The Future of Media, AI, and Leadership: Key Insights from AWM Office Hours with Bridget Bogee

Reflecting on her move into social media long before it became mainstream, she noted, “I am remarkable at understanding cultural trends before they take off,” encouraging members to stay curious, experiment with new technologies, and engage with emerging trends before they become unavoidable.

A significant focus of the discussion centered on AI’s growing impact on both professional and personal life. Ms. Bogee emphasized that the future of AI will move beyond simple prompting and toward highly personalized digital assistants. “I think we’re going to move away from the ChatGPTs and Claudes of the world,” she said, predicting a future in which individuals rely on multiple AI agents to help manage work, family responsibilities, travel, and everyday tasks. At the same time, she reminded members that human creativity remains essential, observing that AI still lacks the “taste and creativity” that people bring to storytelling, strategy, and decision-making.

The conversation also explored leadership, career pivots, and building authentic communities. Ms. Bogee encouraged members to view networking as relationship-building rather than self-promotion, emphasizing the value of curiosity, generosity, and meaningful connections. Reflecting on her own career transitions, she shared a lesson that resonated deeply with attendees: “Go where you’re wanted.” She explained that seeking opportunities where leaders value your unique skills creates the confidence and support needed to grow, learn, and take risks.

AWM Office Hours was created to give members direct access to accomplished industry leaders in a relaxed, interactive setting. Sessions like this one offer the kind of honest conversations, practical advice, and professional connections that are difficult to find elsewhere. If you’re looking to expand your network, gain insights from leaders shaping the future of media, and participate in exclusive member-only discussions, joining AWM gives you a seat at the table.

For more information about the AWM Office Hours program, please email amy.burton@allwomeninmedia.org.

AWM Office Hours with Rashida Jones: Leading Through Change in a Digital-First Media Landscape

Drawing from her experience leading major media organizations and now building a global, digital-first company, Ms. Jones shared how intentional career decisions have helped her navigate industry disruption. Reflecting on her own journey, she encouraged attendees to be strategic about every career move, advising professionals to “be very intentional about what you do, where you do it, who you do it for, what companies [you’re] associated with, and also have a clear idea of how you can tell your story.” She emphasized that today’s media leaders must focus less on where content has traditionally lived and more on how audiences actually consume information, reminding attendees that organizations must “follow where they already are and reverse engineer from there.”

The discussion also explored entrepreneurship, emerging platforms, artificial intelligence, and professional development. For students and early-career professionals, Ms. Jones highlighted the unprecedented opportunities available today to create and showcase work independently. “You have a camera on your phone,” she noted. “Go create the content yourselves. You can be much more entrepreneurial in this space.” She also offered encouraging leadership advice for women navigating professional environments: “No one is going to out prepare me, not one person. I’m always going to do the work.” Her message throughout the session centered on confidence, preparation, and embracing opportunities, even when they require stepping outside of one’s comfort zone.

One of the strongest themes of the conversation was the value of relationships. Ms. Jones encouraged attendees to actively seek mentors both inside and outside their industries, noting that many of the most influential people in her own career came from unexpected encounters. Her advice was simple but powerful: put yourself in the room, meet new people, and start the conversation. For AWM members, the session served as a reminder of the power of connection, learning, and access to leaders who are shaping the future of media. These meaningful conversations are just one of the many ways AWM helps members build their careers, expand their networks, and stay ahead in a changing industry.

For more information about the AWM Office Hours program, please email amy.burton@allwomeninmedia.org.

AWM Office Hours Spotlight: Ann Hailer on Career Growth, Leadership, and Thriving Through Change

Reflecting on a professional journey that began unexpectedly after studying Soviet foreign politics, Ms. Hailer emphasized that career success is rarely linear. Instead, she encouraged members to embrace change, noting that growth often comes from being willing to take on new challenges before feeling fully prepared. As she reminded attendees, “We are never going to be 100% ready,” and some of the most valuable opportunities come from leaning into roles that stretch us beyond our comfort zones.

