Meet the Gadflies
Michael Collins
Mike recently retired from the U.S. government, where he directed strategic communications in the Middle East for the U.S. Agency for International Development, and served as a senior editor for the Voice of America. He was a speechwriter and organized outreach events for top officials, in addition to giving his own presentations. Before his government service, Collins ran his own communications company, developing custom storytelling for new media companies and established financial services firms. Earlier in his career, he was a reporter, editor and producer for news services and broadcasters around the world. He has worked in more than 30 countries from home bases in Los Angeles, Washington, Moscow, London and Hong Kong.
As a volunteer, he tells the stories of abused and neglected children in family courts as a Court-Appointed Special Advocate. He is happier outside on the water or in the woods than inside at a desk or in front of a computer. Collins was born in western Canada but raised a California boy in Los Angeles. Mike can be reached at mcollins@gadflymedia.com or 1-202-441-9762
As a volunteer, he tells the stories of abused and neglected children in family courts as a Court-Appointed Special Advocate. He is happier outside on the water or in the woods than inside at a desk or in front of a computer. Collins was born in western Canada but raised a California boy in Los Angeles. Mike can be reached at mcollins@gadflymedia.com or 1-202-441-9762
Lisa McAdams
Lisa spent most of her career as a broadcaster telling stories to millions of people around the world, and now helps leaders tell their stories. She most recently served at the U.S. Department of State as deputy director of digital engagement, and previously was chief speechwriter for the U.S. Diplomatic Security Service. While on assignment to embassies from Singapore to Slovakia, she advised ambassadors, organized events and spoke to journalism schools and other audiences. She has helped dozens of top government officials craft and deliver speeches and presentations. Prior to her public affairs work, Lisa's broadcast career included assignments as Moscow bureau chief for the Voice of America, and senior correspondent for Radio Free Europe.
Lisa loves to travel, and when she can't travel she is reading about other places and cultures. She is passionate about East European art, Russian ballet and American country music. Lisa has an eye for design and style, and often helps friends and family with both interior design and wardrobe choices. She was born in Washington, DC, but has Texas roots and is a proud graduate of UT Austin.
Lisa can be reached at lmcadams@gadflymedia.com or 1-512-663-4718
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