Global Gateway Advisors

We took our own advice and made a Substack

Insights

Global Gateway Advisors

By Global Gateway Advisors

September 12, 2025

If it seems like everyone is joining Substack, it’s because they are. Notable names who made the move over the past week include former The Verge tech reporter Alex Heath, former Vice President Kamala Harris (who is promoting her new book), and Global Gateway Advisors! Subscribe and join our conversation here. (You’ll still get this version of the newsletter in your inbox twice a month.)

So, what does Substack really offer, and who’s using it best? Let’s dive in.

ICYMI: Our latest edition of COMPASS focused on the pressure and declining trust facing science, and the opportunity and responsibility for communicators in rebuilding it. Read more here.

The Substack playbook

In the era of hyper-short attention spans and Instagram and TikTok overload, the rise of Substack and its longform newsletters feels like a pendulum swing back to the old school blog era. 

This offers a new opportunity for brands, organizations, journalists, and communicators to connect directly and authentically with their audiences, while fostering the community and sense of belonging so many are seeking.

The use cases include journalists going independent, brands building new channels for owned content, thought leaders sharing their expertise, and more.

Media

There’s been no shortage of journalists and media figures migrating to Substack as trust in legacy outlets declines, newsrooms grapple with a litigious administration, and the industry faces upheaval. For many, the draw is the ability to build community directly with readers — alongside the editorial freedom and financial autonomy and opportunity the platform provides.

What they’re saying: “I do feel like we’re in this transition moment where the world will probably look really different in a couple years and there’s a lot of questions about how legacy media will adapt to that world,” reporter Alex Heath (said in an interview with Substack co-founder Chris Best. “I do think in this era, individuals and individual voices that are bringing something original to the world will thrive.”

Brands

The how-to: There are two main ways for brands to approach Substack.

  • They can launch their own, which requires time, thoughtfulness, consistency, editorial investment and a clear POV, but creates a direct, authentic channel. For founders, it’s also a place to share perspective, show their process, and build a deeper connection with their community. 
  • They can invest in partnerships with established Substack writers who are genuine fans of their product. This can look like newsletter sponsorship, sponsored content, events, chats, product gifting, affiliate links, and even focus groups.

What they’re saying: “Most brands still see Substack as a newsletter tool, but the real opportunity is to use it like long-form earned media,” said Lauren Kleinman, founder of Dreamday. “It’s a place to shape cultural relevance and build narrative equity.”

Brands doing it well:

  • Off The Cuff by American Eagle: A cultural and style digest exploring Gen Z through trend insights and expert curation, blending guest editors and AE’s perspective to spotlight what’s shaping fashion, media and youth culture today.
  • Night Shade: Melanie Masarin, founder of Ghia, shares recipes, personal reflections and travel recommendations, building a community around her brand. 
  • Feed Me X Free People: A sponsored newsletter and a happy hour for Emily Sundberg’s subscribers were a “really big success,” according to Libby Strachan, Free People’s director of brand marketing.
  • HEAVIES X Cava: Fast casual restaurant chain Cava sponsored an edition of the health and wellness newsletter.

Thought leaders + experts

For subject-matter experts, executives and thinkers, Substack offers a platform to build trust and authority while sharing perspective and analysis outside the constraints — and algorithms — of traditional media. It’s a way to test ideas and cultivate a niche audience that values depth over reach.

The impact: “I see Substack primarily as a top-of-funnel channel, a place to build awareness, trust and connection, rather than a consistent, bottom-of-funnel revenue driver like paid ads or affiliate,” wrote Elaheh Nozar in Delivered, her newsletter covering the intersection of content and commerce. 

The bottom line: Substack isn’t just another publishing tool. It’s become a hybrid of platform and community. For communicators, journalists, brands, and thought leaders alike, the opportunity is the same: Build direct relationships, show up with authenticity, and cultivate a loyal audience that values conversation over clicks.

Here is a completely non-exhaustive list of some of our team’s favorite Substacks. Let us know if we missed a good one! Email insights@gga.nyc.

Business, Tech + Strategy

  • AI CFO Office: AI strategies, playbooks, and tools for CFOs and leaders.
  • Feed Me: A daily newsletter about the spirit of enterprise.
  • Lenny’s Newsletter: Deeply researched insights on product, growth, startups, and career development.
  • Not Boring: Tech strategy and analysis.
  • The Generalist: The people, companies and technologies shaping the future.
  • The Sociology of Business: A global weekly newsletter exploring how brands intersect with culture, shaping the way business connects with society.

 Communications + Media

  • Link in Bio: A newsletter about working in social media by Rachel Karten.
  • Meredith & The Media: The latest trends in media as well as exclusive interviews with leading journalists on what’s driving coverage.
  • Mixternal Comms Playbook: The Mixternal Comms Playbook helps corporate comms pros streamline internal and external messaging, save time with AI workflows, sharpen executive comms, and advance their careers.
  • The Ankler: An insider newsletter on Hollywood and the entertainment industry, delivering analysis, scoops, and commentary on the business of media and culture.
  • The Rebooting: Insights into the business of media, audience, and publishing strategies.

Health + Wellness

  • Better Brain: Cognitive neuroscientist Julie Fratantoni shares strategies to improve brain performance and cognitive longevity.
  • Ground Truths: Facts, data and analytics about biomedical matters from physician-scientist Eric Topol.
  • Julia Belluz: Previously the Senior Health Correspondent at Vox, Julia writes about nutrition, metabolism and obesity science.
  • The Vajenda: Medical facts, feminism and fire by obstetrician and gynecologist Jen Gunter. 
  • Your Local Epidemiologist: Katelyn Jetelina offers readers a direct line of “translated” public health science. 

Leadership + Culture

  • Culture Study: A newsletter by Anne Helen Petersen that unpacks the forces shaping work, culture, and society — blending analysis, reporting and commentary.
  • Future Ready Leadership With Jacob Morgan: Real-world leadership advice, timely research, and perspectives from top CEOs and thought leaders.
  • Granted: Adam Grant’s newsletter on psychology and work.

Events: What’s coming up in October

Global Thought Leadership

  • Semafor Fall 2025 World Economy Summit (Washington, DC, Oct. 16-17) Against the backdrop of the World Bank Annual Meetings in Washington, DC, the World Economy Summit will convene global CEOs and policy makers for discussions that chart the path toward stability and growth in a volatile era. Speakers include John Furner, CEO, Walmart US; Barbara Humpton, CEO, Siemens Corporation; and John Waldron, President, Goldman Sachs. Also don’t miss Global Gateway Advisor clients Zig Serafin, CEO, Qualtrics and Svenja Gudell, Chief Economist, Indeed, both discussing the impact of AI on business. More here. Reach out to us if you’ll be on site so we can meet up!
  • Reuters NEXT Gulf (Abu Dhabi, Oct. 22) For the first time, NEXT Gulf brings its flagship NYC event to the Middle East, uniting global and regional leaders to tackle pressing issues across business, government, media, and more — as the region grows more influential on the world stage. Speakers include Mohamed Alabbar, founder and chairman of Emaar and the force behind the Burj Khalifa and Dubai Mall; Nawaf Salam, Prime Minister of Lebanon; and HRH Princess Lamia bint Majed Al Saud, secretary general of Alwaleed Philanthropies. More here.
  • The Information’s Women in Tech, Media and Finance (Yountville, CA, Oct. 28-29) Founder Jessica Lessin brings together 300+ women leaders, founders, investors, and creatives for candid conversations on market volatility, AI disruption, and new directions in tech, media, and finance. Speakers include ​​Paris Hilton, CEO, 11:11 Media; Anjali Sud, CEO, Tubi; and Rose Wang, COO, Bluesky. More here. 
  • Fortune Global Forum (Riyadh, Oct. 26-27). Business leaders come together to discuss the convergence of AI breakthroughs, geopolitical tensions, and shifting demographics. Speakers include Cristiano Amon, president and CEO of Qualcomm; Mary Callahan Erdoes, CEO of Asset and Wealth Management at JPMorgan Chase; and H.E. Fahd bin Abdulmohsan Al-Rasheed, chairman of the Saudi Conventions and Exhibitions General Authority. More here.
  • APEC CEO Summit Korea 2025 (Gyeongju, Korea, Oct. 28-31) The premier gathering of business and government leaders in the Asia-Pacific, convening 1,700 delegates including Citi CEO Jane Fraser, Johnson & Johnson CEO Joaquin Duato, world leaders, and top executives. Global Gateway Advisors is once again the strategic communications lead supporting this year’s APEC Host Committee and managing international media partnerships with Bloomberg, CGTN, Caixin, CNBC, Economist Impact, Financial Times, Foreign Affairs, TIME and The Wall Street Journal. More here. Will you be at APEC? Reach out to our team at apec@gga.nyc. 

Technology + Innovation

  • CNBC AI Summit (Nashville, Oct. 15) Thought leaders, entrepreneurs, and researchers will gather in the emerging tech hub to discuss the ubiquity of AI — and how it’s reshaping work, the workforce and customers. Speakers include Martina McBride, country music singer; Steve Beard Chairman and CEO, Adtalem Global Education; and Zachary Lipton, Cofounder and CTO at Abridge. More here.
  • Bloomberg Tech London (London, Oct. 20-21) Industry leaders will debate Europe’s drive for tech sovereignty — from AI and cybersecurity to quantum and industrial policy — and whether the continent can build independent digital infrastructure or remain a digital dependency. Speakers include Michael Intrator, co-founder and CEO of CoreWeave; Keily Blair, CEO of OnlyFans; and Johannes Reck, co-founder and CEO of GetYourGuide. More here.
  • TechCrunch Disrupt 2025 (San Francisco, Oct. 27-29) TechCrunch Disrupt brings together founders, startups, and investors to share ideas, make connections, and drive innovation at every stage. Speakers include Elizabeth Stone, CTO of Netflix; Tekedra Mawakana, co-CEO of Waymo; and Eric Yuan, founder and CEO of Zoom. More here.

