Braden J. Ellis
Phoenix,AZ
Summary
Dynamic and results-driven professional with extensive experience in investigative journalism, media production, and leadership. Proven ability to lead high-profile undercover operations, create compelling content, and manage all aspects of video production. Skilled in scriptwriting, live broadcast management, and strategic communication, with a strong track record of driving engagement and fostering relationships with key stakeholders. A natural leader with a background in managing teams, mentoring staff, and producing high-quality content under tight deadlines. Adept at navigating complex and sensitive situations, with a focus on achieving impactful outcomes while maintaining ethical standards.
Overview
4
4
years of professional experience
Work History
Program Head/Undercover Journalist
O'Keefe Media Group
02.2024 - Current
- Direct and manage the OMG American Swiper program, overseeing all aspects of undercover investigations.
- Proficient in the use, setup, and troubleshooting of advanced hidden camera equipment for undercover operations and investigative purposes.
- Interview all potential candidates for the undercover journalist unit.
- Chief strategist for undercover operations ran on high profile subjects using OSINT/HUMINT.
- Working side by side with undercover journalists to perform the highest level of elicitations O'Keefe Media Group can perform on high profile subjects.
- Ensure OPSEC is established for every investigation we undergo and providing our journalists with all resources they need.
- Provided comprehensive and critical information about investigative subjects to my journalists, ensuring accurate and well-informed investigations.
- Chief auditor of undercover tapes that assesses and searches for key performance headlines, important story details from our subjects, and any specific background data.
- Creative scriptwriter with a proven ability to craft engaging and impactful video content for the social media app, X via the investigative pieces.
- Worked in tandem with editors throughout the production process, from script development to final edits, to deliver polished and professional investigative videos.
- Skilled in social media audience engagement, storytelling, and adapting scripts to align with brand identity along with trends on X and the current news cycle.
- Prepared and submitted inquiries based on investigative findings, including subject quotes, to provide opportunities for response and maintain accountability.
- Coordinate targeted video distribution to key X influencers, aligning content with audience preferences to maximize impact.
- Managed media relations by addressing inaccuracies in published articles, initiating retraction requests, and ensuring the accurate representation of O'Keefe Media Group.
- Collaborated with whistleblowers from companies and government entities, guiding them through the process of safely and effectively exposing unethical practices and wrongdoing.
- Reviewed and analyzed incoming tips via email and platform X, assessing the validity and relevance of the information for potential investigative stories.
Associate News Producer/Journalist
Turning Point USA
01.2022 - 02.2024
- Authored engaging and impactful scripts for TPUSA, ensuring content aligned with the show’s vision and audience.
- Oversaw the entire production process, from pre-production to live broadcasts, ensuring seamless execution.
- Managed and maintained production equipment, guaranteeing optimal performance for live television on Real America's Voice.
- Coordinated guest bookings, establishing strong communication and scheduling protocols to secure high-profile participants.
- Directed live broadcasts from the production booth, making real-time decisions to ensure a professional and polished presentation.
- Led editorial meetings, guiding journalists through story development, assigning tasks, and ensuring alignment with overall investigative goals.
- Led and executed undercover sting operations on pedophiles to expose wrongdoing and protect vulnerable children.
- Conducted direct questioning with university professors who were promoting controversial content related to children and sexual education, ensuring transparency and accountability in educational practices at Universities.
Intern
The Daily Caller
06.2021 - 12.2021
- Assisted in the development and writing of scripts, ensuring content aligned with the show’s objectives and audience.
- Supported the host by providing research, preparing materials, and helping with on-air coordination.
- Contributed to the production process by organizing resources and assisting with various pre-show tasks to ensure smooth execution.
Supervisor of Operations
Little Fisherman's Restaurant
01.2021 - 12.2021
- Managed daily operations of the restaurant, ensuring smooth and efficient service in a high-volume environment.
- Supervised and trained staff as well as delegating tasks, and maintaining a positive team atmosphere.
- Addressed customer concerns and complaints, providing high-quality service and resolving issues promptly to maintain customer satisfaction.
- Collaborated with the management team to enhance operational efficiency, streamline workflows, and increase profitability.
Varsity Golf Coach
Valley Christian High School
01.2021 - 05.2021
- Led the varsity golf team to a 2021 league championship, developing a competitive and disciplined team environment.
- Designed and implemented training programs to enhance players’ skills, fitness, and strategic play.
- Motivated and mentored student-athletes, fostering teamwork, sportsmanship, and personal growth.
- Managed team logistics, including scheduling practices, coordinating travel, and ensuring player readiness for competitions.
- Collaborated with school administration and parents to ensure the team’s success and well-being.
- Perform HUMINT/OSINT on other competing teams and provide information to our golf players.
Education
Business Management
Cypress College
Cypress, CASkills
- Leadership & Team Management
- Investigative Journalism
- Scriptwriting
- Produce Content Creation
- Proficient in OSINT/HUMINT
- Strategic Communication & Media Relations
- Undercover Operations & Covert Technology
- Crisis Management & Problem-Solving
Timeline
Program Head/Undercover Journalist
O'Keefe Media Group
02.2024 - Current
Associate News Producer/Journalist
Turning Point USA
01.2022 - 02.2024
Intern
The Daily Caller
06.2021 - 12.2021
Supervisor of Operations
Little Fisherman's Restaurant
01.2021 - 12.2021
Varsity Golf Coach
Valley Christian High School
01.2021 - 05.2021
Business Management
Cypress College
Similar Profiles
Sideshan MoodleySideshan Moodley
IT Trainee at O'Keefe & SwartzIT Trainee at O'Keefe & Swartz
Connor HallConnor Hall
Apprentice at O'Keefe ElectricApprentice at O'Keefe Electric
Hayden HonarvarHayden Honarvar
Babysitter at Shelley O'KeefeBabysitter at Shelley O'Keefe
Jericka HectorJericka Hector
Background Investigator at Maricopa County Adult Probation DepartmentBackground Investigator at Maricopa County Adult Probation Department
Albert MoralesAlbert Morales
Department Instructor at U-Haul InternationalDepartment Instructor at U-Haul International