Attention Shift

This episode is a must-listen for communications pros navigating fractured media, AI uncertainty, and the tension between structure and spontaneity. We talked to Anna Soellner, former Head of Communications at Reddit, about what it takes to shape the reputation of one of the most complex communities on the internet—especially during the messy, pivotal moments of growth, scrutiny, and IPO.When Anna joined Reddit in 2016, the company was a fraction of its current size, and the brand was facing skepticism from all sides. What followed was a masterclass in community listening, reputation recovery, and trust-building at scale. We got into the human side of comms—from democratic storytelling to tackling AI-induced brand noise—and how Anna helped turn Reddit into one of the most trusted corners of the internet in a time when trust in platforms was disintegrating.About Anna SoellnerAnna Soellner is a veteran communicator whose career spans politics, policy, entertainment, and tech. Before Reddit, she worked in the U.S. government, at the Motion Picture Association, and overseas in pro-democracy efforts. At Reddit, she built and led the communications team during one of its most transformative chapters—from community skepticism to IPO celebration. Her superpower is navigating chaos with clarity, and translating deeply human online behaviors into brand reputation wins.Sponsored by:Delve.“Delve is an insight engine that transforms how brands understand their world.”It ingests every public mention across your online universe, then decodes and pushes it past the top-level insights to create real, usable intelligence. Top global companies and agencies already use Delve to stay ahead.Learn more at delve.news/shiftResources discussed in this episode:Delve MikeWorldWideLagunita’s Reddit-Designed IPA BeerHunter Biden InterviewAstronomer Interim CEO Copyplay Kisscam ResponseGwyneth Paltrow Helps Turn Astronomer’s Infamy on Its HeadPete DeJoy LinkedIn Response to Coldplay Kisscam IncidentSOPA/PIPA/ Net Neutrality—Contact Allison Braley and Sean Garrett: MixingBoard.coLinkedIn: Allison BraleyLinkedIn: Sean GarrettLinkedIn: Mixing BoardContact Anna Soellner: LinkedIn X (formerly Twitter)Instagram

How do you stand out in a world where every meeting, memo, and message sounds exactly the same? In this episode, we talked to Bill McGowan, veteran media trainer and author of Speak Memorably, about how professionals at every level can communicate with more clarity, distinction, and impact—especially in the workplace.Bill broke down why business communication has become so numbing and forgettable, and how to escape what he calls the “conformity zone.” We explored the psychology behind memorable messages, how to actually be authentic without winging it, and why the agenda slide might be killing your presentation before it starts. His “Magnificent Seven” techniques—ranging from analogies to twisted clichés—offer practical tools to elevate everything from all-hands meetings to panel appearances to podcasts (like this one).We also talked about:Why “being on message” isn’t enough anymore—and how it kills authenticityThe Coppola Formula for structuring any talk like a storyWhat Real Housewives and CEOs can both teach us about rapid transformationHumor, ego, and the myth of “I’ve already been media trained”How to use AI wisely without losing your voice (and when it backfires hilariously)Whether you’re a comms leader trying to upskill your execs or just someone who wants to stop sounding like everyone else on your next Zoom call, this one’s packed with tactical advice and sharp perspective.About Bill McGowanBill McGowan is the founder and CEO of Clarity Media Group and a leading voice in executive communication coaching. He has worked with CEOs, entrepreneurs, and cultural figures across every industry—including Jeff Bezos, Kim Kardashian, and execs from Facebook, Google, and Nike. A former Emmy-winning correspondent and producer, Bill’s media background powers his approach to helping leaders speak with confidence and credibility in high-stakes situations.He’s the author of Speak Like a Pro and the newly updated Speak Memorably, and he’s trained thousands of professionals to break bad habits, ditch corporate-speak, and leave a lasting impression.Sponsored by:Delve.“Delve is an insight engine that transforms how brands understand their world.”It ingests every public mention across your online universe, then decodes and pushes it past the top-level insights to create real, usable intelligence. Top global companies and agencies already use Delve to stay ahead.Learn more at delve.news/shiftResources discussed in this episode:Delve MikeWorldWideSpeak Memorably by Bill McGowanClarity Media GroupSpirit Airlines CEO Interview - Trading Comfort for Low FaresSpirit Airlines CEO Interview - On Bad Ratings & High OccupancyActivist Investor Slide Deck on the Performance of Outgoing Peleton CEO John FoleyBusiness Insider Slide Deck on Peleton CEO John Foley—Contact Allison Braley and Sean Garrett: MixingBoard.coLinkedIn: Allison BraleyLinkedIn: Sean GarrettLinkedIn: Mixing BoardContact Bill McGowan: Website: claritymediagroup.comLinkedIn: Bill McGowan