Health + Biotech

  • The Economist Future of Health Asia (Singapore, Oct. 16) Hundreds of leaders across health, science, and policy come together to spark innovation and shape healthier futures in the Asia-Pacific. Speakers include Gamze Yüceland, president of the Growth & Emerging Markets Business Unit at Takeda; Colin Lim, CIO and chief data officer at Singapore’s Ministry of Health; and Bronwyn Le Grice, CEO and managing director of ANDHealth in Australia. More here.
  • HLTH USA 2025 (Las Vegas, Oct. 19-22) HLTH brings together 12,000+ leaders, executives, and visionaries to explore new possibilities, forge connections, uncover emerging trends, and elevate your career and organization. Speakers include Mark Cuban, entrepreneur and co-founder of Cost Plus Drugs; Sarah London, CEO of Centene Corporation; and Greg A. Adams, chair and CEO of Kaiser Permanente. More here.
  • STAT SUMMIT 2025 (Boston/Virtual, Oct. 15-16) Join leading voices from STAT’s first decade to explore what’s next in science, medicine and the political and social forces shaping them. Speakers include Emma Walmsley, CEO of GSK; Daniel Skovronsky, chief scientific officer and president of Lilly Research Laboratories and Lilly Immunology; and Alondra Nelson, science and technology policy leader. More here.
  • Reuters Total Health 2025 (Chicago, Oct. 28-29) Senior healthcare leaders will gather to tackle workforce shortages, rising costs, and shifting policies — and to chart strategies for resilience, technology adoption and value-based care. Speakers include Dave A. Chokshi, chair and former New York City health commissioner; Dr. Amy Compton-Phillips, chief medical officer at CVS Health; and Dr. Maria Ansari, co-CEO of Kaiser Permanente. More here. 

Bookmark Global Gateway Advisors’ event tracker, updated weekly.

Media news + moves

  • The Guardian courts Americans: Facing AI-driven search declines, the outlet is promoting its journalistic independence and broad scope — beyond its direct coverage of President Trump. “We think the American audience isn’t fully aware of what the Guardian is — that we have this breadth of coverage,” said U.S. editor Betsy Reed. More here.
  • The WSJ Leadership Institute presents: Leaders, a new podcast hosted by Alan Murray, president of the WSJ Leadership Institute, explores how leadership unfolds in times of upheaval, transformation, and uncertainty. The premiere episode features Chanel CEO Leena Nair. Listen to it here.
  • Democrats’ disillusion with legacy media: From skipping endorsements to settling lawsuits to pulling Jimmy Kimmel off air, a series of moves has left left-of-center audiences feeling scorned — and turning to independent alternatives like The Bulwark, Crooked Media and Substack writers. More here.
  • MSNBC to begin separation from NBC News: MSNBC will begin separating from NBC News on Oct. 6, ending its reliance on NBC correspondents and crews (except in D.C. until Oct. 19). By Oct. 20, the network will operate fully independently under the new name MS NOW — My Source for News, Opinion, and the World. More here.
  • Business Insider greenlights broad AI use: Journalists can now use AI to draft stories — and readers won’t necessarily be notified, making it one of the few outlets to openly endorse AI at this scale. More here.
  • A video-focused podcast from The Verge: Editor-at-large David Pierce will explore the historical impact of gadgets, apps, websites and products from consumer tech’s past. More here.
  • Reuters launches AI newsletter: Krystal Hu covers the latest breakthroughs in AI and tech. Subscribe here. The outlet this week also launched an Arabic website, its third dedicated language platform in addition to English and Japanese.

Media moves:

  • Ashley Capoot was named AI reporter at CNBC.
  • Nilesh Christopher is now covering artificial intelligence for the Los Angeles Times. 
  • Robert Hart was hired as a London-based reporter at The Verge covering AI.
  • The Guardian hired Jeremy Barr as its first dedicated U.S. media reporter and tapped Jonathan Menjivar as its first head of video podcasts.
  • Ben Schiller, CoinDesk managing editor for features and opinion, has left the organization.
  • Kylie Robison was fired from WIRED. She shared more about it in her new newsletter, kyliebytes.
  • The Financial Times hired Rebecca Salsbury as chief product and technology officer, beginning January 2026.
  • Oliver Darcy‘s Status hired Brian Lowry as Hollywood correspondent and editor, and Natalie Korach as media correspondent.
  • Deepa Seetharaman is returning to Reuters as a tech correspondent.
  • The New York Times hired Patrick McGroarty, an economics editor.
  • Bloomberg News named Chester Dawson senior editor for global business coverage for the Asia Pacific region.

by Global Gateway Advisors

Can communicators save science?

Insights

Global Gateway Advisors

By Global Gateway Advisors

September 12, 2025

Science is under attack. Increasing partisanship is putting decades of progress at risk, underscoring the critical role communicators play in sustaining trust — acting as a conduit between scientists and the public, cutting through jargon, and building transparency. Today, we explore how to rise to this challenge.

ICYMI: The previous edition of COMPASS was full of media news, the latest in AI and details about September events on our radar. Check it out here.

Trust in science: A fragile but strategic asset

Trust in science is slipping in the U.S., and pressure is mounting worldwide. This has real implications: Amid rising vaccine skepticism and misinformation, Florida officials earlier this month announced their intent to cancel all vaccine mandates.

Globally, initiatives tackling HIV and other infectious diseases have abruptly shut down due to lost funding, resulting in eroding trust in public health systems. These setbacks can undermine decades of scientific progress and community engagement, a reminder that trust is not just fragile, but a strategic asset for protecting public health worldwide.

The backdrop:

  • Cultural filters: Trust is no longer shaped only by institutions or research outputs. Political identity, socioeconomic background and worldview influence how science is received and understood. Communicators must meet people through these cultural lenses, not push against them.
  • Conversation shifts: Dialogue around science with the public now flows through media platforms, influencers, and commentators — not always directly from scientists. Spin and “false balance” coverage widen the gap between evidence and belief.
  • Fragility in institutions: Leadership changes, politicization, and funding changes spotlight vulnerabilities in institutions once seen as pillars of credibility. Recent shakeups at agencies like the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the World Health Organization show how quickly shifts at the top can ripple outward, weakening trust in science and health guidance.
  • Backfiring phrases: Messaging like “follow the science” oversimplifies complex decisions, fueling skepticism rather than reinforcing confidence. Effective communication should leave room for uncertainty and adaptation, explaining the iterative nature of science so evolution or change builds trust rather than breeding doubt.

The bottom line: Trust in individual scientists remains relatively strong, but confidence in science overall is fragile. In an environment shaped by hostility, polarization, and short attention spans, credibility is no longer enough. Without transparency and empathy, leaders risk losing influence with patients, policymakers, and the public.

What healthcare communicators should do:

  • Show the process: Explain how evidence informs decisions, acknowledge uncertainty, and highlight why recommendations evolve.
  • Humanize the science: Use stories that connect to lived experience, elevate voices, and broaden messages to show impact through stories that connect to daily life.
  • Amplify scientists’ voices: Showcase the people behind the research, meeting audiences where they are — on social media and in their communities.
  • Tailor by stakeholder: Segment audiences to understand roles + responsibilities, interests, passion, and how they get their information. Lead with humility and respect, especially with skeptical or underserved groups.
  • Counter disinformation: Correct distortions without amplifying them; clarify scientific consensus while avoiding false equivalence.
  • Foster dialogue: Replace proclamations with two-way exchange: “Here’s what the evidence shows, and here’s how we’re adapting.”

Why it matters: Communicators have both the responsibility and the opportunity to connect science with society, explaining the process, acknowledging uncertainty, and creating dialogue that builds lasting credibility.

Events: What’s coming up in October

Spotlight: APEC CEO Summit Korea 2025 (Gyeongju, Korea, Oct. 28-31)

The APEC CEO Summit is the most influential annual meeting of business and government leaders in the Asia-Pacific region. Taking place alongside APEC Economic Leaders’ Week, the event will bring together 1,700 delegates and influential voices. Among the featured speakers are Jane Fraser, CEO, Citi, and Joaquin Duato, CEO, Johnson & Johnson, alongside world leaders and other top executives.

Since 2011, Global Gateway Advisors has served as a strategic communications partner to APEC Host Committees. This year, we’re thrilled to have once again secured the participation of an outstanding group of international media partners, including Bloomberg, Caixin Global, CGTN, CNBC, Economist Impact, Financial Times, Foreign Affairs Magazine, Time and The Wall Street Journal. More here

Want to learn more about APEC? Reach out to our team at apec@gga.nyc.

Ideas, Media + Policy

  • Semafor World Economy Summit Fall Edition 2025 (Washington, D.C., Oct. 15-16) Dedicated to advancing dialogue on today’s economic challenges, this fall’s Summit will tackle the realities of a volatile era — from rising geopolitical tension to rapid technological change — while spotlighting the ideas, policies, and market shifts shaping the next chapter of global resilience and growth. We’ll be on site supporting clients on stage, including Qualtrics CEO Zig Serafin and Indeed’s chief economist Svenja Gudell. More here

Health + Biotech

  • Fierce Biotech Week (Boston, Oct. 7-9) Join leaders across drug development, clinical research, business development, TMF, and communications to advance innovation, shape biotech’s future, and unpack emerging trends and market dynamics. Speakers include Christopher Arendt, chief science officer, head of research, Takeda; Eric Hughes, global R&D head and CMO, Teva; and Grace Crawford, global head, clinical quality management, AstraZeneca. More here

Executive Leadership + Finance

  • Wall Street Journal CEO Council Singapore (Singapore, Oct. 1) In a corporate environment filled with uncertainty, CEOs will gather under the theme “Navigating Risk” to discuss issues such as technology disruption, rising cybersecurity threats, and supply chain turmoil. More here
  • Charter Workplace Summit (New York City, Oct. 14) In partnership with our client Indeed, this year’s summit will examine HR’s role in AI strategy, navigating economic pressures, advancing DEI, rebuilding trust in the employer-employee relationship, and reimagining talent pipelines for the future of work. Speakers include Indeed’s chief economist, Svenja Gudell; Joseph Fuller, professor of management practice and founder, the Harvard Project on Workforce; and Betty Larson, executive vice president and chief human resources officer, Merck. More here
  • Fortune Most Powerful Women Summit (Washington, D.C., Oct. 13-15) With the theme “Leading in a Dynamic World,” this year’s program asks: How can global leaders navigate complexity while driving progress for their companies and communities? Speakers include Selena Gomez, founder, Rare Impact Fund and Rare Beauty; Karen Lynch, former president and CEO, CVS Health, and board member, ThermoFisher Scientific; and Jamie Dimon, chairman and CEO, JPMorgan Chase. More here
  • Forbes Global CEO Conference (Oct. 14-15, Jakarta, Indonesia) Guided by the theme “The World Pivots,” the conference will explore the global economy’s next chapter in an era defined by extraordinary geopolitical and technological turbulence. Speakers include Prabowo Subianto, president, Republic of Indonesia; Tadashi Yanai, chairman, president and CEO, Fast Retailing; and Jane Sun, CEO, Trip.com Group. More here

Bookmark Global Gateway Advisors’ event tracker, updated weekly.

