Salon Series: An Evening of Impact with Chuck Todd, host of The Chuck ToddCast

Exploring the future of political journalism, public trust and how news reaches people now Date: Friday, Oct. 2, 2026 Time: 6:30 to 9 p.m. Location: Hallbrook Country Club, 11200 Overbrook Road, Leawood, KS 66211 Ticket: $300 per guest Attendance: Invitation only | Limited seating Join Poynter in Kansas City for an exclusive evening with veteran political journalist and former Meet the Press moderator Chuck Todd. As one of the most recognizable voices in American political journalism, Todd has spent decades helping audiences understand politics, power and the forces shaping public life. Now, at a moment when journalism faces extraordinary disruption, Todd is asking some of the industry's biggest questions: How do journalists rebuild trust? How do news organizations reach audiences exhausted by politics and constant breaking news? And what kind of journalism still cuts through in an increasingly fragmented media environment? This invitation-only salon will bring together a select group of journalists, civic leaders, innovators and supporters for candid conversation about the future of journalism and the role trusted reporting plays in democracy. The evening will also recognize Todd's lasting contributions to journalism and public discourse. Your experience includes: An intimate salon conversation with Chuck Todd moderated by Poynter President Neil Brown Insight into the changing media landscape from one of journalism's most influential interviewers and analysts Honest discussion about audience trust, political polarization and the challenge of reconnecting people with news A curated gathering of influential leaders across journalism, business and civic life Meaningful networking and conversation in a private setting The conversation Todd has long been known for helping audiences make sense of politics beyond the daily noise. In conversations with Poynter, he has spoken candidly about the growing disconnect between journalism and audiences overwhelmed by the modern news cycle, saying he believes journalism must once again help people live their lives, not simply react to nonstop conflict. Together, Neil Brown and Chuck Todd will explore: What political journalism gets right, and wrong, in today's media environment Why audiences are tuning out news and what journalists can do about it The future of political reporting in an era shaped by podcasts, creators and direct audience relationships The dangers and limitations of corporate media ownership How journalism can remain both rigorous and engaging in an increasingly polarized culture Why strengthening local news is vital to the future - and what he's doing about it Why this matters now Public trust in institutions is fragile. Audiences are overwhelmed. News avoidance is rising. At the same time, the need for credible, fact-based journalism has never been greater. Poynter's salon series creates space for thoughtful, candid conversations about the future of journalism with the people helping shape it. These gatherings are intentionally intimate, designed to move beyond headlines and soundbites toward meaningful dialogue about what comes next. Your presence supports Poynter's mission to strengthen journalism, defend truth and help the public navigate an increasingly complex information landscape.. Reserve your seat today With attendance limited to fewer than 100 guests, this event offers a rare opportunity to engage directly with one of the most influential voices in journalism. Register your interest This event is by invitation only. Please complete this form to show your interest. To learn more, contact Aaron Sharockman, [email protected]. Our Guest of Honor Chuck Todd is a renowned political analyst, host of The Chuck ToddCast, a weekly podcast offering in-depth interviews with political figures and experts, and head of politics & host of Sunday Night with Chuck Todd for the Noosphere App. A six-time Emmy Award-winner, Todd was NBC News's chief political analyst and moderator of Meet the Press from 2014 to 2023. He also hosted Meet the Press NOW, a daily show on NBC News NOW, bringing timely political analysis to a digital audience. Known for his sharp insight and encyclopedic knowledge of politics, Todd has co-moderated multiple presidential debates, including the record-breaking 2019 and 2020 Democratic debates. He previously served as NBC News's chief White House correspondent and hosted The Daily Rundown on MSNBC.Todd is the author of two books and has contributed to The New York Times, The Washington Post and The Atlantic. He teaches how Washington works as the inaugural scholar-in-residence for the University of Southern California's Capital Campus, in Washington, D.C. Todd lives in Arlington, Virginia, with his wife, Kristian, and their two children. ______________________________________ The Poynter Foundation is a nonpartisan 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to improving journalism in service to democracy. Proceeds from this event support Poynter's global work to strengthen media, elevate standards and build trust between journalists and the communities they serve. EIN: 99-0731998