Indestructible PR Podcast with Molly McPherson
387 episodes - English - Latest episode: 3 months ago - ★★★★★ - 36 ratingsEvery week, nationally-recognized crisis management expert Molly McPherson, also known as the "PR Lady" on TikTok, mixes strategic public relations lessons with weekly reveals of behind-the-scenes PR moves from breaking news stories and trending popular culture. From the most popular celebrities and public figures, learn what went right and what went wrong from a strategic media and PR perspective.
A must-listen for any PR professional, aspiring communicator, or pop culture fan who wants to gain a better understanding of the media landscape and learn how to build an indestructible reputation.
Homepage Apple Podcasts Google Podcasts Overcast Castro Pocket Casts RSS feed
Episodes
277: The Inside Scoop: The Day I Became a Boston Globe Headline
February 07, 2024 08:00 - 52 minutes - 36.3 MB‘Who’s holding those strings’: Molly McPherson goes viral on TikTok for decoding celebrity PR strategy. - Boston Globe, Dec. 25, 2023 Seeing my name next to the words 'viral' and 'TikTok' is nothing short of terrifying. In this final episode, the tables are turned when I sit down for an interview with the Boston Globe's Dana Gerber for a feature story highlighting my work as a creator on TikTok. Judging by the comments that appeared alongside the story, I was a hit! GoodBob 12/25/23 -...
276: Before the Fame: Journalist Vanessa Grigoriadis on Taylor Swift's Early Years
January 24, 2024 08:00 - 40 minutes - 27.8 MBJournalist and host of the Infamous podcastt, Vanessa Grigoriadis joins Molly as they dive deep into the life, career, and public image of global pop star, Taylor Swift. Vanessa profiled Taylor Swift for Rolling Stone in 2009 right after the release of her second album, “Fearless.” Since then she has been following Taylor from country pop-start to a dominated figure in our culture. In this episode of the "Allegedly" series, Vanessa and Molly discuss Taylor’s PR from her early days of runni...
275: Allegedly Series: Behind the Headlines Ben Affleck & Jennifer Lopez
January 17, 2024 08:00 - 48 minutes - 33.3 MBThis is the inaugural episode of the Indestructible PR podcast series called, Allegedly. In this series, I take a critical look at the PR moves, media narratives, and survival tactics that celebrities use to circumvent a PR nightmare. On my very first episode of the Allegedly series, we are talking all about Ben Affleck and Jennifer Lopez. From red-carpet appearances to playing the supporting role in each new venture, we break down the calculated decisions that the couple is making behind t...
274: The Future of Public Relations: A Conversation with PRSA's Michelle Egan
January 09, 2024 08:00 - 43 minutes - 29.7 MBAn episode about the profession of public relations for the practitioners who make it one of the most exciting fields to work in. In this episode, a discussion about the future of the public relations industry with Michelle Egan, APR, Fellow PRSA, and Immediate Past Chair of PRSA. Boasting over three decades of communication experience, Michelle brings a substantial depth of understanding to the evolving PR landscape. Our conversation covers the significant changes currently shaping the in...
273: 2023's Unforgettable Celebrity Scandals: A Year in Review
January 02, 2024 08:00 - 30 minutes - 20.9 MBFirst episode for 2024! Hey there, PR pros and dedicated listeners! You won't want to miss this special episode where I dive deep into the year that left jaws on the floor with never-ending celebrity drama and crisis. Let's hit the rewind button and explore the twists and turns of 2023's scandalous celeb behavior that kept publicists on their toes and the rest of us following along closely. Here are your top five most popular episodes of the year. (Thank you, listeners!) Top Five Episod...
272: Behind the Broadcast: Expert Tips for a Memorable Media Interview
December 18, 2023 08:00 - 1 hour - 47.7 MBLet's go behind the scenes of broadcast television, where a former producer joins us to reveal the tricks of the trade. Our guest David McAlpine takes us inside the world of anchors, reporters, producers, and bookers to find out what it takes to be a successful guest on television. Learn how to present yourself confidently and effectively on air so that the reporter doesn't get the upper hand. Also, analyzing and giving feedback on an interview with a CEO at the center of one of the most s...
