This week on The Friday Reporter, Lisa is joined by veteran journalist and producer Mike Melia for a behind-the-scenes look at a remarkable career in news.

Mike shares the story of how he got his start by simply following the advice to “just show up and ask for the job.” That bold move landed him a role at States News Service — and it launched a career that would eventually take him to PBS NewsHour, where he worked under the legendary Jim Lehrer, and later to CNN, producing for anchor Jake Tapper.

In this episode, Mike reflects on the mentors who shaped his path, the evolving role of producers in today’s media landscape, and what it means to carry journalistic values into a fast-paced, digital-first world. Mike is out on his own with Melia Media, helping clients navigate the new frontier of news making.

Tune in for a thoughtful conversation about persistence, integrity, and the power of showing up.

This week on The Friday Reporter, Lisa is joined by Jeff Berkowitz — co-founder and CEO of Delve — for a timely conversation about how artificial intelligence is reshaping public affairs.

With a background in opposition research, campaign strategy, and political intelligence, Jeff shares how his team developed a new AI-powered tool designed specifically to support public affairs and government relations professionals. Built to cut through the noise and surface insights faster, the platform helps communicators anticipate risk, track narratives, and stay ahead of policy shifts.

In this episode, Jeff explains how the tool works, what sets it apart from broader AI platforms, and why it’s a game-changer for those working at the intersection of policy, politics, and reputation.

Tune in to hear how AI is becoming a powerful ally in the public affairs toolbox — and what it means for the future of influence in Washington and beyond.

This week, Lisa welcomes Ben Klein and Katie Wise, co-founders of Red Blue Strategies. With deep lobbying and Capitol Hill experience, Ben and Katie bring a fresh approach to public affairs—trading the traditional big-firm model for a partner-driven practice that delivers strategic, bipartisan counsel. Specializing in healthcare, they share how their unique collaboration helps clients cut through the noise and navigate Washington with precision.

Listen in today to a conversation with two dynamic advocates for their clients and the industry they deeply understand — and how they weave bipartisanship into their everyday approach to success.