PODCAST · business
The Crux of the Story
by Gary Sheffer and Mike Fernandez
Hosted by one of the world's top communicators, currently SVP & Chief Communications Officer at Enbridge, the show tackles relevant and controversial topics in the field of communications that are shaping business, politics, and our lives.Prominent guests from PR, journalism, business, and academia discuss how communications can inspire, persuade, deepen one’s understanding, or move an audience - or even a nation - to action.
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Episode 168 - When the Enterprise and Society Are in Constant Motion: How Leaders Can Communicate Change That Lasts
Stacey Jones, Honeywell’s Chief Communicator, joins The Crux of the Story to discuss CEO transitions, enterprise transformation, executive visibility, and the growing role of data and AI in communications. We explore the communications challenges facing C-suites and boards amid societal disruption, what separates successful CEO transitions from the ones that stumble, and how to build an executive narrative that remains credible over time. We also discuss Honeywell’s ongoing transformation and what it demands from communications internally and externally – at a moment when Honeywell has publicly described plans that would create three independent companies through the separation of its Automation and Aerospace businesses and the spin of its Advanced Materials business.
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#167: Achievement Addiction, Loss, and the Gift of “Embracing Your Own Purgatory”
Geoff Curtis, founder of Marshall Curtis Communications and former EVP of Corporate Affairs and Chief Communications Officer at Horizon Therapeutics, joins The Crux of the Story to discuss his new book Embracing Your Own Purgatory – a candid, research-informed exploration of what happens when achievement becomes identity and how the “in‑between” spaces of life can become catalysts for growth. Drawing on nearly 30 years in healthcare communications and deeply personal experiences – including the loss of his father and the abrupt end of a defining corporate role – Geoff unpacks the traps of achievement addiction, the emotional and strategic challenges of career transitions, and the rituals that help leaders navigate uncertainty with clarity and humility. A powerful conversation for communicators, executives, and anyone confronting change, reinvention, or the uncomfortable work of redefining who they are.
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#166 – What does it really take for PR and communications teams to adopt AI with intention?
In this episode we sit down with Samantha (Sam) Stark, Founder and Chief Strategist of Phyusion, a consultancy helping communications teams work with generative AI. With more than 25 years of agency experience including at Endeavor’s 160over90, Ketchum, Burson-Marsteller and Rubenstein PR. Sam has become one of the most influential voices shaping how communicators build and work with AI systems. She was recently named to PRWeek’s AI 25, recognizing leaders redefining the future of the profession. In this conversation, Sam breaks down the four stages of AI maturity – exploring, building, scaling, and leading – and explains where most PR teams sit today. She demystifies AI agents, describing how “smart interns” and “highly skilled junior team members” can reshape workflows, reduce bottlenecks, and elevate the craft of communication. We explore topics of human judgment, where AI can accelerate work, how AI can help manage and assess reputational risk, and what can be done to prepare teams for the cultural shifts ahead. Whether you’re a CCO, agency leader, strategist, or practitioner navigating the AI transition, this episode offers a clear, grounded framework for becoming a part of AI’s evolution in communications.
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#165: Leading With Purpose in the Fight Against Cancer – Nisha Morris on Brand, Trust & Innovation at City of Hope
City of Hope’s mission is bold: deliver the cures of tomorrow to the people who need them today. As one of the nation’s largest cancer research and treatment organizations, it sits at the forefront of scientific discovery, compassionate care, and national expansion. In this episode, Nisha Morris – Senior Vice President, Chief Marketing and Communications Officer – takes us inside the strategy behind one of the most respected names in cancer research. She shares how City of Hope communicates breakthrough science with humanity, builds trust in an era of health care skepticism, and supports patients through some of the most vulnerable moments of their lives. Nisha also reflects on lessons from her career across tech, health care, and even national security, including her year leading communications for the NSA. The conversation explores brand differentiation, reputation risk, AI and data science in cancer research, and what it means to lead communications for an organization whose work literally saves lives. A powerful episode for communicators, health care leaders, and anyone interested in how mission‑driven organizations tell stories that matter.
