Stories and Strategies with Curzon Public Relations
We tell stories.... stories about Public Relations and Marketing that will inspire your career in PR.Public Relations is evolving rapidly, and this is where you’ll find thoughtful and concise interviews on the latest insights, ideas, and approaches with PR experts all over the world. And straight up, you may not agree with all of them. Neither do we. The point is these are perspectives and ideas that need to be talked about.From authentic storytelling, to harnessing the power of AI to innovative media relations and crisis communications, to adopting more behavioral science communications strategies. And even controversial ide...
S4 E174 · Thu, April 17, 2025
The Evolution of Communication in the Age of Attention Deficit
In an age where opinions form faster than facts and headlines spark outrage before understanding, how do brands, leaders, and storytellers stay credible? Is your opinion truly yours? Or just an echo of your tribe? In this episode, Suhel Seth unpacks the transformation of communication in the era of attention deficit — from the collapse of nuance to the rise of instant outrage, and why the art of thoughtful messaging might just be the most urgent skill of our time. Listen For 3:07 The Cult of Immediacy: A Communication Crisis 7:59 The Lost Art of Contextualization 12:26 Social Identity & Tribal Thinking 14:32 Why Modern Society Fears Disruption 19:14 India: A Market or a Civilization? 23:57 Why India Didn’t Create Google or Facebook 24:50 Answer to Last Episode’s Question From Guest Andy Coulson Guest: Suhel Seth Wikipedia Page | X | LinkedIn | Instagram | Facebook Rate this podcast with just one click Stories and Strategies Website Are you a brand with a podcast that needs support? Book a meeting with Doug Downs to talk about it. Apply to be a guest on the podcast Connect with us LinkedIn | X | Instagram | You Tube | Facebook | Threads | Bluesky | Pinterest Request a transcript of this episode Support the show
S4 E173 · Tue, April 15, 2025
Cancelled. Convicted. Came Back: Andy Coulson’s Story
What happens when the man behind the headlines becomes the headline? Former tabloid editor and Downing Street comms chief Andy Coulson opens up about his very public fall from grace — from resignations and scandal to serving time in prison — and how he rebuilt his life and career in the shadow of cancel culture. With raw honesty and sharp insight, Andy talks about the realities of recovery, the myth of reinvention, and why consistency and character matter more than ever in a world obsessed with outrage. Listen For 10:57 How to Recover from Cancellation: Strategy Over Reinvention 15:45 Attention Deficit and the New Rules of Reputation 17:48 Crisis Management vs. Political Strategy: Don’t Follow the Trump Playbook 20:28 In a Polarized World, How Do You Define Good and Bad? 23:16 Answer to Last Episode’s Question From Guest Tina McCorkindale, PhD Guest: Andy Coulson Website | Instagram | LinkedIn | Wikipedia Page Andy’s Podcast Crisis? What Crisis? Rate this podcast with just one click Stories and Strategies Website Curzon Public Relations Website Are you a brand with a podcast that needs support? Book a meeting with Doug Downs to talk about it. Apply to be a guest on the podcast Connect with us LinkedIn | X | Instagram | You Tube | Facebook | Threads | Bluesky | Pinterest Request a transcript of this episode Support the show
S4 E172 · Tue, April 08, 2025
Who Do You Trust? Rethinking Media in a Fractured World
The media landscape is changing – and fast. In this episode, Tina McCorkindale, President and CEO of the Institute for Public Relations, breaks down the shift away from traditional news and the rise of emerging media. Drawing on insights from a recent survey with PepperCom, she explores how trust in media is evolving and what that means for public relations. From the rise of podcasts and influencers to the decline of legacy outlets, Tina offers essential strategies for communicators in today’s fractured media world. Listen For 6:54 The New Media Relations Battlefield 8:56 The Rise of News Avoidance 14:22 Broccoli vs. Mars Bar: Explaining News to a Teen 19:59 The Power of Owning Your Channels 20:55 Answer to Last Episode’s Question From Guest Sue Heuman Study with Peppercom Navigating a Changing Media Landscape | Institute for Public Relations Guest: Tina McCorkindale, PhD Website | LinkedIn | Google Scholar Profile Check out the IPR Video Series In a Car with IPR Rate this podcast with just one click Stories and Strategies Website Curzon Public Relations Website Are you a brand with a podcast that needs support? Book a meeting with Doug Downs to talk about it. Apply to be a guest on the podcast Connect with us LinkedIn | X | Instagram | You Tube | Facebook | Threads | Bluesky | Pinterest Request a transcript of this episode Support the show
S4 E171 · Tue, April 01, 2025
Talked Over and Ignored: PR Occupational Hazards for Women
The public relations industry has long been recognized as a female-dominated field, with women making up approximately two-thirds of the workforce. However, when it comes to leadership, women remain significantly underrepresented, comprising just one-third of top-tier roles. This disparity raises critical questions about the systemic barriers that prevent women from rising to senior leadership positions in PR agencies and organizations. In this episode, we examine the challenges faced by women in their careers, the personal and societal factors that hinder their progress, and the strategies they’ve employed to overcome these obstacles. Sue Heuman is a strong female leader in the PR industry, a designated Master Communicator through IABC, Past Chair of the IABC Global Communication Certification Council, and an executive leader. Listen For 7:35 Where Are the Mentors? 9:38 Too Harsh or Too Soft? The Impossible Standards for Female Leaders 12:23 Sue’s Jaw-Dropping Boardroom Story 14:23 The Confidence Gap: Why Women Don’t Apply 22:48 Answer to Last Episode’s Question From Guest Carmine Gallo Guest: Sue Heuman, IABC Fellow, Master Communicator Website | LinkedIn Rate this podcast with just one click Stories and Strategies Website Curzon Public Relations website Are you a brand with a podcast that needs support? Book a meeting with Doug Downs to talk about it. Apply to be a guest on the podcast Connect with us LinkedIn | X | Instagram | You Tube | Facebook | Threads | Bluesky | Pinterest Request a transcript of this episode Support the show
