“Lexicon” by Max Barry
Mach 1 Reader: Mary Love
Lexicon by Max Barry may be over a decade old, but it feels eerily relevant today. As a language and history nerd, I loved this Dan Brown–style thriller that explores the power of words across history and the role of communication in modern times, all wrapped in a gripping plot of secret societies and mind control. One of my favorite page-turners ever.

“Overstaying” by Ariane Koch
Mach 1 Reader: Caroline Payne
In my opinion: The more bizarre the book, the better. If you use reading as a form of escapism, might I recommend this debut novel by German author Ariane Koch?

A meandering, morally questionable character lives alone in their large, childhood home in a sleepy village. One night, fumbling home from the local bar, the lead picks up a vagrant off the street and invites them to live with her. The guest becomes a sort of pet – he sleeps in the room with the vacuum collection and the lead is proud of her hospitality and empathy. Eventually, though, this drifter becomes a burden, crippling the lead character with indecision, anger and neuroses. This story is not about the plot, it’s about the slip into absurdity.

I randomly picked this up in a bookstore in New York and the owner said, “did you pick this because of the cover?” Well, obviously.

“Sunrise on the Reaping” by Suzanne Collins
Mach 1 Reader: Carsyn Collins
Before you ask, no, I’m not related to one of the greatest writers of this decade, but herHunger Games series did have major influence on my passion for reading at a young age, hooking me onto the world of dystopia.

If you’re someone who 1) needs a break from real-world politics and loves to explore the fictional kind or 2) is obsessed with Hunger Games and wants to dive deeper into the lore of Panem – this book is for you.

Sunrise on the Reaping dives into the beautifully layered backstory of Haymitch Abernathy, the infamous mentor from the original trilogy. Amid the deadly 50th Hunger Games, he navigates the Capitol’s twisted, manipulative politics while quietly, cleverly resisting their control – a glimpse at where his love for rebellion began.

What makes it remarkable is seeing an unsung hero emerge amid the corruption: Haymitch’s journey is one of resilience, strategy and longing – whether it’s forming unexpected alliances, taking a stand in small but meaningful ways or trying to find a way back to his love, Lenore. By the end, you understand exactly how the trauma and triumph of these Games shape the character we know and love in the original series.

“Topographia Hibernica” by Blindboy Boatclub
Mach 1 Reader: Talan Tyminski
What happens when an Irish artist, best known for going viral in the 2010s with a song about a horse and a plastic bag on his head, decides to start a podcast and write a book of short stories? You get Blindboy Boatclub’s Topographia Hibernica: a brilliantly bizarre collection stitched together with wit, magical realism and Celtic mythology.

From a poitín maker desperate to protect his child from changelings to a solicitor mourning the loss of his dog-race–obsessed client, each story pulls you somewhere unexpected. It’s weird, it’s wonderful and if you want something a little off the beaten path, it’s well worth the read.

Non-Fiction

“A Walk in the Park” by Peter Fedarko
Mach 1 Reader: Jamie McCormick
More than five million people visit the Grand Canyon each year, but less than one percent of visitors attempt a rim-to-rim hike, nearly 25 miles down the North Rim and back up out of the South Rim. Fewer than two dozen people in history have completed a full thru-hike, more than 700 miles of difficult and mostly unmarked terrain. If you’ve ever hiked in the Grand Canyon or even just looked over the edge of the rim, you know how wild this idea is — let alone with little preparation or fitness. That is where this true story begins, as an outdoor photographer and journalist duo attempt “a walk in the park.” This book weaves their story with the rich and often complex history of the park: the stories of communities deeply woven into the Grand Canyon, the convoluted history of its status as public land, and the rich ecological and geological landscape.

“Be Ready When the Luck Happens: A Memoir” by Ina Garten
Mach 1 Reader: Alice Claiborne
My favorite cookbook author and queen of entertainment, Ina Garten, just published a personal reflection on her life. A few years ago, my mom, sister and I heard her speak at a fireside chat in Austin and were captivated by her story – how she went from working in the White House to burning out, flipping open the classifieds and on a whim buying a little café in the Hamptons, even though she didn’t live there. I couldn’t resist picking up her new book to learn more about the journey that made her America’s favorite cookbook author.

