Zane Maxwell Email & Phone Number

Chicago, Illinois, United States

Chicago, Il

I founded ZM5 Productions in order to help build podcasts that matter for organizations that want to have a positive impact on society. I have seen firsthand the power that podcasts have when they work in tandem with mission-driven organizations through my work on The Axe Files and I want to use my expertise to share that power with others.ZM5 specializes in the practicalities of bringing a podcast from concept to reality. I also incorporate my comprehensive multimedia skills to give those podcasts a robust and professional public presence. Finally, I offer training to make sure your show is sustainable without indefinite reliance on contractors or compromising on quality.In other words, it's a one stop shop for bringing your very own podcast to life.

As a part of the Axe Files team I have contributed several episode write-ups to CNN and CNN Politics. https://www.cnn.com/2018/02/02/politics/mark-warner-axe-files/index.htmlhttps://www.cnn.com/2017/04/13/politics/jason-benetti-axe-files/index.htmlhttps://www.cnn.com/2017/03/30/politics/joe-maddon-axe-files/index.htmlhttps://www.cnn.com/2016/12/05/politics/axe-files-davis-guggenheim-david-axelrod/index.htmlhttps://www.cnn.com/2016/08/15/politics/tom-vilsack-axe-files/index.htmlhttps://www.cnn.com/2016/08/08/politics/deval-patrick-axe-files/index.htmlhttps://www.cnn.com/2016/08/01/politics/john-dickerson-axe-files/index.htmlhttps://www.cnn.com/2016/06/23/politics/al-franken-guns-congress/index.htmlhttps://www.cnn.com/2016/05/09/politics/axe-files-axelrod-anderson-cooper/index.html

Greater Chicago Area

Conceptualized and produced the Axe Files podcast, which has achieved over 60 million downloads across over 300 episodes in 3 years. The Axe Files was also licensed by CNN as a monthly TV special.In 2019, I worked with David Axelrod and Mike Murphy to launch a new podcast called Hacks on Tap which analyzes the 2020 election from the perspective of two campaign professionals on both sides of the aisle.

Coordinate communications strategy across all program areas, including development, to ensure cohesive and consistent messaging and branding. Leverage all tools at organization’s disposal to self promote with little reliance on external media using a diverse application of strategies and techniques, from staging large public events to highly targeted appeals.Document events and trips through photography and video and edits and shares media for multiple audiences and contexts.Design graphic materials for a wide variety of purposes.Supervises student workers and manages cross-departmental teams on special projects and initiatives.

Chicago, Il

Greater Chicago Area

Worked with lobbying teams to conduct research and create communications materials for lawmakersCreated the logo, video, and website for campaign involving domestic workers’ bill of rights in Illinois and designed their 2014 Annual Poverty Report.

Greater Chicago Area

Worked with the Youth Commission, a group of high-schoolers and early college students charged with researching and recommending policy actions to the City Council. My role was to teach them about the limits and benefits of using social media for political advocacy.

Greater Chicago Area

Researched the effects of redistricting policies in other states and created materials to advocate for non-partisan redistricting in Illinois

Provide free technical support to students and faculty, repair/troubleshoot hardware, install software, deliver and install projectors and other equipment, answer support calls, direct calls to other members of the department, and inventory management and organization.

Taught a variety of classes to students ages 8-13. Subjects included graphic design, digital photography, and rudimentary game design. I led students on expeditions into the community to take photographs and designed projects to teach basic skills as well as unlock students' creative potential.

Bachelor Of Arts (B.A.), Political Science And Government

9-12

Activities and Societies: Honor Society