Justin Weiss, Founder
Justin Weiss is an experienced communications strategist with a successful track record of driving high-impact storytelling and media engagement on nuanced, technical public policy positions across the highest levels of government, Capitol Hill, and the private sector.
Based in Washington, D.C., he has built his career at the intersection of policy, communications, and public service—advising senior leaders, managing complex campaigns, and translating intricate policy initiatives into compelling narratives that resonate with diverse audiences.
Prior to founding Aldersyde Advisors, Justin served as Director of Communications at the White House Council on Environmental Quality (CEQ), where he advised Chair Brenda Mallory on strategic communications for the federal government's environmental justice, sustainability, climate, and clean energy initiatives. As a CEQ spokesperson and lead on media relations, Justin maintained extensive relationships with local, national, and international media across many industries and verticals. Before that, he worked for Senior Advisor to the President and Infrastructure Implementation Coordinator Mitch Landrieu on the White House Infrastructure Implementation Team, helping coordinate communications for the $1.2 trillion Bipartisan Infrastructure Law.
His federal experience also includes serving as Deputy Press Secretary at NASA, where he advised Administrator Bill Nelson and Deputy Administrator Pam Melroy on media relations and communications across the agency's diverse missions, from space exploration and science missions to aviation innovation and technology development.
Justin's path to the executive branch began on Capitol Hill, where he served as Communications Director for Representative Adam Smith (D-Wash.) in his office during his tenure as Chairman of the House Armed Services Committee. There, he balanced local representation with national leadership, elevating Rep. Smith as both a champion for Washington's 9th Congressional District and a leading voice on national security.
Before his federal service, Justin honed his strategic communications and advocacy skills in the private sector, where he developed a deep understanding of how policy intersects with business and community interests. At Rational 360, he executed results-driven public affairs campaigns and grassroots advocacy outreach for diverse clients, including advocacy coalitions, trade associations, and nonprofits across sectors ranging from healthcare and infrastructure to manufacturing and international affairs.
Justin also worked at Forbes Tate Partners, providing public affairs and communications support for clients ranging from Fortune 500 companies and leading political organizations to prominent trade associations, coalitions, and nonprofits with priorities across a broad policy portfolio. He started his career at LNE Group, where he focused on federal policy research and advocacy for clients in manufacturing, transportation, energy, and national security, navigating complex federal appropriations, grants, and market entry strategies.
As a graduate of Denison University and a Cleveland native, he is a proud Midwesterner and Ohioan despite his favorite sports teams disappointing him regularly.
When he's not working, you'll find Justin going to concerts, catching a game, exploring D.C.'s restaurant scene, and playing tennis with his partner, whom he reluctantly admits humbles him on the court.