“Everything Is Tuberculosis: The History and Persistence of Our Deadliest Infection” by John Green
Mach 1 Reader: Sharon Chapman
The “cough, cough, blood in the hanky” trope is a cultural shorthand for consumption, aka tuberculosis (TB), in many a movie and TV show. When you see it, you know that character is probably not going to live until the end (“Moulin Rouge,” anyone?). Green weaves the history of TB, which has killed millions for centuries, with the biography of Henry, a young TB patient he meets in 2019 in Sierra Leone who shares a name with Green’s son. As Henry’s condition worsens, we learn a brief history of tuberculosis, which has been around forever, and has been curable for some time.

Why do so many people still die of it? Green gives an overview of the political, racial and industrial factors, all heartbreaking and infuriating. Why is “everything tuberculosis”? Green, who before becoming obsessed with consumption was known for his young adult nonfiction, including “The Fault in Our Stars,” makes a strong case for how the disease has affected every part of life. He connects TB’s ripples through history, including a patient named Stetson who created the cowboy hat, the start of World War I, the impact of patients seeking a healthier climate on the growth of New Mexico, and even consumption’s influence on destructive beauty norms. That’s just a few.

“Everything Is Tuberculosis” is a quick read and only 5+ hours as an audiobook, but Green packs a lot in and is likely to leave readers wanting to learn more.

The post Mach 1 Reading List: 2025 Summer Edition appeared first on The Mach 1 Group.

• Leader of the Year – Gold: Katherine McLane, Founder & CEO, honored for her visionary leadership and influence in public affairs.
  
• PR Professional Who Makes a Difference – Gold: Mary Bell Love, for her unmatched dedication to client success and industry mentorship.
  
• PR Up and Comer – Silver: Caroline Payne, for her rapid rise and standout execution in high-stakes client campaigns.
  
• Best Not-for-Profit/Association Campaign – Silver: Bike MS: Texas MS 150 – 2024, celebrating the campaign’s ability to mobilize communities and boost awareness.
  
• Best Public Affairs Campaign –Silver: Texas Secretary of State 2024 Voter Education Tour, recognized for bipartisan messaging and measurable civic impact.

PRSA Houston – The Public Relations Society of America (PRSA) – Houston Chapter is one of the largest PRSA chapters in the country. The Excalibur Awards honor excellence in strategic communications across the Greater Houston area.

• Silver: Texas Secretary of State’s 2024 Voter Education Tour
  Category: Public Service/Non-Profit/Public Affairs Campaigns
  Recognized for boosting voter participation through a statewide civic education initiative.

IABC Houston – The International Association of Business Communicators (IABC) – Houston Chapter honors professional communicators who demonstrate strategic and creative excellence through its Bronze Quill Awards, part of a global IABC recognition program.

• Award of Excellence: Bike MS: Texas MS 150 – 40th Anniversary Campaign Category 16: Nonprofit Sector Communication | Division 1: Communication Management
  Honored for compelling storytelling and community engagement in support of the National MS Society.
  
• Award of Excellence: Texas Association of Regional Councils (TARC) Member Communication and Advocacy Training Series
  Category 21: Communication Education & Training | Division 3: Education & Training
  Recognized for equipping local leaders with tools for advocacy.

In addition to this year’s award wins, Mach 1 continues to earn recognition on the national stage. Most recently, the firm was named a finalist in PR Daily’s 2025 Nonprofit Communications Awards, an honor that highlights Mach 1’s leadership in advocacy and awareness campaigns. The finalist designation reflects standout storytelling, measurable results and strategic execution in nonprofit communications. Winners will be announced at a special awards luncheon on September 26 at the Yale Club in New York City.

As 2025 reaches its halfway mark, Mach 1 reflects on a season of meaningful wins and looks ahead with optimism. These recognitions celebrate the caliber of our clients and the incredible talent of our team. We’re honored to be part of some of the most consequential and creative campaigns happening today.

A huge thank you to our clients for trusting us to bring their missions to life through impactful campaigns. We’re honored to support such meaningful work that allows us to do what we do best.

With more milestones on the horizon, Mach 1 remains dedicated to pushing boundaries, elevating client voices and delivering strategic communications that produce excellence.

The post Midyear Milestones: Mach 1’s 2025 So Far appeared first on The Mach 1 Group.

Throw out the old playbooks. It’s a whole new ballgame. Time to reinvent how legislative and policy campaigns are built.