A recurring theme throughout the discussion was the importance of building a strong personal brand and investing in relationships. Ms. Hailer encouraged members at every career stage to focus on integrity, trust, and reputation, describing these qualities as the foundation of long-term success. “A big part of that is your reputation,” she said, emphasizing that the way people treat others and build trust becomes a professional asset that endures through career changes, promotions, and industry shifts. She also highlighted the value of stepping outside formal job responsibilities, explaining that many of her greatest leadership lessons came from cross-functional projects, volunteer opportunities, and initiatives that weren’t part of her official role.

The conversation also explored the future of media in an era shaped by artificial intelligence. While acknowledging the uncertainty many professionals feel, Ms. Hailer encouraged members to focus on the skills that remain timeless. “It’s understanding audiences, it’s good storytelling, it is good customer service, it is understanding client needs,” she explained, stressing that while platforms and technology will continue to evolve, the human elements that create meaningful media experiences will remain essential. She urged attendees to think not only about today’s jobs, but about how their expertise can add value to the industries and opportunities that are still emerging.

The session concluded with a powerful reminder of why AWM’s Office Hours series exists: community. Ms. Hailer reflected on the importance of having a trusted network to navigate career pivots, leadership challenges, industry transformation, and life’s many transitions. “What it takes to be successful is to have a community like this,” she shared. These member-exclusive conversations continue to provide a unique opportunity to connect with accomplished media leaders, gain practical career advice, and build meaningful relationships with peers across the industry. If you’re looking for the kind of support, insight, and connection that can help shape your next chapter, AWM membership puts you in the room for conversations like these.

For more information about the AWM Office Hours program, please email amy.burton@allwomeninmedia.org.

Leading Through Change: Key Takeaways from AWM Office Hours with Mike McVay

Drawing on decades of experience, Mr. McVay emphasized that success in today’s environment requires a mindset shift away from platforms and toward audience connection. As he noted, “What should matter is where listeners consume audio…it’s about content, regardless of where you consume it.” This perspective set the tone for a wide-ranging discussion about how media professionals can remain relevant in a rapidly changing industry.

A central theme of the session was the importance of continuous growth. Mr. McVay encouraged attendees to commit to learning and self-improvement at every career stage, sharing advice that resonated deeply with participants: “Listen more than you talk…be driven to succeed…learn from your failures.” He reinforced that leadership is not about having all the answers, but about staying curious, adaptable, and focused on serving both your team and your audience. His practical guidance offered a roadmap for navigating both day-to-day challenges and long-term career development.

The conversation also underscored the power of authenticity and talent development. Mr. McVay spoke about the importance of understanding individual strengths and creating environments where people can thrive, noting that success comes from helping others perform at their highest level. This people-first approach, combined with a clear strategy around content and audience engagement, highlighted why his expertise remains so impactful across the industry.

AWM Office Hours continue to provide members with unparalleled access to industry leaders and actionable insights in an intimate, interactive setting. Sessions like this one not only inspire but equip members with tools they can immediately apply to their careers. If you’re looking to grow your network, sharpen your skills, and learn directly from top voices shaping media today, AWM membership, and Office Hours, are experiences you won’t want to miss.

For more information about the AWM Office Hours program, please email amy.burton@allwomeninmedia.org.

Inside AWM Office Hours: A Candid Conversation with Cori Abraham

Ms. Abraham spoke candidly about the current state of unscripted television, describing it as “a real reset” driven by cord-cutting, consolidation, and changing business models. While acknowledging how painful this moment has been for many professionals, she emphasized that content isn’t disappearing – it’s being redistributed. “We’re still making content,” she noted, explaining how networks are rethinking where and how stories live, from FAST channels to AVOD platforms to podcasts. Her advice to professionals navigating uncertainty was practical and forward-looking: “As AI becomes more of a tool…I would suggest everybody embrace it and become an expert in it.”

The conversation also turned personal, as Ms. Abraham reflected on fear, confidence, and career longevity. Asked how she handled stepping into roles she felt underqualified for, she said simply, “Sometimes you just gotta throw yourself in the deep end.” She credited curiosity, learning on the job, and expanding her skillset as key to her resilience, encouraging emerging leaders to think beyond job titles. “Don’t just be able to make a show,” she advised. “Have skills that translate, because that’s where the fear comes from when an industry shrinks.”

