Speaking at thefridayreporter.substack.com/subscribe

Robby Soave and Briahna Joy Gray are the hosts of The Hill TV: Rising. Featuring views from a libertarian and left point of view, these two star political commentators break down the news daily and bring analysis to current events for their viewers.Join me today for the first in a June take-over of The Friday Reporter podcast with Robby and Briahna, learn more about their backgrounds and how they produce this dynamic programming for their viewers everyday.Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Get full access to Authentically Speaking at thefridayreporter.substack.com/subscribe

Alex Rosenwald is the Senior Director of Communications for The Hill Newspaper at a time when the publication is building a media empire. With their Nexstar ownership, they find themselves in a unique place of being omnipresent both on Capitol Hill and across the country. Both in print and on the airwaves.Alex started his career in the radio producing business -- working amongst the strongest brands in the business -- and made his way into the publishing world at an exciting time for media expansion. Now leading the way for the news making team, Alex finds himself advancing The Hill brand in a variety of ways.During today's episode, Alex announces The Hill / NewsNation June Friday Reporter Podcast takeover -- with five episodes dedicated to their talented team of journalists -- and highlights the PR Daily Media Relations Conference coming to D.C. in June 2023.Tune in to meet Alex, hear him break some news and find out more about The Hill Newspaper.Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Get full access to Authentically Speaking at thefridayreporter.substack.com/subscribe

Johanna Maska is the CEO of Global Situation Room -- a multi-coast public affairs agency -- she's also the host of a new podcast called Press Advance and contributor for NewsNation.With a background in journalism and politics, Johanna has spent much of her career advocating for elected officials and those in the journalism space. She finds herself in a position to not only speak into the issues, but also encourage conversations that help to cut through the traditional noise of politics.With another award-winning podcast under her belt (Pod is a Woman), Johanna is excited to reveal her next amazing project on May 22. In today's episode she gives us a preview about the show and the great guests they look forward to sharing with the world.Tune in!Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Get full access to Authentically Speaking at thefridayreporter.substack.com/subscribe

Hoppy Kercheval is the best-known broadcaster in all of West Virginia - and to think he started his career wanting to be a disc jockey!Respect for this remarkable journalist is widely-held and that is why so many heads of state, political candidates, and other newsmakers join Hoppy for his two-hour show. His love and respect for his home state is palpable in his coverage and he treats every guest with the highest level of respect.In fact, Hoppy offers that almost anyone can be interesting, if you listen closely and ask questions based on what they're telling you.Listen in today and meet the voice of West Virginia.Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Get full access to Authentically Speaking at thefridayreporter.substack.com/subscribe

Rich Zeoli hosts a wildly popular, four hour radio show every weekday in Philadelphia -- and he's great at it. With a small team, Rich and his crew have figured out how to make topics easy to digest - both intellectually and literally -- through the use of traditional radio and internet means, along with many other smart tactics. Rich shares his journey to becoming a broadcast star and celebrated author (The Seven Principles of Public Speaking: Proven Methods from a PR Professional) -- while also balancing life and family. You'll want to tune in today to meet Rich Zeoli and hear about how it is he gets it all done. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Get full access to Authentically Speaking at thefridayreporter.substack.com/subscribe

Everyone need a palate cleanser from time to time and that's exactly what today brings us.Dave Sandrowitz is a music lover and a friend -- he's also the DJ and host of Gorgeous Dave's Radio Hour on Fairfax County (Va) public radio. With a lifelong career in tech, Dave is exercising his creative side with the creation of a brand new show (one month new!)Listen in today to a conversation about great music of the 80s and 90s -- and today -- the translation of creating into everyday life and one one man's dream led to a terrific new opportunity for music exposure. He also gives us the playbook for how he got himself started on this new adventure.To hear Dave's show -- link is here --> http://tun.in/sepym1udIrfLGQViUOMFmcI0FLearn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Get full access to Authentically Speaking at thefridayreporter.substack.com/subscribe

Robin Shallow is the founder of Robin Communications and has a tremendous point of view into the world of public relations. With a seasoned career in the world of media (magazines, publishing, etc) - Robin reflects on the changes that have happened in the industry over the course of her time in the space. Today's conversation is between two communications professionals who reflect on the evolution of the public affairs industry, the different kinds of communications bias' that influence client work, and even bit on women in the communications world. Tune in!Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Get full access to Authentically Speaking at thefridayreporter.substack.com/subscribe