That was our attitude heading into the 89th Texas Legislative Session, and through elbow grease, innovation and more than a few late-night hearings, we are looking back on a groundbreaking Session. Texas lawmakers passed a slate of new laws that will shape the future of our state and we were honored to play our part.

This Session was a triumph for our team. We were fortunate to be invited to embrace meaningful, substantive policy issues, and it just so happened we also cared about them a great

deal. We tracked and worked on 41 bills, spanning areas including education, regulatory reform, affordable housing, cryptocurrency, healthcare and more.

Our messaging broke through the noise – with over 1,600 media mentions, generating an estimated $76 million in publicity value.

These results weren’t luck – they were the product of original, tailored communication strategies that elevated our clients’ voices and shaped the broader policy conversation. We ensured that the policies our clients care about were not only heard but also understood.

Among our standout moments:

● The Coalition for Regulatory Efficiency and Reform’s Texas DOGE Bill (SB 14) sparked a national dialogue around state-level government efficiency offices, with strategic storytelling and media hits that drove the conversation after becoming the first bill of the Session to pass onto the Governor’s desk!

● The Life of the Mother Act broke through a crowded legislative landscape by garnering bipartisan support on a highly debated issue.

● On HB 2, we supported key voices fighting for smarter, more effective education policy – bringing visibility to one of Texas’ most complex and deeply consequential debates.

As I look back on the Session, I want to extend my deepest thanks to our clients who chose us for their important causes, our friends under the dome and the entire Mach 1 team. Their tireless devotion to our clients’ success reminded me of my political campaign days – everyone pulling in the same direction for the win.

Onward,

Katherine McLane, CEO & Founder

The post  A Letter From Our CEO: 89th Session Recap appeared first on The Mach 1 Group.

HOUSTON, TX (June 4, 2025) – The Mach 1 Group (Mach 1) – a nationally recognized, prize-winning strategic communications firm founded in Austin is proud to be named a finalist for two prestigious Houston accolades: the Public Relations Society of America (PRSA) Excalibur Awards and the International Association of Business Communicators (IABC) Bronze Quill Awards. With a growing client base and established team members embedded in the region, these recognitions reflect a strategic investment in one of Texas’ most dynamic markets and underscore the firm’s continued momentum across the state and country.

Mach 1 has been named a finalist PRSA Houston Chapter’s 40th Annual Excalibur Awards for its work on the Texas Secretary of State’s 2024 Voter Education Tour, nominated in the category of Best Public Service/Non-Profit/Public Affairs Campaigns. The campaign achieved unprecedented results, generating more than 1,000 media mentions and contributing to a 5% increase in voter registration compared to 2022. Finalists will be celebrated at a gala on June 26 at The Majestic Metro in downtown Houston.
 
Mach 1 has also been selected by the Houston Chapter of the IABC as a winner in the Bronze Quill Awards in Division 1: Communication Management. The winning entry will be revealed at a June 12 gala at the downtown Houston Club.
 
“We’re thrilled to be honored by the Houston chapters of PRSA and IABC, a testament to the caliber of our team and the relentless drive we bring to our work,” said Katherine McLane, Mach 1 Founder and CEO. “It’s an honor to be celebrated in one of the most prestigious and competitive communications arenas in the State of Texas and the nation.”
 
Mach 1’s Houston work is powered by Vice President Caroline Payne, whose standout client management and political instincts have made her uniquely qualified to spearhead complex communications campaigns. 

“These Houston-based awards reflect the deliberate, high-impact approach that defines Mach 1,” said Mach 1 Partner and Chief Operating Officer Mary Love. “We’ve made an intentional investment in excellence, and it’s incredibly rewarding to see that commitment recognized.”

The post The Mach 1 Group Named Finalist for Houston’s PRSA Excalibur and IABC Bronze Quill Awards   appeared first on The Mach 1 Group.

The final weeks of Session are about positioning. Smart policy professionals know that how you close is just as important as how you started. Whether your bill passed, stalled or died, what you say next shapes the public narrative.

Sine Die isn’t when you start post-Session strategy – it’s when you hit send on it.

Here’s what we recommend heading into the legislative home stretch:

1. A bill signing doesn’t always signal victory.

Did you move the conversation? Gain a key hearing? Flip a vote? That’s impact! Talk about it. Frame your progress in a way that shows your momentum. Press coverage, coalition updates, digital content – now is the time to share them.

