222: To Catch a Corporate Operative: The "Network News" Hit Piece

Today’s podcast sheds light on a new dirty trick used by special interest groups and people who are activist-minded. It takes a look at an article by NPR, “She Was an ABC News Producer. She Also Was a Corporate Operative,” and reveals how Kristen Hentschel used her previous work experience as a journalist to challenge Toby Overdorf, a candidate for the Florida House of Representatives, while working as an advocate for a political consulting firm. This episode covers a brief overview of the story, why you need to be aware of this dirty trick if you work in communication, media, news, or a leadership-related position, and what you should bear in mind if facing an activist-minded foe. A second twist follows...Key Points From This Episode:Insight into the article  “She Was an ABC News Producer. She Also Was a Corporate Operative,” and why it’s relevant to listeners of this podcast. A brief overview of the story.How this story reveals a new tactical strategy used by activists.The statement released by ABC denying that Kristen Hentschel worked for them.The twist of Kristen Hentschel working as a journalist while simultaneously working as an advocate.How this relates to a situation faced by one of Molly’s clients with an activist-minded foe.An interesting twist relating to Kristin’s previous career as a journalist under a different name.The Indestructible PR® tip for the day for identifying or dealing with fake or former journalists.Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:"She was an ABC News producer. She also was a corporate operative"Kristen Hentschel on LinkedInMolly McPherson Indestructible: Reclaim Control and Respond with Confidence in a Media CrisisIndestructible: Reclaim Control and Respond with Confidence in a Media Crisis - Audio Book Listen and Subscribe on Apple PodcastsMolly McPherson on PatreonWant More Behind the Breakdown? Follow The PR Breakdown with Molly McPherson on Substack for early access to podcast episodes, private member chats, weekly live sessions, and monthly workshops that go deeper than the mic. It is the inside hub for communicators who want real strategy, clear judgment, and a little side-eye where it counts.Follow Molly on Substack Subscribe to Molly's Weekly Newsletter  Need a Keynote Speaker? Drawing from real-world PR battles, Molly delivers the same engaging stories and hard-won crisis insights from the podcast to your live audience. Click here to book Molly for your next meeting. Follow & Connect with Molly:https://www.youtube.com/mollymcphersonhttps://mollymcpherson.substack.com/https://www.tiktok.com/@mollybmcphersonhttps://www.instagram.com/molly.mcpherson/...