Amy Harder is executive editor of Cipher (which means ZERO) a mission-driven news outlet for Breakthrough Energy. With Bill Gates at the head of the organization, Breakthrough Energy’s aim is to inspire the world to develop and scale the critical solutions we need to reach net-zero emissions—so everyone can enjoy affordable, abundant clean energy.And there is no journalist better to lead this remarkable effort than the amazing Amy Harder. With journalism in her sights from an early age, Amy has worked for some of the biggest and well-regarded news outlets in the U.S. She's been at the helm of Cipher since it's beginning and they're only just getting started. Join Lisa today for a conversation with Amy Harder and learn more about Cipher and their mission-based platform. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Get full access to Authentically Speaking at thefridayreporter.substack.com/subscribe

Chris Cannon dreamed - as early as middle school - of a career in broadcast and dedicated his time as an undergrad to achieving that dream. Fast forward through an exciting and character-building 20+ years on air -- Chris Cannon is now the Chief Communications Officer for the Tennessee Department of Labor and Workforce Development. His tenure in the position has seen the state through a global pandemic and into a challenging job market. Chris describes the job as mission-based and tremendously rewarding. Listen in today to a conversation about the details of broadcast life, how much it has changed in just a short time and the ascension to a rewarding and dedicated cause. 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 Andrew Snorton, the founder of Creative Community Solutions, LLC - an exceptional umbrella organization that encompasses education, media and so many other important contributions. Andrew hosts a show in the Atlanta, GA region called The Conversation Corner where he highlights education, business and more -- he's also a four-time published author. His level of creativity is so tremendously admirable and inspiring. He credits the idea for his first book from his experience at the memorial services for Maya Angelou, but that's just the beginning of this amazing story. Join Lisa today to hear about Andrew Snorton and his journey through the creative process and with a keen eye for interesting content - always. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Get full access to Authentically Speaking at thefridayreporter.substack.com/subscribe

Bloomberg's Washington Correspondent Joe Mathieu found his love for broadcast in his teenage years -- and it shows in the work he does everyday. Joining Lisa today, Joe shares how his award-winning career in local journalism informs what he does on the national stage. With an audience that is business-focused -- and maybe less interested in political theatrics -- Joe likes to deliver a Sound On playbook that catches us up on Washington and all that comes with it. Joe highlights some of the biggest stories he's covered, while also revealing a knack for guitar and sommelier-level wine knowledge. Listen in today to meet Joe Mathieu and hear more about the relaunch of Balance of Power (with his amazing co-host) starting March 13. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Get full access to Authentically Speaking at thefridayreporter.substack.com/subscribe

Too many years ago to count, Lisa was introduced to her political counterpart and today's guest in the television green room -- Karen Finney. Let's just say, Lisa is better for the experience of working with Karen, because of how enjoyable it was to spar on the issues of the day.Today, Karen is a CNN political commentator, an advisor to democratic women candidates and both a public affairs and crisis communications expert. Her experience spans several Presidential campaigns, U.S. Senate races and so many others. Karen is known for her keen sense of politics and history, while also being a fair and diplomatic commentator. She shares lots of terrific points of view on politics in today's episode, while also sharing a deeply personal story about her health and the road to recovery. Tune in today to meet Karen Finney.Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Get full access to Authentically Speaking at thefridayreporter.substack.com/subscribe

Reed Albergotti is the tech editor at Semafor -- another new and dynamic news outlet in town --and it sounds like his beat is as exciting as the industry he covers. Having covered tech for over a decade, Reed finds himself today at Semafor delivering scoops on AI and trends in the tech industry -- while also offering his view on why it matters. In a news era where every other social platform is laden with opinions, it's a privilege to see transparent analysis like this come through. Reed authored a co-authored a book on Lance Armstrong and doping in the Tour de France and even found himself developing a sports page for the Wall Street Journal in a previous reporting gig. This was such a fun conversation with a dynamite journo in the tech space. Drop in to meet Reed and hear more about Semafor today!Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Get full access to Authentically Speaking at thefridayreporter.substack.com/subscribe