2. Thank your champions – and set the tone for the next chapter.

Gratitude matters, but don’t stop at “thank you.” Smart messaging includes what’s next, what remains unfinished and how you’ll keep fighting for your mission.

3. Control your story – or someone else will.

If things didn’t go your way, be honest. Then be strategic. Was there opposition you’ll need to engage next time? A missed opportunity you’ll learn from? Tell the truth and pair it with a plan.

4. Update your digital strategy now.

Post-Session graphics. Stakeholder appreciation. A LinkedIn post that positions your organization or cause as thoughtful, strategic and future-focused. This is not something to throw together after session – prep it now, while the strategy is still sharp.

5. Plan your press outreach early.

The best post-Session coverage is already teed up before Sine Die. Pre-drafted op-eds. Embargoed statements. Spokespeople on deck. The last week of Session is not the time to “circle back.” It’s the time to execute.

Here’s the bottom line: The strongest communications plans are developed before Sine Die – not as a post-Session scramble. So take an hour, solidify your message and prepare your team now. Because when the dust settles, the people who get heard are the ones who get ahead.

Finish loud. Finish clear. And if all else fails, call Mach 1.

The post Session is Ending…Your Message Shouldn’t: Crafting a Post-Session Strategy Starts Now appeared first on The Mach 1 Group.

This past Saturday, March 8th, was International Women’s Day, and in honor of this global celebration, we’re shining a spotlight on the powerhouse women of Mach 1. From seasoned professionals in legislative affairs to some of the sharpest minds in public relations, our all-women team delivers exceptional results for our clients every single day.

Each of our team members brings a wealth of unique experiences to our firm. We’re proud to showcase their achievements and honor the impact they make not only for our clients but also on each individual team member. Read on to see the thoughtful and uplifting messages our team shared in celebration of their incredible colleagues.

Katherine McLane, Founder & CEO

“Katherine is the definition of grace under pressure, leading with poise, confidence and razor-sharp intellect. She cuts through the noise, gets to the heart of any issue and leads with both precision and warmth. As CEO, she sets the standard – not just in strategy, but in the way she empowers her team, creating an environment where everyone feels supported and challenged to be their best. And beyond all that, she’s effortlessly funny, making even the most intense moments lighter and a lot more fun.”

– Mary Love

“Katherine is a true role model—bold, polished, intelligent and an incredible leader who brings a wealth of experience and knowledge to every challenge. She is not afraid to roll up her sleeves when needed. She fosters a supportive and engaging team environment, making her a joy to work with. Plus, her quick wit and great sense of humor make even the busiest days more fun!”

– Alice Claiborne

“What an honor it is to work with and learn from THE thought leader of the public affairs realm. What I love about Katherine is not only her effortless ability to conquer any challenge, but to see such a powerful person know how to let loose and have fun in her work! It is a joy to not just work with her, but to have a laugh with her as well!”

– Carsyn Collins

Mary Love, Partner & Chief Operating Officer

“Mary ensures all of our work and reputation are gold-standard. She works hard to ensure our clients are getting what they need — and what they don’t know they need. And while she’s focused on the overall health of the organization, she never fails to check in on each member of the team.”

– Jamie McCormick

“Mary is the backbone of our firm – clever, detail-oriented and effortlessly balancing the business and client sides of our work with grace. Her sharp mind is an invaluable asset on both team and client calls, always bringing thoughtful insights and solutions. At her core, she is deeply invested in the success of the firm and the well-being of her team, making her an incredible leader and colleague.”

– Alice Claiborne

“Mary and I could talk ALL day if we had the time! She offers great wisdom and I love how she is a deep thinker who appreciates new angles of looking at things. I deeply value her advice and love her attitude toward life!”

– Sarah Allen

Talan Tyminski, Senior Vice President and Client Service Director

“Talan has made herself integral to every facet of our firm. She can do it all and oftentimes she does – IT, HR, historian, client manager, writer, coder, graphic designer. Talan is always considerate, empathetic and remarkably stoic. She is never afraid to roll up her sleeves and get in the weeds. She has earned the nickname DJ Pivot Tables.”

