We are a communications consultancy that specializes in translating complexity to clarity
Let’s join forces to make a difference for people and the planet!
Our world is in the midst of great change, or great acceleration, a transition from the extreme inequalities of late-stage capitalism to something else as yet unknown.
Some describe this time as the sixth great Earth systems collapse.
The tech platforms that were supposed to save us are instead marching through the process enshittification. The world is expected to not only reach but exceed 1.5C of global warming before 2030. Democracy is in decline even in established democratic nations like ours.
We cannot predict the domino effects of the permafrost thawing and releasing stored carbon. We cannot instantly stop fossil fuel production (as much as we might want to). We cannot prevent extreme weather events.
But what we can do is re-imagine, re-learn, and re-build the components we need to survive and then thrive within this polycrisis.
By putting our energies into developing secure food systems, emotional resilience, and long-lasting infrastructure — among other complex yet essential elements — we can re-shape our collective future.
And effective communication will help us get there.
We are big picture problem solvers who love a challenge 
About Rachel
I (she/her) grew up on a farm in the middle of nowhere on the Prairies. I was born into a long line of Mennonites, a people who have historically danced between rebellion and conformity.
While I’m an atheist now, a strong sense of social justice still drives me. I am continually learning how to embody anti-oppression practices.
My lived experiences with disability and neurodivergence, along with being queer (see here, here, here, and here), have given me a unique perspective and way of interacting with the world. I see everything as interconnected.
I’ve spent my entire career in the communications field, honing my skills in everything from research to listening to public speaking.
Sometimes I’m too serious for my own good, but I’ve also been known to fall off my chair laughing at cat videos.
Services
As experts in all forms of communication — from strategy to writing to visuals to UX — Rachel Penner Consulting will amplify your impact and build your capacity to communicate more effectively.
We work with those who serve the public good or have multiple stakeholders and need help making sense of:
- long-form content
- technical, academic or specialized information and data
- complicated ideas
Clients usually ask for support in one of the following ways
Make it pretty
You’ve written or partially developed something — such as a report, slide deck, or fact sheet — that you need to be aesthetically pleasing and engaging.
I will bring both an editor’s mind and a designer’s eye to your content to find a solution that maximizes clarity and impact. The result will be an attractive merging of flow, form, and function.
Explain it
You have a technical document, a complicated concept, or a lot of information that you need others to understand.
Whether it’s a website, an internal policy or process, or a report, I will bring coherence and creativity to your project to ensure all your audiences can connect with your key messages.
Fix it
You have a communications product — such as a newsletter, website, or presentation — that isn’t working anymore and you’re ready to change things up.
I will bring a bird’s eye view to find alignment and integration with your brand and business and recommend the most feasible solution for your budget and capacity.
Help!
You’re juggling multiple goals, and you’re not sure what you need.
I’m happy to customize a package of options for your particular situation.
Let’s book a virtual coffee to chat more about your situation and find out whether we might be a good fit.
“Rachel engaged with all levels of management and staff in the organization, from whom I often received positive feedback and appreciation for her demeanour, creative input, and clear execution.”
Don Main, Elections BC
Examples of what I do
Portfolio
Much of my work is invisible or behind the scenes, in strategy development, internal processes, or editing. This section provides a snapshot of my public-facing work.
I developed the 12-page Sustainable Service Delivery Plan report card and the accompanying Corporate Asset Management Strategy (below).
I redesigned the structure and content models for an information-rich website (below).
What it’s like to work with me
I go slow to move fast
I will ask you dozens of questions, do a lot of research, and become a mini-expert on your issue. I am strategic and thoughtful, yet nimble and adaptable.
You can expect me to challenge assumptions, present new ways of looking at things, and pivot to accommodate new information.
I collaborate for alchemy
I can’t do it alone! Magic happens when our minds come together to ideate and iterate. I’m not the kind of consultant who will retreat to craft a presentation that I can “wow” you with, à la Mad Men.
You can expect lots of dialogue, check-ins, and brainstorming.
I am with you every step of the way
From facilitating workshops to presenting to boards of directors to training you on new systems, I offer a range of skills and bring on select associates when needed.
You can expect me to be calm, responsive, and professional.
Let’s connect
Born and raised in Treaty 2 territory, I now live in Vancouver, on the unceded territories of the xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam), Sḵwx̱wú7mesh (Squamish), and səlilwətaɬ (Tsleil-Waututh) nations.
Open to new clients and collaborations with other service providers.