271: 2023's Biggest Public Relations Fiascos: A Year in Review
December 12, 2023 08:00 - 50 minutes - 34.8 MBPrepare to step back in time to revisit the top PR fiascos of 2023. Diving into the recent and semi-recent mishaps of the year and their enduring impacts. Joining Molly this week to breakdown the top crises of the year are two seasoned media and PR pros - John Perenack and Warren Weeks. This episode covers everything from significant advertising blunders to historical corporate crises. It's a mix of the obvious stories you'd expect on this list as well as some surprises. We're discussing wha...
270: Thin Ice: When Personal Conduct Comes Into Play - Navigating Crisis and Rumors in the Chicago Blackhawks Organization
December 05, 2023 08:00 - 39 minutes - 27.4 MBThe Chicago Blackhawks are in the process of terminating Corey Perry's contract due to unacceptable conduct, as part of addressing broader questions about the organization's culture. This episode examines their approach to managing rumors and controversies, particularly those related to personal conduct. It highlights the importance of developing clear, timely, and empathetic communication strategies to uphold an organization's reputation. The episode analyzes Corey Perry's specific case to ...
269: The Fine Line Between Apology and Denial: A Case Study of Colleen Ballinger and Matt Rife
November 28, 2023 08:00 - 35 minutes - 24.3 MBApologies, denials, and online disasters. Molly is breaking down the Matt Rife and Colleen Ballinger PR crisis. This episode is all about perception management. As soon as the backlash starts, every subsequent step needs to be calculated. Often, this fine line between apology and denial can alter reputations and determine careers' trajectory in a blink. These three key takeaways: 1. Exploring the anatomy of an apology, and what happens when it's done wrong, using Colleen Ballinger as ou...
268: Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce: Dissecting the PR Relationship Rumors - My Definitive Take
November 21, 2023 08:00 - 41 minutes - 28.8 MBTaylor Swift and Travis Kelce: Dissecting the PR Relationship Rumors explores the theory that their relationship might be a strategic PR move (or not) by comparing it with previous relationships Swift has had, and discusses the mutual benefits and implications for both their careers. The episode also explores: 1. The fascinating nature of PR relationships and how they serve as strategic moves in the celebrity world. Ever wondered why certain celeb relationships seem to pop up out of nowhe...
267: Blind Gossip: PR Trick or Truth? With guest, TikTok's Kyle Marisa Roth
November 14, 2023 08:00 - 1 hour - 62.2 MBLet's dive deep into the deceptive world of celebrity PR strategies, anonymous gossip, with special guest, the fascinating and hugely entertaining Kyle Marisa Roth- one of TikTok's favorite Blind Gossip creators. Here are three things you can look forward to learning from this episode: 1. We're unraveling the mysteries of 'Blind Items', tackling how to verify and report on unconfirmed gossip, and exploring their influence on celebrity PR. As Kyle delves into her unique process, you'll pick...
266: How to Write an Unforgettable Public Statement Honoring Someone's Life and Legacy
November 07, 2023 08:00 - 38 minutes - 26.8 MBIn the latest episode, we explore the delicate art of crafting heartfelt tributes. Motivated by Matthew Perry's passing and the notable silence from the "Friends" cast, we delve into the significance of memorializing individuals and the impact of their legacy. The discussion includes the influence of eulogies and public statements, with insights and advice on how to respectfully honor a loved one through words. The episode offers guidance on gathering cherished memories, accentuating positiv...
265: Setting the Record Straight: How Media Can Help You Move On From The Past
October 31, 2023 07:00 - 32 minutes - 22.5 MBIn today's episode, Molly delves into the nuanced process of reclaiming your personal narrative in the aftermath of betrayal, without resorting to revenge tactics. Utilizing Britney Spears' memoir as a case study, Molly emphasizes how harnessing the power of social media platforms can be a double-edged sword. Done correctly, it allows you to share your perspective and control the story surrounding you, but improper use can perpetuate misunderstandings and escalate tensions. Molly provides a...