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#164: Rethinking the Table – Colleen Killingsworth & Amy Thurlow on Women’s Leadership in PR
The public relations is now a profession with more women than men – yet the number of women in leadership positions lag. In this episode, Colleen Killingsworth and Professor Amy Thurlow (Mount Saint Vincent University in Halifax, NS) unpack that paradox and share insights from their research behind their book Rethinking the Table: Women Leaders in Public Relations in Canada. Drawing on data, lived experience, and an intersectional lens, they explore some of the barriers: informal networks, credibility gaps, “emotional” labor, and the subtle norms that shape who advances and who gets overlooked. They also highlight the traits and strategies of women who are thriving – and what organizations, allies, and leaders can do to redesign the systems that determine access to power. The conversation spans Canada–U.S. comparisons, structural versus cultural challenges, and practical moves that can improve outcomes for women in PR leadership. A timely, candid, and essential discussion for communicators, executives, and anyone committed to building workplaces where leadership is recognized and rewarded.
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#163: The Science of Habits – Amanda Rebar on What Really Drives Human Behavior
Behavioral scientist Professor Amanda Rebar unpacks the hidden forces that shape what we do—and what we fail to do. As Director of the Motivation of Health Behaviors Lab at the University of South Carolina, Rebar is a leading voice on habits, automatic processes, and the unconscious evaluations that guide our health, our choices, and our daily routines. She explains why willpower is overrated, how emotions and instant “good/bad” reactions drive behavior, and explores with us the implications for policymakers and communicators and the use of nudges in public health and in messaging. The conversation explores digital interventions, AI, big data, physical activity, mental health, and the future of behavior change. A must-listen for leaders, communicators, and anyone curious about why we behave the way we do—and how to design environments that help us do better.
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Episode 162: Joe Lockhart on Pinpointing and Connecting with Audiences – and Yes, Bad Bunny
We sit down with Joe Lockhart — former White House Press Secretary to President Bill Clinton and one of the most influential communicators of the last three decades. From journalism to the West Wing, from Facebook to the NFL, and now as Managing Director of Rational 360, Joe has shaped some of the highest‑stakes narratives in American business, politics, and culture. We explore the evolving intersection of sports and politics, the rise of brand backlash, and how leaders should navigate today’s polarized environment. Joe also takes us inside Rational 360’s integrated campaign model and its newest innovation, Pinpoint Targeting — a data‑driven approach that’s redefining how organizations reach policymakers and influencers. If you’re interested in public affairs, strategic communication, better understanding audiences, and the future of advocacy in a digital world, this conversation delivers rare insight from someone who’s been at the center of it all.
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Episode 161 – Navigating Public Trust – Andy Shain on his career shift from Journalism to PR in Higher Ed
In this episode, we sit down with Andy Shain – long one of the most respected journalists in the Carolinas who now is a senior communicator at the University of South Carolina. After more than 30 years covering business, politics, higher education, and two presidential campaigns, Andy brings a rare dual perspective: the journalist who once held institutions accountable and the communicator now helping one institution navigate reputation in a rapidly changing landscape. Host Mike Fernandez explores Andy’s transition from the newsroom to higher education, the evolving pressures facing universities and the role of storytelling in shaping public trust. A thoughtful, timely conversation for anyone working at the intersection of communication, leadership, and public institutions.
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Episode 160 – New Page-Harris Poll Study: As Expectations of Business Rise, Confidence Lags
Rob Jekielek, Managing Director of The Harris Poll, and Dr. Rochelle Ford, CEO of the Arthur W. Page Society, join Mike to discuss the 2026 Page‑Harris Poll Confidence in Business Index. Drawing on insights from more than 15,000 adults across 14 global markets, the conversation explores: - Why economic impact has become the number‑one expectation of business worldwide - Sharp generational differences, including the growing importance and concern of mental health for Gen Z - The widening gap between expectations and confidence, driven by a lack of visible action and clear explanations - How generative AI is reshaping trust — displacing traditional media and search as a gateway to credibility - Rising frustration in all institutions around perceived corruption, abuse of power, and lack of transparency This episode is a candid, data‑driven discussion about leadership, accountability, and what it truly takes to earn confidence in a fragmented, GenAI‑enabled world.