Media news + moves

  • CBS headed for major changes: New owner David Ellison plans to shake things up, which reportedly may include installing Bari Weiss as editor-in-chief or co-president as part of a deal to acquire her media startup, The Free Press. A deal is expected within weeks. More here
  • Tune into The Axios Show: The five-episode series will follow the platform’s concise “Smart Brevity” format, featuring newsmakers and “fresh, timely conversations that take you beyond the headlines of the day.” The new show will appear across Axios’ own properties, YouTube, and X. More here
  • Washington Post enters the Substack chat: Post Runway, a pop-up newsletter timed around fashion week, will be helmed by the outlet’s fashion critic, Rachel Tashjian. “I think a successful journalist in 2025 should be on as many platforms as possible and have a tailored strategy for each one, so it was important to us that we publish original content exclusively on Substack and really engage with the platform on its own terms,” she told Feed Me’s Emily Sundberg. The Economist is another recent arrival to the platform. More here
  • TheStreet.com goes to print: “Some may think we are crazy for launching a print TheStreet magazine in a digital media age,” wrote co-editor Todd Campbell. “Maybe so, but some investments are worth it!” The first edition will hit shelves in November. More here
  • A new podcast from Fortune: In “500: Titans and Disruptors of Industry,” editor-in-chief Alyson Shontell takes a deep dive with top business leaders. The first episode features Accenture’s Julie Sweet. Listen to it here
  • And one from Marketing Brew, too: Hosted by editor Kelsey Sutton, reporter Jennimai Nguyen, and senior reporter Katie Hicks, the podcast will air on Wednesdays. More here

Media moves:

  • Starting today, Axios AI+ will be sent as Axios AI+ Government on Fridays, with Ashley Gold and Maria Curi joining the AI reporting team.
  • Semafor hired former Fortune editor Clay Chandler to oversee its live journalism programs in the Asia-Pacific region and to assist with the launch of a new Asia product, and hired Andrew Browne as managing editor of live journalism.
  • Yasmin Khorram joined Politicoas an economic policy reporter focused on U.S. businesses.
  • CNNhired The Wall Street Journal’s Vaughn Sterling as the new executive producer of “The Source with Kaitlan Collins.”
  • CNBC hired Elizabeth Napolitano as a markets reporter.
  • Kevin Dubouis, director of strategic initiatives at The Wall Street Journal, departed for a community strategy role at OpenAI.
  • Washington Post tech reporter Trisha Thadani is shifting to the health beat.
  • Elias Isquith was hired by Vox as a senior editor for policy, politics, and ideas.
  • Axios appointed Amy Harder as its national energy correspondent.
  • Josh Schafer is Barron’s new newsletter editor.

by Global Gateway Advisors

Upcoming events, media moves + news, Labor Day recs

Insights

Global Gateway Advisors

By Global Gateway Advisors

August 28, 2025

Today: Some quick media moves, news and several exciting upcoming events to ponder as you ride out the last wave of summer. And because it can’t be all work and no play, revisit Global Gateway Advisors’ Summer Edit for inspiration on what to read, watch or listen to this long weekend.

ICYMI: The last edition of COMPASS introduced OK Today, a global, youth-driven collective working to change how the world sees and talks about mental health through dialogue, education, community and culture. Learn more and get involved here.

Events: What’s coming up in September

Technology & Innovation

  • Fortune Brainstorm Tech (Park City, UT, Sept. 8-10): Join the top leaders in tech — including clients and event speakers Brad Anderson, President Products, User Experience Engineering and Security, Qualtrics and Anthony Moisant, CIO and CSO of Indeed – to discuss the role of technology in society and topics from AI and cybersecurity to fintech, crypto and defense tech. The evening prior to the event, Zig Serafin, CEO, Qualtrics, will co-host a Fortune CEOi private dinner with Diane Brady, Executive Editorial Director, Fortune. More here – Will you be on site? Let us know so we can meet up!
  • WSJ Technology Council Summit (New York City, Sept. 15-16): Industry leaders including Carolina Dybeck Happe, COO of Microsoft; Anthony Moisant, CIO and CSO of Indeed; and Severin Hacker, cofounder and CEO of Duolingo, will convene to explore how AI’s rapid rise is reshaping companies, industries and jobs through interviews, discussions and networking. More here
  • Fast Company Innovation Festival (New York City, Sept. 15-18): Join innovators, entrepreneurs, and creatives including Justin McLeod, founder and CEO of Hinge; Brian Niccol, chairman and CEO of Starbucks; and Ego Nwodim, actress, comedian, and SNL cast member, for four days of talks, workshops, and experiences exploring the future of business, technology, design and culture. More here
  • Axios AI+ Summit (Washington, D.C., Sept. 17): Examine the forces driving the global race to dominate AI, the business landscape it is reshaping, and the policy challenges emerging as breakthroughs outpace regulation and leaders race to balance innovation with oversight. More here 

Executive Leadership & Finance

  • Gartner CFO + Finance Executive Conference (London, Sept. 10-11): Finance leaders will tackle risk, efficiency and growth in uncertain times, with keynotes from polar explorer and climate tech investor Ben Saunders and futurologist Magnus Lindkvist. More here
  • Forbes CMO Summit (Aspen, Colorado, Sept. 16-18): An exclusive gathering for top marketing leaders, the Forbes CMO Summit fosters candid, Chatham House Rule discussions on growth and brand leadership, with speakers including Zena Arnold, CMO, Sephora U.S.; John Gerzema, CEO, The Harris Poll; Zach Kitschke, CMO, Canva; and Marian Lee, CMO, Netflix. More here

Ideas, Media & Policy

  • The Atlantic Festival (New York City, Sept. 18-20): Discussions with leading thinkers and cultural icons — including Scott Galloway, Jeffrey Goldberg and Keri Russell — along with exclusive book readings, film screenings and performances. More here

Health & Biotech

  • Fierce Pharma Week (Philadelphia, Sept. 8-11): Top pharma leaders — including attendees from Pfizer, Johnson & Johnson, AstraZeneca, Merck and Novartis — will meet for a week of strategy and innovation in Philadelphia. More here
  • LSX World Congress USA (Boston, Sept. 16-17): Join leaders from biotech, medtech and healthtech to showcase innovation, forge partnerships and shape the future of healthcare technology — with attendees from companies including Pfizer, Johnson & Johnson, AstraZeneca, Novartis, Eli Lilly, Merck, Philips and Stryker. More here
  • Modern Healthcare Leadership Summit (Washington, D.C., Sept. 25): C-suite executives and key decision-makers will gather to tackle challenges from AI integration to value-based care, sharing practical insights to improve financial and operational performance, with speakers including Peter Arduini, CEO, GE HealthCare; David Rhew, MD, global chief medical officer, Microsoft; and Micky Tripathi, chief AI implementation officer, Mayo Clinic. More here

Bookmark Global Gateway Advisors’ event tracker, updated weekly.

Media news + moves

  • The anchor exodus: The trend of news anchors leaving mainstream media continues, with Don Lemon, Joy Reid, Chuck Todd and Jim Acosta among those finding they can operate more freely — and often earn more — in the independent realm of Substacks, YouTube and podcasts, further fragmenting the traditional media landscape. Some, however, see it as the pendulum swinging back: ‘It feels to me like we are going back to valuing traditional beat reporters,’ said Alison Pepper, a former CBS News talent executive and CAA agent. Keep reading
  • Truth isn’t totally dead: Jessica Yellin, independent journalist and former CNN White House Correspondent, argues that as more Americans turn to social and video platforms for news amid rising AI-driven misinformation, “evidence-based creators” have become essential truth-tellers — but they need stronger frameworks, resources and ties to legacy media to endure. Keep reading
  • A month of changing logos: While Cracker Barrel grabs headlines, MSNBC is also rebranding — dropping the peacock and adopting My Source News Opinion World, or simply MS NOW. Keep reading
    The argument for the left: Former Atlantic staff writer Jerusalem Demsas has launched The Argument, a new publication (on Substack, naturally) aimed at bolstering the ideas and arguments of modern liberalism and convincing readers of their importance and value. It has already raised roughly $4 million at a $20 million valuation and attracted an impressive slew of contributors including Matt Yglesias, Rachael Bedard and Derek Thompson. Read Demsas’ welcome letter here
  • Hiring: The Wall Street Journal is seeking a Talent Coach for a new development program intended to equip journalists with advanced skills in content creation and audience engagement. Learn more

The latest in AI:

  • A cautionary tale: AI can fool anyone — even the editors of a tech-centric outlet like WIRED, who had to retract a seemingly perfect but ultimately AI-fabricated pitch. Keep reading 
  • A new standard for compensation: Perplexity, the startup building an artificial intelligence search engine to rival Google — and recently in the spotlight after offering to buy Chrome — is giving publishers the chance to earn revenue from the articles their content generates. ‘AI is helping to create a better internet, but publishers still need to get paid,’ said CEO Aravind Srinivas. The company has earmarked $42.5 million to distribute through the program. Keep reading 

The latest in Inclusion: 

  • Global employers caught in a DEI crossfire: In the U.S., the Trump administration has rolled back diversity policies with executive orders declaring many initiatives “illegal DEI,” while Europe, the U.K., Japan and Australia are moving in the opposite direction with mandates on pay transparency, board quotas and equity reporting. The result is a fragmented global landscape where a one-size-fits-all strategy is nearly impossible, pushing employers to tailor policies by region — and to communicate those strategies with careful, intentional messaging both internally and externally. Keep reading
  • LGBTQ+ inclusion drives long-term growth: A new analysis by the Human Rights Campaign Foundation found that companies with long-standing LGBTQ+ inclusive policies delivered stronger financial results over time — including higher revenue growth, net income and market stability. Keep reading
  • Scientists drop diversity language: To avoid scrutiny from the Trump administration, scientists are modifying grant applications by removing terms like “diverse” and “underrepresented.” Longtime researchers say this level of language policing — which even affects scientific contexts such as “diverse airborne toxicants” — is unprecedented. Still, there’s no real alternative to funding from the National Institutes of Health, which provided nearly $37 billion in the last fiscal year. Keep reading
  • Drop in Women Leaders Across U.S. Corporations: Against the backdrop of Trump-era executive orders dismantling DEI programs, the number of women in leadership positions in the U.S. has fallen. Keep reading

Track key changes in diversity, equity and inclusion — updated in real time — here.