264: How to Get Your Story Right from the Start: Jada Pinkett Smith and the Cost of Inconsistent Storytelling
October 24, 2023 07:00 - 32 minutes - 22.5 MBIn this episode of the Indestructible PR Podcast, we delve into two critical aspects of public communication that often trip up those in the spotlight. First, we explore the case of Jada Pinkett Smith and her "Today" show interviews. Her inconsistent narrative about her marriage serves as a striking example of the potential repercussions of failing to align public statements with the truth. The episode offers a comprehensive look at the complexities of managing both a personal life and a p...
263: Celebrity Unplugged: Magazine Writer Vanessa Grigoriadis on Justin Bieber, Taylor Swift, & Justin Timberlake
October 17, 2023 07:00 - 56 minutes - 39.1 MBDive into the captivating world of celebrity journalism with renowned magazine writer Vanessa Grigoriadis. Get ready to go behind the scenes as Vanessa shares her experiences interviewing some of today's biggest stars, including Katy Perry, Justin Timberlake, Taylor Swift, and Lady Gaga. From the glitz and glamour to the challenges and controversies, this conversation is packed with juicy insights and fascinating stories from the world of celebrity culture. Highlights from this episode incl...
262: Unraveling Internet Culture: A Conversation with Taylor Lorenz
October 10, 2023 02:00 - 59 minutes - 40.8 MBTaylor Lorenz discusses her new book 'Extremely Online' and delves into the untold story of fame, influence, and power on the Internet, exploring internet culture and societal impacts. Taylor unravels the complexities and trends of online communities, shares her research and experience, and explores the impact of internet culture on our society. Highlights The influence of content creators: Content creators have become a driving force in shaping online culture and influencing public opini...
261: Flipping the Script: How WGA Outmaneuvered Hollywood Studios in the Strike - A Conversation with Michael Jamin
October 03, 2023 07:00 - 52 minutes - 36.1 MBIn this episode of the Indestructible PR Podcast with Molly McPherson, long-time TV writer and Writers' Guild of America (WGA) writer, Michael Jamin, takes us behind the scenes of the recent strike and shares insight that helped the WGA negotiate a new contract with Hollywood studios. Grab your headphones and get ready for some serious industry insider knowledge! 1. The Inside Story: Michael Jamin, a seasoned TV writer, shares fascinating insights about the challenges faced by newcomers in ...
260: Blind Gossip, Spin Tricks, and PR Ploys: The Murky Waters of Media Manipulation
September 26, 2023 07:00 - 26 minutes - 18.6 MBIn this episode of the Indestructible PR Podcast with Molly McPherson, diving into the intriguing world of media manipulation and celebrity PR tactics. The Power of Oprah: Despite her success as a businesswoman, Oprah Winfrey is still closely associated with her talk show roots. Discussing how Oprah's relatability and ability to connect with women made her show incredibly popular and how that has shaped her public image. But...what's behind the sudden interet in weight shaming and rapid we...
259: In the Hot Seat: Analyzing Fallon and NBC's Reactions to Damaging Exposé
September 19, 2023 07:00 - 42 minutes - 29.2 MBDelving into the aftermath of the damning Rolling Stone article that uncovered a hostile work environment at "The Tonight Show starring Jimmy Fallon." We analyze the responses of Fallon and NBC to this damaging exposure and navigate the intricate relationship between celebrity culture and workplace dynamics. Unmasking the Toxicity: Molly explores the details of the Rolling Stone article, which paints a picture of a toxic work environment filled with bullying and intimidation. She examines t...
258: Behind the Words: Unveiling the Spin and Subtext in the Jonas-Turner Divorce
September 12, 2023 07:00 - 45 minutes - 31.4 MBJoin Molly in the PR Confidential community on Five: Don’t miss out on joining in the chats where we dissect this episode’s topic further and engage in intriguing discussions on various subjects of spin, aiming to uncover the truth behind the spin and subtext. Ask your questions - Molly will answer. In this episode of the Indestructible PR Podcast with Molly McPherson, we venture "Behind the Words" to demystify the spin and subtext surrounding the recent Jonas-Turner divorce. The separatio...