S4 Enull · Fri, March 28, 2025
Welcome CoHost Farzana Baduel - Season Four Trailer
Curzon Public Relations CEO, Farzana Baduel , joins the world’s most-listened-to PR podcast, as Guest Resident Co-Host! Alongside host Doug Downs, SCMP and producers Emily Page and David Olajide MPRCA , this season will explore PR through a truly global lens—tackling industry challenges, leadership insights, and the evolving media landscape. 𝗪𝗵𝘆 𝘁𝗵𝗶𝘀 𝗺𝗮𝘁𝘁𝗲𝗿𝘀: 𝘊𝘩𝘢𝘮𝘱𝘪𝘰𝘯𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘞𝘰𝘮𝘦𝘯 𝘪𝘯 𝘗𝘙 – 𝘚𝘵𝘰𝘳𝘪𝘦𝘴 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘚𝘵𝘳𝘢𝘵𝘦𝘨𝘪𝘦𝘴 𝘪𝘴 𝘤𝘰𝘮𝘮𝘪𝘵𝘵𝘦𝘥 𝘵𝘰 𝘦𝘯𝘴𝘶𝘳𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘵 75% 𝘰𝘧 𝘪𝘵𝘴 𝘨𝘶𝘦𝘴𝘵𝘴 𝘢𝘳𝘦 𝘸𝘰𝘮𝘦𝘯, 𝘳𝘦𝘧𝘭𝘦𝘤𝘵𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘪𝘯𝘥𝘶𝘴𝘵𝘳𝘺’𝘴 𝘮𝘢𝘬𝘦𝘶𝘱 𝘢𝘵 𝘫𝘶𝘯𝘪𝘰𝘳 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘮𝘪𝘥-𝘭𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘭𝘴 𝘸𝘩𝘪𝘭𝘦 𝘢𝘥𝘥𝘳𝘦𝘴𝘴𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘭𝘦𝘢𝘥𝘦𝘳𝘴𝘩𝘪𝘱 𝘨𝘢𝘱 𝘩𝘪𝘨𝘩𝘭𝘪𝘨𝘩𝘵𝘦𝘥 𝘪𝘯 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘔𝘪𝘴𝘴𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘞𝘰𝘮𝘦𝘯 𝘳𝘦𝘱𝘰𝘳𝘵. 𝘈 𝘎𝘭𝘰𝘣𝘢𝘭 𝘗𝘦𝘳𝘴𝘱𝘦𝘤𝘵𝘪𝘷𝘦 – 𝘞𝘪𝘵𝘩 𝘍𝘢𝘳𝘻𝘢𝘯𝘢 𝘪𝘯 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘜𝘒, 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘋𝘰𝘶𝘨 𝘪𝘯 𝘊𝘢𝘯𝘢𝘥𝘢, 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘱𝘰𝘥𝘤𝘢𝘴𝘵 𝘸𝘪𝘭𝘭 𝘦𝘹𝘱𝘭𝘰𝘳𝘦 𝘤𝘰𝘮𝘮𝘶𝘯𝘪𝘤𝘢𝘵𝘪𝘰𝘯𝘴 𝘴𝘵𝘳𝘢𝘵𝘦𝘨𝘪𝘦𝘴 𝘧𝘳𝘰𝘮 𝘢𝘳𝘰𝘶𝘯𝘥 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘸𝘰𝘳𝘭𝘥, 𝘣𝘳𝘪𝘥𝘨𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘤𝘶𝘭𝘵𝘶𝘳𝘢𝘭 𝘪𝘯𝘴𝘪𝘨𝘩𝘵𝘴 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘪𝘯𝘥𝘶𝘴𝘵𝘳𝘺 𝘣𝘦𝘴𝘵 𝘱𝘳𝘢𝘤𝘵𝘪𝘤𝘦𝘴. Support the show
S3 E170 · Tue, March 25, 2025
The Science of How to Talk Like Ted
Ideas shape the world, but only when they’re communicated effectively. Some individuals have a remarkable ability to present their ideas in a way that captivates, influences, and inspires. A well-crafted and powerfully delivered idea doesn’t just inform—it transforms. Imagine if you could unlock the exact techniques used by the world’s best communicators, watch them deliver unforgettable presentations, and apply their secrets to engage your own audience. Carmine Gallo, has studied hundreds of TED Talks, interviewed top speakers, and worked alongside neuroscientists and psychologists to uncover why certain presentations resonate so deeply. Listen For 8:02 Make Others Feel Like the Most Important Person in the Room 11:43 The Rule of Three: Why Simplicity Wins 16:27 Energy and Passion: Your First 20 Seconds Matter 22:22 Answer to Last Episode’s Question From Guest Anne Gregory Guest: Carmine Gallo LinkedIn | X | Instagram | You Tube | Facebook | Threads | Bluesky | Pinterest Check out Carmine’s newest book “The Bezos Blueprint” Rate this podcast with just one click Stories and Strategies Website Are you a brand with a podcast that needs support? Book a meeting with Doug Downs to talk about it. Apply to be a guest on the podcast Connect with us LinkedIn | X | Instagram | You Tube | Facebook | Threads Request a transcript of this episode Support the show
S3 E169 · Tue, March 18, 2025
The Words We Need: Communicating with Someone in Times of Grief and Tragedy
This episode is in honour of Podcasthon and in support of the Canadian Cancer Society When facing a life-altering cancer diagnosis, how much does communication—between doctors, patients, and loved ones—truly matter? In this deeply moving episode, Doug Downs sits down with Tim Kelter and Pete Paczko, two men with firsthand experience navigating cancer’s devastating impact. Tim shares the heartbreaking story of losing both his daughter and wife to cancer, while Pete, currently battling stage 4 liver cancer, discusses the power of resilience and the role of community support. They dive into the failures and successes of medical communication, the well-meaning but sometimes misguided reactions from friends and family, and how music and simple human connection help them process their grief. This is an emotional and eye-opening conversation about love, loss, and the urgent need for better conversations around cancer. Listen For 7:25 "Dad, I Don’t Want to Die" – Tim’s daughter, Carolyn, breaks down upon hearing her diagnosis, expressing her deepest fear, while Tim struggles to find the right words to comfort her. 9:35 "You Should Expect to Be Dead" – Pete recalls a temporary oncologist bluntly telling him he had only 12–18 months to live, only for his regular doctor to later dismiss the claim as unknowable. 29:35 "The Song That Woke Her Up" – Tim shares how his son played Bennie and the Jets for Carolyn while she was in a coma, and when she woke up, she remembered hearing it. Guests: Tim Kelter and Pete Paczko Rate this podcast with just one click Stories and Strategies Website Are you a brand with a podcast that needs support? Book a meeting with Doug Downs to talk about it. Apply to be a guest on the podcast Connect with us LinkedIn | X | Instagram | You Tube | Facebook |
S3 E168 · Tue, March 11, 2025
Case Study: Rethinking Community Engagement in the Global Southeast
