Every era of politics produces figures who shape outcomes without seeking the spotlight. Brian Ballard is one of them. In a wide-ranging conversation that kicked off the fourth season of 13th & Park, host Adam Goodman sat down with the founder and CEO of Ballard Partners to explore the experiences, relationships, and philosophies that have guided Ballard’s journey—from a longshot gubernatorial campaign in Florida to leading a global public affairs firm.
A Career-Defining Leap of Faith
Brian Ballard traces his career back to an early, pivotal decision: stepping away from law school to join Bob Martinez’s unlikely run for Florida governor. At the time, Ballard had a traditional legal career lined up, but a chance introduction changed his trajectory. What began as a temporary campaign role quickly evolved into a formative experience. Ballard credits Martinez with shaping not only his professional path, but his approach to leadership, humility, and loyalty—qualities that surface repeatedly throughout the conversation.
Learning Leadership from the Inside
That leap led Ballard, still in his mid-20s, into one of the most demanding roles in state government: chief of staff to the governor of Florida. He describes the job as both exhilarating and exhausting, defined by constant movement from one crisis to the next. From hurricanes and wildfires to policy disputes and personnel challenges, Ballard says the role taught him how to manage complex issues under pressure and rely on capable teams.
How Big Policy Wins Really Happen
One of the episode’s most revealing moments comes when Ballard reflects on Preservation 2000, Florida’s landmark environmental conservation program. While the initiative is widely praised today, he explains that its passage depended on pragmatic political compromise. He shares a behind-the-scenes story illustrating how support for Florida State University’s football stadium helped unlock the votes needed to pass the conservation effort. The story underscores the fact that major policy achievements often require negotiation and realism, not just good intentions.
From Public Service to Public Affairs
Although Ballard never intended to become a lobbyist, he explains how his time in government prepared him for the profession. The ability to quickly grasp a broad range of complex issues and keep moving from one challenge to the next became central to his approach at Ballard Partners. Those skills helped the firm grow organically—from its early days in Tallahassee to a significant presence in Washington, D.C., and eventually to a global footprint serving clients across several industries and borders.
Power, Fame, and Perspective
The conversation also includes lighter moments that reveal Ballard’s perspective on influence. He recounts representing David Beckham and being struck by the magnitude of global celebrity. What left the most significant impression, however, was Beckham’s humility, kindness, and seemingly endless energy amid constant public attention and a full day of commitments.
Relationships That Shape History
Ballard also reflects on his decades-long relationship with Donald Trump, which began well before President Trump entered politics. The two share a “let’s get it done and let’s move” attitude focused on results. Ballard describes their early interactions as rooted in efficiency and trust, buoyed by President Trump’s personal charm and kindness.
Ballard also recounts how he introduced President Trump to Susie Wiles, who became the president’s Florida campaign manager during the 2016 election and was named White House Chief of Staff in 2025. Ballard emphasizes that while he played a connecting role in the initial introduction, the success of that partnership stems from Wiles and President Trump themselves.
The Value of Bipartisanship
Despite his well-known Republican ties, Ballard makes a strong case for bipartisanship. He argues that lasting success in politics and public affairs requires working across political divides and making deals. He also notes that Ballard Partners’ ability to thrive through multiple administrations reflects a commitment to credibility, relationships, and respect on both sides of the aisle.
Thinking About Legacy
As the conversation turns toward the future, Ballard shares his hopes for the firm’s legacy. Rather than personal recognition, he wants Ballard Partners to endure as an institution—one that remains a force in the lobbying world even after he is gone.
The episode closes with reflections on leadership, humility, and the lasting impact of public service. For listeners, the discussion offers not just insight into Brian Ballard’s career, but a broader look at how influence is built over time through trust, relationships, a willingness to take risks, and a dedication to getting things done.
To hear the full conversation and dive deeper into Brian Ballard’s insights, watch the complete episode of 13th & Park on YouTube. Subscribe to the channel for more in-depth conversations with leaders from the worlds of politics, media, sports, and entertainment.
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