Media moves:

  • TechCrunch hired Russell Brandom as artificial intelligence editor.
  • Alexis Sobel Fitts was named a senior assignment editor overseeing technology and media coverage at The Washington Post. 
  • Bloomberg News hired Judy Lagrou as a reporter, while senior reporter Lindsay Dodgson has left the news organization.
  • Katie Roof will join The Information as Deputy Bureau Chief of the venture capital section after being “poached” from Bloomberg, while Sri Muppidi will expand to become a beat reporter on OpenAI and Anthropic.
  • Charles Forelle is being positioned to be the next editor in chief of Barron’s, per Oliver Darcy of Status.
  • The Wall Street Journal has hired Lydia Wheeler as a legal affairs reporter, while both Marie Beaudette and Denny Jacob are departing the news organization.
  • Fierce Healthcare reporter Noah Tong left the news organization for a new opportunity.
  • Axios health care policy reporter Victoria Knight left the news organization.

by Global Gateway Advisors

OK Today debuts at the 2025 AFS Youth Assembly

Insights

Global Gateway Advisors

By Global Gateway Advisors

August 14, 2025

Young adults are struggling. 

Globally, one in seven youth live with a mental health condition, and many face stigma, isolation and a lack of support. Rates of anxiety, depression and stress are rising, often leaving youth unsure where to turn.

That’s why we’re taking action.

We’re proud to announce the launch of OK Today, a global, youth-driven collective on a mission to transform how the world sees and talks about mental health. It debuted at the 2025 AFS Youth Assembly this past weekend. More on that, and how your organization can get involved, below. 

Plus: Is corporate activism making a comeback? The numbers say yes.

ICYMI: People are no longer “Googling it,” they’re turning to AI chatbots and overviews for answers. But where do these tools get the information they’re sharing? We dive into AI’s media diet in our recent newsletter. Read it here.

Breaking down stigma one conversation at a time

There’s no single cause of the youth mental health crisis. A mix of factors — smartphone use, social media, political polarization, the lingering effects of COVID isolation and remote learning, climate change, rising living costs and global instability — have all contributed.

Go deeper: However, the real crisis isn’t just how youth feel; it’s what they’re afraid to express. Four in 10 Gen Z individuals say they feel judged or misunderstood when discussing mental health at school or work. That silence blocks real progress.

OK Today is a peer-powered platform that is working to change how the world sees and talks about mental health. We believe everyone deserves space to show up as their authentic self, whether we’re OK or not OK, and know that is OK. We are breaking down stigma through:

  • Dialogue: encouraging everyday conversations around mental health. 
  • Education: equipping youth changemakers with tools to break down stigma through community building and advocacy. 
  • Community: investing in youth-led ideas to improve mental health at the community level.  
  • Culture: creating a culture where mental health conversations are normalized.  

How it works: OK Today is built on the belief that young people, ages 18-25, should be leading the mental health conversation. We’re guided by a Youth Advisory Board of young people from across the globe. Meet them here! 

2025 AFS Youth Assembly + OK Today

For the first time in the Youth Assembly’s history, mental health was featured as a core program track — a powerful signal that it’s not a side issue, but central to how young people experience the world, navigate crises and shape their future. 

That focus was reflected in the conversations, participation and data we shared throughout the event, where OK Today championed a weekend of activations, workshops and community-building moments.

By the numbers: Research shows that 67% of young people will tell a friend they’re struggling before telling anyone else, yet 70% feel unequipped to help a friend dealing with mental health challenges. 

Taking action: In an OK Today-sponsored session moderated by Active Minds, a peer-to-peer education advisor to OK Today, participants learned how to support peers in need using the A.S.K. (Acknowledge, Support, Keep-In-Touch) framework. They practiced real-life scenarios, shared personal experiences and walked away with tangible skills to use in their own communities. 

Leading dialogue: A panel discussion titled “Beyond the Surface: The Global Mental Health Crisis” explored how global crises, from armed conflict to pandemics to climate change, are impacting youth mental health. Experts and youth advocates discussed solutions ranging from peer-led support and journaling to gender-sensitive policies and community-driven action. The panel highlighted the role of storytelling, early intervention and empowering young people to drive meaningful change.

“The solutions to mental health challenges arise from love, genuine care and a profound sense of empathy,” said Eduardo Vasconcelos Goyanna Filho, panelist and director of youth engagement at the Stavros Niarchos Foundation Global Center for Child and Adolescent Mental Health.

Join us in our goal of reaching 1 million young people in the next three years.

  • Become a partner. We’re looking for nonprofit and funding partners to help scale the impact of OK Today. Join us to help build and grow OK Today programming, drive campaigns at key moments and be a part of our next global, youth-driven event. Get in touch at OKToday@gga.nyc.
  • Subscribe to our youth mental health newsletter for regular updates on what we’re doing, and for broader trends in youth mental health. 
  • Connect with us on Instagram and LinkedIn.

Is corporate activism back?

Last week, Bentley University-Gallup released a report which found that 51% of U.S. adults believe companies should take a public stance on current issues; a Pew Research poll released the same week found similar results. We looked into Gallup’s findings: 

By the numbers: While there’s nothing decisive about 51%, it marks a 13-point increase from 38% in 2024.

  • Sixty percent of 18- to 29-year-olds want to hear from businesses, with that number decreasing in each older age group.
  • Seventy-one percent of Democrats support businesses taking public stances, compared to 33% of Republicans. 

What issues matter the most? When given 12 topics companies could address, more than 50% of respondents supported companies speaking out on the following, respectively: free speech, climate change, mental health, diversity, equity and inclusion and healthcare. Just 33% supported companies taking a stance on international conflicts, 26% on abortion, and 18% on religion.

Yes, but: While a slight majority of consumers want companies to speak out on current events, only 40% of employees want their employers to discuss these issues with them.  

The bottom line: We help organizations develop custom rubrics to determine whether and how they should engage internally or externally on social issues and current events. Interested? Reach out to info@gga.nyc.

Media news + moves

What we’re reading and watching:

  • The buzz about Beehiiv: Substack is ubiquitous, but many writers are choosing Beehiiv for its customization options and pricing. “I chose Beehiiv over Substack for my new AI and book-focused newsletter for several reasons — product, economics, and more. One of the biggest? I didn’t want to be just another same-looking Substack,” said Wall Street Journal columnist Joanna Stern. Meanwhile, The Information is asking whether Beehiiv could be the next billion-dollar newsletter startup. More on that here
  • An unexpected win for Reddit: Reddit’s defining feature is human conversation — exactly the kind of content AI seeks. Thanks to licensing deals with OpenAI and Google, Reddit is a top-cited source for queries from ChatGPT, Perplexity and Google Gemini, appearing in 5.5% of Google’s AI Overview responses. “Human conversation is not being replaced by AI, instead, it’s becoming more important,” Reddit CEO Steve Huffman said in a recent earnings call. Continue reading
  • Behold the Gray Lady: While many media companies struggle, the New York Times is thriving, with its stock hitting an all-time high earlier this month and Q2 revenue up 27.8% year over year. It has stayed competitive by producing more video content and signing an AI-related licensing deal with Amazon. Read more
  • Semafor considers its next move. It’s been just over two years since Semafor’s last infusion of outside funding, and it may be gearing up for another round, Oliver Darcy reported in his Status newsletter. Learn more
  • Business Insider founder launches podcast: Henry Blodget launches “Solutions” next Monday, a new podcast series produced with Vox that highlights experts tackling major challenges in science, business and society. Bookmark to listen here

Media moves:

  • Business Insider hired Zak Jason as executive editor for its Discourse section. 
  • Yahoo Finance hired JR Whalen as a news and personal finance producer, while Jordan Weissmann announced he is leaving the organization. 
  • Bloomberg News hired Charles Gorrivan as a reporter, while editor Kevin Miller left the organization after nearly 30 years.
  • MarketWatch hired Christine Ji to cover Big Tech.
  • Fast Company promoted Christopher Zara to news director.
  • The New York Times hired Erik Wemple to cover media news for the business section and Sandhya Somashekhar as its Washington bureau domestic policy editor. 
  • The Information hired Katie Roof as deputy bureau chief of venture capital coverage.
  • Bloomberg Industry Group hired Keith L. Alexander as editor-at-large.

by Global Gateway Advisors

Inside AI’s media diet

Insights

Global Gateway Advisors

By Global Gateway Advisors

July 30, 2025

The way we find information online is shifting fast. Browser-based AI search has more than doubled since June 2024, now accounting for 5.6% of all search traffic. This transition is disrupting how information is discovered, how publishers drive traffic and how brands reach their audiences.

In today’s edition, we take a closer look at a new report from Muck Rack, the media intelligence platform, called “What Is AI Reading?”

ICYMI: We crowdsourced newsletter, podcast, book, TV and movie recommendations from our team and friends of the firm. Click here to explore the picks that are inspiring and informing them this summer.

The content that feeds AI

Muck Rack’s new report analyzed over 500,000 user prompts — covering a wide range of industries and topics — entered into ChatGPT, Gemini and Claude to better understand the characteristics of AI-generated citations across various contexts. Here’s what communications professionals need to know.

1. Earned media matters

AI cites non-paid media more than 95% of the time. Corporate blogs and journalism lead, while social and marketing content and press releases account for just 2% and 1% of citations, respectively.

  • What they’re saying: “Based on the data, we can see that the models are pretty clearly avoiding marketing materials,” said Matt Dzugan, senior director of data at Muck Rack. “Essentially, the models are trying to earn the trust of [their] audience and don’t want to regurgitate salesy materials.”
  • Go deeper: Generative engine optimization (GEO) is quickly replacing search engine optimization (SEO). By 2026, SEO is expected to drop by 25% as more people turn to AI chatbots and Google’s AI-generated responses, according to Gartner. Read our deep dive on how to win in GEO.

2. Fresh is favored

Among journalism sources cited, there was a clear preference for stories published within the past 12 months.

  • By the numbers: 56% of journalism citations by OpenAI were published in the last year.