What if the key to development isn’t learning more—but unlearning first? In this episode, we explore how rural communities in underdeveloped nations can shape their own futures by moving beyond Western-imposed models of engagement. Professor Anne Gregory, shares insights from her research in rural Indonesia, where micro-hydro powerplants are transforming villages, and explains how a new approach to participatory communication is empowering communities to take charge of their development. Listen For 7:15 Why Top-Down Strategies Fail Without Community Input 9:35 The Importance of Local Partnerships in Community Engagement 14:51 The Problem with Western KPIs in Southeast Asian Communities 19:26 The True Meaning of Empowerment in Development Work 24:46 Answer to Last Episode’s Question from Guest Michelle Baty, PhD Guest: Anne Gregory, Ph.D., BA, FRSA, HonFCIPR, Huddersfield University University Website page | Email | X | LinkedIn Rate this podcast with just one click Stories and Strategies Website Are you a brand with a podcast that needs support? Book a meeting with Doug Downs to talk about it. Apply to be a guest on the podcast Connect with us LinkedIn | X | Instagram | You Tube | Facebook | Threads | Bluesky | Pinterest Request a transcript of this episode Support the show
S3 E167 · Tue, March 04, 2025
How AI is Learning to Understand Human Emotions (Polyvagel Theory)
In a world where technology is increasingly intertwined with human emotions, a new frontier is emerging—artificial intelligence that can understand how we feel. Imagine an AI system that doesn’t just analyze data but senses our emotional state through the words we choose, the way we describe our experiences, and even how consistently we check in with ourselves. This isn't science fiction. Advances in natural language processing, psychology, and machine learning are making it possible for AI to interpret human emotions with surprising accuracy. Researchers are now using AI-powered systems to classify mood states based on self-reported text, combining insights from neuroscience and behavioral psychology to enhance human decision-making. But how does an AI system detect emotions through words? What psychological theories guide its ability to distinguish between stress, motivation, or disengagement? And could this technology reshape how we interact with machines—perhaps even with one another? Listen For 9:46 AI Can Accurately Estimate YOUR Emotional State 12:34 AI Detects Emotions Before Humans Do 18:41 Is this Ethical? 22:48 Answer to Last Episode’s Question From Guest Greg Wasserman Guest: Michelle Baty, Neuro Psychologist Threads | Instagram | Facebook Listen to Michelle on the Stronger by Design podcast with Michelle MacDonald Rate this podcast with just one click Stories and Strategies Website Are you a brand with a podcast that needs support? Book a meeting with Doug Downs to talk about it. Apply to be a guest on the podcast Connect with us LinkedIn | X | Instagram | You Tube | Facebook | Threads | Bluesky | Pinterest Request a transcript of this episode Support the show
S3 Enull · Sun, March 02, 2025
FLASHBACK SUNDAY - PRSA’s Strategy to Out-Communicate Misinformation
This episode originally published in May 2024. At the end of 2023, PRSA assembled a group of 25 senior communicators from a wide range of industries, in-house and firms, for an additional meeting, with several follow-up meetings with subject matter experts, all spearheaded by Ray Day, 2024 PRSA Chair-elect. Three main actions emerged: We need to champion honesty and transparency, recognizing the need to enhance message strategies to outpace misleading information (which will always exist) We need to emphasize the importance of community-based listening and education, advocating for civil discussion to foster a more informed and respectful public The PR industry needs to become a trusted entity by reinforcing integrity and reliability across all communication channels Listen For 4:54 A Stakeholder Engagement Process for Addressing Misinformation 11:04 Community Level Education Strategies 14:56 Focus on Building Trust 19:26 Civility and Constructive Discourse Guest: Ray Day, 2024 chair PRSA LinkedIn PRSA News Release Download the Guidebook Rate this podcast with just one click Leave us a voice message we can share on the podcast https://www.speakpipe.com/StoriesandStrategies Stories and Strategies Website Do you want to podcast? Book a meeting with Doug Downs to talk about it. Apply to be a guest on the podcast Connect with us LinkedIn | X | Instagram | You Tube | Facebook | Threads Request a transcript of this episode Support the show Support the show
S3 E166 · Tue, February 25, 2025
How to Build a Personal Brand That Opens Doors
Personal branding isn’t just for influencers or CEOs—it’s for anyone who wants to stand out, build trust, and create new opportunities. Whether you’re an employee, entrepreneur, or freelancer, the way you present yourself can open doors or close them. In today’s digital world, people aren’t just hiring résumés—they’re hiring reputations. A strong personal brand can make you the go-to expert in your field, help you attract new clients, and even future-proof your career. But crafting a brand that feels authentic and powerful doesn’t happen by accident—it takes strategy, consistency, and a clear message. It’s the business of being YOU. Listen For 7:08 Why if You Fake it... You WON'T Make it 10:35 The Rise, and Risks, of Influencers 11:54 Imposter Syndrome and Personal Branding 16:58 How to Build a Personal Brand from Scratch 18:58 Your LinkedIn is your Resume – is it Working for You? 21:07 Answer to Last Episode’s Question From Guest Michelle Garrett Guest: Greg Wasserman LinkedIn | Linktr.ee Rate this podcast with just one click Stories and Strategies Website Apply to be a guest on the podcast Connect with us LinkedIn | X | Instagram | You Tube | Facebook | Threads Request a transcript of this episode Support the show
S3 E165 · Tue, February 18, 2025
Why Your PR Plan is Gathering Dust… and How to Fix it
