SPIN is a Four Letter Word
by Maroon PR
SPIN is back for a 4th season - A Toast to 20 Years of Maroon PRJoin the celebration as John Maroon welcomes 20 special guests to reflect on the relationships, stories, and hard-earned lessons behind Maroon PR’s growth. Season Four delivers candid conversations and practical advice for business leaders, storytellers, and entrepreneurs building brands and careers that leave a lasting mark.__Hearing the word "spin" is every public relations professional’s worst nightmare. From an outsider's perspective, hearing the term "public relations" means, "crisis communications", "media" or even the dreaded "spin" word itself... we're here to clear up those stereotypes and misunderstandings. Long-time PR pro and President of Maroon PR, John Maroon hosts SPIN is a Four Letter Word, a no-fluff, cut-to-the-chase show that gets to the heart of the industry today and the different issues impacting our world.
Episodes
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Local Radio Matters with Gina Crash
For Gina Crash, it’s been a career built on evolution — from her early days at 97.5 HFS, to the Today’s 101.9 morning show, to her work as a public affairs director and her growing presence across social and digital media.In this episode of Maroon’s Mark, John Maroon sits down with Gina to talk...
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Thinking Like an Advisor with Chris Ullman
Think like an advisor, not a message taker.On the latest episode of Maroon’s Mark, John Maroon sits down with Chris Ullman of Ullman Communications to talk PR, creativity, media relationships and Chris’s unexpected career as a four-time world champion whistler. 🎶 Hear the lessons, stories and...
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Inside the Ravens Communications Playbook with Chad Steele
What does it take to lead communications for one of the NFL’s premier franchises? In this episode of Maroon’s Mark, John Maroon sits down with Chad Steele, Senior Vice President of Communications for the Baltimore Ravens, to discuss leadership, media relations, reputation, and the evolution of...
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Insightful Reflections with Broadcast Legend Marty Bass
In Episode 6 of Maroon’s Mark, recently retired Baltimore broadcasting legend Marty Bass joins John Maroon to reflect on their friendship, Marty’s time in broadcast and insights into the future of the broadcasting world.
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PR & News Media with Jessica Iannetta and Courtney Bode
The Baltimore Business Journal’s Market President & Publisher Courtney Bode and Editor-in-Chief Jessica Iannetta join John Maroon to discuss the intersection of public relations and news media. Insights are shared on how the BBJ selects what to cover, AI integration, and advice for PR…
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PR Evolution and Expert Insights with Diane Pelkey
John Maroon sits down with Diane Pelkey, Head of Communications & PR at Chewy, to talk about her journey from Reebok and Under Armour to leading comms at one of the most beloved brands in retail. From crisis management and mentorship to unforgettable career moments, this episode is packed with...
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Evolving Media and Baseball with MLB’s Pat Courtney
What does it take to protect—and evolve—one of the most iconic brands in sports? MLB Chief Communications Officer Pat Courtney joins John Maroon to unpack the responsibility of stewarding a legacy brand in an always-on media landscape. From decades of shaping Major League Baseball’s public...
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Mentorship That Shapes Legacies: Lessons from Phyllis Merhige
John Maroon reflects on the importance of mentorship with longtime MLB executive Phyllis Merhige—who helped launch his PR career and became a lifelong mentor and friend. They share memories of her trailblazing path in Major League Baseball, career-defining moments, and lessons on the lasting…
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Built to Last with Cal Ripken, Jr.
John Maroon welcomes MPR’s first client, Cal Ripken, Jr., to reflect on trust, preparation, and a partnership forged during baseball history. From the 1995 consecutive games’ streak to today’s Foundation work, their conversation reveals how lasting careers—and brands—are built: with consistency,...
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Intro to Season 4: Maroon’s Mark
To celebrate 20 years of Maroon PR, John Maroon and Jen Renehan kick off SPIN is a Four Letter Word S4: Maroon’s Mark with a preview of the season ahead. Expect 20 special guests, industry stories, lessons from two decades in PR, and a look at how the business continues to evolve. Grab a drink […]
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Final Pour: Year-End Strategy on Tap
In the season finale of The Brew, John Maroon and Jen Renehan wrap up 2025 with insights on what’s shaping PR and marketing today, and how to plan smart for 2026. From influencer strategy to media relations, earned vs. paid media, and celebrating 20 years of Maroon PR, this one’s packed with...
