Testimonials

Grant has a wealth of knowledge to share in media relations - his direct, engaging manner and quick wit was appreciated by everyone who participated in the JEDI "Media - Love 'em or Hate 'em Workshop." I have received many positive comments about the learning opportunity and how organizations plan to to implement Grant's advice regarding policy development and messaging prior to interaction with the media.

Edie Spagrud

Director of Economic Development

Joint Economic Development Initiative (JEDI)

Grant provided a compelling and interactive training session that helped highlight the importance of media relations and social media for our business.  The on-camera interviews provided our staff with the opportunity to apply Grant's teachings to real life situations in an environment that everyone was comfortable in.  The customization of the program and Grant's ability to focus on our needs was extremely beneficial.  I would highly recommend Grant for media relations training.

Jesse Meyer

Manager, Marketing and Communications

Fort McMurray Airport Authority

I have been privy to a number of comments from our participants relating to your presentation, and the feedback has been overwhelmingly positive and even glowing, and has included terms such as "incredible", amazing, exceptional, and extraordinary!" People have even suggested that the only possible way to have improved your presentation would have been to make it longer.  You were frequently given a "5" ranking on our 1-4 scale.  Well Done!!

Robyn Kotyk

Chief Operating Officer

Alberta Construction Safety Association

Grant has graciously presented to the Edmonton Sunrise Rotary Club regarding media relations.  His first talk was so popular that member Rotarians asked to have him speak again. Grant's presentations reinforce media relations as an area of expertise that is both needed by every manager and is also excluded from management training programs.  His examples which show the difference between effective and ineffective media communications are a 'real eye opener'. Every organization should be exposed to Grant's presentations so they follow through with developing their own media plan.  I know that it is only a matter of time when I will need to call Grant for assistance.  It is comforting to know that he will be there to help.

Bruce D. Clark

Programme Director

Rotary Club of Edmonton Sunrise

I've had the opportunity to work with Grant on various events over the past few years.  As a professional speaker and MC, he is focused on delivering the key messages effectively and keeps the show flowing.  He is always ready to provide expertise, support and collaboration.  It's always a pleasure to work with Grant.

Milena Santoro, CMM, CMP, PIDP

Owner

MS Productions Inc.

Grant recently volunteered his time and expertise at the 2011 Empowering Edmonton event as Master of Ceremonies. His professionalism, exceptional time-management skills and ability to keep attendees enthusiastic throughout the day was highly valued, and helped contribute to the overwhelming success of the event. We continue to receive glowing comments from the guests thanking Grant for keeping the day flowing so smoothly.

Joanne Dorn

Director of Development

Cerebral Palsy Association in Alberta

During a recent media training session, Grant Ainsley and cameraman Doug Woolgar provided our elected officials and senior staff with the tools, tips and techniques of effective media relations, and also some valuable insights into the role of the media in our society.

The session was both entertaining and informative, especially the one-on-one interview/critique. Our post-session feedback indicated that the participants felt they had developed a greater degree confidence about being interviewed by journalists, especially television news media.

Thanks again Grant and Doug!

Norma MacQuarrie

Chief Administrative Officer

City of Lacombe

As hoteliers we often find ourselves dealing with the media on issues related to our public relations strategies or in regards to events at our hotels.  Grant's presentation was focused on our specific needs and extremely useful for our members.  We especially appreciated the information and "cheat sheets" he distributed for quick reference.  I would highly recommend taking advantage of Grant's experience and unique approach to media relations.
Robert Blackwell
President
Edmonton Convention Hotels Association

Grant has a compelling perspective on media relations and the potential pitfalls of social media. He provided an intensive session for our senior leaders that provided practical suggestions on how to be better spokespeople for their organizations. I would definitely hire Grant again.
Damian Stathonikos
Director, Communications and Public Affairs
British Columbia Real Estate Association

Grant Ainsley and cameraman Doug Woolgar recently provided an invaluable media training session for our elected officials and senior administration.  The day turned out to be not nearly as stressful as we anticipated.  The session was very informative and very entertaining.  All participants felt more confident and comfortable in dealing with the print, radio and TV media by the end of the day.

Ron Jackson

Director of Agriculture and Emergency Services
Athabasca County

We had the pleasure of having a media training session with Grant Ainsley.  We found the session to be enlightening, educational and beneficial for our team when faced with media situations.  It certainly came in handy when we had a colleague go missing on the ski hill for 24 hours.  

Amanda Robinson

General Manager
The Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge

Grant Ainsley has provided training for our elected officials which has prepared them to face the media. The session was filled with pithy insight, sage advice and realistic exercises. As a result of the sessions, our leaders were more comfortable in crafting their message and dealing with media inquiries. We have added Grant to our roster of presenters for future media training sessions.

Jon Hall
Marketing Manager
REALTORS Association of Edmonton

Grant Ainsley's media training has been invaluable to ACA's elected volunteers to confidently and effectively convey key messages on issues directly impacting our members' image and profitability.
Ken Gibson
Executive Director
Alberta Construction Association

Grant and his staff conducted an excellent hands-on presentation to our Board members. They coached and prepared us on what to expect when we are asked to speak in front of the media. This included on- screen television interviews where we were asked questions about our association followed by a second set of interviews using a very stressful hypothetical situation, which I felt would really help prepare us for that unforeseen situation that could catch a person totally unprepared.  
I would highly recommend Grant and his group to any person or association seeking media training. 
Bob Maslanko, PEC
President
Electrical Contractors Association of Alberta

Grant’s presentation was a unique blend of information and entertainment – his anecdotes, personal experiences and diverse knowledge provided an incredibly worthwhile session for both staff and elected officials. A presenter as dynamic as Grant is absolutely a gem that is hard to find! 
Amanda Peterson
City Clerk
City of Brooks