AWM Office Hours are an exclusive member benefit designed to foster connection and real-world insight from top leaders across media. Sessions like this one with Cori Abraham are a reminder of the power of access; being able to ask questions, hear honest answers, and learn directly from those shaping the future of the industry. If you’re looking for community, perspective, and a seat at the table, AWM membership opens the door. Join us for future Office Hours and be part of the conversation.

For more information about the AWM Office Hours program, please email amy.burton@allwomeninmedia.org.

AWM Office Hours with Jaclyn Levin: A Conversation on Reinvention, Resilience, and the Future of Media

Ms. Levin opened by reflecting on her unexpected departure from network news during the early days of COVID-19 and the soul-searching that followed. “I wasn’t done,” she recalled. “I didn’t feel old. I didn’t look old. I wasn’t old… but other people were congratulating me on my retirement.” Her honesty set the tone for a powerful conversation about navigating reinvention in an evolving industry.

Ms. Levin also highlighted the rapid transformation of media ecosystems, especially the shift from traditional broadcast to more personal, audience-driven platforms. After joining her former NBC colleague, Maria Shriver, in 2021 to help grow Shriver Media, she realized that what they were building with their newsletter, Maria Shriver’s Sunday Paper, “was still the same content we were creating, we were just delivering it differently.” She emphasized how audiences now “expect a more personal relationship, sort of this one-on-one touch point,” describing the success of the Sunday Paper newsletters and the need to meet audiences where they are, through newsletters, podcasts, virtual conversations, live events and beyond.

The discussion also touched on the realities of innovation inside legacy newsrooms. Ms. Levin noted that while new tools like AI offer opportunity, adoption requires empathy and good leadership. “People are scared,” she said. “You need to have leaders who don’t just shove it down their throats, but who try to bring people into the tent. I think people are probably most afraid of being laid off and replaced with AI.”

She underscored that technology would continue to evolve, but “good storytelling will always be there,” reminding attendees that core journalistic skills remain essential even as formats shift.

Perhaps most inspiring was her encouragement for media professionals navigating change. Ms. Levin spoke openly about career pivots, risks that shaped her trajectory, and learning to embrace imperfection in the digital age. She urged members to stay curious and adaptable: “You have to be everywhere in this atmosphere…but you also have to know what makes your work special.” Her message served as a reminder of the value of connection, community, and continuous learning – the very purpose of AWM Office Hours.

For more information about the AWM Office Hours program, please email amy.burton@allwomeninmedia.org.

A Letter from AWM Chair, Monica Bloom

This past month, I have been so inspired by the Olympic athletes and the women who shone so brightly across the snowy landscape. Not only did we witness incredible athletic prowess and achievement, but consistent grace and support for each other regardless of what country the other was from. These moments evoke such joy for me as well as remind me why I am involved with AWM.

Just as the Olympic athletes are top performers, displaying their dedication, experience, and strength, so too are the members of AWM. When I think of what the Alliance for Women in Media means to me, only here do we have such a cross-section of talent that continues to support and show up for each other. It is a unique organization that I am proud to be a part of. 

As I step into my role as Chair, I want to express to you my devotion to improving your experience as a member, to ensuring we are creating an environment of support, access, and learning for all, and that we share in recognizing our collective achievements, large and small. 

The landscape of our industry is changing. There are real ramifications with the emergence of AI, consolidation and mergers, and changing behavior among younger audiences. AWM is here to facilitate open and honest conversations through programs like “Office Hours” by providing safe forums to discuss such topics. Membership provides access to experts across the media landscape who can help you navigate these changes. We are also currently exploring ways we can help facilitate more in-person connections, and I encourage you to reach out to me directly if you would like to be a part of this initiative. 

And last but not least, we have our annual Gracie Awards that showcase the incredible talent and powerful stories by, for, and about women. A big thank you to all that participated in our judging process. It is a Herculean yet satisfying task, and we couldn’t do it without you. We hope you will join us in May and June to celebrate with the honorees. 

If you have an idea to share, a topic you’d like to see us address, or an interest in getting more involved, please let us know by filling out this form.