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Maroon Works
Introducing Maroon Works, an extension of our core capabilities designed to showcase the work we do in the professional services sector. From plumbers to crypto, we’re helping a wide array of businesses tell their story and drive growth. Tune in as John Maroon and Jen Renehan share the vision,...
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Business Development
Business development isn’t a department—it’s a mindset. 💼 On this episode of The Brew, John Maroon and Jen Renehan break down Maroon PR’s approach to building relationships, navigating challenges, and always staying on the hunt for new opportunities. Their insights offer a fresh take on growing...
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2131 Reflection
In this special episode of The Brew we recognize the 30-year anniversary of Cal Ripken Jr.’s 2,131st consecutive game played, where he surpassed Lou Gehrig’s historic streak to become baseball’s Iron Man. John Maroon, who was the head of Orioles’ PR 30 years ago and remains Cal’s PR person to…
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Maroon Gathers
Listen as John Maroon and Sophie Rogers dive into Maroon Gathers— our hospitality arm. From casino openings to dog-friendly hotel collabs and the launch of an Influencer & Creator Network, they share how smart strategy and strong storytelling drive real results.
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Internship Experience
What’s it like to intern at Maroon PR? On this episode of The Brew, Lexi Perrus, Skylar Rosen, and Kylie Redman talk about their summer—from client work and event experiences to taking over our TikTok. Hear how they made the most of it, had some fun, and picked up lessons they’ll take with them...
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Market to Market Pitching
In this episode, Matt Williams and Matt Lund break down the art of market-to-market pitching—what works, what doesn’t, and how to cut through the noise. From securing local stories in all 50 states to building tailored, meaningful pitches, they share real wins, honest struggles, and smart...
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Fresh Takes, Loyal Clients
How do we approach work for long-time clients? In this episode of The Brew, John Maroon and Matt Williams share how Maroon PR keeps things fresh—turning routine events into standout stories, spotting hidden angles, and staying one step ahead. It’s about remaining sharp, being proactive, and never...
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Preparing for the Unexpected
When the pressure is on at a client event, are you ready for curveballs? In Episode 13 of The Brew, Founder & President John Maroon and Account Manager Mike Twiname share real stories and smart tactics for staying calm, taking charge, and leaning into relationships when things go off script. From...
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Maroon Pride
In this Pride Month-inspired episode, Sarah Hill and Emma Cenicacelaya join host Rocco DiSangro to discuss how Maroon PR authentically supports LGBTQ+ communities. They explore creating inclusive client content, how queer identity fuels creative work, and why meaningful representation matters.
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Maroon Cares
Maroon Cares is our nonprofit pillar—and in the literal sense, we care. In Episode 11 of The Brew, John Maroon and Nancy Yasharoff share how Maroon PR cultivates strong relationships with our nonprofit clients to build trust, tell meaningful stories, and deliver PR results that positively impact...
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The Jump from College to PR Career
From the campus to client calls! On this episode of The Brew, Maroon PR’s newest account coordinators Eliana Rakhamimov and Sydnee Hart share what surprised them most when stepping from the classroom into fast-paced agency life. Tune in for real talk on deadlines, client communications, and why...
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Creative by Design
Design is one of our strengths and an area of constant adaptation and evolution. Sarah shares how empathy fuels her creative work and Amanda unpacks visual storytelling strategy. 🎨 Tap in, get inspired, and learn how we approach visual communication. 🎧
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Awards for Clients
🏆 From bios to big wins—Emma Hottel and Carmel Gambacorta break down the art of client award submissions. Learn how PR pros play matchmaker between brands and the recognition they deserve, why strategic storytelling matters, and how award wins boost visibility and business. Tune in and start...
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Role of the Sports PR Person
Recent sports media missteps have made headlines, notably in basketball and golf. In this timely episode, John Maroon and Amanda Sarver break down the role of a Sports PR pro—what it is, and what it’s not. They explore the importance of building relationships and trust between athletes, the front...
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Managing Client Expectations
Navigating client relationships isn’t always smooth sailing. In this episode of The Brew, John Maroon and Jen Renehan share insights on setting clear expectations and tackling tough conversations. From managing media coverage goals to refining social strategies, learn how they build trust and...
