Ronica Cleary, Founder and CEO of Cleary Strategies, reveals how viewing a story from a producer's perspective is crucial to achieving earned media success. Doug and Ronica share their experiences of transforming ideas into powerful TV stories that resonate with viewers. Ronica also highlights the growing importance of remote interviews in today’s media landscape.

Kevin Whalen, Partner at the Guyer Group, addresses some misconceptions about analyst relations. He emphasizes that leaders must be transparent about their company’s challenges to forge a strategic path forward. Kevin discusses various meeting formats and details their unique benefits. He also shares valuable resources that can help organizations navigate their growth journeys.

Lauren Meckstroth, Vice President at Fahlgren Mortine, shares how her team spots trends that clients can contribute to. She emphasizes the importance of selecting the right storytelling medium based on the scope of the subject. Lauren also explains the benefits of taking risks if it makes sense for a client. Learn more about D S Simon Media.

Michael Kempner, Founder and CEO of MikeWorldWide, discusses the significance of maintaining a strong reputation. He explains how communicators can play an active role in reputation management. Michael also shares what tools his team uses to mitigate potential risks. Learn more about D S Simon Media.

Alex Schriver, Senior Vice President of Public Affairs at the Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers of America (PhRMA), explains how he builds trust with key stakeholder audiences through internal and external localization efforts. He shares how he applies a campaign-style approach to communicate and engage with his team to “win the day.” Additionally, Alex emphasizes how leaders can ensure their employees' voices are genuinely heard and valued.

Erin Simon, Vice President and Head of Plastic Waste and Business for World Wildlife Fund, shares valuable insights on bringing people together to tackle environmental challenges. Jessica Berk Ross, Managing Partner of Global Public Affairs for FINN Partners, discusses her strategies for navigating complex issues and fostering consensus. They also emphasize the power of storytelling in raising awareness and driving action.

Toni Harrison, Founder and CEO of Etched Communication, discusses the importance of having PR professionals involved in the business decision-making process. She shares how organizations can authentically engage with their original customers while reaching new audiences. Toni also explains how implementing measurement techniques throughout a campaign can optimize results.

Rachel Rosenblatt, Senior Managing Director at FTI Consulting, discusses how employees apply their sector-specific knowledge to enhance collaboration and deliver tailored results. She explains how her team creatively shares industry news with a broad audience. Additionally, Rachel delves into what brands can anticipate from consumers during the holiday season. Subscribe to The Goods newsletter.

Michele Moore, Vice President and Chief Communications Officer at the Ford Foundation, discusses the organization's mission. She highlights the importance of check-ins with teams and employees. Michele explains why trust is a key factor in creating a sense of belonging among employees. Michele also shares her advice on how to figure out the next step in your career.

Wynona Redmond, President and Founder of Wyn-Win Communications, shares that building trust is key to sustaining a strong reputation. She highlights that, despite technological advancements, face-to-face communication remains profoundly impactful. Additionally, Wynona discusses her passion for connecting communities to corporations about different causes.

Nick Nelson, Senior Vice President of Corporate Purpose at Edelman, and Doug Simon, CEO of D S Simon Media, engage in a compelling discussion about the 2024 Edelman Trust Barometer Special Report: Business & Racial Justice in America. Nick emphasizes the critical role of creating safe spaces for employees. He emphasizes how the use of precise language can significantly impact engagement. Nick also encourages communicators to facilitate participation in diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives. Download the report here.

Mikey Sadowski, Vice President of Global Communications at Intrepid Travel, and Amy Skelding, Managing Partner of the UK Travel Practice at FINN Partners, discuss how they incorporate local perspectives into their storytelling. Mikey explains the two questions he considers when evaluating a new product. Amy highlights how public relations play a crucial role in strategic decision-making.

Tricia Mahoney, Chief Marketing Officer of Twisted X Global Brands, highlights the importance of focusing on value and prioritization when scaling brands. She discusses how she empowers her team to feel comfortable trying new approaches. Tricia also shares her optimistic approach when dealing with challenges.

Nicole Rodrigues, CEO and Founder of NRPR Group and The Kingdom, reveals how she leverages her public relations expertise to build her businesses. She explains how to utilize social media to build trust with potential clients. Nicole also highlights the role of AI and storytelling in keeping audiences engaged.

Priscila Martinez, Founder and CEO of The Brand Agency, shares her strategies for scoring celebrity placements for luxury fashion clients. These include networking with industry leaders and outreach tactics. She explains what happens when a PR professional finds out a celebrity is wearing a client's clothing or accessories. Priscila also shares her effective approach to building relationships with journalists on the red carpet.

Dara Busch, CEO of North America for Havas PR, shares her excitement about her new role and the evolving public relations landscape. She highlights the growing demand for agencies to deliver a comprehensive multi-channel approach. Dara also emphasizes the importance of transparency and effective communication in building and sustaining long-term relationships.

Kate Southall, Manager of Global Brand at SHRM, highlights the value of AI tools for HR professionals. She explains how AI can foster more human connections and learning opportunities. Kate also discusses the significance of language and tone when developing trust in new technology.