What happens when a journalist ditches the newsroom and builds one of Substack’s most influential publications from scratch? In this episode, we talked to Eric Newcomer—former Bloomberg reporter and founder of Newcomer—about going independent, building trust in the chaos of modern media, and what it means to be both the reporter and the brand.Eric opened up about his transition from legacy media to solo operator, how the pandemic shaped the new media wave, and why insider-first reporting resonates so deeply in Silicon Valley. We dug into the power of showing your work, why being “radically transparent” has helped him stand out, and what comms pros can learn from the indie creator model.We also got into it on:Why the loudest VC voices don’t reflect the whole industryThe changing expectations of tech audiencesThe evolution of AI tools—and why agents are the next big storyWhat happens when media brands become peopleWhy Chamath Palihapitiya is a case study in attention-grabbing griftIf you’re in comms and navigating how to earn trust, build reputation, or simply get your message through the noise, this one’s a must-listen.About Eric NewcomerEric Newcomer is a journalist, podcaster, and founder of Newcomer, a Substack newsletter and events business focused on the startup and venture capital world. Previously a tech reporter for Bloomberg, Eric went solo in 2020 and quickly grew Newcomer into a go-to source for insiders across Silicon Valley and beyond. He’s known for sharp reporting, transparent business updates, and his ability to cover the tech elite without getting cozy.Eric lives in New York and frequently covers VC from the inside out, hosts events in major tech hubs, and has a healthy obsession with the next wave of AI.Sponsored by:Delve.“Delve is an insight engine that transforms how brands understand their world.”It ingests every public mention across your online universe, then decodes and pushes it past the top-level insights to create real, usable intelligence. Top global companies and agencies already use Delve to stay ahead.Learn more at delve.news/shiftResources discussed in this episode:The SkimmTikTok Creator FundMeta Creator ToolsJessica Yellin - News Not NoiseDelve MikeWorldWideNewcomer on SubstackGeneral CatalystThe InformationCursorCodium (now Qodo)Devin OpenAIPlatformer by Casey NewtonGarbage Day by Ryan Broderick—Contact Allison Braley and Sean Garrett: MixingBoard.coLinkedIn: Allison BraleyLinkedIn: Sean GarrettLinkedIn: Mixing BoardContact Eric Newcomer: Website: newcomer.coLinkedIn: Eric Newcomer

Is there really a difference between political communication and corporate communication? We found out in our conversation with Josh Earnest, former White House Press Secretary and now VP of Communications and Advertising at United Airlines. Josh told us what it’s like to steer a major brand’s reputation in both political and corporate arenas. He took us behind the scenes of United’s bold decisions during the pandemic, from placing massive aircraft orders while the world stood still to quickly creating campaigns that blended PR, social media, and advertising into one powerful storytelling machine. His take? If you’re not proactively shaping the narrative, someone else will do it for you, and probably not the way you’d like it.    We also dug into how Josh has evolved from being the face at the podium to leading strategy from behind the scenes. He also shared how integrating comms and marketing helped United move faster, stay more authentic, and boost employee pride, something they’ve done intentionally through internal platforms like United Daily and even gate-side advertising that resonates with both customers and crews on the ground. We wrap the episode with the topic capturing Josh’s attention—thoughts on coaching youth sports (yes, there are comms lessons there too!), and what the rise of AI means for keeping humanity and honesty in our messaging.   About Josh EarnestJosh Earnest is the Executive Vice President of Communications and Advertising for United Airlines. He serves on United’s Executive Team and leads a world-class team to develop and implement the airline’s global communications, advertising, and community engagement strategies. Josh works closely with leaders across the company to shape the airline’s public image and serves as the company’s chief spokesman. He brings to this role more than two decades of strategic communications expertise from the highest levels of politics and government, which included serving as White House Press Secretary.  Before joining United in May 2018, Josh was a political analyst for NBC News and MSNBC, making appearances on the network’s leading news programs, including the Today Show, Meet the Press, and NBC Nightly News. During this time, he traveled across the country and around the world speaking to audiences of corporate executives, senior government officials, thought leaders, journalists, and students about the challenges of communicating in the modern media environment. Prior to that, Josh served for eight years in the Obama White House, including as White House Press Secretary from 2014 to 2017. In addition to his work in front of the cameras, Josh played a leading role behind the scenes at the White House to develop and implement an innovative communications strategy that was paired with a fully-integrated digital media presence to drive the administration’s agenda. His two-decade career in politics has taken him from Capitol Hill to some of the largest states and most competitive races in the country, including four presidential campaigns, statewide races in Texas and Florida, and Mike Bloomberg’s first campaign for mayor of New York.Josh received his degree in political science and policy studies from Rice University. He is married and has two children. Sponsored by:Delve.“Delve is an insight engine that transforms how brands understand their world.”It ingests every public mention across your online universe, then decodes and pushes it past the top-level insights to create real, usable intelligence. Top global companies and agencies already use Delve to stay ahead.Learn more at delve.news/shiftResources discussed in this episode:HBO Name ChangeMcDonald's Snack Wrap Customer CampaignUnited Airlines Post-Pandemic Plane Purchase--Contact Allison Braley and Sean Garrett: MixingBoard.coLinkedIn: Allison BraleyLinkedIn: Sean GarrettLinkedIn: Mixing BoardContact Josh Earnest: Website: unitedairlines.comX: @joshearnestLinkedIn: Josh Earnest