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TikTok & Social Media Trends
Is Your Social Strategy Future-Proof? With TikTok’s uncertain future and new platforms emerging, diversification is key. VP Social Strategy & Content Amanda Sarver and COO Jen Renehan dive into the power of owned media, the rise of influencers, and how brands can stay ahead of shifting trends....
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Maroon Plays
Maroon Plays is all about the power of sports PR! In this episode of The Brew, John Maroon, Matt L, Mike, and John dive into how Maroon PR’s roots in sports continue to drive success. From unexpected partnerships to bringing major events to Maryland, they discuss the strategy behind storytelling,...
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Evolution of Video Services
Video has become a pivotal part of PR and Marketing strategies, but what actually makes for successful video content? In this episode of The Brew, we sit down with Maroon PR’s videographer, Emma, to talk about how our video services have evolved, what makes content stand out, and why some brands...
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Pick Up the Phone
John Maroon, Account Director Nancy Yasharoff, and Account Coordinator Eliana Rakhamimov discuss MPR's media relations approach. With decades of experience, Nancy and John share insights, while Eliana offers a fresh perspective. From crafting compelling pitches to the power of a phone call and...
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New Year, Clear Goals
In this episode, Matt, Sophie, and Mike dive into goal setting and strategic planning for the year ahead. They explore why clear goals are essential, how they guide their work with clients, and the importance of staying flexible and proactive in reaching those goals. From crafting 90-day plans to...
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Introducing Season 3: The Brew
New year, new season! Maroon PR's "SPIN is a Four-Letter Word" podcast is back for its third season with a fresh focus. Welcome to The Brew, where we dive into hot topics in public relations and share smart, actionable strategies. Join the MPR team as we rotate hosts to share insider insights,...
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January Hot Topics in Sports
With dry January upon us, we’ve temporarily pulled the tap on our regular Let’s Have a Beer With episodes and are turning our attention to the wild world of sports. From the Russell Wilson and the Denver Broncos situation to the drama surrounding college football bowl games, there is a lot to...
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Let’s Have a Beer: Bill Hooper, Vice President & GM of WMAR-TV |10
In this episode of Let’s Have a Beer, we are joined by Bill Hooper, the Vice President and General Manager of WMAR-TV in Baltimore. A Baltimore native, Hooper has worked exclusively in Baltimore media for 40 years. He joined WMAR in 2004 as general sales manager before taking the top leadership...
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Let’s Have a Beer: Jamison Hensley, ESPN Baltimore Ravens Reporter| 9
In this episode of Let’s Have a Beer, we are joined by Jamison Hensley, a Maryland native covering the Baltimore Ravens for ESPN. He joined ESPN in 2011, covering the AFC North before focusing exclusively on the Ravens beginning in 2013. Jamison won the National Sports Media Association Maryland...
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Let’s Have a Beer: Terry Hasseltine, Exec Director, Maryland Sports Commission | 8
In this episode, Terry Hasseltine, Executive Director of the Maryland Sports Commission, joins Jen and John to discuss the career path that lead him to the Maryland Sports Commission and the relationships he built along the way. The trio also discusses current happenings with the Commission and…
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Let’s Have a Beer: Journalists Kristen Berset-Harris & Brent Harris | 7
She’s an award-winning journalist and host of WUSA’s Great Day Washington. He’s a long-time sports broadcaster and hosts a show on WBAL radio. And when their career paths collided years ago, they became partners in life. Join us for a beer as we have a special conversation with Kristen...
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Let’s Have a Beer: Hollywood Casino Perryville GM, Amy Brennan | 6
At Maroon PR we like to say that we are the agency that clients want to have a beer with. In this season of SPIN is a Four Letter Word, we are doing just that: having a beer with business leaders as we discuss everything from hot topics in PR to how relationships drive growth. Join us for the...
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Let’s Have a Beer: Sports Journalist, Thom Loverro | 5
At Maroon PR we like to say that we are the agency that clients want to have a beer with. In this season of SPIN is a Four Letter Word, we are doing just that: having a beer with business leaders as we discuss everything from hot topics in PR to how relationships drive growth. Join us for the...
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Let’s Have a Beer: Bill Ripken | 4
At Maroon PR we like to say that we are the agency that clients want to have a beer with. In this season of SPIN is a Four Letter Word, we are doing just that: having a beer with business leaders as we discuss everything from hot topics in PR to how relationships drive growth. Join us for the...