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Episode 159: Faster. Messier. Tougher.: Bradley Akubuiro on Rewriting the Crisis Playbook
Partner at Bully Pulpit International and former Boeing chief spokesperson Bradley Akubuiro previews his forthcoming book, Faster. Messier. Tougher.: Crisis Communication Strategies in an Era of Populism, AI, and Distrust (April 7, 2026). Bradley shares new field‑tested frameworks for crisis management: how to think about stakeholders, and when authenticity beats perfection. We also dig into the new dynamics of political pressure and brand backlash; whether A.I. can improve crisis readiness; and how to design simulations that build muscle memory. You’ll learn: The first five moves to make in the first 60 minutes of a crisis, when to narrowcast (not broadcast), and what “good” crisis communications looks like in 2026.
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Episode #158 — Stephen Hahn on Measuring Reputation in a Turbulent World
In a year marked by economic uncertainty, political tension, and AI tech disruption, reputation has become one of the most powerful—and fragile—assets an organization holds. In this episode, Stephen Hahn, Chief Reputation & Strategy Officer at The RepTrak Company, joins The Crux of the Story to break down how companies can understand, measure, and strengthen reputation when stakeholder expectations are shifting faster than ever. We explore RepTrak’s seven drivers of reputation, the launch of its real‑time AI-enabled COMPASS platform, emerging industry winners and laggards, the evolving role of ESG and corporate responsibility, and what CEOs must prioritize to future‑proof trust over the next five years. A concise, insight‑packed conversation for leaders navigating today’s reputational pressure cooker.
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#157: Future-Ready Leadership – Maril MacDonald on Culture, Change, and Navigating Uncertainty
Maril MacDonald, founder and CEO of Gagen MacDonald, joins The Crux to explore how leaders can steer organizations through today’s turbulence—AI disruption, geopolitical risk, layoffs, and rapid M&A activity. A pioneer in culture and change management, Maril shares lessons from advising Fortune 500 executives on building resilient, future-ready enterprises. She discusses how leaders can balance transparency with stability, spot when culture is an asset or liability, and mobilize employees around strategic goals. Drawing on decades of experience, including her own leadership journey, Maril offers practical advice on engagement, succession planning, and the traits leaders need most in a topsy-turvy world.
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#156: Ethics, AI, and the Future of Public Relations in Canada
Three of the lead researchers behind the Canadian Public Relations Society’s landmark report, 2025 State of Public Relations in Canada: Ethics, AI and Reframing the Professional Field, join The Crux of the Story to unpack how the profession is evolving at a pivotal moment. Kim Blanchette (EVP of Castlemain/ChangeMakers), Dr. Terry Flynn (Associate Professor at McMaster University), and Colleen Killingsworth (Principal of CKCommunications) explore the identity shift between “communications” and “public relations,” the trust gap with the public, and the ethical challenges posed by artificial intelligence. Together, they reveal how Canadian practitioners are adopting AI, where governance is falling short, and what role professional associations must play to remain relevant. This episode goes beyond the findings—it challenges the profession to confront its future with clarity, courage, and purpose.
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#155: Bill Myers on Leading Communications Through Disruption in Media, Tech, and Healthcare
Bill Myers, Managing Director of Communications & Corporate Social Responsibility at Liberty Global, joins The Crux to reflect on the legacy of media titan John Malone and the shifting dynamics of global telecom. With a career spanning government and politics, healthcare, and tech, Myers shares insights on leading through crisis, balancing local brands within a global strategy, and embracing AI’s role in storytelling. From DaVita controversies to Liberty’s European footprint, we explore how Myers blends political acumen with corporate leadership to shape communications in a fragmented media world.