257: Web of Fury: The Hidden Forces Fueling Online Anger and Viral Vengeance
September 05, 2023 07:00 - 31 minutes - 22 MBWhy are social media platforms increasingly becoming the battleground for public apologies and brand backlashes? This episode sheds light on the psychology behind it all. Starting from the Bud Light fiasco in April to a TikTokker rant about a popular shoe brand from last week - discussing the reasons behind the rants. Episode Highlights: 1. The Scandalous Shredding: Uncover the jaw-dropping story of a fashion label that sent millions of dollars worth of clothing to the shredder instead of...
256: Meghan Markle: Decoding Recent Moves & PR Decisions
August 29, 2023 07:00 - 18 minutes - 12.7 MBIn this episode of the Indestructible PR Podcast, host Molly McPherson delves into the recent moves and PR decisions of Meghan Markle. Molly shares her insights and analysis on the infamous Duchess, discussing her journey, challenges, and the lessons we can learn from her. Highlights: 1. International Interview: Molly begins the episode by recounting her recent appearance on Australia's longest-running morning breakfast news program, the National Today Show. She talks about the nerves and ...
255: The Real Blind Side: The PR Battle Behind Michael Oher's Lawsuit Against the Tuohys
August 22, 2023 07:00 - 44 minutes - 30.8 MBThis episode delves into a legal and PR showdown that's making headlines. The unfolding drama between NFL veteran Michael Oher and the two families famously depicted in the film "The Blind Side" takes center stage. Episode Highlights: The Blind Side Revisited The episode begins by revisiting the heartwarming yet controversial film "The Blind Side" and its portrayal of the real-life story of Michael Oher. The core of the episode delves into the legal intricacies surrounding Michael Oher's l...
254: Ne-Yo's Yo-Yo Apology: How to Balance Belief and the Backlash
August 15, 2023 01:00 - 30 minutes - 20.8 MBEver thought about the tightrope walk public figures go through when expressing their personal beliefs? How a single statement can ignite a media firestorm, throwing them into a whirlwind of controversy? In this episode, digging into two intriguing instances: the aftermath of Ne-Yo's remarks on child-gendered transitions and the public relations quagmire that followed. Navigating the maze of misinformation, the fast-paced media frenzy, and the delicate dance between personal convictions and ...
253: Lizzo's Legal Troubles: Analyzing the PR & Legal Challenges Amidst Harassment Accusations with Emily D. Baker
August 08, 2023 07:00 - 1 hour - 46.1 MBIn the latest episode of the "Indestructible PR Podcast with Molly McPherson," the spotlight is cast on Lizzo. We're exploring the complex layers of her recent legal and reputation troubles. This in-depth analysis delves into allegations against the pop sensation, encompassing claims of coercion, weight-shaming, racial discrimination, and sexual harassment faced by her dancers. With an expert perspective from internet's renowned legal analyst, Emily D. Baker, the episode dissects the contr...
252: Behind Closed Doors: Unraveling the PR Spin of Celebrity Affairs
August 01, 2023 02:00 - 42 minutes - 29.1 MBEver wondered how celebrities handle allegations of infidelity and the intricate dance of public perception? This episode might just quench your curiosity. We journey through the scandalous world of celebrity affairs, from the rumored affair of Ariana Grande and Ethan Slater to infamous cases like Tiger Woods, Brad Pitt, and former New York Governor Eliot Spitzer (with an unexpected e connection to a popular social media influencer you may know from TikTok.) Discover how these celebrities, w...
251: A Realistic Picture of Disability Rights and Inclusion in Media and Marketing with Kelsey Lindell
July 25, 2023 07:00 - 35 minutes - 24.7 MBPicture this: A quarter of our population and forty percent of American families are affected by disability, yet its representation in media and advertising is a mere 1%. As we navigate the complex world of disability rights and inclusion, we are joined by a special guest who gives us a first-hand perspective. Meet Kelsey Lindell, a physically disabled woman who’s educating a million people about disability rights and ableism, while challenging misconceptions and stereotypes. Disability isn...
250: Gaslighting in Media & Culture: From Jonah Hill to Pop Songs to the White House
July 18, 2023 07:00 - 39 minutes - 27.1 MBThis episode explores the unsettling world of gaslighting in media, culture, politics, and personal relationships. White House briefings and actor Jonah Hill's leaked texts illustrate how manipulation and control shape narratives. We discuss a recent press briefing, allegations and irresponsible reporting surrounding a controversial incident. Additionally, we discuss damaging texts leaked by Jonah Hill's ex-girlfriend, which led to a viral revenge plot on social media. The topic of gaslighti...
