Jenni Kotting, PhD (she/her) is a seasoned Communications Strategist who has dedicated her career to using narrative as a powerful tool for cultural and political change. Born in the Appalachian mountains of Maryland, Jenni learned early on that real change comes from heart-to-heart conversations where trust is built through honest, respectful dialogue — finding common ground without diluting one's values or compromising on core beliefs, even when navigating political, cultural, and personal divides. Jenni holds a PhD in Human Geography from the University of Minnesota, where her academic focus on place, power, and liberation continues to inform her professional approach. That understanding drives her approach to strategic messaging, compassionate dialogue, and crisis communications across sectors, including nonprofits, school districts, philanthropies, and advocacy networks. Jenni's work spans reproductive justice, racial equity, youth leadership, education, and birth justice. She is known for her creativity and deeply held values in designing ethical storytelling programs, producing innovative visual media, and translating complex issues into accessible, action-driven stories that inspire change at every level.