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Let’s Have a Beer: Rose DiPaula, Communications Director, University of Maryland Women’s Basketball | 3
Episode 3 of SPIN is a Four Letter Word, Season 2. Women’s sports is having its moment, finally. It’s no secret women’s sports teams – from soccer to golf and college and pro basketball – have been gaining popularity among the general sports fan in recent years. But why is that happening now and...
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Let’s Have a Beer: Marshall Weston, CEO of the Restaurant Association of Maryland | 2
At Maroon PR we like to say that we are the agency that clients want to have a beer with. In this season of SPIN is a Four Letter Word, we are doing just that: having a beer with business leaders as we discuss everything from hot topics in PR to how relationships drive growth. Join us for the...
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Let’s Have a Beer: Hugh Sission, Founder of Heavy Seas | 1
At Maroon PR we like to say that we are the agency that clients want to have a beer with. In this season of SPIN is a Four Letter Word, we are doing just that: having a beer with guests as we discuss everything from hot topics in PR to how relationships drive growth. Join us for the journey -...
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Kevin Sullivan, Former White House Comms Director | 28
On this episode, John and Matt talk with Kevin Sullivan, owner of Kevin Sullivan Communications. They dive into his longstanding PR career ranging from sports to network television and his time as the White House Communications Director. Kevin stresses the importance of maintaining relationships…
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Julia Ziegler, Director of News and Programming WTOP | 27
On this episode, John and Matt talk with Julia Ziegler the Director of News and Programming at WTOP. Julia emphasizes the importance journalism plays in today’s media landscape. In this new world of news sharing, WTOP has maintained their mission driven work of providing breaking news that has…
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Tom Pierce, Executive Director of Baltimore’s Classic Five Golf Courses | 26
On this episode, John and Matt talk with Executive Director of Baltimore’s Classic Five golf courses, Tom Pierce, about the model that turned the city’s golf courses around to become more accessible and beneficial to the community. The guys drive into the history of Baltimore’s municipal courses...
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A New Sports Era of Name, Image and Likeness with E.J. Narcise | 25
On this episdoe, John and Matt talk with Principal at Team Services LLC, E.J. Narcise, about the new era of name, image and likeness (NIL) in the collegiate sports world. NIL has changed the landscape of college athletics by creating opportunnities for all types of athletes to obtain deals and...
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A New Sports Era of Name, Image and Likeness with E.J. Narcise | 25
On this episdoe, John and Matt talk with Principal at Team Services LLC, E.J. Narcise, about the new era of name, image and likeness (NIL) in the collegiate sports world. NIL has changed the landscape of college athletics by creating opportunnities for all types of athletes to obtain deals and...
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Michael Ortman, best-selling author of “Opening Day: 50-For-50” | 24
On this episode John and Matt welcome best-selling author, Michael Ortman. Maroon PR has worked with Michael to promote his recently published book, "Opening Day: 50-For-50" which highlights his experiences of attending 50 consecutive years of baseball opening days. A well-researched work of…
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John Lazarou, Media Relations Manager at GBMC | 23
With the impacts from the COVID-19 pandemic still being felt globally, we invite John Lazarou, Media Relations Manager of our long time client, Greater Baltimore Medical Center (GBMC), to weigh in on how the pandemic has changed the medical and media landscape. With so many unknowns surrounding…
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About this show
SPIN is back for a 4th season - A Toast to 20 Years of Maroon PRJoin the celebration as John Maroon welcomes 20 special guests to reflect on the relationships, stories, and hard-earned lessons behind Maroon PR’s growth. Season Four delivers candid conversations and practical advice for business leaders, storytellers, and entrepreneurs building brands and careers that leave a lasting mark.__Hearing the word "spin" is every public relations professional’s worst nightmare. From an outsider's perspective, hearing the term "public relations" means, "crisis communications", "media" or even the dreaded "spin" word itself... we're here to clear up those stereotypes and misunderstandings. Long-time PR pro and President of Maroon PR, John Maroon hosts SPIN is a Four Letter Word, a no-fluff, cut-to-the-chase show that gets to the heart of the industry today and the different issues impacting our world.
Hosted by
Maroon PR