249: Point of No Return: Three Telling Signs of an Unrecoverable Public Relations Crisis
July 11, 2023 07:00 - 19 minutes - 13.5 MBWhat if the ticking time bomb of a public relations crisis was right under your nose and you didn't even recognize it? Our latest episode brings you face to face with the harsh realities of reputational damages and guides you through murky waters of irrecoverable PR disasters. This is a discussion on the subtle signs that hint at a PR crisis spiraling out of control, from public outcry going viral to your stakeholders making a quick exit. We dissect the challenging environment created by the...
248: Colleen Ballinger's Miranda Sings: Behind the Headlines of this PR Crisis
July 04, 2023 07:00 - 1 hour - 48.1 MBThe following episode is a replay of Molly's live chat broadcast on YouTube on Thursday, June 29th at 12pm EDT. Join us for a special replay of Molly's live chat, where she delves into the captivating world of Colleen Ballinger, the performer behind the beloved character Miranda Sings. In this engaging episode, Molly takes us on a journey through Colleen's background, her significant following, and the recent PR crisis that unfolded. Starting with an introduction to Colleen Ballinger and h...
BONUS: Colleen Ballinger's Troubling Silence Before Picking Up the Ukulele
July 03, 2023 00:00 - 47 minutes - 32.9 MBAn episode that explores the Colleen Ballinger PR crisis before she released the ukulele apology song. In episode 248 of "Behind the Headlines," we delve into the gripping case of Colleen Ballinger, the renowned YouTube star known for her alter ego, Miranda Sings. As shocking grooming allegations against her surfaced, the response—or rather, lack thereof—by Colleen during her ongoing tour has left fans and the public intrigued. Recorded just hours before Colleen Ballinger's unexpected off...
247: Under Pressure: OceanGate's Titanic Struggles with Media and Public Perception
June 27, 2023 07:00 - 35 minutes - 24.7 MBThe captivating story of the missing Titanic submersible and the PR crisis that ensued for OceanGate. We unravel the media coverage, public perception, and the different strategies employed by Ocean Gate, the US Coast Guard, and other agencies, as well as the roles of social media and notable figures like James Cameron in shaping the narrative. Learn how transparency, timely communication, and empathy were key components in managing this disaster. We dive deep into the various media strate...
246: Breaking the Paywall: A Free Membership Offering in the Cancel Culture Era
June 20, 2023 07:00 - 18 minutes - 12.4 MBWhat if you could connect with your audience and experts like never before? Discover the incredible new platform called Five that's backed by big names like Mark Zuckerberg, Jeff Bezos, and Bill Gates. I'm your host, Molly McPherson, and I'm thrilled to share how this game-changing app allows me to engage with my audience and answer your burning questions about public relations, crisis management, popular culture, news, and more. Join me in the Five community and let's dive into some valuabl...
245: Crisis Control: Unraveling Breaking News Stories for Tips on Mastering Public Relations Blowback
June 13, 2023 07:00 - 23 minutes - 16.6 MBLast week was a big week for breaking news. From the departure of CEO Chris Licht to wildfires, last week was an example of the dynamic nature of breaking news. With technology and social media, headline news can now spread at unprecedented rates on a global scale. There is a spillover effect resulting from breaking news that companies and brands can utilize to identify threats regarding reputation during a public relation crisis. Using the events that unfolded last week, gain insight into...
244: Lessons Learned: Promoting Pride Events and Merchandise – Insights from Target, Bud Light, Adidas, and the L.A. Dodgers
June 06, 2023 07:00 - 31 minutes - 21.8 MBWhat does it take for a brand to successfully navigate the delicate waters of LGBTQ+ marketing during Pride Month? Join us as we explore the challenges and rewards of inclusive marketing and branding, sharing various experiences from companies like Bud Light (messy) and Adidas (did anyone notice?) in their 2023 campaigns, we discuss the importance of having values and initiatives in place - and crisis communication plans - to avoid costly PR crises and the potential backlash from embracing t...