3. Outlet authority

The most frequently cited news organizations include the Associated Press, Reuters, Axios, the Financial Times, Forbes and Time — several of which have formal partnerships with large language models.

  • Yes, but: When asked about specific industries, AI often turns to niche and trade publications, as well as Wikipedia, which ChatGPT consistently cites for industry-specific trends.

The bottom line: As LLMs undergo updates and retraining, this space will continue to evolve quickly. Communicators must stay on top of how AI finds, filters and cites information in order to remain visible, credible and competitive. Download the full report from Muck Rack here.

Media news + moves

What we’re reading and watching:

  • Substack raises $100 million in Series C funding: The latest funding round values the platform at $1.1 billion. “We’re doubling down on the Substack app, which is designed to help audiences reclaim their attention and connect with the creators they care about,” its founders wrote in a post. Read it in full here.
  • Fortune launches ‘Success’ newsletter: Written by Orianna Rosa Royle, the weekly newsletter will share lessons from top CEOs, career trends, and rituals and habits that drive real change. Subscribe here.
  • A ‘new era’ for WIRED: Going forward, the publication will focus on connecting readers more directly to its journalism and reporters through five weekly newsletters, twice-monthly livestream AMAs, comments sections and subscriber-only narrated articles. Editorial director Katie Drummond called the effort a “solution to this so-called ‘traffic apocalypse’ and the AI sloppification of the internet.” Learn about the new newsletters + subscribe to them here.
  • The power of the pod: New York-based podcast startup Kaleidoscope, which heavily features science and tech content, completed its Series A, raising $5 million. Keep an eye out for a new investigative series on Othram, the genetic forensics lab behind key breakthroughs in the Gilgo Beach murders and Idaho college killings. Learn more.
  • A $200 million valuation for The Free Press? Bari Weiss, currently in talks about a sale with David Ellison, the incoming owner of CBS News, is seeking that amount for her three-year-old media startup. For context, Jeff Bezos paid $250 million for the Washington Post in 2013, unadjusted for inflation. Learn more.
  • The Economist’s first AI deal: The outlet has partnered with Google’s NotebookLM. More here.

Media moves:

  • Bloomberg News hired Nikki Waller as managing editor of equality and work. The enterprise also added Andrew Mendez as a breaking news editor in its San Francisco bureau, and Dhruv Mehrotra, formerly an investigative data reporter at WIRED.
  • David Cho was hired by CNBC to be its editor in chief, while news leaders Dan Colarusso and Jay Yarow announced they are leaving the organization.
  • Amanda Freidman joined Politico as a health care reporter, covering the surgeon general and writing the Pro Health Care PM newsletter.
  • Politico also hired Noah Baustin as an energy and environment reporter.
  • Brandon Doerrer was named creativity and media innovation reporter at Ad Age.
  • The Wall Street Journalhired Jaclyn Jeffrey-Wilensky as a data reporter.
  • Yahoo Finance hired Francisco Velasquez as a reporter.
  • The Financial Times hired Julie Steinberg as a property correspondent.
  • Business Insider senior editor Clementine Fletcher left the organization.

by Global Gateway Advisors

Global Gateway Advisors' Summer Edit

Insights

Global Gateway Advisors

By Global Gateway Advisors

July 15, 2025

We asked our team and friends of the firm to tell us what’s capturing their attention this summer — and because the news cycle is relentless, we also sought out TV and movie recommendations for those in need of a good distraction.

Also, our thoughts are with the families and communities affected by the devastating floods in Central Texas. The New York Times compiled a list of ways to help.

ICYMI: The previous edition of COMPASS explored why LinkedIn is more essential than ever and how to lean into the latest trends to reach your most important audiences. Read it here.

What to read, watch and listen to this summer

NEWSLETTERS

“I love Culture Study from Anne Helen Petersen. No one else can dissect the cultural zeitgeist the way she can. It’s so important for us as communicators to approach the latest culture trends with a deeper understanding of the full context of what matters and why, and her ability to dig deeper in an extremely accessible way makes us all smarter.” – Carrie Engel, head of U.S. external communications, Indeed

“The Ed’s Up, the immensely insightful science writer and author Ed Yong’s newsletter, who also has made me want to take up birding!” – Kathleen Siedlecki, principal, KAS Strategies

“I look forward to Fortune’s Broadsheet every day. Emma Hinchliffe’s coverage of female founders, funders and the forces shaping the business world is sharp, thoughtful and always relevant. It’s a smart pulse check on where power and capital are flowing — and where they could be flowing if more women were at the center of the story.” – Laura Lowery, advisor, Global Gateway Advisors

What else?

See our full list here.

PODCASTS

“Bloomberg’s Odd Lots is fantastic for digging deep into economics and markets. I’m a football fan too, so I like listening to The Athletic Football Show and The Mina Kimes Show when I’m out for a run.” – Daniel Zhao, director of economic research, Glassdoor

“I’m loyal to NPR’s Up First and The Skimm. For pop culture news, I’ve been loving Peyton Dix and Hunter Harris’s Lemme Say This podcast.” – Morgan Smith, freelance journalist

“Hard Fork from the New York Times provides an excellent look at what’s happening in tech and AI. I always look forward to Friday listening.” – MaryJo Fitzgerald, head of West Coast, partner, Global Gateway Advisors

What else?

See our full list here.

BOOKS

“Immunity to Change: How to Overcome It and Unlock the Potential in Yourself and Your Organization by Robert Kegan and Lisa Laskow Lahey. It’s a great book that challenges leaders to think about the work they need to do to evolve and then work with their teams. It’s a book I revisit to evaluate my personal and company growth.” – Carol Harrison, president, Global Gateway Advisors

“Moral Ambition by Rutger Bregman. I am teaching Global Social Enterprise in the fall and it is the basis of my course. Needed now more than ever.” – Julie Meyer, founder, Eat Well Global

“For the heart: Ina Garten’s Be Ready When the Luck Happens. For the beach: Casey McQuiston’s Red White and Royal Blue. For the brain: Simon Sinek’s Leaders Eat Last. – Théa Iacovelli, managing director, strategic growth, Global Gateway Advisors

What else?

  • Abundance by Ezra Klein: An exploration of how technological advancements could reshape society, economy and human potential in a future of radical abundance.
  • Adventures in the Louvre: How to Fall in Love with the World’s Greatest Museum by Elaine Sciolini: A guide to experiencing the Louvre’s art and history through personal stories and insider tips, inviting readers to connect deeply with the museum.
  • The Art Thief by Michael Finkel: A true story of Stéphane Breitwieser, a prolific art thief who stole over 300 artworks from European museums, driven by obsession rather than profit.
  • The Beauty of the End by Lauren Stienstra: In a dystopian future facing extinction, two sisters navigate ethics, ambition and survival in a government-run reproduction program.
  • Black Friend by Ziwe: A humorous collection of essays from comedian Ziwe, reflecting on race, identity and pop culture through her incisive and irreverent lens.
  • Careless People: A Cautionary Tale of Power, Greed, and Lost Idealism by Sarah Wynn-Williams: A revealing memoir exposing Facebook’s culture of power, greed, and ethical decline through the author’s insider experience in the company’s public policy team. 

See our full list here.

MOVIES + TV

“Adolescence. Wow. Amazing. It was gripping, terrifying of course, and carried an important message. It was also acting, writing, directing and producing at its very best.” – David Neibart, principal, The Neibart Group “Paradise is a series that teaches that utopia is not perfect. Orchestrated life based on the opinion of a few does not prevent curiosity.” – Vanessa N. Quijano, senior public affairs and communications advisor, NeighborWorks America

“Handmaid’s Tale and America’s Sweethearts: Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders. In their own, unique ways, both series illustrate the strength, grit and complex inner thoughts and motivations of women. I would recommend watching both series in tandem, alternating between shows based on your mood.” – Sareena Roy, account executive, Global Gateway Advisors

What else?

  • Anora: A young Brooklyn sex worker’s whirlwind romance and impulsive marriage to the son of a Russian oligarch is threatened when his parents attempt to annul the union, leading to a chaotic journey through New York.
  • Barbara Walters: Tell Me Everything: A documentary exploring the groundbreaking career and personal life of the legendary journalist.
  • Call Her Alex: A two-part documentary series about Alex Cooper, the host of the massively successful podcast “Call Her Daddy,” exploring her rise from a self-conscious teenager to a media mogul.
  • Dept Q: A brash but brilliant cop becomes head of a new police department, where he leads an unlikely team of misfits in solving Edinburgh’s cold cases.

See our full list here.

We’d love to know — what are you reading, watching, or listening to this summer? Share your favorites with us here.

AFS Youth Assembly: Empowering global citizens

Hundreds of delegates aged 18-35 representing over 100 countries will gather in New York City August 8-10 for the AFS Youth Assembly, a global platform dedicated to developing the next generation of leaders through cross-cultural exchange, education and action.

What to watch: For the first time, the Youth Assembly will feature a focused track on youth mental health in a turbulent world, focused on understanding the challenge and driving solutions.

Global Gateway Advisors is proud to support this important initiative and we hope you’ll stay tuned for important announcements coming out of this year’s Assembly.

Click here to receive our biweekly youth mental health insights newsletter.

Upcoming events

  • Semafor’s Solving the Youth Wellbeing Challenge (Washington D.C. / virtual, July 16) Semafor journalists will host a discussion exploring the youth mental health crisis, highlighting opportunities to rebuild social ties, foster resilience and develop lasting strategies to combat rising depression, anxiety and loneliness among young people. Speakers include Sen. John Fetterman; Laura Horne, chief program officer, Active Minds; and Sara DeWitt, senior vice president and general manager, PBS KIDS. RSVP here.
  • Reuters Momentum AI San Jose (San Jose, CA, July 15-16) This two-day conference hosted by Reuters brings together industry leaders to explore how AI can improve the way large companies operate and deliver products and services. Speakers include Prashant Mehrotra, chief AI officer, U.S. Bank; Hilary Packer, CTO, American Express; and Yao Morin, CTO, JLL. More here.
  • American Hospital Association Leadership Summit (Nashville, Tenn., July 20-22) Senior health care executives, clinicians and industry experts convene to explore strategies for delivering higher-value care, ensuring financial sustainability, tackling workforce challenges and enhancing the consumer experience. More here.
  • Fortune Brainstorm AI Singapore (Singapore, July 22-23) This year’s event focuses on the rise of AI agents, the shift from AI planning to implementation and the urgent need for sustainable, responsible scaling. Featured speakers include Tan Su Shan, CEO, DBS Bank; Oliver Jay, managing director, international, OpenAI; and Madhu Kurup, vice president of engineering, Indeed. More here.

