Joanna Piacenza

I work at the intersection of data, narrative, and growth strategy — building research-backed thought leadership that shapes markets, drives demand, and strengthens brand authority.

I currently serve as the vice president of thought leadership for National Journal's Gravity Research, overseeing public-facing research that helps companies mitigate reputational risk vis-à-vis corporate engagement. I previously built and led Morning Consult's industry analyst team — the company’s research-led marketing engine — overseeing all public-facing industry research and thought leadership.

Across roles, my focus is consistent: Using rigorous analysis to create narratives that resonate with decision-makers, stand up to scrutiny, and drive business outcomes.

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Thought leadership and research I've lead or shaped has been cited or featured on CNN, NPR, the New York Times, the Washington Post, the BBC, Nieman Journalism Lab, and The Atlantic, among others. Beyond the C-suite and the boardroom, my work has informed discussions and decisions at the highest levels — cited in National Bureau of Economic Research working papers and referenced in an amicus brief submitted to the U.S. Supreme Court.

I have spoken internationally and domestically about the brands I've built and the research I've developed, including on stages at SXSW, NICAR, Harvard University, AEI, and in partnership with Mika Brzezinski’s ASCEND Summit, among others. I regularly provide commentary on how my research answers the biggest question marks in today's headlines. I will talk about anything from AI workforce trends to leisure travel trends to corporate engagement pullbacks to the white evangelical vote to national demographic shifts to consumer confidence.

I can finish a Wednesday New York Times crossword puzzle (without cheating).

I earned my M.A. in Religious Studies from the University of Colorado Boulder and my B.A. in Journalism from the University of Wisconsin-Madison. My M.A. thesis explored meditation apps.

Connect with me on LinkedIn here or follow me on Twitter here.