243: Unfiltered Inbox: Your Questions, My Replies
May 30, 2023 07:00 - 30 minutes - 21.3 MBThe current level of discourse on social media has created a pretty strained environment for users (and that’s putting it mildly). Even a simple analysis can trigger intense responses from viewers, creating an inordinate amount of stress for creators. This week’s podcast examines the current level of pushback on social media and how it is affecting the online landscape. Hear about the latest headlines concerning Prince Harry and Meghan Markle and why posts about the couple always seem to eli...
242: Home Run for a Press Statement: LA Dodgers Welcome Back LGBTQ+ Group for Pride Night
May 23, 2023 15:00 - 9 minutes - 6.45 MBOn this episode of Indestructible PR Podcast with Molly McPherson, the focus is on the challenge of regaining a lost reputation after a crisis. Molly discusses the importance of acknowledging mistakes and taking steps to prevent recurrence, highlighting the recent statement by the Los Angeles Dodgers as an example of a strong PR crisis response. The discussion centers around the importance of reconciling with groups affected by the crisis, offering sincere apologies, engaging in dialogue, an...
241: Promoting Racial Sensitivity, Demoting Weaponized Misinformation, and Reflecting on My Recent Mistake on TikTok
May 21, 2023 23:00 - 59 minutes - 38.9 MBIn this episode, discussing the growing importance of understanding racial insensitivity online. We discuss the recent car chase story involving Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, as well as the press accounts and possible long-play strategy behind their media statement. As well as how Meghan Markle's biracial identity impacts press coverage and public opinion, both positively and negatively. Additionally, the importance of taking responsibility for our words and content and to better understan...
240: Between Spin and Wag the Dog: Uncovering the Dark Arts of PR and Perception Management
May 16, 2023 07:00 - 32 minutes - 22.1 MBIn today's episode, we delve deep into the realm of public relations (PR) and perception management. Step behind the curtain with us as we uncover the hidden strategies and tactics that PR professionals and Hollywood publicists employ to shape narratives and mold public opinion. Join your host, Molly McPherson, as she ventures into the realm of crisis management, where PR professionals truly showcase their mettle. From high-profile scandals to corporate disasters, we examine real-life case ...
239: Beating the Bullies: 5 Expert Tips for How Organizations Can Thwart Online Attacks
May 09, 2023 07:00 - 18 minutes - 12.6 MBA digital intimidation campaign is only as effective as your fear of it. Franklin D. Roosevelt famously said that the only thing we have to fear is fear itself. How does that apply to Public Relations and strategic communications? Online attacks have become a pertinent problem for public relations clients but are not impossible to thwart. The best defense against an online attack is a strong offense, starting with your strong and trustworthy digital presence. By monitoring online conversat...
238: The Art of Manufactured Outrage: How Celebrities and Brands Court Controversy for Buzz and Profit
May 02, 2023 07:00 - 32 minutes - 22.7 MBAs seen on NBC News, exploring the phenomenon of manufactured outrage and how it is used by celebrities and brands to generate buzz and profit. Molly discusses her contribution to the broadcast news story about the business implications of this practice, as well as its impact on politics and culture. We take a look at the intersection of celebrity, marketing, and social issues. We're back to Dylan Mulvaney and Bud Light, as well as a discussion on Meghan Trainor (rightfully) being lectured ...
237: The Fallout: MillerKnoll and Clearlink's Pitiful Employee Town Halls
April 25, 2023 12:00 - 22 minutes - 15.7 MBEmployee well-being should be at the forefront of every CEO’s mind, not only because it is the right thing to do from a humanistic perspective, but also because your reputation as a leader and the longevity of your company depends on it. Since the pandemic, employees are no longer willing to put up with being treated disrespectfully, and many customers are no longer willing to buy from companies who treat their employees in such a manner. In this episode, you’ll hear about the tirades that...
236: The Dalai Lama Responds: Analyzing the Intent Behind the PR Statement
April 18, 2023 07:00 - 27 minutes - 18.7 MBIt’s not often that one of the world’s most admired spiritual leaders who describes himself as an advocate for warm-heartedness, compassion, forgiveness, tolerance, and self-discipline finds himself in the midst of a PR crisis. A video filmed in February 2023 of the Dalai Lama asking a young boy to ‘suck’ his tongue went viral in April. Although some people have argued that there has been a cultural misunderstanding, the overwhelming majority of responses have been vehemently critical. In ...
