Communications Counsel Built in High-Stakes Institutions

For 15 years, I've led communications teams inside organizations where the stakes were real: national policy fights, U.S. Supreme Court cases, severe behavioral controversies, major construction projects, and the media scrutiny that comes with all of them. I started Atwell Consulting to give leaders the kind of senior, candid counsel that's hard to find when things get difficult. That’s why I work at the intersection of leadership, organizational culture, communications, and reputation.

Where I've Served

Prior to working in Atwell Consulting full-time, I was Chief Communications and Marketing Officer at the America First Policy Institute, where I led strategic messaging, media relations, branding, and public engagement.

Before that, I was Senior Vice President of Communications at Alliance Defending Freedom, leading a team of 55 across media relations, marketing, social media, and digital media.

I spent more than a decade as spokesperson and executive communications advisor for three Catholic dioceses, advising bishops through leadership transitions, reputational crises, legal challenges, massive construction projects, and intense public scrutiny, while overseeing media relations, digital communications, video and audio production, publications, and social media.

Beyond the Work

I write regularly on leadership, messaging, and reputation strategy on my Substack. I'm also writing a book on toxic leadership and the damage it does to individuals and organizations.

Most Importantly…

I live in Virginia with my beautiful wife and four wonderful children.

Let's Talk

If you're in need of some help in a difficult situation, where effective communication is paramount, let’s talk.