Mastering the art of storytelling to drive change.
Imagine if the media focused more of its coverage on the search for effective solutions to the challenges of the day. Solutions Journalism has the power to help us crack our country’s toughest problems. Michael has been building projects like these for years — send your brainstorms!
UNLOCK CONGRESS:Year after year, we the people are continually fed up by the failure of our elected representatives to accomplish the kind of progress that will better our lives. But it doesn't have to be this way. In his acclaimed book, Unlock Congress: Reform the Rules — Restore the System, Michael digs into the causes of our government’s breakdown — and then offers easy ways for readers to take action and unrig the system. Join the UC movement!
BEHIND THE CRIME:American media have the potential to play far larger roles in reducing violent crime. Michael reported the documentary Behind the Crime on KSEE-TV to demonstrate how newscasts can provide crucial context and useful information — while still telling compelling stories. Offering depth on criminal justice can empower viewers to take real action to increase security in their communities. Michael's always looking for new ways to steer the media's coverage toward service. What’s your idea??
THE FULCRUM:A growing political reform movement is afoot in America to strengthen our broken system of government. It is unmistakable, yet has been undercovered. Not anymore. In 2019, Michael helped launch The Fulcrum, a nonpartisan digital publication dedicated exclusively to covering the dysfunctions that are plaguing our government — and ways to improve it. Michael serves on The Fulcrum advisory board and is a regulator contributor to its Opinion section. Join the discussion!
NEWSBOUND:The digital revolution has afforded us a huge opportunity to pioneer new ways of informing and educating Americans. Michael and Josh Kalven launched Newsbound in 2011 as a platform to enhance visual storytelling and make complex topics more accessible. Newsbound created readable videos and slide-based “stacks” for nonprofits, news outlets and educators. The company gave rise to Lone Pine Creative in 2018, which is taking video explainers and motion graphics to the next level.
THE GOLDEN MEAN Podcast:Michael combines the spirit of Solutions Journalism with everything he’s learned about reporting — and channels it all into The Golden Mean Podcast. He talks to authors, politicians, scientists, tech leaders, non-profit leaders, start-up founders, journalists, sports figures, educators, entertainers, government reformers and anyone who’s working in their own special way to change the world. Take a listen — and send Michael ideas for new guests!