Ever created a PR or communications plan, only to stash it away and forget about it? You’re not alone. Guest Michelle Garrett breaks down why so many businesses struggle to execute their PR strategies—and what they can do to fix it. You need to set clear goals, measure meaningful metrics beyond just media mentions, and ensure consistency in PR efforts instead of relying on one-off campaigns. Michelle also shares insights on the rising importance of personal branding, the evolving media landscape with AI-driven searches, and how companies can effectively identify and reach their target audiences. Listen For 06:02 The Wrong Metrics: What NOT to Track in PR 07:39 Common Mistakes in Evaluating PR Success 11:03 The Rise of Personal Branding in PR 13:06 How AI is Changing PR and Searchability 14:34 Finding Your Audience in a Fragmented Media Landscape 15:49 Why Trade Publications Matter More Than Ever 18:23 How Leaders Can Lend Their Voice to PR Without It Eating Up Their Time 19:34 Answer to Last Episode’s Question From Guest Kendall Breitman Guest: Michelle Garrett Website | Email | X Michelle’s book B2B PR That Gets Results Rate this podcast with just one click Stories and Strategies Website Apply to be a guest on the podcast Connect with us LinkedIn | X | Instagram | You Tube | Facebook | Threads Request a transcript of this episode Support the show
S3 E164 · Tue, February 11, 2025
Executive Storytelling: A New Era for Public Relations
As brands seek to cut through the digital noise, a fascinating trend has emerged: recording conversations with CEOs and decision-makers to create authentic, shareable content that humanizes their leadership. Kendall Breitman shares her insights on why this strategy is resonating with brands and audiences and how storytelling and transparency are becoming key drivers of brand trust in today’s world. Listen For 5:25 Turning Internal Meetings into Public Content 8:26 The Shift from Logos to Personal Branding 20:30 Authenticity vs Message Control in CEO Storytelling 22:45 Answer to Last Episode’s Question from Guest Jim Rudolph Guest: Kendall Breitman Website | X | LinkedIn | Instagram Rate this podcast with just one click Stories and Strategies Website Apply to be a guest on the podcast Connect with us LinkedIn | X | Instagram | You Tube | Facebook | Threads Request a transcript of this episode Support the show
S3 E163 · Tue, February 04, 2025
The Rise of Fractional Leadership: Filling Gaps, Driving Growth
Fractional Leadership is a growing, and possibly permanent, trend of fractional leadership and why it’s becoming a permanent shift in the business world. As organizations face leadership gaps, budget constraints, and rapidly evolving challenges, fractional leaders—experienced executives hired on a part-time basis—are stepping in to provide strategic guidance and stability. What is the unique value they bring? How do they differ from consultants and full-time executives? And what does it take to succeed in these high-impact roles? Listen For 4:02 Fractional Leadership as an Agile Solution 8:16 Building Trust Quickly as a Temporary Leader 16:14 Leadership Without an Agenda 20:50 Answer to Last Episode’s Question From Guest Farzana Baduel Guest: Jim Rudolph, JGR Communications Website | Email | LinkedIn Rate this podcast with just one click Stories and Strategies Website Are you a brand with a podcast that needs support? Book a meeting with Doug Downs to talk about it. Apply to be a guest on the podcast Connect with us LinkedIn | X | Instagram | You Tube | Facebook | Threads Request a transcript of this episode Support the show
S3 Enull · Sun, February 02, 2025
FLASHBACK SUNDAY - How a Ban on TikTok Might Impact PR and Marketing Pros
TikTok is a powerful social media tool in the United States. About 170 million Americans use the platform and for many marketing and PR agencies it’s the preferred go to tool. The average time on TikTok in 2024, per user, is estimated to be 58 minutes per day. But several governments have banned TikTok from being used on Government devices – including the United States, Canada, the UK and Australia. In India, TikTok is banned altogether. In late April 2024, President Biden signed a bill into law that has bipartisan support. It’s called the National Security Act, 2024. Under the new law, ByteDance, the owner of TikTok, has until late January 2025 to divest itself of TikTok and find new ownership for the social media company. TikTok is fighting back saying the law is unconstitutional. What does the potential ban mean for marketing and PR pros? Listen For 5:10 The Impacts a Ban on Tiktok Will Have on Different Sectors 6:07 Platform Contingency Plans 21:12 Regulation and Market Dynamics Guest: Cayce Myers, PhD, LL.M., JD, APR Email | X | LinkedIn | Website Rate this podcast with just one click Leave us a voice message we can share on the podcast https://www.speakpipe.com/StoriesandStrategies Stories and Strategies Website Do you want to podcast? Book a meeting with Doug Downs to talk about it. Apply to be a guest on the podcast Connect with us LinkedIn | X | Instagram | You Tube | Facebook | Threads Support the show
S3 E162 · Tue, January 28, 2025
Why Communication is a Navy SEAL’s Greatest Asset
Communication is the most important weapon a Navy SEAL can carry—more vital than physical strength, endurance, or even firepower. I was in Salt Lake City recently at a conference and saw former Navy SEAL William Branum speak. He served for 26 years with the US Navy and 23 of those years was a Navy SEAL. In his presentation he talked about how clear, concise, and often nonverbal communication plays a critical role in high-stress, life-or-death situations—whether underwater, in a firefight, or clearing a house. He broke down the lessons SEALs learn on the battlefield that can be applied to leadership, teamwork, and personal growth. So, when I had a chance to sit down with him in the lobby, I grabbed my mobile phone, and we recorded an episode together. This is a conversation about the power of communication and how simplifying your message can lead to greater impact. Listen For 4:26 The Power of Nonverbal Communication 6:36 Simplicity is Key in High-Stress Environments 10:33 Self-Communication Shapes Success 12:24 Adaptability in Crisis Situations Guest: William Branum, former Navy SEAL Website | Instagram | You Tube | Facebook Rate this podcast with just one click Stories and Strategies Website Connect with us LinkedIn | X | Instagram | You Tube | Facebook | Threads Request a transcript of this episode Support the show