Bookmark Global Gateway Advisors’ event tracker, updated weekly.

Media news + moves

The latest in AI:

  • “The Hidden Layer.” A new twice-weekly newsletter from Puck offers insights into the latest dealmaking and breakthroughs in AI, and how the intersecting worlds of finance, entertainment, media and politics are being transformed in its wake. Subscribe here.
  • Law360 requires use of AI tool. All stories are required to be screened by an AI-powered “bias” detection tool prior to publication, leading to a petition from the Law360 Union. “As journalists, we should be trusted to select our own tools of the trade to do our information-gathering, reporting and editing — not pressured to use unproven technology against our will,” it states. Read more.
  • Axios adjusts editorial policies to be more AI-friendly. Per a recent note to staff: “The new language replaces our original framing, which was centered on how everything we do ‘will be written or produced by a real person with a real identity. There will be NO AI-written stories.’ That was written years ago and was unnecessarily limiting as we’ve learned more about what AI tools can and can’t do.”
  • Fortune leans into AI-produced content. A new section on the outlet’s website, Fortune Intelligence, features stories drafted by generative AI — but edited by humans. Read more.
  • The fight against AI scraping. Publishers are increasingly moving to cordon off their content with the help of companies like Cloudflare to prevent it from being scraped by unlicensed AI chatbots — a move AI companies reject, arguing it’s within bounds and setting up a clash with far-reaching implications for both the media industry and the internet. Read more.

Media moves:

  • Michal Lev-Ram joined CNBC as a tech contributor.
  • Henry Chandonnet joined Business Insider as a trending news fellow.
  • Jeff Bercovici is joining the Wall Street Journal’sSan Francisco team as deputy tech and media editor later this month.
  • Business Insider health correspondent Rachel Hosie is departing to pursue freelance work.
  • Riley Beggin joined the Washington Post to cover Congressional economic policy.
  • The Financial Times hired Abigail Hauslohner to cover a new beat about the United States’ evolving relationships, policies and actions in the Middle East.
  • Rob Lang was named Reuters’ first-ever newsroom AI editor.
  • Brad Smith trades Yahoo Finance for the anchor desk at CNN Headlines.
  • Politicohired David Harrison as economic policy editor.
  • Christina Vallice joined Vox as head of video.
  • Semafor appointed Matthew Martin as its Saudi Arabia bureau chief and global head of sovereign wealth fund coverage.
  • Yahoo Finance hired Jake Conley as a breaking news business reporter.
  • The Financial Times hired Laith Al-Khalaf as a banking and fintech reporter.
  • Idrees Kahloon, Washington bureau chief at The Economist, is leaving for a role at The Atlantic.
  • Gizmodo hired Gayoung Lee as a reporter.
  • Miranda Nazzaro left The Hill for a new opportunity.
  • Wall Street Journal reporters Sabela Ojea and Preetika Rana have left the organization.

by Global Gateway Advisors

Global Gateway Advisors' Summer Edit: Newsletters + Podcasts

Insights

Global Gateway Advisors

By Global Gateway Advisors

July 15, 2025

We asked our team and friends of the firm to tell us what’s capturing their attention this summer — and because the news cycle is relentless, we also sought out TV and movie recommendations for those in need of a good distraction.

Also, our thoughts are with the families and communities affected by the devastating floods in Central Texas. The New York Times compiled a list of ways to help.

ICYMI: The previous edition of COMPASS explored why LinkedIn is more essential than ever and how to lean into the latest trends to reach your most important audiences. Read it here.

NEWSLETTERS

“I love Culture Study from Anne Helen Petersen. No one else can dissect the cultural zeitgeist the way she can. It’s so important for us as communicators to approach the latest culture trends with a deeper understanding of the full context of what matters and why, and her ability to dig deeper in an extremely accessible way makes us all smarter.” – Carrie Engel, head of U.S. external communications, Indeed

“The Ed’s Up, the immensely insightful science writer and author Ed Yong’s newsletter, who also has made me want to take up birding!” – Kathleen Siedlecki, principal, KAS Strategies

“I look forward to Fortune’s Broadsheet every day. Emma Hinchliffe’s coverage of female founders, funders and the forces shaping the business world is sharp, thoughtful and always relevant. It’s a smart pulse check on where power and capital are flowing — and where they could be flowing if more women were at the center of the story.” – Laura Lowery, advisor, Global Gateway Advisors

What else?

PODCASTS

“Bloomberg’s Odd Lots is fantastic for digging deep into economics and markets. I’m a football fan too, so I like listening to The Athletic Football Show and The Mina Kimes Show when I’m out for a run.” – Daniel Zhao, director of economic research, Glassdoor

“I’m loyal to NPR’s Up First and The Skimm. For pop culture news, I’ve been loving Peyton Dix and Hunter Harris’s Lemme Say This podcast.” – Morgan Smith, freelance journalist

“Hard Fork from the New York Times provides an excellent look at what’s happening in tech and AI. I always look forward to Friday listening.” – MaryJo Fitzgerald, head of West Coast, partner, Global Gateway Advisors

What else?

by Global Gateway Advisors

Global Gateway Advisors' Summer Edit: Books, Movies + TV

Insights

Global Gateway Advisors

By Global Gateway Advisors

July 15, 2025

We asked our team and friends of the firm to tell us what’s capturing their attention this summer — and because the news cycle is relentless, we also sought out TV and movie recommendations for those in need of a good distraction.

Also, our thoughts are with the families and communities affected by the devastating floods in Central Texas. The New York Times compiled a list of ways to help.

ICYMI: The previous edition of COMPASS explored why LinkedIn is more essential than ever and how to lean into the latest trends to reach your most important audiences. Read it here.

BOOKS

“Immunity to Change: How to Overcome It and Unlock the Potential in Yourself and Your Organization by Robert Kegan and Lisa Laskow Lahey. It’s a great book that challenges leaders to reflect on the work they need to do to evolve and then collaborate with their teams. It’s a book I revisit to evaluate my personal and company growth.” – Carol Harrison, president, Global Gateway Advisors

“Moral Ambition by Rutger Bregman. I am teaching Global Social Enterprise in the fall and it is the basis of my course. Needed now more than ever.” – Julie Meyer, founder, Eat Well Global

“For the heart: Ina Garten’s Be Ready When the Luck Happens. For the beach: Casey McQuiston’s Red White and Royal Blue. For the brain: Simon Sinek’s Leaders Eat Last. – Théa Iacovelli, managing director, strategic growth, Global Gateway Advisors

What else?

  • Abundance by Ezra Klein: An exploration of how technological advancements could reshape society, economy and human potential in a future of radical abundance.
  • Adventures in the Louvre: How to Fall in Love with the World’s Greatest Museum by Elaine Sciolini: A guide to experiencing the Louvre’s art and history through personal stories and insider tips, inviting readers to connect deeply with the museum.
  • The Art Thief by Michael Finkel: A true story of Stéphane Breitwieser, a prolific art thief who stole over 300 artworks from European museums, driven by obsession rather than profit.
  • The Beauty of the End by Lauren Stienstra: In a dystopian future facing extinction, two sisters navigate ethics, ambition and survival in a government-run reproduction program.
  • Black Friend by Ziwe: A humorous collection of essays from comedian Ziwe, reflecting on race, identity and pop culture through her incisive and irreverent lens.
  • Careless People: A Cautionary Tale of Power, Greed, and Lost Idealism by Sarah Wynn-Williams: A revealing memoir exposing Facebook’s culture of power, greed, and ethical decline through the author’s insider experience in the company’s public policy team. 
  • Daisy Jones & The Six by Taylor Jenkins Reid: An oral history of a 1970s rock band, chronicling their rise to fame, interpersonal dramas and eventual dissolution.
  • Daughters of the Flower Fragrant Garden by Zhuqing Li: A memoir of two sisters separated by the Chinese Civil War, tracing their divergent paths and resilience amid political upheaval.
  • Death Is Our Business: Russian Mercenaries and the New Era of Private Warfare by John Lechner: An investigative account of Russia’s Wagner Group and the rise of private military companies reshaping modern warfare.
  • Empire of AI by Karen Hao: A deep dive into the global race for artificial intelligence dominance, examining its technological, ethical and geopolitical implications.
  • Everyday Life in the Spectacular City: Making Home in Dubai by Rana AlMutawa: An ethnographic study of Dubai’s residents, revealing how they navigate identity, community and belonging in a rapidly transforming urban landscape.
  • Extremely Online: The Untold Story of Fame, Influence, and Power on the Internet by Taylor Lorenz: A look at the rise of internet influencers and the cultural, economic and social forces shaping digital fame.
  • Hello Beautiful by Ann Napolitano: A family saga about four sisters, inspired by Little Women, exploring love, loyalty and the bonds that endure through tragedy.
  • How to Be Perfect by Michael Schur: An accessible guide to moral philosophy, blending humor and practical advice to navigate ethical dilemmas in everyday life.
  • How to Break Up with Your Phone by Catherine Price: A practical, science-backed guide to reducing smartphone addiction and reclaiming time, attention and mental well-being.
  • In a Free State by V.S. Naipaul: A collection of interconnected stories exploring displacement, identity and the complexities of freedom in a postcolonial world.
  • James by Percival Everett: A reimagining of Adventures of Huckleberry Finn from Jim’s perspective, blending humor and tragedy to explore race and humanity.
  • Nazi Billionaires by David de Jong: An investigative exposé of dynastic families who amassed wealth under the Third Reich and their lingering influence in modern Germany.
  • Nexus: A Brief History of Information Networks from the Stone Age to AI by Yuval Noah Harari: A history of how information networks, from ancient writing to AI, have shaped human civilization and power dynamics.
  • Roman Stories by Jhumpa Lahiri: A collection of short stories set in Rome, exploring themes of migration, identity and belonging through the lives of diverse characters.
  • The Let Them Theory by Mel Robbins: A motivational guide encouraging readers to release control over others’ actions and focus on personal growth and empowerment.
  • The Man Who Would Be King: Mohammed bin Salman and the Transformation of Saudi Arabia by Karen Elliot House: A detailed portrait of Saudi Arabia’s crown prince and his ambitious, controversial efforts to modernize the kingdom.
  • Say It Well by Terry Szuplata: A practical guide to effective public speaking, drawing on the author’s experience as a speechwriter to inspire confidence and clarity.
  • The Tainted Cup by Robert Jackson Bennett: A fantasy mystery set in a decaying empire, where a brilliant investigator and her assistant unravel a conspiracy tied to a magical plague.
  • We Are Legion (We Are Bob) by Dennis E. Taylor: A sci-fi adventure following Bob, a former engineer whose consciousness is uploaded into a spacecraft, exploring the galaxy while replicating himself.
  • What an Owl Knows: The New Science of the World’s Most Enigmatic Birds by Jennifer Ackerman: An exploration of owl biology, behavior and cultural significance, grounded in cutting-edge scientific research.
  • When McKinsey Comes to Town by Michael Forsythe and Walt Bogdanich: An investigation of McKinsey’s controversial role in shaping global business and government.
  • Who Is Government?: The Untold Story of Public Service edited by Michael Lewis: A collection of essays highlighting the unsung heroes of public service and their critical roles in shaping effective governance.

