The Power to Persuade the Masses
Who controls the narrative matters to leaders, because stories are ultimately the primary cognitive framework human beings use to make sense
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The (In)Security Blog
The security field is full of stories with fascinating characters. I’ve had my fair share of strange jobs in this industry, but my favorite so far has been storyteller.
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Whether it's an expert interview or perspectives from my own career, I aim to take a multidisciplinary approach to everything I explore.
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About me: I'm a dual American-Israeli citizen who served in the Israeli military and currently works in the U.S. defense sector in the Washington, D.C. area.
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Jessica Lauren Walton
- Sep 25, 2023
- 2 min
Breaking Barriers: The Unexpected Woman in Executive Protection
Born in Albania, raised in Greece: This female security agent is challenging stereotypes with her global protection services.
Jessica Lauren Walton
- Jul 17, 2023
- 4 min
What I Taught My Interns About Job Hunting
I was asked to talk about communications in the defense sector to our STEM interns. These are a few PR secrets I shared.
Jessica Lauren Walton
- Jul 10, 2023
- 2 min
Protector Trailblazer, Branding Badass
An executive protection agent serving celebrities and other high-level figures talks branding, video, and career development.
Jessica Lauren Walton
- Jun 19, 2023
- 5 min
Why Are We So Afraid of Public Speaking?
It's a common fear, so I wanted to share my lessons learned on how I overcame my public speaking phobia.
Jessica Lauren Walton
- Feb 13, 2023
- 11 min
The Unseen Obstacles of Military Recruitment
The Center for a New American Security (CNAS) explores the communications & mental health issues behind military recruitment.
Jessica Lauren Walton
- Jan 25, 2023
- 11 min
The Soldier Who Spoke Out
Breaking the stigma around mental health in the military will require leadership speaking out and setting the right example.
Jessica Lauren Walton
- Dec 13, 2022
- 12 min
The Refugees Among Us Are Just Like Us
Security professionals across the spectrum can benefit from understanding how conflict affects civilians on the ground.
Jessica Lauren Walton
- Dec 5, 2022
- 6 min
3 Quirky PR Ideas to Help Military Recruitment
Be entertaining, be inspiring, be real. There is already an inspiring treasure trove of stories in our military; leverage them right.
Jessica Lauren Walton
- Nov 28, 2022
- 6 min
Some Careers Take the Road Less Traveled
Some of us are straight shooters from college to career to retirement, while others struggle to find our place.
Jessica Lauren Walton
- Nov 21, 2022
- 3 min
Tips for Compelling Storytelling in the Defense Industry
Nothing connects people more powerfully than story; in today’s defense landscape, learning the art is essential.
Jessica Lauren Walton
- Nov 8, 2022
- 2 min
Why Storytelling Matters in the Security Community
I had a great time being interviewed by the Artistic Fuel Foundation about the special role storytelling plays in the security ecosystem.
Jessica Lauren Walton
- Oct 25, 2022
- 5 min
Overcoming the Curse of Knowledge in Cybersecurity
Confusion leads to alienation, but connection leads to comprehension. With the right story, we can get the message across.
Jessica Lauren Walton
- Oct 3, 2022
- 3 min
The Ultimate Communications Primer for the Defense Industry
Communications is the grease that keeps the wheels turning in the defense industry.
Jessica Lauren Walton
- Sep 19, 2022
- 8 min
A Syrian Journalist’s Perspective of Policymaking in the Middle East
When it comes to issues of national security, the stories we tell the world matter. Meet Syrian-born American journalist Hayvi Bouzo.
Jessica Lauren Walton
- Sep 12, 2022
- 5 min
Save the Best for First to Hook Your Reader
Readers are busy. They want to know upfront what’s new and why it matters to them.
Jessica Lauren Walton
- Sep 5, 2022
- 4 min
The Art of the Interview (Part 2)
I love the art of the interview and the lessons we can all learn from the experiences of others.
Jessica Lauren Walton
- Jul 25, 2022
- 4 min
Defense Professionals, Make Me Care: What’s Your Origin Story?
Defense professionals should take advantage of hero origin story structures in their communications. Our industry has rich opportunities.
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