Branding a City

 Once known mainly for speeding tickets, the City of Gallatin has transformed its image with a strong online presence. A quick Google search reveals why it’s now recognized as one of the 'Nicest Places in America.' 

 As a producer at CBS in Knoxville, I honed my skills writing, shooting, and editing under intense deadlines. Along the way, I held a human brain, flew in helicopters, and racked up some of my most unforgettable experiences while paying my dues. 

 Large corporate events demand precise technical planning, a confident team, and clear communication. Working with clients like Pilot Oil and TVA, we delivered high-quality sound, lighting, and image magnification—supporting performances by legends like Dick Clark, Joan Rivers, and The Neville Brothers. 

 Photoshop, Illustrator, After Effects, and Premiere are essential to my workflow—I rely on them daily. In November 2022, I led a full redesign of GallatinTN.gov and also implemented a call-center environment using Zendesk with the TN Department of Labor. 

 It’s unfortunate when organizations with rich visual content don’t share their story. Stories don’t have to be complex to be compelling. Social media is like a relationship—you have to earn trust before people will engage, like, or even defend you from trolls. 

 Working with the PR teams of two Tennessee Governors taught me an important lesson: reporters often come with a story already in mind. It’s your job to consistently feed your message to the public, often without their direct assistance.