– Caroline Payne

“We all want to be Talan when we grow up! Her strategic mind is unmatched, and she’s a generous mentor, always ready to talk through a challenge. She improves everything she touches.”

– Sharon Chapman

“Literally the mitochondria of Mach 1. Talan is such a strong force and I aspire to be her! I know she takes on way more than our team will ever see and she always handles it with such grace. Not only is she the most sharp and humble person, she will also never miss an opportunity to support the community, whether it’s a networking event or an invaluable research project, she loves to help anyone and everyone succeed!”

– Carsyn Collins

Alice Claiborne, Vice President and Director of Earned Media

“Alice feels like a big sister to me – she leads with grace and sure-footed confidence. If she says jump, I’d ask how high. With a background in both the Capitol and media, she has the exact, niche expertise and skillset to provide advice and strategy on all accounts, no matter the issue!”

– Caroline Payne

“Alice is the social glue that keeps Mach 1 running. With an impressively strategic mind, she’s the go-to expert on all things media and policy, ensuring everything stays on track and ahead of the curve.”

– Talan Tyminski

“If ‘cool’ were a human, it would be Alice. In all our years together, not once have I seen her freak out. Her unfailing instincts combined with her amazing government and media experience make her the most effective leader and mentor in nearly any room. And she’s the dearest friend and mother.”

– Katherine McLane

Caroline Payne, Vice President

“Caroline can step back and find a new way to approach an issue or problem and, critically, she will cut through the noise and identify the simplest and clearest path forward. She puts in the work to make sure the team’s clients see success and that all details are handled.”

– Jamie McCormick

“Caroline’s sharp wit and effortless charm make every day brighter, bringing both humor and ease to the team and our clients. She has a natural ability to create a welcoming and confident atmosphere, making her an invaluable presence in any room. Plus, as our resident fashionista, I always look forward to seeing what polished and stylish ensemble she’ll rock next!”

– Alice Claiborne

“The IT girl of Mach 1. Caroline is the most charismatic, funny and innovative person I know. Once she has an idea, she will not only run with it but turn it into a marathon. Her ability to create outstanding results for our clients is not something you come across every day. She works so hard and always does it with a smile!”

– Carsyn Collins

Sharon Chapman, Vice President

“When I need a comforting chat – Sharon. When an expert media opinion is called for – Sharon. Want to talk old Austin lore, music, food? Sharon. She has quickly become one of the most beloved members of our team and has grown so amazingly during her time with Mach 1. How did we live without her?”

– Katherine McLane

“Sharon is the heart of Mach 1 – kind, supportive and genuine – and she’s also brilliant. Her earned media expertise and sharp editorial instincts make her an invaluable resource for our clients, while her warmth and humor make her an ideal colleague. Whether she’s offering thoughtful advice, refining a strategy or crafting the perfect media pitch, Sharon elevates everything she touches for both our clients and our team.”

– Mary Love

“If you ever want to chit-chat, Sharon’s your girl! She is SO fun to chat with, and we can never seem to end our conversations! She always offers the best advice and is happy to lend a helping hand! Also, Sharon is extremely talented in breaking down intricate issues into easily communicated topics. An incredible mentor to have!”

– Carsyn Collins

Jamie McCormick, Senior Strategist

“Jamie is a Capitol institution – when you walk into a room with Jamie, at least 15 people will know her (and they all adore her). Jamie is creative, intentional and trustworthy, making her a great asset to our team, but she’s also funny and brave which makes her a great human.”

– Caroline Payne

“Jamie’s positivity is contagious, bringing energy and enthusiasm to every endeavor. Her legislative and policy experience is a huge asset, and if you need a creative idea or a fresh take on a situation, she’s the one to turn to. With great instincts and a keen strategic mind, Jamie is a fantastic sounding board and a valued voice on our team.”

– Alice Claiborne

“Jamie’s decades of experience around the Capitol have made her a public affairs rockstar – she knows the Legislature inside and out. Her strategic mind and deep policy expertise help clients navigate complex challenges, and she has a rare ability to shift perspectives in the most insightful way. What truly sets Jamie apart is her unshakable strength paired with genuine empathy, bringing both steadiness and sincerity to every conversation. She’s the kind of colleague everyone hopes to have, and we’re all better for working alongside her.”

