From community journalism to health care and higher ed, Mike’s career is powered by a passion to discover, create and share stories that connect people and advance strategic priorities.


We're Telling Stories in Remarkable Times

We're Telling Stories in Remarkable Times

Five generations of audiences. Pew: Generations and Age

Five generations of audiences. Pew: Generations and Age

As marketers and communicators, we live in remarkable times. This is true for many reasons. But there's one that I spend a lot of time thinking about. We’re communicating and engaging with five generations for the first time in history.*  Pew: Generations and Age

Mix in deep, rich cultural, economic, educational and technological diversity. The result? There have never been more niche and micro markets. And that will only continue. It's an exciting time to be a marketer and communicator. 

At least, “exciting” is how I choose to view it. What’s your word for today’s hyper-niche marketing landscape? And what are you doing to reach these five generations with your storytelling?

Mom has always been my greatest audience.

Mom has always been my greatest audience.


*Actually, I’m engaging with six generations. My mom, Millie Barzacchini, born in 1918, is still alive, smiling and very engaging. Anyone know what we call the generation before the "Silent" one? It’s “the Greatest Generation.” And if you ever meet my mom, you’ll agree.

I'm Not Always Right (And That's A Good Thing)

I'm Not Always Right (And That's A Good Thing)