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#154: Turning the Page: Leroy Chapman on Atlanta Journal-Constitution’s Digital-Only Future and What it Means to Lead a Major Daily in a Contentious World
Leroy Chapman Jr., Editor-in-Chief of the Atlanta Journal-Constitution, discusses the paper’s bold decision to go digital-only in 2026—making Atlanta the largest U.S. city without a printed daily. Chapman shares his vision for transforming local journalism in a polarized media landscape, and how he’s guiding one of the South’s most influential newsrooms through cultural, technological, and civic shifts. We explore his leadership philosophy, and the transformation of modern newsrooms. Chapman also reflects on his journey from reporter to editor-in-chief, including pivotal moments covering the rise of Barack Obama and Nikki Haley.
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#153: Restructuring the Narrative – Marelli’s CCO Talks Us Through Bankruptcy and Chapter 11
Fernando Vivanco, Chief Communications Officer at Marelli, returns to The Crux to unpack one of the most challenging—and least talked about—topics in corporate communications: bankruptcy. Following Marelli’s Chapter 11 filing, Fernando has led a global messaging strategy across 23 countries, confronting myths, managing stakeholder sentiment, and maintaining morale amid uncertainty. In this episode, he shares how his team crafted a proactive, multi-channel approach to reshape perceptions of restructuring, coordinate with legal and financial leaders, and keep employees and customers informed and engaged. Drawing on lessons from Boeing, Honeywell, and Medtronic, Fernando offers candid insights into balancing transparency with legal constraints, tailoring messages across cultures, and leading with empathy in the face of disruption.
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#152: Crisis, Culture, and Communications with Ron DeFeo of American Airlines
American Airlines’ EVP of Communications and Marketing Ron DeFeo, shares insights from a decade at one of the world’s largest airlines. We explore his approach to crisis management—from flight disruptions to viral passenger incidents—and how empathy, transparency, and strategic storytelling shape public response. Ron reflects on his career journey through Ketchum, Darden Restaurants, and The Home Depot, and discusses the importance of building resilient teams and defining corporate ethos. We also dive into his role as host of American Airline’s podcast Tell Me Why.
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#151: Latino Advocacy and Leadership with Carlos Orta
The President & CEO of The Latino Coalition discusses public policy and expanding economic opportunity for Latino entrepreneurs. We explore his career journey across five companies – Anheuser-Busch, Carnival, Ford Motor Company, Tyson Foods, and Waste Management Inc – and his leadership of the Hispanic Association for Corporate Responsibility. We also talk about Carlos’s book From Havana to DC: The Rise of Cuban Americans in Florida Politics as he shares insights on stakeholder engagement, communications strategy, and the evolving role of Latino leadership in business and politics.
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#150: Connecting Brands and Culture with Cheryl Overton
Described as a “creative instigator,” Cheryl Overton who leads her own firm and previously worked for top agencies – including Ogilvy, Edelman and EGAMI Group – and has worked on several iconic brands from P&G to Lancome, Dove, the American Red Cross, and McDonald’s talks with us about the intersection of brands with culture. We discuss: the NFL and the “Taylor Swift effect,” the American Eagle jeans campaign with actress Sydney Sweeney, the backlash to Cracker Barrel’s brand refresh, and the DEI boycott impact on Target’s retail sales. We also chat about emerging issues: how marketers need to better connect with consumers over the age of 50, balancing cultural connectivity and authenticity, and what CMOs and advertisers might do to future-proof their brands.
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#149: Transforming U.S. Latino Media, Marketing & PR with Manny Ruiz
Manny Ruiz is a media, marketing and creative dynamo. From founding the first Hispanic PR newswire service in the U.S… to launching Hispanicize an event that highlighted the best of Hispanic and Latino PR, marketing and advertising… to co-founding Brilla Media Ventures with his wife and creative partner Angela, Manny has spent three decades shaping how brands engage with U.S. Hispanic and Latino audiences. He’s also the creative force behind Bistec – Audible’s top Spanish-language fiction podcast of 2024. In this episode we discuss his journey from Miami Herald journalist to entrepreneur, his impact, the missteps of marketers as they try to connect with Latino and bicultural audiences. And the future of Latino media.
