Technology & Innovation
Case Study: Building Media Momentum for Summerbell
Summerbell Reading App is a life-changing edtech platform built on the Summerbell Reading Method — a proprietary, arc-based positional reading technology developed by inventor and dyslexic entrepreneur Hillary Summerbell to make reading more accessible for dyslexic learners.
MBO Media partnered with Hillary in the company's earliest days, providing the branding support that shaped Summerbell's foundational identity before expanding into a full-scale media and communications campaign designed to bring her mission to a national audience.
180,000,00
Audience Reached
$145,000+
Publicity Value
30
Total Mentions = 6 months
THE CHALLENGE
Summerbell had an innovative product, a powerful founder story, and growing relevance in the dyslexia and education space, but needed a larger platform to translate that innovation into national visibility. The challenge was not only to build awareness for the reading method itself, but to position Hillary Summerbell as a leading voice in dyslexia advocacy, EdTech innovation, and women in technology. The campaign also needed to create enough momentum to support future visibility moments, including Hillary’s upcoming book launch.
STRATEGIES & CAPABILITIES
MBO Media developed a introductory campaign designed to establish Summerbell as both an educational innovation and a founder-led thought leadership brand. The strategy centered on turning Hillary’s lived experience and invention story into compelling media narratives that could resonate across education, parenting, accessibility, women in business, and technology audiences.
- Branding & Brand Development
- Media Relations
- Broadcast Outreach
- Podcast Placement
- Digital Press
- EdTech Positioning
- Women in Business Campaigns
- Book Strategy and Production
- Planning and Media Placements
- Media Training
EXECUTION
MBO Media executed a broad media campaign spanning broadcast television, national digital publications, and a growing slate of education- and dyslexia-focused podcasts. Coverage included Pix II, Yahoo Lifestyle, Fox 5, WUSA9, Authority Magazine, United Women in Business, Dyslexia Journey, EdTech Empowerment, The Educator Experience, Hall Pass to Nowhere, Let’s Talk Media, and The Literacy Keys, with additional opportunities confirmed or pending across Fox 5, WUSA9, ABC7, Learning Unboxed, and more. This helped position Hillary as a compelling media figure: equal parts inventor, entrepreneur, and advocate.
OUTCOME
The campaign established meaningful national momentum for Summerbell, elevating Hillary Summerbell as a trusted voice in dyslexia advocacy and literacy innovation while expanding awareness of the Summerbell Reading Method across multiple channels. Just as importantly, it built a runway for continued growth, from founder visibility and product education to broader opportunities in book media, parenting press, and education outlets. With MBO Media leading the national rollout for Hillary’s May 2026 book launch, the campaign positioned Summerbell not as a one-time media story, but as an emerging category leader with expanding reach.
Testimonial
“MBO Media has been a true game changer for our organization. From securing TV interviews to podcast opportunities, their team consistently elevates our visibility.”
Hillary Summerbell
Founder, Summerbell