Olivia Morley is the Senior Agencies Reporter for AdWeek and no journalist has ever made pitching her easier -- at least from the limited research the FR Podcast has conducted. With a background in agency work, agency research and agency trends, Olivia Morley tells us she has always wanted to be a journalist -- and that her job today is the one she's always wanted. What sets Olivia aside from other journos is her specific instructions for PR specialists on what she covers. And if it's campaigns you're pitching, she's only covering the biggest one of the year -- the Super Bowl. So this episode won't cost you $8 mil for a single listen, but on the day after the big game -- and the big ads -- you might want to know more about trends in the ad industry from Olivia's point of view. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Get full access to Authentically Speaking at thefridayreporter.substack.com/subscribe

Episode two of the New Pubs series is with the insightful and smart Tara Palmeri from Puck News. If you ask Tara what kinds of stories she's covering, she cares most about what insiders and journos are talking about AFTER the news of the day is reported -- in other words, what's the hot topic at happy hour. And so far, her reporting is hitting the mark. Not only has she captured those stories, but is also driving THE topics of happy hour. In addition to a terrific career in broadcast, print and podcasting, Tara is also super proud of her more recent documentary on the Edgewood experiments. Listen in today to hear more about Tara's great new work as senior political correspondent and partner at Puck.Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Get full access to Authentically Speaking at thefridayreporter.substack.com/subscribe

Kicking off a new set of conversations this month with some great new publications. Today's conversation is with Leah Askarinam who is the senior editor for Grid. With stints at the New York Times, the Hotline, Inside Elections and The Atlantic, this reporter turned editor has a deep knowledge base of the hundreds of congressional districts and political contours of the United States. Leah's oversight for this new publication on the street keeps an eye on politics, policy and the economy -- and does a great job of finding the intersection between this and all of the various verticals of their new publication.Tune in today to meet Leah and learn more about Grid!Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Get full access to Authentically Speaking at thefridayreporter.substack.com/subscribe

When asked how she got where she is today, Contessa Brewer gives a lot of credit to being in the right place at the right time. What we also know about this award-winning journalist is that hard work had to play a role. Contessa Brewer is now a CNBC correspondent covering major news events -- with a special attention on gaming, casinos and insurance -- but has had a long and remarkable journey. She shares the differences between reporting in small news markets to national news platforms, while also sharing the differences between hosting her own show to being in her role today. With a busy career, Contessa dedicates her spare time to philanthropy for Saving Mothers and the complicated balance of raising twin boys. Tune in to learn more about this amazing female broadcaster in the series! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Get full access to Authentically Speaking at thefridayreporter.substack.com/subscribe

As FOX News co-anchor of America's News Room and co-host of The Five, Dana Perino credits her career in public service and politics to where she is today. Those of us that know her, know that it also took a great deal of hard work and dedication. At an early age, Dana's father asked her to choose two news articles daily that she would report on before dinner. She reports that her family was very news oriented and perhaps that led her to analyze and evaluate situations so well that lawmakers, thought leaders and even the President of the United States to value her point of view. With a passion for news and current events, Dana is also a voracious reader, dog lover and mentor to young women in politics. Listen in today to learn more about the best read woman in the room -- Dana Perino. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Get full access to Authentically Speaking at thefridayreporter.substack.com/subscribe

Starting off the New Year with a series of female broadcasters -- first up is my dearest friend, Jeanette Hoffman, president of Marathon Public Affairs and political correspondent for MY9 New Jersey NOW. Jeanette's career started in the New Jersey state house -- in the same office that John Stewart got his start -- and she has risen to the highest ranks of public affairs. Both New Jersey and national organizations seek her out for her smart guidance and support, while she remains one of the top GOP political correspondents in the state. Tune in today to meet this mega star, political guru and college friend TODAY!!Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Get full access to Authentically Speaking at thefridayreporter.substack.com/subscribe

Dan Kois is writer, editor and podcaster for Slate. With a beat that includes his interests and passions and a sense of humor about it all, Dan has been nominated numerous times for awards in the journalism space. It was his recent piece on accepting every PR pitch he got in a day that drew Lisa to contact him - https://slate.com/human-interest/2022/11/pr-publicist-emails-journalism-oof.html. Dan offers some insight into how journalists receive pitches, how often they're not relevant, and how being fully transparent about his PR Day of Yes led to some publicists diving right in -- while others simply ghosted the opportunity. Tune in to hear more about Dan and his work. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Get full access to Authentically Speaking at thefridayreporter.substack.com/subscribe