S3 E161 · Tue, January 21, 2025
Soft Power in Public Relations: Persuasion over Pressure
Soft Power. It’s the concept of influence… not control – and it can shape global perceptions, drive brand loyalty, and create lasting impact. In this episode we learn what soft power really means, how it differs from traditional PR, and how companies can use it to build trust, foster connections, and stand out in a competitive market (or even world order). Through storytelling, cultural identity, and corporate responsibility, discover how your organization—or personal brand—can expand its reach and impact… all done softly. Listen For 6:24 Defining Soft Power 7:48 Soft Power in Nation Branding and Campaigns 9:42 Psychological Impact of Familiarity in Marketing 14:21 Building a Corporate Soft Power Strategy 22:16 Answer to Last Episode’s Question From Guest Jason Cercone Guest: Farzana Baduel, Curzon PR, President CIPR Website | Email | Bluesky | X | LinkedIn | Instagram | YouTube | Facebook Rate this podcast with just one click Stories and Strategies Website Are you a brand with a podcast that needs support? Book a meeting with Doug Downs to talk about it. Apply to be a guest on the podcast Connect with us LinkedIn | X | Instagram | You Tube | Facebook | Threads Request a transcript of this episode Support the show
S3 E160 · Tue, January 14, 2025
Hawk Tuah: Meme Queen – Crypto Scheme. Fame in the Age of Absurdity
She made the internet howl with one absurd phrase. Haliey Welch, the self-proclaimed “Hawk Tuah Girl,” turned a bizarre street interview viral fame almost overnight. What started as a joke spiraled into a full-blown phenomenon, with memes, merchandise, and her very own cryptocurrency. But it was the viral cry that became a crypto crash. In this episode, we unpack the wild story of Haliey Welch’s meteoric fame. Her viral catchphrase to the lawsuits surrounding her failed crypto venture, the absurdity of meme culture, the dangers of influencer hype, and what it all says about us as a society. Listen For 1:46 Virality is Unpredictable 5:07 Leverage Authenticity and Quality Content 12:51 Influencer Responsibility Matters 14:35 Sustainability of Fame Requires 21:28 Answer to Last Episode’s Question from Guest Karl Mawhinney Guest: Jason Cercone Website | Email | LinkedIn | YouTube Listen to Jason’s podcast Let’s Blow this Up Rate this podcast with just one click Stories and Strategies Website Are you a brand with a podcast that needs support? Book a meeting with Doug Downs to talk about it. Apply to be a guest on the podcast Connect with us LinkedIn | X | Instagram | You Tube | Facebook | Threads Request a transcript of this episode Support the show
S3 E159 · Tue, January 07, 2025
Reimagining School Marketing: Partnering, Not Promoting
Rate this podcast with just one click In today’s crowded digital landscape and with marketing budgets tighter than ever, brands are looking for fresh, innovative ways to connect with younger audiences. One emerging frontier? K-12 schools. These classrooms are no longer just hubs of learning—they’re evolving into powerful spaces where brands can make a meaningful impact while building long-term affinity. Whoa… you mean vending machines for soft drinks and chips? No. From sponsoring STEM programs to supporting arts initiatives and even helping address teacher burnout, brands are finding creative, value-driven ways to engage. But how can marketers navigate this opportunity ethically, ensuring their efforts genuinely support students and educators? Let’s explore how to strike the right balance in this delicate but promising space. Listen For 6:45 Kleenex’s “Heroes of the Classroom” Campaign 9:12 Key Metrics and Emotional Engagement 12:16 Core Principles: Jersey Mike’s Community Engagement 19:16 Recognition Programs: Kroger’s High School Initiative 21.42 Answer to Last Episode’s Question from Guest Frank Strong Guest: Karl Mawhinney Website | X | LinkedIn | Instagram Campaigns Karl mentioned Costco/Kleenex Big 5 Sporting Goods CM Facebook Stories and Strategies Website Connect with us LinkedIn | X | Instagram | You Tube | Facebook | Threads Request a transcript of this episode Support the show
Sun, January 05, 2025
SUNDAY FLASHBACK - Harnessing the Influence of Wikipedia for Your Brand
Wikipedia is one of the top the most-visited websites in the world. Additionally, it has influence. The information on Wikipedia is also disseminated across the web on Google’s Knowledge Graph and associated search page components, quick summaries of topics on Siri and Alexa, and even into news articles, podcast discussions, and government websites. Wikipedia is also of interest for SEO practitioners, heavily influencing Google search results and now impacting outputs from generative AI software like Chat-GPT. Everyone from journalists, investors, and your customers are using Wikipedia to understand your company. Do you understand how it works and what you can do about it? Guest: Rhiannon Ruff Email | LinkedIn | Lumino Digital’s website | Rhiannon’s book Managing a Crisis on Wikipedia Rate this podcast https://ratethispodcast.com/storiesstrategies Connect with us LinkedIn | X | Instagram | You Tube | Facebook Request a transcript of this episode Support the show
S3 E158 · Tue, December 31, 2024
Is AI a Hero or a Villain for Public Relations and Marketing in 2025?
