Adam Belmar is founder of Advocacy Content Kitchen, a media production studio catering to organizations with important stories to tell. Adam has a background in journalism – he was a Senior Producer on ABC’s This Week with George Stephanopoulos. He went on to serve President George W Bush as Deputy Director of the Office of White House Communications. After the White House, Adam has been working with a lengthy roster of corporations, non profits, and trade associations advising them on their content and communications strategies. He's also the producer of the Business of Politics Show.
In our conversation we dig into how podcasts are becoming an important medium for the public affairs industry, how to get into podcasting, and what makes a podcast effective.
Key Takeaways:
1. Broadcast Media Still Shapes the Narrative
Adam Belmar reminds campaigns not to ignore traditional broadcast outlets. TV, radio, and earned media still influence the political conversation, particularly with older or less-online voters.
2. Preparation is the Key to Great Interviews
Whether it's a local radio hit or a national TV spot, Belmar stresses the importance of message discipline and anticipating tough questions. Candidates must stay on brand under pressure.
3. Media Training is Undervalued
Many candidates underestimate how much skill it takes to perform well on camera. Belmar advises campaigns to invest in on-camera training and media strategy early.
4. Relationships with Journalists Still Matter
He highlights that access and trust can open doors for earned media coverage. Campaigns should be proactive in building relationships—not just reacting to press inquiries.
5. A Unified Narrative Helps Control the Cycle
Belmar explains that campaigns who articulate a consistent story across digital, TV, and earned media are more likely to break through. Disjointed messages weaken impact.
Watch on Youtube:
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCdzsHPQ_uNfN8r5PILc3NhQ
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