MOVIES AND TV

“Adolescence. Wow. Amazing. It was gripping, terrifying of course, and carried an important message. It was also acting, writing, directing and producing at its very best.” – David Neibart, principal, The Neibart Group

“Paradise is a series that teaches that utopia is not perfect. Orchestrated life based on the opinion of a few does not prevent curiosity.” – Vanessa N. Quijano, senior public affairs and communications advisor, NeighborWorks America

“Handmaid’s Tale and America’s Sweethearts: Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders. In their own, unique ways, both series illustrate the strength, grit and complex inner thoughts and motivations of women. I would recommend watching both series in tandem, alternating between shows based on your mood.” – Sareena Roy, account executive, Global Gateway Advisors

What else?

  • Anora: A young Brooklyn sex worker’s whirlwind romance and impulsive marriage to the son of a Russian oligarch is threatened when his parents attempt to annul the union, leading to a chaotic journey through New York. 
  • Barbara Walters: Tell Me Everything: A documentary exploring the groundbreaking career and personal life of the legendary journalist.
  • Call Her Alex: A two-part documentary series about Alex Cooper, the host of the massively successful podcast “Call Her Daddy,” exploring her rise from a self-conscious teenager to a media mogul.
  • Dept. Q: A brash but brilliant cop becomes head of a new police department, where he leads an unlikely team of misfits in solving Edinburgh’s cold cases.
  • Formula 1: Drive to Survive: A docuseries giving viewers exclusive, intimate access to the people in one of the world’s greatest racing competitions.
  • Gold & Greed: The Hunt for Fenn’s Treasure: A docuseries following the everyday people who risked their lives chasing Fenn’s fortune.
  • My Mom Jayne: In her feature film directorial debut, Mariska Hargitay grapples with the public and private legacy of her mother, Jayne Mansfield.
  • My Octopus Teacher: In a South African kelp forest, a filmmaker forms a remarkable bond with an octopus as she reveals the wonders of her underwater world.
  • Nothing Compares: A documentary covering Sinéad O’Connor’s rise to fame and how her iconoclastic personality led to her exile from the pop mainstream.
  • The Four Seasons: Starring Tina Fey and Steve Carell, this comedy-drama follows three longtime couples whose decades-old friendship is shaken when one pair divorces, upending their cherished tradition of quarterly weekend getaways.
  • Shrinking: A grieving therapist starts breaking the rules, with comedic and heartfelt consequences.
  • Sirens: Taking place over a single weekend at a lavish beach estate, the series delves into issues of gender, power and social class.
  • Special Ops: Lioness: A covert CIA program uses female operatives to infiltrate terror networks in this thriller.
  • The Bear: A series about food, family and the insanity of the restaurant industry grind.
  • The Better Sister: A thriller about two estranged sisters, Chloe and Nicky, who are forced to reunite after Chloe’s husband, Adam, is murdered.
  • The Rehearsal: Nathan Fielder stages elaborate simulations to help people prepare for life’s toughest moments.
  • The Studio: Seth Rogen stars as the newly appointed head of a movie studio. 

We’d love to know — what are you reading, watching, or listening to this summer? Share your favorites with us here. 

by Global Gateway Advisors

Leaning into LinkedIn

Insights

Global Gateway Advisors

By Global Gateway Advisors

June 25, 2025

“The content that creates a memory is the content that drives action.”

That’s the message from LinkedIn’s head of customer insights, Nicole Moreo. We sat down with her this week to learn more. With over 1 billion users, including 8.2 million C-level executives, LinkedIn continues to evolve as a powerful and cost-effective tool for building brand visibility, trust and influence, and shaping industry dialogue.

Executives are creating consistent, expert, human content that resonates long after the scroll. In today’s newsletter, we explore why LinkedIn is more essential than ever and how to lean into the latest trends to reach your most important audiences.

ICYMI: The previous edition of COMPASS explored why organizations should embrace generative engine optimization (GEO), as traditional search engine optimization (SEO) declines amid the rise of AI chatbots and Google’s AI-generated results. Read it here.

Why CEOs and leaders should all be active on LinkedIn

The platform offers thought leaders a powerful hub with multiple ways to advance business goals — delivering strong returns on time invested. And as one’s personal profile gains visibility, so does their company’s brand and impact.

1. Establish presence, authenticity and credibility

People prefer hearing directly from executives rather than brands. CEOs active on LinkedIn humanize their companies, building trust, enhancing authenticity and expanding their influence. Executive posts also tend to generate higher engagement and shares than brand posts.

  • Executives are building trust with direct-to-audience video. According to Moreo: “We’ve seen video make a huge difference in true business return.” Short, informal walk-and-talk videos are more authentic and memorable.
  • Video also creates what LinkedIn calls dwell time — the most important metric for platform performance and eventual conversion.

Measure it: A rise in profile views indicates your content is resonating, and dwell time is the new impression. LinkedIn’s latest data show that how long someone engages with your content (not how many people see it) is a leading predictor of conversion.

Who is doing it well? Jon Gray, COO at Blackstone, is known for sharing business and personal insightsin a casual tone — he’s often on a run! — which makes him feel relatable while strengthening his professional brand.

2. Gain unparalleled access to decision makers

LinkedIn’s user base has nearly doubled since 2019, significantly growing its network of C-suite leaders, influencers and key decision-makers who use the network to seek expert insights, collaboration opportunities and fresh ideas. And 91% of executives consider LinkedIn their top source for professionally relevant content.

Why it matters:

  • Directly engage senior stakeholders in conversations, skipping intermediaries and delays.
  • Connect with decision-makers in target industries and sectors.
  • Access to relevant groups and forums where industry leaders drive key conversations and influence trends.

3. Attract top talent

According to LinkedIn data, 75% of job seekers evaluate an employer’s brand before applying. Gen Z engagement on LinkedIn is growing fast, and “Gen Z is more likely to follow people than brands,” Moreo said.

Why it matters: Organizations with a strong executive presence that highlights company culture and values attract higher-quality candidates.

  • Candidates are drawn to workplaces that align with their values and offer a supportive culture — priorities that matter even more to Gen Z, who will make up 30% of the workforce by 2030.

4. Lead generation

The unique combination of professional data, advanced search filters and content-driven engagement positions LinkedIn as a top platform for generating high-quality leads.

Marketing and communications teams must think beyond the funnel, says Moreo. At any given time, only 5% of your audience is actively in-market –- the other 95% isn’t ready to buy, but is ready to remember you. That’s why brand-building content on LinkedIn matters. “You have to create a memory when they don’t even realize they need you,” said Moreo.

  • By the numbers: LinkedIn accounts for 80% of all B2B leads generated through social media.

5. Supplement traditional comms channels

Thought leaders increasingly use LinkedIn to sidestep conventional avenues like press releases or media interviews, allowing them to speak directly to their audiences — faster, more authentically and with greater control.

In action: Tinder CEO Faye Iosotaluno recently announced her plans to step down via LinkedIn. Match Group CEO Spencer Rascoff responded, thanking her and noting that he will be stepping in to lead Tinder. Media reporting the news then linked directly to Iosotaluno’s post.

The bottom line: LinkedIn has evolved to become a public mainstage for executive thought leadership. The most effective voices are the most consistent, human and memorable.  Whether you’re sharing insights, announcing a bold move, or just showing up, every post is an opportunity to shape reputation and build trust.

Global Gateway Advisors helps leaders communicate with clarity through smart, resonant content strategies tailored to your goals and your audience. Get in touch to elevate your executive presence.

AFS Youth Assembly: Empowering global citizens

Hundreds of delegates aged 18–35 representing over 100 countries will gather in New York City Aug. 8-10 for the AFS Youth Assembly, a global platform dedicated to developing the next generation of leaders through cross-cultural exchange, education and action. If you would like to send someone from your organization, apply by Aug. 1.

What to watch: In response to the global youth mental health crisis, the Assembly is launching a dedicated program track on mental health for the first time. Global Gateway Advisors is proud to support this important initiative by fostering strategic dialogue and amplifying youth-led solutions to break down mental health stigma globally.

Click here to receive our weekly newsletter for youth mental health insights and solutions.

Upcoming events

  • Aspen Ideas Festival (Aspen, Colo., June 25-July 1) Leaders and thinkers gather at this annual event to explore critical issues and ignite new ideas around themes like prosperity reimagined; the global contract; breakthroughs and innovations; and what it means to live a good life. Speakers include Susan Rice, former U.S. domestic policy adviser; Fred Krupp, president, Environmental Defense Fund; Brené Brown, research professor and author; and Laurence Fink, chairman and CEO, BlackRock. More here.
  • American Hospital Association Leadership Summit (Nashville, Tenn., July 20-22) Senior health care executives, clinicians, and industry experts convene to explore strategies for delivering higher-value care, ensuring financial sustainability, tackling workforce challenges and enhancing the consumer experience. More here.
  • Fortune Brainstorm AI Singapore (Singapore, July 22-23) This year’s event focuses on the rise of AI agents, the shift from AI planning to implementation and the urgent need for sustainable, responsible scaling. Featured speakers include Tan Su Shan, CEO, DBS Bank; Oliver Jay, managing director, international, OpenAI; and Madhu Kurup, vice president of engineering, Indeed. More here.

Bookmark Global Gateway Advisors’ event tracker, updated weekly.