In this conversation, Shannon Brayton, CMO at Bessemer Venture Partners and former CMO at LinkedIn, dives into the intricacies of aligning marketing with executive expectations. She shares her strategies for building trust with leaders who may overlook the value of marketing. The discussion highlights LinkedIn's evolution into a content powerhouse and the significant role of AI in marketing dynamics. Shannon's insights on communication styles and navigating C-suite relationships are particularly compelling, offering actionable advice for professionals in the field.

What happens when a generation grows up with AI as a daily companion—and the rest of us are still catching up? In this episode, we sit down with New York Times journalist and podcaster Kevin Roose to unpack how artificial intelligence is already transforming the way we work, learn, and connect. From teens using AI to write essays or talk through their emotions, to companies quietly integrating it into operations while navigating public backlash, the changes are happening fast—and not always out in the open. We explore with Kevin why media outlets remain skeptical, shaped by years of tech industry overpromises, and how employers are weighing the reputational risks of automation against its undeniable advantages. Kevin calls for more honest, transparent leadership as AI reshapes the economy and society in real time. As we dig into these tensions, we also talk about Kevin’s long-standing fascination with belief systems—whether rooted in religion, finance, or tech—and how journalism helps him trace the deeper human motivations behind them. This is more than a conversation about where AI is going—it’s about who we are becoming as it gets there. About Kevin RooseKevin Roose is an American author and award-winning technology columnist for The New York Times. He is the author of three books, the co-host of the “Hard Fork” podcast, and was included on the 2015 Forbes 30 Under 30 list.Sponsored by:Delve.“Delve is an insight engine that transforms how brands understand their world.”It ingests every public mention across your online universe, then decodes and pushes it past the top-level insights to create real, usable intelligence. Top global companies and agencies already use Delve to stay ahead.Learn more at delve.news/shiftResources discussed in this episode:AnthropicChat GPTFutureproof: 9 Rules for Humans in the Age of AutomationVinod KhoslaDALL-EMidjourneyCursorReplit AIBoltClaudeHard Fork PodcastCharacter AIReplikaContact Allison Braley and Sean Garrett: MixingBoard.coLinkedIn: Allison BraleyLinkedIn: Sean GarrettLinkedin: Mixing BoardContact Kevin Roose: Website: kevinroose.comInstagram: Kevin RooseFacebook: Kevin RooseX: Kevin Roose Linkedin: Kevin Roose

What does it take to make the bold switch from a successful career in comms to venture investing? We sit down with Ashley Mayer to find out why and how she made her career transition. We talk about those early Twitter days—when social media was still uncharted territory—and how Ashley helped her then-CEO build a voice online while simultaneously growing her own presence. She even revisits that unforgettable “AirPod subway rescue” moment, a reminder of how randomness and relatability can shape what resonates online. We dig into the art of storytelling in both media and business. Ashley makes a compelling case for why founders should prioritize narrative clarity and strategic intent over the allure of personal branding or chasing viral fame. It's about substance, not just splash. Ashley also opens up about the challenges of early-stage investing—from evaluating founders’ visions to navigating uncertainty—and shares how she made the leap from communications to venture capital. Her reflections on timing, serendipity, and career evolution are refreshingly candid. And of course, we get into her latest venture: the podcast Great Chat. Ashley gives us a behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to build something authentic from the ground up—why experimentation matters, how to stay patient, and what it really means to engage with an audience. Join us for a thoughtful and inspiring conversation about tech, media, and building with intention. About Ashley MayerAshley Mayer is the cofounder and GP of Coalition Operators, where she and her partners back early-stage founders. She began her career at enterprise software company Box, where she led global communications from a 50-person startup through IPO. She then moved to Social Capital, where she led all things marketing and communications for three years, helping to launch new capital products and working with founders spanning healthcare, aerospace, climate, fintech, enterprise and education. Most recently, she led communications at a New York-based beauty company, Glossier. Ashley has also been a key advisor to Mixing Board since before its official inception and serves on the organization’s operating council. Sponsored by:Delve.“Delve is an insight engine that transforms how brands understand their world.”It ingests every public mention across your online universe, then decodes and pushes it past the top-level insights to create real, usable intelligence. Top global companies and agencies already use Delve to stay ahead.Learn more at delve.news/shiftResources discussed in this episode:BoxGlossierGreat Chat podcastChat GPT - Open AIBrian Johnson - New York Times articleMagenticPlatformerHard Fork podcastLingoAuraContact Allison Braley and Sean Garrett: MixingBoard.coLinkedIn: Allison BraleyLinkedIn: Sean GarrettLinkedIn: Mixing BoardContact Ashley Mayer: Website: coalitionoperators.comX: @ashleymayerLinkedIn: Ashley Mayer

