With a background in strategic media communications, Ben Gallagher focuses on evangelizing GeoLinks’ services and efforts to close the digital divide through earned media opportunities.
- Let’s start with the basics, what’s your role at GeoLinks?
I’m the Communications Director. I do everything from media relations, to content development and work closely with our marketing and sales teams to ensure that our branding and voice remain consistent throughout all of our communications channels.
- What’s been your favorite part about working for GeoLinks so far?
I’m someone who tries to challenge myself and GeoLinks has given me the opportunity to do that. I’ve learned a lot of new skills, developing in my own career while feeling that I can simultaneously bring value to the organization.
- What is one of the most interesting projects you’ve worked on during your career?
I’ve had the opportunity work closely with emergency personnel and first responders during emergency situations. On issues ranging from flooding to wildfires, my role was to run communications in the Emergency Operations Center and ensure that one consistent message was being delivered to those affected in regard to emergency services, evacuation efforts, resources, etc.
- Outside of work, what is your favorite past time or hobby?
Spending time with my wife and kids. I have three little ones and they’re my favorite people in the world. So any time that I can take to hang out with them, I take advantage of.
- What’s something most of your coworkers don’t know about you?
I have been an amateur model on two occasions. Once was when I worked for a boating magazine and we didn’t have the budget for models so I was the only option. The other was when I was traveling abroad in Southeast Asia with my best friend and he somehow roped me into modeling men’s swimwear with him on the beaches of Singapore. It was humiliating and incredible at the same time.
- What is your favorite book/movie and why?
My favorite book is On The Road, by Jack Kerouac. I think it’s about freeing your mind and being authentic, which sounds easier to do than it actually is. My favorite movie is the Shawshank Redemption because it’s an illustration of what genuine human connection can help you get through.
- If you could go anywhere/do anything in the world for just one day, where would you go and what would you do?
I’d sit right behind the home dugout at Citi Field for a New York Mets game with my entire family. We’d probably be the loudest, most obnoxious fans in the park. It would be awesome.
- What are some of the qualities you need to have a successful career in communications?
You need to accept that you don’t know everything. Things are constantly changing and there are always better ways to do things as technology and the industry develop. That and having a thick skin, because you’re going to get ignored and you’re going to experience failure. But if you’re resilient and willing to learn, you’ll eventually land some big wins as long as you keep getting back up.
- What’s next…what are you most excited for when you think of the future with GeoLinks?
I’m excited for the opportunity to try new things, which is something that is always available at GeoLinks. Rebecca Mendoza, our Marketing Manager and I are starting a podcast soon. I’m looking forward to launching it and getting/forcing our colleagues to join us on the show!