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#148: Work That Matters with Chernoff Newman CEO David Campbell
Chernoff Newman CEO David Campbell, head of one of the US’s more successful regional agencies, discusses his firm’s integrated approach – employing public relations, advertising, digital media and public affairs – to solve unique client challenges across many industry sectors, government and education. In our conversation we touch on agency growth, how technology and AI are changing the firm’s work, and the challenges of navigating brands in today’s politically charged world as we reflect on Cracker Barrels’ attempt to modernize its brand and other events.
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#147: Navigating Organizational Change: Insights from United Minds CEO Kate Bullinger
With over 25 years of expertise in organizational transformation, leadership development, and employee engagement, Kate Bullinger, CEO of United Minds (Weber Shandwick’s global management consultancy) discusses how businesses can navigate uncertainty, foster purpose-driven cultures, and lead effectively through change. We also explore the evolving role of communications executives, the workplace of the future given A.I. and technology. In this conversation we take deep dives into the strategies shaping the success of organizations today.
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#146: The Heart Work of Leadership with David Grossman
David Grossman is the founder and CEO of The Grossman Group, a leading communications consultancy focused on leadership, change management and internal communications. We spoke with him about his 25th year in business and career journey, the evolution of leadership communication, and key insights from his upcoming book, The Heart Work of Modern Leadership: Six Differentiators of Exceptional Leaders. We discuss how authentic and courageous leadership drives transformation; common communication challenges organizations face; and how leaders can foster employee engagement and cultural change. David also shares recent research on employee engagement in the public relations industry.
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#145: The Next Generation of Broadcast Journalists
What are on the minds of future journalists from technology to storytelling to trust? We speak to three top students from the University of South Carolina's School of Journalism and Mass Communications with different broadcast disciplines and unique work experiences as interns and fellows to give us some insight: Sarah Craft (international news/ WIS-TV, WYFF-TV and WMBF-TV), Chloe Castain (sports/NASCAR), Kiki Gushue (news and broadcast production/The Crux of the Story).
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#144: Exploring the Legacy and Future of Public Relations w/ Shelley Spector & Dick Martin
Shelley Spector, founder and CEO of the Museum of Public Relations, and Dick Martin, Chair of the museum’s board and former AT&T communications executive shed light on the rich history of the PR profession, the importance of preserving its legacy, and how the Museum of Public Relations is shaping the future of the profession. Shelley and Dick share their insights on tackling contemporary challenges like disinformation and technological advancements – based in large measure by better understanding our past. Tune in for an enlightening conversation with two PR powerhouses!
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#143: April is Disinformation Awareness Month: Insights from IPR’s Dr. Tina McCorkindale
Dr. Tina McCorkindale, President and CEO of the Institute for Public Relations (IPR), discusses IPR's declaration of April as Disinformation Awareness Month and sheds light on combating disinformation, trends in public relations and the media. We delve into groundbreaking research reports about the changing media landscape and employee engagement in the communications industry. We also explore strategies for raising awareness, improving trust, and addressing challenges faced by PR and media professionals. Tune in for a thought-provoking conversation packed with actionable insights and reflections on the future of public relations.
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#142: The Misuse of Science Communication with Professor Damion Waymer
Professor Damion Waymer, Director of the University of South Carolina’s School of Journalism and Mass Communications, discusses the misuse of scientific information and corporate misinformation. We explore the challenges faced by vulnerable publics, the role of social media, and the impact of political polarization on science communication. Professor Waymer also shares insights on improving public scientific literacy and his current research interests. Tune in for an enlightening discussion at the intersection of communication, culture, and power.
