Coaching & Media Training

I’m both a journalist and an actor, and I learned invaluable basics of interviewing from Susan Blake — from both sides of the microphone — that I’ll be using the rest of my life.

Susan was an extremely effective instructor. I really enjoyed the day.

In the 15 years I have known Susan, our collaboration on numerous projects has given me the opportunity to see her excel in various settings. Whether she is creating common ground among disparate interests or leading a board meeting, Susan adeptly uses her abilities as a polished communicator. She never fails to find the right balance between warmth, humor and the drive it takes to pursue objectives and get things done. Susan is the consummate journalist — professional and principled. She is a no-nonsense administrator, a terrific storyteller with a wry wit, and loaded with common sense and midwestern practicality ..quite a package!

Susan was extremely professional and helpful in working with our employees in various aspects of media relations. We have worked with Susan for several years and I still have employees refer back to the training as an eye opening and beneficial professional growth experience.

Under Susan’s leadership we completed our most successful year ever in terms of student achievement and fundraising. Susan fluidly moves from leading our board meetings to working with major donors to coaching my development to camping with teenagers. Any organization would be lucky to have her at their helm; I’m just glad it’s Seven Tepees!

Your teachings, experiences, and knowledge about the media and press, has really helped me regain my confidence in speaking with the public. Thank you so much for giving and putting your time, heart and soul into teaching me along with the rest of the TIBC artists.

Susan Blake is a very effective and compassionate trainer. Not only is she organized and highly knowledgeable about media, she also individualizes her training to positively benefit each person. ..This was the first press conference for our artists and because of her, they were able to speak and perform in front of over 30 reporters and cameramen, including those from Associated Press, NBC, Chicago Tribune, Yahoo, and Xtra, with clarity and confidence. Thank you, Susan, for helping to make this press conference a success!

Susan has been instrumental in helping me refine my message and communicate it effectively in a variety of settings. Her guidance is thorough, organized and to the point; her feedback afterwards always helpful. I am truly grateful for her coaching and support as it has helped me grow as a professional while furthering the mission of the organization.