Rate this podcast with just one click Time to explore predictions for the coming year in public relations, marketing, and the evolving role of AI. There are conflicting views on AI's future, its role in content generation, and whether the hype has peaked or we're still climbing the AI rollercoaster. But there’s no arguing with the importance of transparency and authenticity rising to the challenges of disinformation. Frank Strong of Sword and Script conducted an industry survey and shares the results with us. Listen For 6:43 Is the Future of AI Utopian or Dystopian? 9:31 Tough of Disillusionment: Are we There Yet? 10:06 Transparency as a Competitive Advantage 12:12 Why Differentiation Matters in an AI World 17:21 Trust in Influencers: Hollywood vs Niche Experts 21:22 Answer to Last Episode’s Question From Guest Brian Porter Guest: Frank Strong, Sword and the Script Media LLC Website | X | LinkedIn | Instagram Read the survey results Subscribe to Frank’s blog Stories and Strategies Website Apply to be a guest on the podcast Connect with us LinkedIn | X | Instagram | You Tube | Facebook | Threads Request a transcript of this episode Support the show
S3 E157 · Tue, December 24, 2024
AI Written Poetry is SHOCKINGLY Better Than Human Writers
Rate this podcast with just one click We think we can tell when bots take the pen, When AI spins words again and again. "Deep dives" and "delves" in their usual tone, The cadence, the phrasing, they’re not quite our own. But the line’s getting blurred, it’s harder to see, Is this human or machine-crafted poetry? The last bastion, they said, where humans excel, Was poetry’s heart, its unbreakable shell. Yet now a new study has shattered the view, At Pittsburgh, they’ve found something striking and new: When placed side by side, the verdict is clear, AI’s verses are what we hold dear. From Chaucer to Whitman, and Dickinson’s art, AI poems are stealing the heart. So the boundary fades, as the data suggests, The machine's taken hold in humanity’s text. Listen For 3:42 Why AI Poems are Preferred 4:48 Straightforward Nature of AI Poetry 8:06 Impact of Cognitive Bias 18:42 Potential of AI in Broader Art Forms 19:39 Answer to Last Episode’s Question from Guest Jess Jensen Guest: Brian Porter, University of Pittsburgh Website | LinkedIn Read the Abstract by Brian and his team Connect with us LinkedIn | X | Instagram | You Tube | Facebook | Threads Request a transcript of this episode (and a human will respond) Support the show
S3 E156 · Tue, December 17, 2024
Why is My CEO so BORING on Social Media?
Rate this podcast with just one click Executives are finally beginning to understand the power of participating in digital channels. “What if I mess up?” “Why would anyone want to hear from ME?” Those WERE the common excuses until about five years ago when the trend lines changes and it was more common for executive leaders to BE on social media than not. Still, most sound like cheerleaders for their company don’t they? We aren’t REALLY getting to know them, just where they work and a less-than-subtle message about why we should support or even patronize their organization. How to help them sound more authentic? More real? Maybe there is a way. Listen For 08:12 Playing it Safe: Executives “Dipping Toes” in Social Media 09:11 Frank Cooper’s LinkedIn Masterclass 10:30 Sarah Blakely’s Authentic Instagram Approach 14:05 Injecting Personality Into Executive Communication 15:42 Connecting Through Emotion, Humor, and Value 22:20 The Professional-Authentic Balance for Executives 23:18 Crafting a Narrative Framework for Digital Success 24:35 Answer to Last Episode’s Question From Guest Dr Karen Hills Pruden Guest: Jess Jensen Website | email | LinkedIn | X Stories and Strategies Website Connect with us LinkedIn | X | Instagram | You Tube | Facebook | Threads Request a transcript of this episode Support the show
S3 E155 · Tue, December 10, 2024
WOMEN Can Reach PR Executive Leadership Roles Faster Than You Think!
Rate this podcast with just one click There’s a striking imbalance in the PR industry: while women make up two-thirds of the workforce, they hold only a third of executive positions. For Dr. Karen Hills Pruden the strategy to help women close this leadership gap is to focus strongly on provable analytics. She shares how to amplify your value through metrics, finding your unique selling proposition, and why silence is NOT a superpower when it comes to self-advocacy. Listen For 4:34 Amplifying Your Value at the Table 6:21 Immediate vs Delayed ROI in PR 10:55 Analytics Every Aspiring Leader Needs 12:42 The Three Pillars of Leadership Metrics 14:05 Barriers Women Face in Leadership 17:31 The Value of a Unique Selling Proposition 20:18 Silence is NOT a Superpower 22:16 Advocating for Yourself at the Leadership Table 23:29 Answer to Last Episode’s Question from Guest Matt Krayton Guest: Dr Karen Hills Pruden Website | Email | LinkedIn Stories and Strategies Website Are you a brand with a podcast that needs support? Book a meeting with Doug Downs to talk about it. Apply to be a guest on the podcast Connect with us LinkedIn | X | Instagram | You Tube | Facebook | Threads Request a transcript of this episode Support the show
S3 E154 · Tue, December 03, 2024
Political Campaigns as PR Case Studies
We want to hear from you https://podcast.storiesandstrategies.ca/survey Rate this podcast with just one click What can political campaigns teach us about the art of public relations? Political strategist Matt Krayton explores how modern political campaigns have become masterclasses in PR strategy. From messaging and media to influencers and voter vibes, Matt breaks down what worked in the recent US election, what didn’t, and why. Listen For 8:09 The Role of Social Media in Shaping Voter Perceptions 9:10 Were Democrat Messages on Target? 11:29 Celebrity Endorsements. Do They Work Anymore? 13:10 Podcasts and Niche Media: The New Political Battleground 14:19 Why Influencers Resonate More than Celebrities 16:44 The Double Edged Sword of Traditional Media 17:48 How “Horse Race” Reporting Impacts Political Narratives 20:11 Answer to Last Episode’s Question From Guest Adrian Cropley Guest: Matt Krayton, Publitics Website | Email Rate this podcast with just one click Stories and Strategies Website Are you a brand with a podcast that needs support? Book a meeting with Doug Downs to talk about it. Apply to be a guest on the podcast Connect with us LinkedIn | X | Instagram | You Tube | Facebook | Threads Request a transcript of this episode Support the show
S3 E153 · Tue, November 26, 2024
Has JAGUAR Committed Brand Suicide?