– Mary Love

Sarah Allen, Senior Director

“If there is an answer to a question to be found – Sarah will find it. She is remarkably intelligent and will always be well-researched on topics pertaining to our clients. She balances an impressive amount of tasks at once, and is always looking for even more opportunities!”

– Caroline Payne

“I’m so impressed with Sarah. She handles tough client situations with incredible grace and never stops pushing forward. She’s incredibly dedicated and great and what she does.”

– Talan Tyminski

“I’ll have whatever Sarah’s having! She works incredibly hard, is always ready with sleeves rolled up, has tremendous instincts and experience and in a short time, has proven herself invaluable to the team. Sarah’s future is amazingly bright and we’re so grateful for her!”

– Katherine McLane

Carsyn Collins, Account Executive

“Carsyn’s creativity and fresh perspectives have given new life to our team! Her qualifications and experience far exceed her age – I genuinely forget she’s Gen Z (huge compliment!). She has a warm and confident presence that comes across even through a Zoom screen. Some say she slays.”

– Caroline Payne

“Creative, funny and smart. She is always up for a challenge and you can throw nearly any idea at her and she’ll make it better. Carsyn brings the best energy to the team.”

– Jaime McCormick

“Carsyn is a breath of fresh air and a creative thinker. Her ideas slay, of course! She regularly finds new ways to engage the public and showcase both clients and the work of our hardworking Mach 1 team.”

– Sharon Chapman

The post Celebrating the Women of Mach 1 appeared first on The Mach 1 Group.

On February 7th, Mach 1 had the incredible opportunity to speak at the Pink Granite Foundation’s 2025 Legislative Summit, a premier gathering dedicated to empowering women in Texas politics. We shared insights on effective communication in a legislative environment, equipping attendees with strategies to navigate policymaking and build impactful connections.

Our team shared key strategies and insights to help attendees navigate the Capitol, engage with legislators and communicate effectively with the media. Below is a summary of the tips we shared. 

Effective communication begins with a strong first impression. Dressing appropriately, being mindful of your surroundings and seeking a second opinion when in doubt set the tone for any interaction. When meeting with lawmakers, preparation is key. Understanding their background and policy priorities, building relationships with staffers and having a clear, concise agenda ensure productive discussions.

To resonate with your audience, having a well-crafted message that is simple, clear and memorable is crucial. Since people remember only about 10% of what they hear a week later, reinforcing key points with analogies and real-world examples makes that 10% count. To amplify your message, use newsletters, social media, press releases and speaking opportunities strategically. Aligning outreach with key legislative dates and priorities while avoiding media oversaturation ensures maximum impact.

Confidence is essential when presenting, whether in meetings, testimony or media interviews. Staying focused, engaging the audience rather than reading verbatim, maintaining eye contact and using natural gestures all contribute to a compelling delivery. Finally, effective collateral—concise, visually engaging materials like one-pagers—helps ensure that key messages stand out and resonate with busy lawmakers and stakeholders.

The post Capitol Communications 101 appeared first on The Mach 1 Group.

Dear Friends,

What a year! I hope that as you read this, you’re checking out for the holidays. But before you do, I wanted to thank you for your partnership and support this year and for so many years.

When I founded Mach 1 more than a decade ago, many of you took me under your wings, showed me the ropes, supported and encouraged me and it makes me feel amazing every time I remember those moments. Our Mach 1 team continues to be blessed with an amazing circle of friends, colleagues and clients and we are thankful for it every day.

We’re also happy to celebrate a year of remarkable achievements and growth at Mach 1. From welcoming new clients and team members to achieving record-breaking milestones, we’re grateful to reflect on a sensational year filled with success stories and exciting growth in our firm.

This year, Mach 1 delivered for our clients in extraordinary ways—securing over 6,000 media hits, reaching an audience of more than one billion and generating over $100 billion in publicity value. These impressive accomplishments are a testament to our team’s dedication and expertise, and we are energized for the year ahead. As we continue to grow, we’re focused on pushing the boundaries of what’s possible and delivering even greater impact for our clients.

2024 Awards

In recognition of our team’s impactful work for clients, Mach 1 was honored to be named a 2024 Silver Winner in Public Affairs Campaign by the Bulldog PR Awards!

We are also extremely proud of our Partner & Chief Operating Officer, Mary Love, for being recognized as one of the Top 50 Women Chief Operating Officers of 2024!