And if your season is especially full right now, staying connected is a meaningful way to support AWM; follow us on social, like or repost what resonates, and invite a colleague to join our community.

This year is sure to be an exciting one. I’ll be sharing a brief note like this each quarter, and I look forward to staying connected.

Monica Bloom
AWM and AWM Foundation Chair
chair@allwomeninmedia.org

AWM Launches First Office Hours Session with Catherine Badalamente

Throughout the hour, Ms. Badalamente responded to thoughtful questions from members about her career journey, leadership philosophy, and the realities of navigating change in today’s media environment. She reflected on the importance of mentorship and sponsorship, noting, “I had a lot of people in my corner…cheering me on. If I hadn’t had that, I wouldn’t have believed enough in myself to be where I’m at today.” She encouraged those in attendance to embrace change, trust their instincts, and run toward opportunities, even the uncomfortable ones.

Ms. Badalamente also offered powerful leadership insights, especially around navigating teams, setting clear goals, and leaning into vulnerability. She spoke openly about the realities of leading in a rapidly evolving media landscape, and her belief in protecting the uniquely human parts of the industry. While discussing the rise of AI, she drew a firm line: “If it’s storytelling, reporting, voice work, I’m going to try to protect those jobs for as long as I can.” Her approach to organizational culture emphasized accountability, communication, and never stopping the pursuit of growth: “Never stop learning. I’m an avid reader. I listen to developmental podcasts. There’s always room to grow.”

As the session closed, Ms. Badalamente reflected on the power of community, something she believes defines AWM: “These conversations energize me. They’re a highlight of my day.” And she’s not alone. The overwhelmingly positive feedback from attendees confirms that AWM Office Hours is becoming a standout member benefit. If you’re not yet a member, or you’re ready to engage more deeply, now is the perfect time to join AWM. Our next Office Hours on March 24 will feature Jaclyn Levin, President of Shriver Media, promising another inspiring and truly accessible conversation.

For more information about the AWM Office Hours program, please email amy.burton@allwomeninmedia.org.

Alliance for Women in Media Announces AWM Breakfast at the NAB Show Speaker Panel

What: Join the Alliance for Women in Media (AWM) for an insightful panel discussion on “The Business of Multiplatform Sports” at the AWM Breakfast during the NAB Show. Esteemed presenters Jeanne-Marie Condo (President of Network Partnerships and Chief Revenue Officer, Skyview Networks), Pat LaPlatney (Co-CEO/President, Gray Television), Mary Menna (Vice President & Market Manager, Beasley Media Group), and Carlson Mozdiez (Vice President, Digital Business Operations, Audacy), alongside moderator Sarah Foss (Chief Technology Officer, Audacy), will engage in a candid conversation exploring the evolving landscape of sports business and the significant role women play in shaping its future. The panel will dive deep into the emergence of multiplatform sports coverage and how it has reshaped the business landscape of the sports industry, and how media professionals have leveraged multiplatform sports to enhance audience engagement and reach a diverse set of viewers and more.

Where: West Hall, Las Vegas Convention Center, rooms W102-104

When: Date: April 15 – Time: 8:00 AM – 9:00 AM PT

Details: The AWM Breakfast at the NAB Show is a premier event that brings together industry professionals from television, radio, technology, and service partners. Attendees will have the opportunity to enjoy a continental breakfast, network with top executives, and gain valuable insights from the panel discussion featuring influential leaders in the media industry.

Registration: Purchase tickets by April 10, by going tohttps://allwomeninmedia.org/events/awm-breakfast-nab/  AWM Members will want to login before registering to receive the discounted rate. *Attendees do not have to purchase a ticket to the NAB Show to attend the AWM Breakfast.

About the Alliance for Women in Media (AWM): The Alliance for Women in Media connects, recognizes and educates women across the media industry. AWM is a diverse community that facilitates industry-wide collaboration, education, and innovation. Established in 1951 as American Women in Radio & Television (AWRT), AWM is the longest-established professional association dedicated to advancing women in media. AWM harnesses the promise, passion and power of women in all forms of media to empower career development, engage in thought leadership, and drive positive change for our industry and societal progress.

