Jennifer Brandel Biography

Jennifer Brandel is the CEO and Co-founder of Hearken, an innovative company that revolutionizes journalism by fostering deeper engagement between newsrooms and their communities before publication. By implementing Hearken's unique public-powered model, Brandel has transformed how stories are discovered and told, emphasizing the value of listening and respectful attention to every voice in the community.

Under her leadership, Hearken has not only flourished as a portfolio company of Matter VC but also garnered significant acclaim, winning "Best Bootstrap Company" at SXSW in 2016 and securing a victory at the New Media Alliance Accelerator in 2017. Brandel's pioneering work has been supported by major organizations including the Knight Foundation, the National Endowment for the Arts, and the MacArthur Foundation, highlighting her influential role in reshaping media practices.

A compelling public speaker and educator, Brandel has shared her insights at high-profile venues such as Google, SXSW, and the MIT Civic Media Conference, and as a guest lecturer at prestigious institutions including Columbia University and Northwestern University. Her accolades include the 2016 Media Changemaker Prize and the 2018 Sulzberger Fellow at Columbia University, underscoring her impact as a transformative leader in digital media and community engagement.

As a renowned expert and highly sought-after speaker, Jennifer Brandel's expertise is in high demand. To book Jennifer Brandel for your next event, conference, or workshop, please contact our speaker booking agency. Our experienced team will work closely with you to understand your specific needs and help secure Jennifer Brandel's participation. With our professional guidance and seamless booking process, you can ensure a memorable and impactful experience for your audience. Don't miss the opportunity to engage your audience with Jennifer Brandel's compelling insights and inspire positive change within your organization. Fill out the booking request form to take the first step in securing Jennifer Brandel for your next speaking engagement.