What does it take to write words that move a nation—and still feel deeply personal? We sit down with Cody Keenan, former chief speechwriter for President Barack Obama, to pull back the curtain on the craft of writing speeches that don’t just inform, but inspire. From Obama’s electrifying 2004 DNC address to poignant eulogies and everyday policy remarks, we explore how structure, storytelling, and emotional clarity come together to leave a lasting mark. Cody walks us through his process, emphasizing why every great speech needs a clear beginning, middle, and end—and how tapping into values and real human experiences makes a message resonate long after the applause fades. We talk about the pressure and privilege of writing during high-stakes, high-emotion moments, and how Cody learned to write like it might be the only chance the audience would ever hear the speaker’s voice. We also dive into how social media has completely reshaped the way speeches are received. How do you strike the balance between crafting a thoughtful message and creating a moment that cuts through the noise? Cody brings a grounded, behind-the-scenes perspective on that constant creative tension. Plus, we explore where speechwriting is headed next—from AI’s growing presence in the writing world to Cody’s work mentoring the next generation of communicators at Northwestern. He even gives us a peek into his life outside the spotlight—raising kids and staying inspired by the writers of tomorrow. About Cody KeenanCody Keenan is Barack Obama’s former chief speechwriter and a current partner at Fenway Strategies. He spent over a decade crafting some of the most memorable speeches of the Obama presidency and now teaches political speechwriting at Northwestern University. Cody’s work has been featured on The Late Show with Stephen Colbert, Morning Joe, The Circus, and Pod Save America. A Chicago native and die-hard Cubs fan, he lives in New York City with his wife and two kids.Sponsored by:Delve.“Delve is an insight engine that transforms how brands understand their world.”It ingests every public mention across your online universe, then decodes and pushes it past the top-level insights to create real, usable intelligence. Top global companies and agencies already use Delve to stay ahead.Learn more at delve.news/shiftResources discussed in this episode:Grace: President Obama and Ten Days in the Battle for America by Cody KeenanBetween Two Ferns with Barack ObamaContact Allison Braley and Sean Garrett: MixingBoard.coLinkedIn: Allison BraleyLinkedIn: Sean GarrettLinkedIn: Mixing BoardContact Cody Keenan | Fenway Strategies: Website: codykeenan.comWebsite: fenwaystrategies.comInstagram: @codykeenanX: @codykeenanFacebook: Cody KeenanLinkedIn: Cody Keenan

Hosts Allison Braley and Sean Garrett welcome you to Attention Shift, the podcast about communications and connection, where they discuss what gets our attention and why. With industry expert interviews, in-depth explorations of how we communicate and grab focus, and investigation into what we really care about, Attention Shift keeps us on track in the shifting sands of attention.  —Contact Allison Braley and Sean Garrett: MixingBoard.coLinkedIn: Allison BraleyLinkedIn: Sean GarrettLinkedin: Mixing Board—TranscriptAllison Braley: [00:00:00] Every story, every thread, every meme. There's a battle for our attention happening every second. So what actually sticks? What do we really care about? I'm Allison Braley. Sean Garrett: [00:00:11] And I'm Sean Garrett. Welcome to Attention Shift, where we dive into the ever-evolving world of communications, who's grabbing attention, how they're doing it, and why it matters. Allison Braley: [00:00:22] We'll talk to the people shaping the future of how we connect, communicate, and, let's be honest, get totally distracted. Sean Garrett: [00:00:29] So if you want to keep up with the shifting tides of attention, hit subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts. Allison Braley: [00:00:36] Don't miss an episode because, let's face it, there's already way too much to catch up on.