We want to hear from you https://podcast.storiesandstrategies.ca/survey Rate this podcast with just one click Jaguar is one of the most iconic luxury car brands in the world, known for its sleek designs and powerful engines. But has the company made a fatal mistake that could impact its future? It’s rebranding, launched last week, has drawn widespread and almost universal criticism. One writer even called it “Imminent Brand Immolation.” Is this the end of Jaguar? Or does a cat always land on its feet? Listen For 4:59 The Cat is Dead: First Reactions to the Jaguar Rebrand 6:38 Blue Steel, But Make it Jaguar 7:46 Did Jaguar Set its Identity on Fire? 14:26 Pissing Off Your Loyal Audience: Bold or Brain Dead? 17:27 Living Your Values vs Alienating Your Base? 19:30 Save the Cat: Imagine a Jaguar Brand Turnaround Guest: Tyler Chisholm Website | Email | X | LinkedIn | Instagram | YouTube | Facebook Listen to Tyler’s podcast Collisions YYC Rate this podcast with just one click Stories and Strategies Website Are you a brand with a podcast that needs support? Book a meeting with Doug Downs to talk about it. Apply to be a guest on the podcast Connect with us LinkedIn | X | Instagram | You Tube | Facebook | Threads Request a transcript of this episode Support the show
S3 E152 · Tue, November 19, 2024
Adapt or Die: PR in the Age of AI
We want to hear from you https://podcast.storiesandstrategies.ca/survey Rate this podcast with just one click In many ways, the ground is shifting beneath our feet. PR professionals are shifting from traditional roles to becoming trusted advisors in a world where AI and data are reshaping the landscape. Generative AI and advanced analytics are changing the way PR pros build strategies, measure success, and influence public perception. But how can AI be used responsibly? How do we go beyond simple metrics to understand true impact? And what skills are essential in this new era of PR? Listen For 7:38 Why PR Pros Must Shape AI Development 13:41 Outcomes-based Dashboards. The Future of PR Analytics 17:38 How PR Hiring Needs to Change in the AI Era 19:03 Answer to Last Episode’s Question from Guest Raphael Labbe Guest: Adrian Cropley, OAM, FRSA, IABC Fellow, GCSCE, SCMP Website | Email | X | LinkedIn CSCE link to training offerings Check out Adrian’s podcast Stories and Strategies Website Are you a brand with a podcast that needs support? Book a meeting with Doug Downs to talk about it. Apply to be a guest on the podcast Connect with us LinkedIn | X | Instagram | You Tube | Facebook | Threads Request a transcript of this episode Support the show
S3 E151 · Tue, November 12, 2024
PROTECT Your Organization from Misinformation with Blockchain Tech!
We want to hear from you https://podcast.storiesandstrategies.ca/survey There’s a rising tide of disinformation threatening corporate communication and financial stability. It’s increasingly influential and at times very well-funded. Most recently there was the infamous Adidas hoax, where activists manipulated public perception to spark conversations about workers' rights. A new tool called Wiztrust Protect is a blockchain-based solution designed to certify and verify corporate information, helping companies safeguard their reputation and ensure the truth prevails in an increasingly deceptive digital landscape. Listen For 3:51 The Rising Tide of Corporate Misinformation 8:10 Examples of Stock Market Manipulation Hoaxes 12:27 How Wiztrust’s Blockchain Verification Works 18:45 Answer to Last Episode’s Question From Guest Rod Cartwright Guest: Raphaël Labbé, Wiztrust Website | Email Rate this podcast with just one click Stories and Strategies Website Are you a brand with a podcast that needs support? Book a meeting with Doug Downs to talk about it. Apply to be a guest on the podcast Connect with us LinkedIn | X | Instagram | You Tube | Facebook | Threads Request a transcript of this episode Support the show
S3 E150 · Tue, November 05, 2024
The Human Element of Crisis Management in PR
We want to hear from you https://podcast.storiesandstrategies.ca/survey Our World faces a lot of big problems all at once right now. Wars, disinformation, climate change, and money troubles. A new report suggests these problems actually reinforce each other, creating a “new abnormal” state of constant risk. Life feels uncertain and that’s becoming normal. The report emphasizes we need to shift our focus, not just by using technology but by focusing on people. Shift resources toward human preparedness and critical human infrastructure rather than relying solely on technical systems. Listen For 7:12 Why Crises Deserve a Human Response 10:23 Poly-Crisis: The New Normal in Crisis Management 14:24 Crisis as a Turning Point 16:59 Answer to Last Episode’s Question From Guest Brittany Brown Guest: Rod Cartwright LinkedIn Download the Full Report “Reputation, Risk and Resilience Article for UK’s National Preparedness Commission o the crucial role of human preparedness and critical human infrastructure Rate this podcast with just one click Stories and Strategies Website Are you a brand with a podcast that needs support? Book a meeting with Doug Downs to talk about it. Apply to be a guest on the podcast Connect with us LinkedIn | X | Instagram | You Tube | Facebook | Threads Request a transcript of this episode Support the show
S3 E149 · Sun, October 27, 2024
Why Communications Strategy is NASA’s Secret Weapon
We want to hear from you https://podcast.storiesandstrategies.ca/survey Why is strategic communications so important to NASA? And what strategies do they use? What audiences do they target? Brittany Brown of NASA shares how NASA tailors messages for different audiences - ranging from super fans to untapped communities and stakeholders. She shares insights into memorable campaigns, including the Apollo 11 moon landing and the Parker Solar Probe. Listen For 5:21 Segmenting NASA's Audiences 9:38 Making Complex Science Relatable 11:02 Collaborating with Partners - There's Space for Everybody 21:30 Answer to Last Episode’s Question From Guest Arik Karani Guest: Brittany Brown NASA Contact | Website | X | LinkedIn | Instagram | YouTube Rate this podcast with just one click Stories and Strategies Website Are you a brand with a podcast that needs support? Book a meeting with Doug Downs to talk about it. Apply to be a guest on the podcast Connect with us LinkedIn | X | Instagram | You Tube | Facebook | Threads Request a transcript of this episode Support the show