Charlie Tansill, President of PR, Social and Influence at Ogilvy North America, emphasizes the significance of engaging consumers in brand experiences. She discusses the immersive communications strategy behind the Grand Prix award-winning "Michael CeraVe" campaign. Charlie also talks about the CMO's evolving role and the power of TikTok.  

John Seigenthaler and Katie Seigenthaler, Managing Partners at FINN Partners, share insights on the current state of local and national news. Katie highlights how local news can spark and sustain growth. John discusses how PR professionals can support shrinking newsrooms. They stress the importance of sharing truthful and honest stories to combat disinformation.

Leah Dergachev, Founder and Chief Storyteller of Austley, shares how she applies her 3D framework to help clients stand out. She emphasizes the importance of creating strong emotional bonds between brands and their audiences. Leah also shares how case studies can be used to demonstrate the value of your offerings while providing data points that support PR opportunities.

Gizem Ozcelik, Founder and CEO of GO PR, discusses trends in the PR space, including digital media, the rise of sustainable tourism and creative programming. She shares examples of how she collaborates with brands and clients to bring out of the box ideas to life. All of this to help clients break through the noise in a competitive landscape.

Bruno Solari, Founder of SolComms, describes the key strategies he uses when working with startups and scale-ups. He discusses the changing editorial landscape and the growth of affiliate marketing. Bruno also shares the importance of being reactive to increase brand awareness for clients. Read PRWeek’s feature on SolComms: https://www.prweek.com/article/1871432/agency-business-report-2024-solcomms

Tiffany Rafii, CEO of UpSpring, highlights the pivotal role of a thought leadership strategy in driving success and fostering creativity. Tiffany discusses the importance of selecting the right spokesperson to align with the company's business goals. Additionally, shares key strategies for effectively training spokespeople.

What do communicators need to know about AI? Tomás Puig, Founder and CEO of Alembic, breaks down common myths about generative AI. He highlights the impact of earned media in reaching a broader audience. Curtis Sparrer, Principal of Bospar PR, shares his experience discussing the impact of AI with colleagues and clients. Tomás and Curtis stress the significance of gaining insights from experts before implementing AI.

Annie Dunleavy, Senior VP & U.S. Head of Content Strategy for Edelman Business Marketing, and Tusar Barik, Senior Director of Marketing for LinkedIn, discuss the essentials of thought leadership. Tusar emphasizes leveraging LinkedIn for posting and sharing insightful content. Annie shares how to elevate a thought leadership strategy to make the most impact. They also explain the role of thought leadership in adapting to shrinking newsrooms. Download the 2024 Edelman-LinkedIn B2B Thought Leadership Impact Report: https://www.edelman.com/expertise/Business-Marketing/2024-b2b-thought-leadership-report

Johnny Smith, Vice President of Communications for Roche Diagnostics North America, shares how to create a strategic prioritization framework that meets communications and business objectives. He describes how his team uses a confidence-level scoring system to ensure they focus on projects that deliver the most impact. In our discussion, Johnny also talked in detail about the value of discipline in leadership.

Knight Stivender, Partner at MP&F, highlights the value of trusting your instincts during a generational transition. Knight explains how she integrates her journalism background into her agency role. Additionally, she shares how she took her clients' feedback and successfully expanded the agency’s service portfolio. 

Adam Christensen, Chief Marketing Officer at Notified, discusses which communications sector receives the most budget and why. He discusses how PR professionals can apply an earned-first mentality to paid media. Adam also explains how communicators can utilize AI to combat distrust.

The Can: Diversity Collective is transforming the advertising, marketing, creative and communications fields into radically inclusive spaces by providing access and opportunities for people of color and underrepresented communities to industries and global events where they have traditionally been excluded. Adrianne C. Smith, Chief Diversity and Inclusion Officer at FleishmanHillard and Founder of the Can: Diversity Collective, sheds light on her organization's impactful initiatives and explains how human connection plays a role in advancing DE&I forward. Adrianne discusses how communicators can create a safe space to discuss ideas and ask questions along with the importance of understanding DE&I on a global level. Connect with Adrianne on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/adriannecsmith/ Visit the Can: Diversity Collective Website: https://cannesdiversitycollective.com/ Follow Can: Diversity Collective on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cannesdiversitycollective/

Jess Muldoon, Group Vice President of Corporate Media at Ruder Finn, discusses how brands and organizations can build a strong thought leadership strategy. She shares why it’s important to take notice of new content formats created by news outlets and journalists alike. Jess also emphasizes the significance of owned content and having an always-on approach.

Jonathan Heit, Co-Founder and Global CEO of Allison, shares how he applies client insights to continuously grow the agency. He discusses the impact of measurement. Jonathan also explains Allison’s successful onboarding and training practices.

Women's sports have become more popular recently, but it is not just the game that keeps fans engaged. Madelyn Flax, Sports Account Supervisor and Women's Sports Practice Lead at FINN Partners, describes this growth as a “movement, not a moment." She explains how brand partnerships with athletes can propel social change forward. Madelyn also highlights how stories can reach multiple sectors including entertainment and culture.