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#141: The Business of Integrated Marketing Communications and Diversity w/ Entrepreneur Kim Hunter
Kim Hunter, a trailblazing entrepreneur with over four decades of making his mark in multicultural integrated marketing, makes the case that the business of diversity is business. His LAGRANT COMMUNICATIONS has produced innovative marketing solutions for some of America’s top brands from Verizon to Harley Davidson and the American Cancer Society. THE LAGRANT FOUNDATION, which he founded, has awarded more than $3 million in academic scholarships to aspiring young professionals in advertising, marketing, and public relations. And his executive search firm, KLH & ASSOCIATES, has helped place racially and ethnically diverse candidates in top-level communications roles at top companies and agencies. Join us as we delve into Kim's inspiring journey, his interesting – and maybe surprising – take on diversity, equity, and inclusion, and the impact of his work.
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#140: Unlocking the Power of Words with Obama Speechwriter Terry Szuplat
A powerful speech can inspire, persuade, and move an audience to action. That said, crafting and delivering a speech can be daunting. In his new book, "Say It Well: Find Your Voice, Speak Your Mind, Inspire Any Audience," former White House speechwriter Terry Szuplat demystifies the art of public speaking and shares valuable pointers and lessons from his distinguished career. He also discusses favorite speeches and the role of social media and AI. Szuplat runs a speechwriting firm, Global Voice Communications, helping leaders in business, non-profits and politics.
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#139: Doug Pinkham: Transforming Public Affairs in Washington
Doug Pinkham, a veteran of Washington, DC's political scene, served for 27 years as the president and CEO of the Public Affairs Council. Under his leadership, the Council became the leading public affairs membership organization, known for its annual Public Affairs Pulse Survey and its comprehensive State of Corporate Public Affairs Report. Doug discusses how political transitions, including the new Trump Administration’s, have and are changing public discourse and the public affairs profession. He also explores the vital importance of public affairs and government relations for corporations and non-profits, the impact of digital advocacy, and the growing significance of and need for transparency and smart stakeholder engagement.
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#138: Muck Rack CEO: How A.I. and Social are Transforming Journalism and PR
Greg Galant, co-founder and CEO, of Muck Rack discusses Muck Rack's unique market position serving the needs of journalists as well as PR professionals and newsmakers – connecting each to each other and offering services to both that enhance workflow and measure impact. Greg discusses his firm’s AI-enhanced services that enhance pitches and better connect professionals across digital platforms. We also discuss The Shorty Awards, social and digital media trends, the state of journalism and PR, the influence of AI, and much more.
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#137: Page-Harris Poll Confidence in Business Index
This is our first show of 2025, and we’re kicking things off with two esteemed guests: Rob Jekielek, Managing Director of The Harris Poll, and Dr. Rochelle Ford, the new CEO of the Arthur W. Page Society. They are here to discuss the Page-Harris Poll Confidence in Business Index, their joint global opinion survey just introduced at the World Economic Forum in Davos. The research highlights several critical issues that businesses must address, according to respondents, to build and sustain public confidence.
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#136: Navigating Brands and Careers in Changing Environments - Medtronic's Torod Neptune
Medtronic SVP & Chief Communications Officer Torod Neptune discusses how communicators can help their companies create value and provides insights on the expanding role of the CCO, the importance of making the business case for diversity and his career as a highly sought-after communications professional who has led teams at major agencies and companies – including Bank of America, Verizon, Lenovo and now Medtronic.
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#135: What Should Communicators Takeaway From the 2024 U.S. Elections? - DDC Public Affairs
Kevin Lawlor and Katie Wright of DDC Public Affairs share with us their takeaways. They share thoughts on what tactics and strategies used during the recent elections might find their way into the work of PR and marketing professionals – and into issues advocacy. They also provide insights about navigating Washington with the Republicans controlling both houses of Congress and the White House.