New Team Members

2024 brought exciting new opportunities for Mach 1, including several new clients, prompting us to expand our team! We are thrilled to introduce the talented individuals who have joined our team this year:

Sarah Allen – Senior Director
Meet Sarah Allen, a Mach 1 Senior Director passionate about media relations, social media and public affairs. Sarah’s varied PR background includes experience with local government, tech, apparel and entertainment. A seventh-generation Texan, Sarah enjoys classic sitcoms, playing disc golf and running races at a slow but steady pace.

Jamie McCormick – Senior Strategist
Meet Jamie McCormick, a Mach 1 Senior Strategist specializing in campaigns and issue-driven communications. With a background in legislative policy and public affairs, she loves to help untangle tough issues. Outside of work, Jamie is usually found swimming, hiking or climbing with her family and dogs. In rare moments alone, she loves to read and paint.

Carsyn Collins – Account Executive
Meet Carsyn Collins, a Mach 1 Account Executive specializing in social media marketing and policy communications. As a recent graduate from the LBJ School of Public Affairs, Carsyn is eager to make a difference by turning her academic skills into actionable results for Mach 1 clients. In her spare time, Carsyn enjoys taking dance classes and exploring Austin’s live music scene.

We couldn’t be more excited to watch Jamie, Sarah and Carsyn flourish at Mach 1. Our team looks forward to the many contributions they’ll continue to bring in the year ahead!

Livestrong’s Texas Monthly Feature

In 2024, we achieved a significant milestone in our work with Livestrong by successfully securing a Texas Monthly cover story featuring the organization. This high-profile placement not only elevated Livestrong’s visibility but also garnered widespread attention, including a TV appearance featuring CEO Suzanne Stone and other various members of the organization.

This feature celebrates Livestrong’s lasting legacy and their role in driving innovation within the nonprofit sector. We’re proud to have played a role in telling this remarkable story and look forward to helping our clients create lasting impacts for years to come!

Happy Holidays!

Thank you for your partnership. We deeply appreciate the trust you place in us.

As we enter the holiday season, all of us at Mach 1 wish you and your loved ones peace, joy and prosperity. May the new year – and the 89^th Texas Legislative Session – bring you continued success and happiness.

Sincerely,

Katherine McLane
Founder & CEO
The Mach 1 Group

The post A year of growth, success and transformative impact for The Mach 1 Group appeared first on The Mach 1 Group.

1. Timing is Everything 

Remember, newsrooms are quieter over the holidays, so pitch early and focus on evergreen stories that can run anytime. This flexibility makes it easier for your message to be picked up.

2. Wrap Your Message in Warmth

The holidays are about connection. Share stories that tug at the heartstrings—whether it’s a philanthropic initiative, employee highlights, or a community partnership. Feel-good news is irresistible during this time and can earn you prime media attention.

3. Make Your Year-End Count

A recap of your year’s successes framed as gratitude—highlighting partnerships, milestones or industry impacts—gives your audience a reason to celebrate with you.

4. Set the Stage for New Beginnings

Leverage New Year’s to share forward-thinking goals or bold predictions for your industry in 2025. Position your organization as a thought leader by discussing trends, challenges and opportunities on the horizon.

Pro Tip: Tie your story to major industry issues to boost its relevance. Now’s the Time to Shine! So, pour a cup of cocoa, craft your narrative, and let’s make this season one to remember. Here’s to a holiday season filled with connection and creativity!

The post ‘Tis the Season for Stories That Shine appeared first on The Mach 1 Group.

Some clear, recent examples of events that warranted a communications pause include: the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic in the United States, the January 6^th storming of the U.S. Capitol and the horrific school shooting at Robb Elementary School in Uvalde, TX. These events shook communities, demanded an appropriate and timely response and shifted operations across the board in the weeks following.

At Mach 1, we help organizations during these crucial moments — but also during crises of all shapes and sizes. Here is how we help determine when it is necessary to hit pause on an ongoing or scheduled communications campaign:

• Does this tragedy impact the organization’s operations?
• Did it impact the city, state or region they represent?
• Does it have a direct connection to their industry or political affiliations?
• Do we have planned social content, ads, interviews or public appearances that could be deemed insensitive due to the issue?

If the answer is YES to any of these questions, it’s a good indicator that we should halt, review and, in some cases, recalibrate.

