Who we are

Geoffrey Baum, founding partner

Geoff brings decades of C-suite leadership and national media relations expertise to every client engagement, with a focus on strategic communications for nonprofit, education, healthcare, and policy organizations.

He has led communications at institutions including The Annenberg Foundation Trust at Sunnylands, Michelson Philanthropies, and the Milken Institute—delivering results that include securing $600 million in state funding, steering presidential summit communications, and earning coverage in the Financial Times, Wall Street Journal, and other global outlets.

A former journalist with ABC News, C-SPAN, and American Public Media, Geoff spent a decade covering Congress, the White House, and international affairs—bringing a deep understanding of how media, policy, and public perception intersect. He has also served as president of the California Community Colleges Board of Governors and was elected three times as a college trustee.

Geoff holds an MBA from Fordham and a master’s in journalism from USC. Known for a collaborative, mission-driven approach, he helps clients turn complex ideas into clear, compelling narratives that drive change and resonate with diverse audiences—from national policymakers to local stakeholders.

Carl Marziali, founding partner

Carl has served as vice president for media relations, social media and online news at the University of Southern California; press secretary to the Mayor of Los Angeles; and head of internal, technical and executive communications, graphic design and web development for NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory. He is:

  • A trusted adviser to C-suite executives on effective messaging, advocacy, and policy

  • An experienced leader and practitioner with a proven record across communications disciplines

  • An accomplished editor and writer with a rare combination of media pitching success, technical and scientific fluency, and people-centered storytelling

Adept at simplifying human and technical complexity, he has produced showpiece annual reports and award-winning publications; led crisis communications in response to homicides, wildfires and other emergencies; edited and art-directed scientific grant proposals; and designed strategic communications campaigns, websites and editorial charters.

He has also worked as a journalist (This American Life, Marketplace, and other outlets) and educator (USC Annenberg School). He is an observer and listener first; adviser, writer and leader second.

Carl is a proud generalist by luck and design. He has a bilingual and tricultural background — Italy, Canada, United States — and holds graduate degrees in mathematics and literature.