For media inquiries, please contact: Becky Brooks, President, AWMF, becky.brooks@allwomeninmedia.org

The Alliance for Women in Media and its Foundation Announce the 2024 Board of Directors & Officers

February 15, 2024: The Alliance for Women in Media and its Foundation (AWM/F) are pleased to announce the 2024 National Board of Directors and Officers. “The leadership of our Board of Directors has allowed AWM and our Foundation to advance women in media for more than seventy years of triumphs and trials,” said Becky Brooks, President, AWM/F. “The past year has underscored the need for steadfast leadership in the face of unforeseen challenges. The mix of diverse and insightful voices on this year’s Boards will continue the important work of prioritizing recognition, connection and education of women across all facets of media.”

OFFICER ROLES

• Katina Arnold, Chair, Vice President, Corporate Communications, ESPN
• Monica Bloom, Incoming/Vice Chair, Chief Marketing Officer, MHz Choice | Topic Streaming
• Annie Howell, Immediate Past Chair, Chief Communications Officer, Hallmark Media
• Catherine Badalamente, Treasurer, President & CEO, Graham Media Group
• Marie Tedesco, Treasurer-Elect, Chief Financial Officer, Beasley Broadcast Group, Inc.

NEW DIRECTORS SERVING ON THE BOARD 

The following leaders will begin serving on the AWM Board of Directors for a two-year term:

• Isabel Lara, Chief Communications Officer, NPR
• Jaclyn Levin, President, Shriver Media; Founder, Liminal Space Media
• Christine Moran, Head of Creator Partnerships, Electrify Video Partners
• Debra OConnell, President, News Group and Networks, Disney Entertainment

SECOND-TERM DIRECTORS SERVING ON THE BOARD

The following leaders will serve a second term on the AWM Board of Directors:

• Thea Mitchem, Executive Vice President of Programming, iHeartMedia

INCUMBENT DIRECTORS REMAINING ON THE BOARD

The following leaders will continue serving on the AWM Board of Directors:

• Cori Abraham, SVP, Entertainment Unscripted Development, Crime and Documentary Development, NBCUniversal Television and Streaming
• Kenetta Bailey, Senior Vice President, Marketing, Clear Channel Outdoor
• Jayne Bussman-Wise, VP, Team Business Operations, Professional Women’s Hockey League (PWHL)
• Marsha Cooke, Vice President & Executive Producer, ESPN Films and 30 for 30
• Chesley Maddox-Dorsey, CEO, American Urban Radio Network

AMM FOUNDATION BOARD

The following leaders will continue serving on the AWM Foundation Board of Directors:

• Tim Clarke, Senior Vice President, Digital Audio Content, Audacy
• Heather Cohen, President, The Weiss Agency
• Vicki Lins, President and CEO, CTAM
• Mike McVay, President, McVay Media
• Christine Travaglini, President, Katz Radio Group

Board photos and bios can be found on the AWM website. Visit here for the AWM board of directors and here for the AWM Foundation board of directors.

Connect with AWM through our @AllWomenInMedia handle on Facebook, Instagram, X and LinkedIn and sign up for the FastForward Newsletter for the latest updates and career center opportunities.

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About the Alliance for Women in Media (AWM): The Alliance for Women in Media connects, recognizes and educates women across the media industry. AWM is a diverse community that facilitates industry-wide collaboration, education, and innovation. Established in 1951 as American Women in Radio & Television (AWRT), AWM is the longest-established professional association dedicated to advancing women in media. AWM harnesses the promise, passion and power of women in all forms of media to empower career development, engage in thought leadership, and drive positive change for our industry and societal progress.

About the Alliance for Women in Media Foundation (AWMF): In 1960, the Alliance for Women in Media became the first professional broadcasting organization to establish an educational foundation. The AWMF supports and promotes educational programs, charitable activities and scholarships to benefit the public and media industry. The Foundation also produces nationally acclaimed recognition programs, including the Gracie Awards®, honoring exemplary programming created by, for or about women and individual achievement. The Alliance for Women in Media Foundation is a 501 (c)(3) non-profit, educational organization.

Media Contact:

Jenny Ditto
Awards and Public Relations Manager
jennyditto@allwomeninmedia.org
1.859.514.3008