About|History|Leadership Team|Board of Directors| Testimonials
John Pierce started Paragon Advertising & Communications, Inc. in November of 1975 in his basement with two phones
(a pretty sophisticated on hold method at the time) and a considerable amount of drive. When Paragon was initially founded,
it was done so specifically to assist non-profit organizations with their radio, TV and print outreaches. Over 30 years later,
Paragon Advertising & Communications is one of the leaders in the media industry representing hundreds of clients with diversified
specialties from finance, law, to political as well as non-profit groups via radio, television and print. Through an uncanny ability to
obtain the normally unattainable advertising times, in conjunction with a staff of creative, energetic, and amazingly intuitive
personalities, Paragon has successfully led thousands of advertising campaigns producing exponential results through various
forms of media for our clients. What sets Paragon apart from other advertising firms is our innate ability to utilize all forms
of media specifically constructing each campaign based on our client’s individualized and specialized advertising needs.
Paragon Advertising & Communications, Inc. (or PA&C as our friends call us), has been in advertising for 35 years.
Our expertise is media. Through creativity, hard work, innovative thinking and an individual caring for each client that
we represent, we have made it our business to know media, we know advertising and we know what sells and what
produces response. In addition to our experience and dedication, you will not encounter a group that is more
focused on your advertising efforts with the same compassion and passion for your cause.
John L. Pierce, Founder/Chairman of the Board
With two phones in his basement and a tremendous amount of drive, John founded Paragon Advertising & Communications, Inc.
in November of 1975. In 1993 he became managing partner of Force Communications and in 1999 he started John Pierce
& Company, LLC, a subsidiary of Paragon and full service brokerage firm. Pierce’s years of experience as a media broker
representing buyers and sellers of media properties, as well as his knowledge relative to the true value of radio and
television gives John and Paragon the edge above most advertising firms. Robin R. Webster, CEO/President
As President/CEO of Paragon Advertising and Communications Inc, Robin brings a level of expertise in direct response advertising
and media planning that is rarely surpassed in her industry. Robin has successfully represented hundreds of clients in all facets
of their media outreach, from one station start ups to nationwide coverage through radio, television and print. Robin has built an
impeccable reputation in the media industry as an effective and efficient negotiator which is absolutely essential in this business.
Her level of confidence and caring is beyond that of almost anyone in the media industry. With this background, Webster’s role in
overseeing the business has firmly established a strong presence for Paragon Advertising & Communications in the world of media.
Becky Grizovic, EFO
With a degree in finance from Cincinnati State and over 15 years of accounting experience, Becky plays a key role at
Paragon and is the chief financial spokesperson for the company. Becky manages all company accounting practices
as well as financial strategies and corporate investment portfolios. Becky also oversees short and long term financial
projections and organizes and implements all strategic and tactical matters as they relate to budget
management, projection analysis and the forecasting of upcoming financial needs.
Tricia Burkhart, Vice President Client Services
With over 10 years of media experience as Vice President of Client Services, Tricia is responsible for the management
of Paragon’s client service department and oversees all project components from inception to completion. Her efficiency,
client caring and attention to detail separates her from most in the industry. She is meticulous with her attention to detail and
has been responsible for the media representation of 100's of companies including the maintenance and distribution of multiple
nationally syndicated radio shows.
Sam Littleton, VP of SE Region
Overseeing Paragon's Knoxville offices, Sam is Vice President of Paragon's Southeast Division and has been
in broadcasting for over 4 decades getting his start at the 50,000 watt powerhouse WSM in Nashville, TN. Sam has
been with Paragon for over 20 years and has successfully represented programmers across the country
through both radio and television advertising and has managed and ran both cable companies and broadcast
outlets. Sam has been successful in strengthening station relations and is aggressive
when it comes to putting his client’s needs first.
Jennie Searp, Director of Marketing/Promotions
Jennie has an extensive background in corporate marketing where she landed her first stint as marketing coordinator for
a private jet service. Jennie's expertise lies in corporate branding and print marketing as well as internet marketing.
She is responsible for Paragon's overall corporate marketing and strategic programs as well as client services through
marketing and event planning projects. Jennie works closely with Paragon's business development department
designing and implementing new social networking avenues for our firm and for our clients.
