What people say about CompassMedia
“I’ve been incredibly lucky to work with Ann—she is a perfect demonstration of how the best coaches help you get out of your own way. Ann’s extraordinary gift is her ability to hone in on what comes naturally to you, so she can help you tap into it and amplify it. She's incredibly attentive, generous, and precise in her guidance, and it has meant that every time I sit with her, I walk away seeing my own abilities differently, and seeing my work in a new way. She has, quite literally, made me the host I am and I couldn't be more grateful.”
– Elamin Abdelmahmoud, Host of CBC Radio’s Commotion with Elamin Abdelmahmoud
“Ann MacKeigan is the reason I have a career in broadcasting. When I started at CBC, I didn’t know how to be myself on air—I was trying to sound like someone who belonged there. Ann was the one sitting beside me, week after week, saying, ‘That’s not you. Be more you.’ She has this rare gift for spotting who you actually are and helping you sound like that person, only more focused, more engaging, and somehow more yourself. She also has the best instincts I’ve ever encountered when it comes to tone and what real, effective communication sounds like. Whether you work in business, media, or any other field, Ann can help you express yourself with clarity, confidence, and impact. Without her, I wouldn’t have a show. Or socks. Or a clue.”
– Tom Power, Host of CBC Radio’s Q with Tom Power
“Ann MacKeigan has been referred to as ‘The Host Whisperer’ around the CBC. This sounds very dramatic at first, until you begin to work with Ann, and realize you’re in the hands of a veritable master of communication. Ann took me from ‘a guy who likes to have a chat’ and transformed me into an attentive, engaged host and interviewer—both on radio and live on-stage. The tools she has equipped me with literally led me to become a more sought-after host. She even made me a better listener at home with my wife. Okay that part isn't true, but if I asked her to, I know she'd be able to help!”
- Ali Hassan, Comedian, Author and CBC Radio Host
“I love working with Ann! Her sessions are so engaging and insightful, and help me understand how to continuously develop my skills. I always come away with tangible things to work on and the feeling that I learned something new.”
– Menaka Raman-Wilms, Host of The Globe and Mail ’s The Decibel
“Ann’s magic is rooted in the way she listens. And that skill is what underpins the deeply personalized wisdom she shares in a safe and supportive environment.
Ann is the coach I’ve always wanted: attentive, inspiring, deeply insightful. Working with her has transformed my approach and armed me with the tools to continue improving longterm. She will read you, too, like a book—and help you find the voice within.”
– Nahlah Ayed, Host of CBC’s Ideas
“When you're listening to your favourite podcast or radio show, do you ever think, ‘dang, that host is good.’ It wasn't until I started working with Ann that I realized those hosts, some of my favourites, didn't emerge into the world fully formed. They had Ann, whispering in their ear, helping them sound how they imagined themselves sounding, like the best version of themselves. Wherever it is you need to get, she'll help get you there.”
– Paul Haavardsrud, Host, CBC’s Cost of Living
“Ann was my first mentor in radio and I can honestly say she is the reason I have had the skills and confidence to host national shows for CBC and NPR. It’s really hard to deliver feedback in a way that’s direct, kind and thoughtful and that motivates and empowers rather than discourages. I believe this is Ann’s true superpower as a coach. Ann taught me how to listen to my own work with a constructively critical yet compassionate ear and not to be afraid of feedback and growth. She taught me to keep striving up until I really and truly sounded like myself. At a time when everyone seems to be chasing authenticity and when clear storytelling matters most, I can’t imagine a better coach.”
– Talia Schlanger, Host, CBC Radio, NPR
“Ann MacKeigan has mentored me through many important moments in my professional life. She creates a welcoming environment and listens intently, wanting to understand the nuance and detail of my experience, and the values that carry me through my work. She has helped me build an invaluable toolbox for the most demanding on air moments—and encouraged me to aim higher and go bolder with confidence and conviction. Most of all, I can feel that she really cares about me. I leave our sessions feeling grounded, challenged and inspired—and more deeply connected to the Canadian public.”
– Saroja Coelho, Host, CBC’s Just Asking