Leslie Bishop, Managing Partner and EVP of Global Strategy at 5WPR, reveals the top categories consumers tend to splurge on. She explains how a personal referral can impact spending behavior. Leslie also shares why consumers are choosing to shop in-store versus online. Download 5WPR’s 2024 Consumer Culture Report here. Learn about D S Simon Media: https://www.dssimon.com

Laura Gross, President of Scott Circle Communications, explains how working with mission-driven clients has ignited her team’s passion. She also speaks about the benefits of utilizing a local news strategy. Laura also shares the key questions communicators should ask prospective clients. Learn about D S Simon Media: https://www.dssimon.com

Hanna Bautz, Account Lead at Next PR, shares how creating structure around quarterly plans can boost productivity and collaboration. She explains how she uses the project management triangle model to hone her creative problem-solving skills. Hanna also emphasizes the importance of understanding client’s preferred communication styles. Learn about D S Simon Media.

Rob Bronfeld, Executive Vice President and Managing Director of MikeWorldWide, shares how he set himself up for success after joining the agency. He emphasizes the importance of an earned-first approach through multiple channels. Rob stresses the value of transparent communication with clients. Rob also highlights the significance of mentorship. Learn about D S Simon Media: https://www.dssimon.com

Jen Berson, Founder and President of Jeneration PR and Creator of Jeneration Academy, explains the process and benefits of affiliate marketing. She discusses the importance of building authentic relationships with journalists. Jen also shares her passion for helping women succeed in the PR industry. Learn more about D S Simon Media here: https://www.dssimon.com

Planning and prioritizing communications initiatives is crucial to any business, but how can you do it effectively? Stacey Jones, Chief Communicator at Honeywell, shares her process for assembling the right team. She explains how to gain the trust of the C-suite when developing new strategies. Stacey also shares the importance of connecting communications plans to business objectives. Learn about D S Simon Media: https://www.dssimon.com

Paddi Hurley, Managing Director of Health at Allison, describes when clients should move forward with a branded healthcare campaign versus an unbranded healthcare campaign. Paddi emphasizes the importance of taking time to find an authentic spokesperson. Paddi also shares how technology can play a role in clinical trials.

Carin Warner, Co-Founder of Notably, discussed the key factors to success in her life and business. She explains how she makes her AI clients stand out in the press. Carin also discusses how PR strategies can boost lead generation efforts. Learn about D S Simon Media: https://www.dssimon.com

April White, CEO and Founder of Trust Relations, discusses her mission to reinvent the PR industry with strategies to help agency leaders overcome the common challenges that even the best PR agencies have faced for decades. April discusses the shift to remote work, advice to help PR practitioners successfully manage client expectations, tips for better account staffing, insights for junior publicists to advance in their careers, developing more compelling client narratives, and more. She also emphasizes the importance of authenticity in PR and working with clients to put their words into action, before taking their brand stories to the press. Learn about D S Simon Media: https://www.dssimon.com

Matt Kovacs, President of Blaze PR, explains what organizations should focus on when developing their public relations budget. Matt discusses how to have productive check-ins with clients. Matt also describes how communicators can be a resource to clients even after a campaign ends. Learn more about D S Simon Media here.

The first episode of our series "How PR is Promoting AI" features Chris Hook, Senior Group Director of Communications and Marketing at Cadence Design Systems. Chris describes how he tested the messaging for the launch of the first AI powered supercomputer for design. Chris also shares how communicators can effectively tell stories about AI being used in products and services.

Laura Brusca, Chief Communications Officer at Forbes, discusses her team's strategies for success when promoting and protecting the brand. Laura talks about her involvement with New York Women in Communications (NYWICI). Laura also explains the important role of relationship-building.

Steve Hirsch, CEO and Co-Founder of Hirsch Leatherwood, shares his insights on how top-of-the-funnel content can make a big impact on clients, audiences, and stakeholders. He discusses what makes a successful communications leader and what to look for in new hires. Steve also shares the importance of messaging. Learn more about D S Simon Media here.

Brandi Sims, Founder & CEO of Brandinc PR, shares her top tips for creating a winning collaboration between a celebrity and a brand. Inspired by her own internship experience, Brandi discusses how she started a program to help others break into the industry. Brandi also emphasizes the importance of being a mentor as well as a mentee. Learn more about D S Simon Media here.

Jen Fuhrman-Kestler, Managing Director of Health Services at Ketchum, discusses how the changing health ecosystem will affect communications. Jen shares the importance of keeping audiences front of mind when collecting and analyzing data. Jen also talks about some of the trends health communicators might see throughout 2024.

Rachel Huff, President and Founder of Victoire & Co, gives valuable advice on how agencies and clients can build trusting relationships. Rachel shares the top reasons clients hire and fire agencies, and how agencies can stand out when pitching a new client. Rachel also explains how agencies can effectively navigate team turnover both agency and client-side.