About Us < Our Agency
Clarity. Alignment. Forward Momentum.
Bodewell Group is a strategic communications firm built to help organizations navigate complexity and move important work forward. We combine thoughtful advisory with integrated communications to build understanding, earn trust and create progress that lasts.
Our Story
From Trusted Legacy to Unified Vision
Nearly 26 years ago, Chris Wahl and Alan Ziegaus founded Southwest Strategies in San Diego with a simple mission: deliver exceptional client service and meaningful results. What began as a regional public affairs firm grew into one of the West Coast’s most respected communications agencies, built on trusted relationships and disciplined strategy. As the firm expanded its capabilities and geographic reach, it brought together a series of specialist agencies under the Southwest Strategies Group umbrella. In February 2026, those firms unified under a single brand: Bodewell Group. Today, Bodewell Group operates as a unified strategic communications firm, with offices across California, Arizona and Washington, advising public and private sector clients nationwide. Wahl continues to lead the firm as founder and CEO, building on a legacy shaped alongside Ziegaus, who retired after an esteemed career. The name Bodewell Group signals our commitment to the outcomes that matter most—helping our clients advance work that strengthens communities, economies and quality of life. We partner with organizations shaping infrastructure, policy and technology advancements, helping them navigate complexity and move meaningful work forward with confidence.
Joining of Forces
One Brand. Integrated Strength.
In addition to the Southwest Strategies legacy, our firm is built on the strength of several highly regarded agencies originally brought together under the Southwest Strategies Group umbrella in the years leading up to the brand transition. Each firm was strategically acquired to expand sector expertise, geographic reach and service depth.
With the February 2026 rebrand, all legacy brands, including Southwest Strategies and Southwest Strategies Group, were sunset and unified as Bodewell Group. While the brands have evolved, the leadership, talent and client expertise remains firmly in place.
The acquired agencies were:
- Katz & Associates (2023)—leaders in public outreach and stakeholder engagement, particularly in water infrastructure, based in San Diego.
- BergDavis Public Affairs (2024)—experts in strategic advisory and public affairs, based in San Francisco.
- ColLAborate (2024)—specialists in facilitation and collaborative engagement throughout the Los Angeles region and beyond.
- Kiterocket (2025)—a recognized B2B PR and marketing agency serving technology and renewable energy clients, with offices in Phoenix and Seattle.
Today, Bodewell Group operates as one cohesive team, bringing multidisciplinary depth and shared vision to every engagement.
Brand Values
RESPONSIVE
Ultimate availability. Actively listening and adapting quickly to stakeholder needs, concerns, and changing environments.
RESOURCEFUL
An abundant willingness to find a way. Leveraging expertise, connections and creative problem-solving to deliver effective solutions.
RESOLUTE
Anticipating emerging challenges and opportunities to guide clients through evolving civic, public and private business landscapes.
READY
Deliberately diligent. Assurance, with confidence, consistency, and calm direction.