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Meet the Media: Jade Brasher, Senior Editor at FleetOwner

I’m the senior editor of FleetOwner, a job I’ve had for just a few short weeks. FleetOwner, part of Endeavor Business Media’s Commercial Vehicle Group, addresses topics such as fleet operations, vehicle maintenance, and industry regulations, and since being in this position I’ve also covered alternative fuels and cybersecurity risks to fleet owners and drivers.

Can you tell us what types of stories, trends or issues are on your radar now?

The trucking industry has experienced some challenges recently with lower freight volumes, a decrease in rates, and trucking companies exiting the industry altogether. Because of this, I’m interested in stories that share solutions or ways to alleviate the headaches associated with these issues as well as highlight things fleet owners and drivers are doing that are going right.

What story or stories are you most proud of?

I’m most proud of my writing that tells someone’s story or sheds light on an issue that isn’t commonly known. I wrote a story this past year about a man who spent time in prison, worked his way to becoming an owner-operator, and then created a learning program for other former inmates to do the same. Talking to him inspired me, and I hope that sharing his story helped inspire others.

What elements or characteristics do you look for in a story, and why?

I look for a problem, proof of that problem, a solution, and then proof that the solution actually works. I appreciate when the proof or the problem or solution is echoed by a real person who has first-hand experience. I think it’s these elements that make the most impact to the reader.

How long have you been in journalism and how did you get started?

When I started college I was headed toward a degree in psychology. I was fascinated by people, the way the human brain functions, and the reasons people behave the ways they do. My teachers would often comment on my writing, and that boost of confidence along with a love of storytelling led me to journalism. The rest is history, and I’ll celebrate my sixth year as a journalist this year.

Finish this sentence: If I am not reporting, I am …

Hosting a themed party (the Kentucky-Derby-Murder-Mystery-Garden Party was a hit), traveling absolutely any place I haven’t yet been, or sittin’ around chattin’ with friends and family over a glass of iced tea, chai, or coffee. Relationships are very important to me, so I never say no to spending time with loved ones. But being an introvert, I take alone time and “recharge” time very seriously.

What advice do you have for PR people that want to pitch you?

I see more value from pitches that get straight to the point, show me a problem, and then show me a solution.

Any pet peeves with PR people?

I do get annoyed when I get pitched the same thing multiple times after I’ve already covered it.

Tell us a little about yourself (family, interests, hobbies, background, etc.)

I’m an Alabama girl (roll tide) living just outside of Detroit with my husband Aman and our spoo Luka. Aman, a design engineer, is a proud Indian immigrant who fills my life with masala (spice) and fun. We both enjoy learning and have found that travel is the best teacher. We live in a walkable area, so I’m learning to leave the car keys at home and take the long route. You can also find me at the barre studio. Fun fact: We have had a total of three wedding ceremonies (thanks to covid and different cultures).

You can follow FleetOwner on X (formerly Twitter) here: @FleetOwner

Check out some of Jade’s recent articles:

• Connected vehicles produce vulnerabilities, among them are EV chargers
• Can smaller fleet operators gain any of the freight left by Yellow?
• FleeTec diesel technician academy looks to EV future

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• The Power of Earned Media: What You Need to Know
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• Meet the Media: Mary Gannon, Editor-in-Chief of Fluid Power World & Senior Editor at Design World