235: Turning Scandal into Opportunity: How Celebrities Can Leverage Their Time in the Spotlight
April 11, 2023 07:00 - 20 minutes - 14.7 MBIn this episode, discussing how celebrities can turn scandal into opportunity and leverage their time in the spotlight to create positive change. We will explore different ways in which celebrities have used their platform to redeem themselves and make a positive impact on society. Key Points From This Episode: The Anatomy of a Scandal What are the different types of scandals that celebrities may find themselves in and how these scandals can affect their public image. We will also explore...
234: Sorry, Not Sorry: Exploring How CEOs Apologize During Employee Layoffs
April 04, 2023 07:00 - 17 minutes - 12.1 MBSweeping layoffs were big news in 2022, and this shows no sign of slowing down in 2023. From Amazon to Salesforce, Twitter, Google, and more, major tech companies are making large numbers of employees redundant. Recently, Meta announced that it would be cutting 10,000 jobs (or roughly 10% of its workforce) in response to what CEO Mark Zuckerberg describes as “challenging market conditions.” While layoffs can be challenging and emotional for both the employees affected and the leaders of th...
233: PR Distraction and the Power of Goop: How Gwyneth Paltrow Shifted the Focus Ahead of Her Ski Crash Trial
March 28, 2023 07:00 - 16 minutes - 11.6 MBThe Academy Award-winning actress and Goop founder Gwyneth Paltrow recently made headlines for a comment she made on a podcast about her daily wellness routine. This episode explains how information taken out of context is often the biggest obstacle faced by PR professionals and how this controversy seems to be an example of this. It then uncovers the potential reason why Gwyneth may have made this particular comment in the first place. Find out about Gwyneth Paltrow’s current legal battl...
232: Breaking Down the Pros and Cons of Using AI to Write Your Press Release
March 21, 2023 07:00 - 17 minutes - 12.3 MBAs AI continues to advance and become more accessible, the question of using it to write press releases is becoming more relevant. After a tweet posted by Molly on the topic of using AI for this purpose received almost 19,000 views, this episode breaks down the pros and cons of doing this. You’ll learn about how these tools can be helpful to you and what safeguards you can use to limit the damage you can cause through them. You’ll also learn about the legal, copyright, and privacy implicatio...
231: The Social Dilemma 2.0: Navigating the Next Generation of the Social Media Crisis
March 14, 2023 07:00 - 13 minutes - 9.47 MBSocial media has revolutionized the way we communicate, connect, and consume information, and will continue to do so. The world of social media is ever-changing and, as we enter the next generation of social media, we need to adapt and learn new ways to respond to social media crises. In this episode, you’ll learn about the ways in which social media is changing, with the predicted proliferation of deep fakes and the ever-increasing influence of bots. You’ll discover how to determine the b...
230: Dilbert Done: Creator Scott Adams Dropped After Racist Rant
March 06, 2023 17:00 - 16 minutes - 11.4 MBContext is everything. February 22nd, 2023, cartoonist Scott Adams aired an episode of his nightly podcast that would turn his career on its head. The creator of the beloved character, Dilbert Done, surprised us all with the heavily racist remarks he made in the video entitled, “It’s Okay to Be White,” which very quickly went viral. As a result, Scott Adams has been canceled, not only figuratively by society, but also literally through the loss of his newspaper contracts. Nobody is immun...
229: When a Disliked Staff Member Causes PR Chaos: Don Lemon and CNN
February 28, 2023 08:00 - 15 minutes - 11.1 MBRecently, Don Lemon, co-anchor of CNN This Morning, went off script and made news by stating that presidential candidate Nikki Haley was past her prime at the age of 51. This episode covers the things you should do immediately when an employee causes a PR crisis of this nature. Hear the full exchange of exactly what was said by Don Lemon and how he doubled down on his mistake, before learning how CNN responded. Hear about the importance of acting quickly, the difference between an effective ...