Gayril Gibson, Director (radio division)
Overseeing Paragon's New Orleans' offices, in 1995 Gayril was named General Manager of WLNO-AM Radio in New Orleans, LA,
the most powerful Christian-formatted AM radio station in the Gulf South (50,000 watts). Under his leadership the station was
recognized as the most successful station of its format in the market. When Hurricane Katrina devastated New Orleans and most of
the city’s broadcast stations, Mr. Gibson was instrumental in the return of Christian radio programming to the New Orleans and
Biloxi/Gulfport, MS areas. In November, 2005 Mr. Gibson established a Christian Advertising Agency in New Orleans and later merged
the Agency with Paragon Advertising and Communications, Inc. Having worked on “both sides of the fence”…the broadcast station
side and agency/client side…he is in a unique position to advise clients as to the most cost effective outreach and expansion
opportunities and has been a tremendous asset as an addition to the Paragon leadership team.
Stephanie Daniels, Administrative Coordinator
Last but definitely not least in our leadership team is Stephanie Daniels. Stephanie's extensive experience and education in
corporate planning has made her a valuable element to the Paragon team. Stephanie oversees and manages vendor
relations, guest services for all clients and event planning and coordinating. She is responsible for project and production
support to the day to day operations of our firm as well as to our board of directors.
Founder of Paragon Advertising & Communications, Inc., John has been in the broadcasting industry
for over 40 years.In addition, Pierce is active with his subsidiary firm John L. Pierce & Company, LLC
as a media broker and representative of buyers and sellers of radio and television properties.
Donald Mowry- Vice Chair/CFO
As founding partner of Plattenburg & Associates in Cincinnati, OH, Don has 50 years of
experience in accounting & tax services and has served as Paragon’s CFO for 25 years.
Robin Webster- President/CEO
Robin serves as President/CEO of Paragon Advertising & Communications, Inc. as well as Vice
President of Client Services for John L. Pierce & Company, LLC.Robin has been in the advertising
arena for 20 years with specializations in radio, television & print.
William Powers- Member at Large
Bill has served as a Paragon board member for 20 years. With an extensive background in
IT and pre and post production, Bill is a well known author, speaker and he hosts a
nationally syndicated radio show “A Friend in the night.”
Jon Yinger- Member at Large
Jon is President & Owner/Operator of Christian Broadcasting System which is a full service
media firm and radio station group owner.Jon also owns and operates a full service satellite
channel(s) and is the Christian distributor for Dave Ramsey and Dr. Laura Schlessinger. Jon has served on the Paragon board for 5 years.
Dell Hubbard- Member at Large
Dell was co-founder and President of Raydell Media a full service media rep firm. Dell has successfully
owned and operated multiple radio stations and has been in the broadcasting industry for 30 years. Dell
has served on the Paragon board for 2 years as a predecessor to her partner and husband Dan Hubbard.
"I absolutely love working with Robin and the team at Paragon. I feel they are the most honest, ethical, competent
professionals in this field – and for that reason, I’m able to partner with them and offer their services to my clients –
as I know they’ll get the golden glove handling that I want them to have.”
“Radio was not even on my radar until a business acquaintance mentioned he thought I had a good radio voice. I just chuckled. But, I was building
a large cash nutritional practice and decided to develop a show. Robin is a dynamo. She did all the research, identified a station that accepted paid programming, even helping me negotiate the contract and off I went. That first show was a real challenge but Robin held my hand, often providing
guidance and moral support. I'm on my second station now, five months into it and feel like I'm more at ease with the medium. If you're thinking of
using radio to build your business, realize that it takes persistence and a willingness to tweak everything you're doing again and again.
My practice is growing thanks in large part to radio and Robin. Thank you for all you've done.”
Paul Rosen, Program Host- AcuNatural Family Healthcare _____________________________________________________________________________
“I wanted to thank you for the business we have been doing together over the past few years. Your agency stands out as one of integrity.
We certainly appreciate working with you and wished more agencies followed your lead.”
Paul Teja, Vice President- ABC Family and Kids _____________________________________________________________________________
“Paragon Communications stands for integrity, great service and doing the best job possible for their clients. They are staffed with true
and hard working professionals that value ethics and remain well respected by both the media buying community and television stations.
A highly recommended agency for sure based on my past experience for over 20 years of selling television time!”
Edward M. Robinson, Vice President / Sales Manager- Katz Television Group _____________________________________________________________________________
“Having worked with the staff of Paragon for many years now, I can attest to their expertise, experience and effectiveness.
Their dedication to service is surpassed only by their integrity and honesty in the media industry.”
Eldon Wyant, Ministry Services- Apex Media
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“I have worked with Paragon on WWVA since 1982. It is a joy to work with such talented and professional people!”
Cathy Palmer, Sales- Clear Channel Radio
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