As is the challenge in today's media landscape, today's guest has separated from CNN since our pre-recorded conversation.That aside, Chris Cillizza is among the busiest journalists in the political media business. With a podcast, a YouTube show, a nightly newsletter and weekday briefs as his charge in his previous day job -- Chris reports that the way he has found time to also author his forth-coming book, is through daily writing. Five hundred words daily make delivering an over 70,000 word product (his book) in a more manageable way. Listen in to today's conversation to learn more about how his passion for politics and the importance of reporting has brought Chris Cillizza to some of the best known news outlets in D.C. (and the globe!)Tune In. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Get full access to Authentically Speaking at thefridayreporter.substack.com/subscribe

Simone Sebastian is the Editorial Director for Capital B - the newest Black News Nonprofit in the media world. This groundbreaking news outlet came from a vision shared by its founders -- and delivers news to it's supporters and black audiences throughout the U.S. and across the globe. Simone started her career in the traditional newsroom -- writing her first piece for the Detroit Free Press at just 17 years old -- and jokes that it's those vintage news styles that has brought her to modern news delivery. With verticals in climate, education, health and criminal justice -- Simone's team at Capital B is reporting about the issues with which they know Black America is incredibly engaged. She is based in Atlanta, Ga., but the reach of Capital B is online and everywhere. Listen in today to meet Simone and find out more about their year-old news organization.And get on over to their site and support this tremendous news effort -- https://checkout.fundjournalism.org/memberform?org_id=capitalbnews&campaign=7018Y000001a3D4QAILearn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Get full access to Authentically Speaking at thefridayreporter.substack.com/subscribe

How many books does the books editor at Vulture read a week? You'll have to listen in today to hear from Maris Kreizman to find out for sure. In today's episode, Lisa visits with her childhood friend and host of The Maris Review, who has some insightful reflection on the power of free speech. With as many remarkable books in publication, it takes publicists knowing Maris' preference to get her attention about a new read -- much like a good PR person has to know who to pitch to land the story. Maris is a brilliant creative mind, a published author, a karaoke fan and mom to a 15 year old pug named Bizzy. Listen in today to learn more about the world of publishing, books and the amazing Maris Kreizman. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Get full access to Authentically Speaking at thefridayreporter.substack.com/subscribe

Chelsea Janes is the national baseball writer for the Washington Post. Fresh off the road from the World Series and onto the next season of baseball, Chelsea generously found time for an episode today. This college athlete found herself lucky enough to step in and write for the college news -- and realized quickly that it could be her career path. Fast forward to today, this star journalist finds herself among just a few women writing about the national pastime -- at the absolute highest level of the sport. Chelsea walks us through the time she covered the 2020 presidential campaign for the Post and how the differences between the two beats are really not terribly different. But in a week when we're desperate to chat about anything other than Election Day, this episode with Chelsea serves as a needed palate cleanser. Listen in today to learn more about this superstar!Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Get full access to Authentically Speaking at thefridayreporter.substack.com/subscribe

Kerry Flynn is Axios' Media Deals Reporter and she is one busy journo. Kerry's beat spans the entire world of content -- from media to publishing to streaming -- if you're consuming it, she's covering it. And like the rest of us, Kerry is not only consuming this content for her day job, she's making it part of her hobbies and her free time. In fact, during this conversation we realize that even her Peloton could be considered media. Join me today for a very fun conversation with a reporter who clearly loves the work she does every day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Get full access to Authentically Speaking at thefridayreporter.substack.com/subscribe

Matt Friedman much prefers to dive deep into campaign finance details in his reporting these days -- likely because New Jerseyans spend their lives being hit up with campaign pitches and endless spin. This very Jersey episode will help you understand that it's not midterm elections that we care about -- it's the state races next year that really matter. Matt Friedman is an Empire State guy who actively chose to cover the Garden State after watching Jersey City politics up close. He is now the author of Politico's New Jersey Playbook and nobody knows the ins and the outs more than him. Jump in today to get a sense of how things unfold in this super political state, and understand why these national races are just a precursor to the big year next year. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Get full access to Authentically Speaking at thefridayreporter.substack.com/subscribe

It's not by accident that Lisa invited Kate Davis from Fast Company to join the podcast today. The work that Kate and her team and generating are speaking to those of us in the workplace -- as if they're reading our minds. Kate is the Deputy Editor for Fast Company, along with hosting their weekly -- and ever evolving -- podcast platform. Additionally, Kate is the supervising editor for all Fast Company podcast -- including Creative Control, Most Innovative Companies, and World Changing Ideas. During today's episode, Kate tells us about Ambition Diaries, which is a miniseries about the approach to work life from mothers and daughters with varied backgrounds. It's a must-listen and a fascinating project for all of us to digest. What was once a beat about productivity, her focus centers on balance and wellness at a time when we all need more. Join today's conversation to hear more about the great work that Kate and her team at Fast Company are doing. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Get full access to Authentically Speaking at thefridayreporter.substack.com/subscribe