Setting up a crisis response plan and internal approval process is the best way to improve rapid response efforts while preparing a holding statement will help communications teams formulate an apt response under pressure.

We can’t predict when or where a tragedy or crisis event will strike, but we can be prepared for a fitting response.

The post When Tragedy Strike appeared first on The Mach 1 Group.

Glynn and Traeger join the powerhouse team of public relations consultants to support clients during the upcoming Legislative Session and beyond. The firm, which is headquartered in Austin, serves clients nationally, and has developed a reputation for its excellent service.

“The addition of Maggie to the growing Mach 1 team provides clients an expert journalist’s perspective, an essential asset for any enterprise with issues in the public realm,” said Mach 1 founder and CEO Katherine McLane. “Maggie’s experience and communications style will give the great organizations and individuals Mach 1 serves a tremendous advantage when it comes to communications around their important business and policy goals.”

Vice President Maggie Glynn was, until August, a news anchor for NBC affiliate KXAN Austin with years of expertise in state and Capitol news. Prior to joining Mach 1, she served as a Capitol correspondent for 14 stations across Texas, producing news stories and content daily on the Legislature, along with the biggest breaking news stories around the state. Glynn was at the forefront of the coverage of the state’s response to COVID-19 and Winter Storm Uri, while also landing exclusive interviews ahead of the 2022 primaries on both sides of the aisle.

Recruited out of the classroom for her communications talent, Account Executive Megan Traeger is a former teacher with expertise in marketing, writing and design. Having invested 14 years as an educator, Traeger has first-hand experience with Texas education policy and instructional design. She excels at keeping the Mach 1 team and its clients on track.

“Megan’s ‘in the trenches’ perspective is especially important for our clients with education priorities,” said McLane. “Megan understands the dynamics and nuances of education in Texas as only a seasoned classroom veteran can and already, Mach 1’s clients are benefitting from her experience.”

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AUSTIN, TX (AUGUST 22, 2022) – The Mach 1 Group (Mach 1) – an award-winning, nationally recognized public relations firm – formally announced expanded leadership today, with Mary Bell Love’s promotion to partner and Chief Operating Officer.

In the decade since its 2013 founding by revered public relations expert Katherine McLane, Mach 1 has quickly become one of the top public affairs and strategic communications firms in Texas. Joining Mach 1 in 2017, Love has been a driving force in the firm’s success, helping to assemble a team of skilled public relations professionals — former communications directors, press secretaries and journalists recognized for their ability to help clients navigate some of the most arduous public opinion challenges.

“After years in the toughest PR trenches imaginable on campaigns, in agencies, in a governor’s office and at the federal level, I founded Mach 1 in 2013 to provide clients with smart, swift and comprehensive communications support,” said McLane. “From the moment Mary joined Mach 1 in 2017, her brilliance and devotion to serving clients and growing our business has been unfailing. Her leadership and hard work have contributed to our success in so many ways. I’m thrilled to welcome her as a partner and look forward to continuing to expand the excellent service Mach 1 provides to outstanding clients together. And personally, sharing Mach 1 with Mary, who has become so dear to me, is a fabulous milestone.”

Love is a public affairs expert with extensive expertise in media relations, political strategy, crisis management and strategic communication. Under her direction, the boutique firm has served some of the best-known brands and organizations in the U.S. and has grown a reputation as hard-working, driven and excellent. Love’s experience and savvy recently earned her a nomination for Austin Business Journal’s 2022 Women in Business, which celebrates Central Texas women at the top of their industry.

“Mach 1 is my home, and Katherine is like family to me,” Love said. “I could not ask for a better mentor, and I’m honored to continue working alongside her as we grow this firm together. I’m very proud of where we are today – the clients we serve, the incredible talent we have in place – and I’m committed to making us one of the country’s most elite crisis and public affairs communication firms.”

Love manages a wide breadth of clients for Mach 1 – from higher education institutions and non-profits to trade associations – and, as director of the firm’s natural resource practice , specializes in oil and gas, water and electric industry communications. Before joining the Mach 1 Group, Love served as Director of Special Projects and Public Affairs, respectively, for the Chairman of the Texas Railroad Commission (RRC). Notably, Love is one of the only recent Railroad Commission executive staffers to work in public relations.

For more information about The Mach 1 Group, visit www.themach1group.com.

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