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#134: Something to be Thankful For, Canada – Christopher Sands of The Canada Institute
The United States and Canada share more than the world’s longest border between two countries – as the head of The Wilson’s Canada Institute informs us our cultures, our economies, and our national security are inextricably intertwined. Christopher Sands explores what might change given recent events and 2024 election outcomes.
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#133: The Carolina Agency – Students Successfully Competing with Ad & PR Professionals
In our 133rd episode, we speak with students who are already using their digital and communications know-how to create professional work for advertising and public relations clients. Awani Bildikar and Lindsey Pritchard work for The Carolina Agency, a student-run firm in its 20th year and part of an innovative curriculum experience at the University of South Carolina School of Journalism and Mass Communications. Awani is the agency’s director, and Lindsey is its director of public relations.
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#132: Post-Election How Should We Navigate ESG Issues? – Avoq’s Eric Sedler
Managing public issues inside large organizations has become a minefield as activists and critics, liberals and conservatives, tug at companies from multiple directions. Avoq’s managing director Eric Sedler provides a bit of a map for how we might best navigate these stormy waters. Sedler also discusses the 2023 merger of Kivvit and Subject Matter, the two firms that created Avoq. Kivvit was the successor to ASGK Public Strategies, a firm Eric Sedler started with David Axelrod and others.
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#131: Business Without Borders – Consulting firms in Latin American & U.S. markets - Emigdio Rojas
Simplicity’s managing partner in the U.S. and Latin America has helped execute global and regional marketing and communications campaigns for some of the world’s top brands. He provides insights to how some top communications and marketing firms, including his own, represent U.S. companies in Latin America, represent Latin American companies in the U.S. and compete for the growing Latino market in the U.S.
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#130: The A.I. Index – Professors Sultanescu & Bowen discuss the latest attitudinal research on A.I.
The A.I. Index provides insights on attitudes about A.I., its power users and A.I.’s impact on newsrooms, social media consumption and communications tasks. The U.S. study was conducted by the University of South Carolina’s School of Journalism and Mass Communications.
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#129: Risky Business and Hurricanes- Dr. Robert Hartwig of The University of South Carolina
Dr. Robert Hartwig of the University of South Carolina’s Risk and Uncertainty Management Center at the Darla Moore School of Business shares insights about Hurricanes Helene and Milton, the risks associated with hurricanes, how to communicate about such risks, the assessment of corporate economic risks of all kinds and how we should think about the risks associated with climate change.
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#128: What’s a fractional executive? Jane Randel & Charlene Wheeless tell us.
Two former chief communicators – Jane Randel (formerly of Liz Clairborne) and Charlene Wheeless (formerly of Bechtel) – tell us about a new way in which companies are hiring experienced execs to lead major projects and guide teams for an interim amount of time. We also speak with Jane Randel about her company, Karp Randel, focused on social change campaigns and an effort she’s been involved with to curb domestic violence and sexual assault. And we discuss Charlene Wheless’s book You Are Enough and her next career as leadership and professional development coach.
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#127: Latinos Make Their Mark in Advocacy & Communications -Estuardo Rodriguez & Sonia Diaz
As U.S. Latino purchasing power approaches $3.5 trillion, Latino public affairs and communications professionals are making a difference in diverse and mass markets, and in their community. Estuardo Rodriguez, in addition to his work at the DC public affairs firm The Raben Group, serves as CEO of Friends of the National Museum of the American Latino. Sonia Diaz is president of Miami-based Zaid Communications and the Hispanic Public Relations Association.
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#126: Documentary Filmmakers Tom Acton & Chris Krieger Seek to Close The Divide on Climate Dialogue
The producers of a highly-acclaimed documentary, Close The Divide, are hoping to get all of us to listen to one another on the subject of climate change and forge a better environment to actually address the associated issues and opportunities before us – even in the face of political polarization.
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#125: PR Hall-of-Famer Gary Sheffer on the State and Future of Corporate Communications
As he prepares for his induction into the Arthur W. Page Society Hall of Fame, GE’s former chief communications officer reflects on an amazing career as a journalist, a political press secretary, and working with GE execs Jack Welch and Jeff Immelt through some complex and dynamic business issues and global challenges. He also provides advice on how companies should think about social issues and a politically polarized world.
