People of Media: Jessica Cline | Cities West (Phoenix Magazine) | The Power of Storytelling
Jessica Cline, CMO of Cities West Media, sees storytelling as the bridge between content, audience trust, and revenue. Phoenix Magazine has maintained success by balancing business and creative independence—a rare model. Jessica credits strong leadership, a clear cultural identity, and a commitment to the craft of storytelling. That commitment, she believes, is non-negotiable for any media company that wants to stay relevant.
Devaluing Storytelling is a Dangerous Game
A troubling trend is emerging: media organizations sacrificing storytelling for short-term revenue. Trust is a publication’s most valuable asset, and once it’s gone, it’s almost impossible to rebuild. Leaders like Logan Aguirre (417 Magazine) and Lisl Lang (SRQ Magazine) operate with a similar mindset, prioritizing credibility over quick monetization.
In an era where anyone can publish content, credibility is what separates trusted media brands from noise. Readers still crave well-told, well-researched stories. The question is whether media leaders are willing to protect and invest in the craft that keeps their audiences engaged.
Marketing as a Natural Extension of Storytelling
The most successful marketing isn’t about selling—it’s about capturing the spirit of a brand in a way that resonates with the right audience. That same principle applies to media companies. When publishers integrate storytelling into their marketing strategy, they don’t just promote content—they reinforce the value of their brand to advertisers and subscribers.
Many media organizations focus on monetization but fail to tell a compelling story about their own identity, mission, and value. The best brands—whether editorial or commercial—win because they know how to tell their own story as well as they tell others'.
Takeaway: Own Your Story, Own Your Growth
Media organizations that survive and grow will be the ones that double down on storytelling, trust, and targeted marketing. The best publishers don’t just produce content—they create meaningful connections with their audience and advertisers. That’s what Jessica is doing at Phoenix Magazine, and it’s a model worth watching.