Media news + moves

What we’re reading and watching:

  • News sites feel the impact of AI search results: As more people rely on chatbot responses for information, news sites are seeing a significant drop in organic search traffic. When Business Insider laid off 21% of its staff last month, CEO Barbara Peng cited "extreme traffic drops;” data show a 55% decline between April 2022 and April 2025. Read more.
  • Bloomberg Television announces expansion this month: The new launches include Bloomberg Tech: Asia and Bloomberg Tech: Europe. Read more.
  • Social media surpasses TV for the first time in the U.S.: According to a new digital report from Oxford’s Reuters Institute, the proportion of Americans accessing news via social media and video networks (54%) is “sharply up,” outpacing both TV news (50%) and news websites/apps (48%) for the first time. Read more.
  • The Atlantic goes on a hiring spree: With many in the industry heading to Substack — where dozens of writers now earn over $1 million a year — The Atlantic is offering salaries of up to $300,000, with several hires coming from the Washington Post. Read more.
  • Introducing Fortune AIQ: A new series exploring how businesses are adopting AI with a thoughtful, strategic approach — hence the “IQ.” Read more.
  • A new podcast from NBC News: “Here’s the Scoop,” hosted by Morgan Chesky, Brian Cheung and Yasmin Vossoughian will mix deep dives with quick news rundowns every day at 5 p.m. ET. Read more.
  • TechCrunch isn’t leaving Europe after all: According to Michael Reinstein, chairman and founder of private equity firm Regent, which recently bought TechCrunch, the plan is not to retreat, as widely reported, but to “double down.” Read more.
  • Subscriptions surge at The Economist: The outlet said it reached its "highest-ever number of subscriptions" in 2025. Read more.
  • The BBC considers charging Americans: Executives are considering charging U.S. consumers for access to help shore up finances, seeing the country’s media polarization as an opportunity to attract audiences with impartial coverage. Read more.

The Substack takeover continues:

  • Derek Thompson, longtime staff writer at The Atlantic, joined the platform: The move comes on the heels of his new book. “...I felt like maybe the best way for me to say all the things that I have to say about this one thing in my life, the fallout of and potential of ‘Abundance,’ the best way to do that was to do so as an independent journalist and not as a sort of de facto semi-political actor working for a non-political institution,” Thompson said. Read more.
  • Former ABC anchor Terry Moran made the jump, too: The longtime anchor and correspondent was dropped by the network after calling Trump a “world-class hater.” He subsequently launched a Substack, making the announcement in a video titled “Independence Day.” Read more.
  • News anchors embrace the side hustle: Recent Indeed data revealed that 52% of professionals said they have to take on secondary jobs to make ends meet. Among them are TV news anchors, as networks grow more flexible with staff experimenting with content distribution on Substack. “They’re opening the door because talent who’s left had such immediate impact on Substack,” said Catherine Valentine, Substack’s head of news and politics, of the shift. Read more.

Media moves:

  • Axios hired Madison Mills as a senior markets reporter and author of the daily Axios Markets newsletter.
  • Fortune promoted Emma Hinchliffe to its Most Powerful Women Editor.
  • Business Insider hired Kim Last as editorial director of its news events business, of BI Live.
  • Steven Tweedie was named deputy executive editor at Business Insider.
  • TechCrunch reporter Rebecca Bellan is now covering artificial intelligence.
  • Bloomberg News hired Patrick Howell O’Neill as a cybersecurity reporter.
  • Business Insider hired Julia Herbst as senior leadership and workplace editor.
  • Reporter Brian Delk joined Business Insider’seconomy team.
  • The Los Angeles Times hired Eric Bellman as deputy business editor,
  • Adam O’Neal was hired as opinion editor at The Washington Post.
  • Maxine Joselow joined the climate desk at The New York Times.
  • Emma Haidar joined the Bloomberg News Work + Management team as a summer intern.

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by Global Gateway Advisors

Are you GEO ready?

Insights

Global Gateway Advisors

By Global Gateway Advisors

June 6, 2025

In today’s newsletter:

  • Generative engine optimization (GEO) takes center stage
  • San Francisco-based communications leaders tackle AI’s impact on our work
  • Events on our radar
  • Media moves + news, including a list of those impacted by Business Insider layoffs

ICYMI: The previous edition of COMPASS explored the future of healthcare through the lens of a MAHA-driven agenda, AI, and the growing focus on mental wellbeing. Read it here.

How to win in GEO

Google’s AI Overview feature, combined with other Large Language Models (LLMs) — now used by more than half (52%) of adults — has the potential to fundamentally change how we search the web, with many users finding what they need without accessing traditional results.

Last month, Google announced the rollout of AI Mode that features enhanced reasoning, support for multiple formats, the capacity to dive deeper through follow-up questions and even a shopping “partner” that auto purchases that item you’ve been eyeing when it goes on sale.

Why it matters: Remember when SEO was a game changer? By 2026, search engine optimization is expected to drop by 25% as more people turn to AI chatbots and Google’s AI-generated responses, according to Gartner.

Brands must adapt quickly to stay visible and relevant, which means shifting to GEO— generative engine optimization — or, as it’s also called, “conversational search.”

  • Go deeper: A recent analysis from Ahrefs of 75,000 brands found that brand web mentions show the strongest correlation with AI Overview brand visibility beating out other factors like backlinks, branded ad traffic and cost. Brands with the highest number of web mentions receive up to 10 times more mentions in AI Overviews than those in the next closest quartile. Explore all the findings here.

What’s next: A possible silver lining for the struggling media industry? One of the best ways for brands to have content reach GenAI users is by talking to journalists. Top-tier, reputable outlets — from mainstream publications to industry trades —  have much stronger influence on GenAI query results about a company than social media campaigns or Reddit threads.

  • To date, publications ranging from The Atlantic to The Associated Press to The Washington Post have entered into agreements with OpenAI for their content to be sourced.
  • Last week, The New York Times, which previously sued OpenAI for copyright infringement, signed its first AI licensing deal with Amazon, allowing its editorial content to appear across Amazon platforms, including Alexa. Experts say this represents a “new wave” of deals to come.

What content wins? LLMs favor content that is concise, conversational and question-driven — as well as supported by subheads, bullet points, charts, graphics and video — according to Aaron Kwittken, founder and CEO of PRophet, in a recent Page Society briefing for industry leaders.

Next week’s events

  • Fortune COO Summit (Scottsdale, AZ, June 9-10) Fortune’s second-annual COO Summit brings together global chief operating officers, top speakers and editors to explore today’s biggest business challenges — from AI integration and financial pressure to talent strategy and leadership transitions. More here.
  • WSJ CEO Council Summit – London (London, June 10-11) This year’s theme explores the new era of globalization and how companies are navigating a transformed global landscape. With rising nationalism, geopolitical instability and protectionist policies reshaping trade and collaboration, business leaders will examine what globalization looks like now — and where it’s headed. More here.
  • Semafor The World of Work (Washington, D.C., June 12) New tech, shifting expectations, and post-pandemic disruptions are reshaping the workplace. In partnership with Gallup, Semafor will share key insights from the 2025 State of the Global Workplace report and explore how leaders can navigate what’s next — boosting productivity, resilience and wellbeing. More here (and let us know if you’ll also be there!).

Bookmark Global Gateway Advisors’ event tracker, updated weekly.

Media news + moves

 

What we’re reading and watching:

A tough week for media:

  • Business Insider lays off 21% of staff: “We’re at the start of a major shift in how people find and consume information, which is driving ongoing volatility in traffic and distribution for all publishers,” said CEO Barbara Peng in a message to staff. See a complete list of those affected and read about the ensuing employee backlash.
  • TechCrunch bids Europe adieu: The continent’s startup ecosystem is scrambling after the outlet that gave many its first coverage shut down. This follows Yahoo’s March sale of TechCrunch to private equity firm Regent; many longtime writers and editors have since departed. Read more.
  • Inc. and Fast Company, too: A recent round of cuts by parent company Mansueto Ventures impacted 7% of its workforce, including Fast Company senior editor Aimee Rawlins and tech reporter Jessica Bursztynsky. See the full list here.
  • And several magazines shutter completely: In Touch, Life & Style, Closer, and First for Women will cease operations by the end of the month, with a spokesperson from parent company McClatchy citing their inability to develop a profitable business model. Read the full story.

Platforms catching steam:

  • Fun fact: More than 50 people are making over $1 million per year on Substack, according to CEO Chris Verge.
  • YouTube takeover: The platform already dominates when it comes to podcasts, outpacing traditional audio apps like Spotify and Apple. Now it’s coming for television: According to the company, people in the U.S. spend more time watching YouTube on a TV rather than a phone or computer. “As much as Hollywood has worried about labor strife, artificial intelligence and the demise of moviegoing, the rise of YouTube is a much more immediate and real threat,” Bloomberg reporter Lucas Shaw writes. Read more.
  • Is Bluesky catching on? Kind of. Many left-leaning influencers have made it home, and users have tripled since the November elections. Still, most Bluesky users still post on X, which remains far more popular. Read more.
  • Grammarly to expand AI offerings: The company raised $1 billion from General Catalyst with the goal of becoming an all-in-one productivity platform. Read the full story.

C-suite offerings:

  • Harvard Business Review Executive: In line with industry trends, HBR is targeting the C-suite with a new toolkit to help senior leaders make high-impact business decisions, including a weekly newsletter from editor Adi Ignatius. Subscribe to HBR Executive here.

Media moves:

  • Jason Dean was hired by The Washington Post to lead its AI and Tech vertical.
  • The Information hired Valida Pau to cover tech deals and finance in New York
  • Business Insider hired Sarah Needleman as a leadership and workplace correspondent.
  • The Verge hired CNBC’s Hayden Field as senior AI reporter.
  • Jeff Horwitz joined Reuters as its tech investigations reporter.
  • Brenda Stolyar joined Wirecutter where she will be covering smartphones, tablets and wearables.
  • Kristina Peterson was hired by Bloomberg as a big food reporter.
  • Consumer goods reporter Saabira Chaudhuri has left The Wall Street Journal.
  • Wall Street Journal reporter Jacob Gershman left the news organization for another opportunity.
  • New York Post reporter Josh Kosman was suspended after accusing the editor-in-chief of killing a story for political reasons.
  • Despite rumors speculating otherwise, Gayle King is staying on at CBS, at least through next summer.
  • Lester Holt officially ended his 10-year stint as anchor of “Nightly News” handing over the reins to Tom Llamas.

 

by Global Gateway Advisors

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