Today's episode catches Politico's Josh Siegel in between podcast interviews and reporting on the latest news from OPEC. With energy and environment on the agenda for the Congress and the White House, there is never a dull moment for Josh. This Chicago sports fanatic started off with a dream to cover this faves, but quickly moved onto scanning police blotters in Fort Myers, Fla. and moving way up the coast to Washington, D.C. Today Josh hosts the Politico Energy podcast where he regularly interviews -- or is interviewed -- about the rough and tumble beat that is energy and the environment. Josh shares his interest in the evolution of Republican positions on climate change, the D.C. food scene and his love of 90's hip hop and R&B. Listen in today!Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Get full access to Authentically Speaking at thefridayreporter.substack.com/subscribe

Scott Jennings just celebrated his fifth year as a CNN commentator -- offering a thoughtful, conservative point of view in an otherwise chaotic time. As a columnist for CNN.com, USA Today, LA Times and others, Scott is frequently asked for his point of view from a conservative perspective. While he often consumes the viewpoints of others, his process brings him back to reflection and thought that then turn into his careful commentary. With a background in journalism, Scott spent several years working for President George W. Bush both on the campaign and in the White House. That experience brings him to his very reasonable and measured delivery both on television and in print. Listen in today to meet my friend and colleague Scott Jennings.Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Get full access to Authentically Speaking at thefridayreporter.substack.com/subscribe

Reid Wilson has spent his career covering states and their importance to the foundation of federal governance. Today is the first ever repeat guest on the podcast -- because Reid is embarking on a new venture that shines a light on state governments, the importance of their work and the relevance they have in what the Congress ultimately does for the country.It's in the states that the work is done -- to assure that the feds can effect change. And that is why the work that Reid and his team will do is so critically important to the United States. Listen in to hear about Pluribus News!Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Get full access to Authentically Speaking at thefridayreporter.substack.com/subscribe

Jim Tankersley shares with Lisa about how his journalism career started and he recounts an early editorial assignment from middle school. When asked to defend something he believed in, Jim chose to defend the right to wear a baseball cap -- and his challenge of authority led to a meeting with the principal -- and a career was born. Today, Jim Tankersley is a White House correspondent for the New York Times keeping authority at the highest levels in check. Jim is most known for being a story teller and seeks out the real stories of Americans to illustrate complex economic issues. Proudly having authored The Riches of this Land -- his book released moments before the world shut down in 2020 -- Jim shares the challenges of reporting while also writing a book. Jim's experience in the journalism space is unparalleled and Lisa is thrilled to share his stories with you in this episode. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Get full access to Authentically Speaking at thefridayreporter.substack.com/subscribe

Lance Turner counts himself lucky for landing a media gig after college that followed a typical work schedule, but his work is anything but ordinary. As the editor of Arkansas Business, Lance Turner has seen the evolution of a weekly news outlet evolve into an online must-read. He and his team at this vital news outlet work non-stop to report on the latest in Arkansas -- and there is a lot happening there. While Arkansas is known well for its agriculture, Lance's is especially proud of a set of news coverage on the booming steel industry in Mississippi County. This small, but mighty state is chock-full of powerful players (both industry and persons), and Lance and his team deliver the latest on them every single day. Tune in to meet Lance Turner!Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Get full access to Authentically Speaking at thefridayreporter.substack.com/subscribe

Josh Gerstein is Politico's senior legal affairs reporter and has been a journalist during some of the most newsworthy times of our generation. With an early start in broadcast, Josh found himself as an "embed" for the Dole presidential campaign -- long before that word was part of the journalism vernacular. From covering the Clinton White House for ABC to covering the Obama White House for Politico, with lots of exceptional experience in between, Josh's career has been one of tremendous esteem. We get into the various levels of news leaks among the three branches of government - primarily because Josh (and his colleague) broke the story in May of this year about the early draft of Supreme Court opinion relative to Roe v. Wade. Which was arguably the biggest news scoop in a decade or more. Tune to hear more about Josh and the important work he does today. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Get full access to Authentically Speaking at thefridayreporter.substack.com/subscribe