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124
Steve Clayton on Microsoft’s Communication Strategy in the Age of AI
How is Microsoft’s communication team reimagining its strategy in the Age of AI? Steve Clayton, vice president of communications strategy, joins The Crux to answer this question. Steve, a former systems engineer, focuses on the revolutionary aspects of generative software that can help communicators while recognizing its fallibility in translating human emotion. Steve also gives listeners tips on how to create the perfect “prompt” using Microsoft’s AI app, “Copilot.”
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123
Former Prosecutor and Author Debbie Hines on the Inequities of the American Criminal Justice System
Former prosecutor Debbie Hines joins The Crux for a conversation on enduring racial inequity in the American criminal justice system. Debbie is a leading voice in the fight for transforming the system from the inside and an expert on the history of racial inequality. She highlights themes of her new book, "Get Off My Neck: Black Lives, White Justice, and A Former Prosecutor’s Quest for Reform." Debbie notes how probation and misdemeanor crimes are leading to unnecessary and disproportionate incarcerations of Black people.
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122
Corey duBrowa and AnnaMaria DeSalva On How They Are Merging Two Storied PR Agencies
Corey duBrowa, head of BCW, and AnnaMaria DeSalva, head of Hill & Knowlton discuss the merger of their global PR agencies to become Burson. Hear what they have been doing to integrate and support their teams before the July 1 launch. As they work toward the launch, they are managing changing approaches to ESG, how to use emerging AI tools to help clients manage risk and reputation, and a turbulent political environment. Plus, in the midst of all this, Corey was able to write a book on extended play recordings.
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121
Weber Shandwick’s Chris Perry on How to Thrive in the Era of Machine and Man
A discussion with Weber Shandwick’s Chris Perry on his new book, Perspective Agents: A Human Guide to the Autonomous Age, which focuses on relationships of two parallel revolutions: the technological uprising of automation and AI; and, and a new sense of human autonomy that allows us to find new meaning and direction. Perspective Agents challenges us to adapt and thrive in this new era of machine and man. Chris asks, “How does having instant answers enable us to do our own discovery, to do our own fact finding, and frankly to elevate our own agency.”
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120
Philip Morris International’s New CCO: Judge us today, not by the 1990s
New PMI Chief Communications Officer Moira Gilchrist, who holds a Ph. D. in pharmaceutical sciences, says she wants people to know her company has changed and is serious about ending cigarette smoking. “ My passion…is to bring those facts to the fore so that everybody can make a decision about us based on facts of today and not on the memory on the memory of the 1990s,” a reference to a time when many tobacco companies were found to have misled the public about the dangers of smoking.
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119
Journalist & BU prof David Abel on the Illuminating Power of Film
Award-winning journalist and Boston University College of Communication professor David Abel, newest movie, Inundation District, focuses on Boston’s Seaport district, which is threatened by rising seawater. The film is a master class in science-based journalism in a time of eroding trust in science. A prolific filmmaker, Abel’s works have largely focused on natural resource issues off New England’s coast. However, his journey as a filmmaker began in 2013 when he was documenting the first little person to run the Boston Marathon. He was at the finish line when the bombs exploded that day. His reporting on the tragedy with colleagues at the Boston Globe earned the team a Pulitzer Prize. This is an episode for anyone interested in becoming a better storyteller and the power of visual media.
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ABOUT THIS SHOW
Hosted by one of the world's top communicators, currently SVP & Chief Communications Officer at Enbridge, the show tackles relevant and controversial topics in the field of communications that are shaping business, politics, and our lives.Prominent guests from PR, journalism, business, and academia discuss how communications can inspire, persuade, deepen one’s understanding, or move an audience - or even a nation - to action.
HOSTED BY
Gary Sheffer and Mike Fernandez
CATEGORIES
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