S3 E148 · Sun, October 20, 2024
Regulating PR. What Three African Nations are Doing
We would love to hear about your experience with the Stories and Strategies podcast https://form.jotform.com/242954786599279 Arik Karani, the President of the African Public Relations Association shares why three African nations have introduced mandatory certification for public relations professionals. It’s intended to standardize the PR practice and enforce ethical practice but they also standardize pay rates and even protect practitioners from being fired needlessly. Is it working in Africa? Would it work in the United States? Listen For 4:37 Elevating Professional Standards 8:57 Penalties for Unlicensed Practice 12:58 Standardizing Pay for PR Professionals 19:22 Answer to Last Episode’s Question From Guest Sia Papageorgiou Guest: Arik Karani, President African Public Relations Association X | LinkedIn Rate this podcast with just one click Stories and Strategies Website Are you a brand with a podcast that needs support? Book a meeting with Doug Downs to talk about it. Apply to be a guest on the podcast Connect with us LinkedIn | X | Instagram | You Tube | Facebook | Threads Request a transcript of this episode Support the show
S3 E147 · Sun, October 13, 2024
Accreditation vs Certification for Communications Pros
We would love to hear about your experience with the Stories and Strategies podcast https://form.jotform.com/242954786599279 Is professional certification is becoming a must for the industry? Sia Papageorgiou challenges the traditional idea of accreditation and argues that certification is the real game-changer for PR professionals. She shares insights on why the Global Communication Certification Council (GCCC) stands out with its internationally recognized standards, and why it’s crucial for communication professionals to continually update their skills to stay relevant in a rapidly changing field. Listen For 2:43 Certification over Accreditation 6:02 Ongoing Education and Accountability 12:55 Mandatory Certification in Some Countries 17:00 Answer to Last Episode’s Question from Guest Vince Nero Guest: Sia Papageorgiou, FRSA, FCSCE, SCMP Website | Email | X | LinkedIn CSCE link to training offerings Rate this podcast with just one click Stories and Strategies Website Are you a brand with a podcast that needs support? Book a meeting with Doug Downs to talk about it. Apply to be a guest on the podcast Connect with us LinkedIn | X | Instagram | You Tube | Facebook | Threads Request a transcript of this episode Support the show
S3 E146 · Sun, October 06, 2024
AI Issues in Content Creation: Striking a Balance Between SEO and Authenticity
We perform a tricky balancing act every day – writing for both the human eye and the search engine algorithm. As content creators, we’re constantly faced with the dilemma: Should we prioritize crafting engaging, meaningful stories that resonate with our readers, or should we focus on hitting those all-important keywords that boost our SEO rankings? The rise of semantic SEO adds yet another layer to this puzzle, as it pushes us to consider not just the words we use, but the intent and sentiment behind them. In this episode, the Search Dilemma: Human Eye or Algorithm? Listen For 3:34 Prioritizing Human-Centric Content 5:31 Google’s Evolution and its Impact on SEO 15:27 Testing and Personalization 21:20 Answer to Last Episode’s Question from Guest Dallas Taylor Guest: Vince Nero, Buzzstream X | LinkedIn Rate this podcast with just one click Stories and Strategies Website Are you a brand with a podcast that needs support? Book a meeting with Doug Downs to talk about it. Apply to be a guest on the podcast Connect with us LinkedIn | X | Instagram | You Tube | Facebook | Threads Request a transcript of this episode Support the show
Thu, October 03, 2024
Throwback Thursday - Oh the Things We Can Do With Generative AI
This episode first published in May 2023. It’s as if we have a new toy. When Open AI released Chat GPT-3 last November, and made it fully accessible to the public, it suddenly changed how we can create engaging and relevant content for our audiences, with just a few prompts. Not only can we CREATE content, but we can also gather valuable insights into customer behaviours and preferences like never before. By analyzing the data generated by customer interactions, businesses can identify patterns and trends they can use to optimize their strategies. But it’s all so new for so many of us. What exactly can we do with this NEW TOY? Listen For 2:00 Understanding Generative AI as a Tool 6:35 Mega Prompting for a Consistent Brand Voice 8:06 Personalizing Content with AI 19:41 Ethical Considerations in AI Guest: Brad Williamson, Lead Strategist Catch Digital Website | Email Rate this podcast with just one click Stories and Strategies Website Connect with us LinkedIn | X | Instagram | You Tube | Facebook | Threads Request a transcript of this episode Support the show
S3 E145 · Sun, September 29, 2024
The Influential Power of Audio
Sound is powerful. Doug connects Dallas Taylor of the Twenty Thousand Hertz podcast to explore the remarkable influence of audio on human connection and branding. From the hidden magic of Sonic branding to how podcasts create lasting bonds, they uncover why audio remains one of our most potent yet underutilized senses. They also dive into the darker side of audio, discussing the rise of deep fake technology and its impact on trust in the digital age. Whether you’re a PR professional or just curious about sound’s role in our lives, this episode offers valuable insights into the world of audio. Listen For 4:17 Audio’s Hidden Powers 6:58 Sonic Branding’s Emotional Impact 11:41 Audio and Deep Fakes 20:55 Answer to Question Posed Last Week by Dean Heuman Guest: Dallas Taylor Website Dallas’ podcast 20 Thousand Hertz Rate this podcast with just one click Stories and Strategies Website Are you a brand with a podcast that needs support? Book a meeting with Doug Downs to talk about it. Apply to be a guest on the podcast Connect with us LinkedIn | X | Instagram | You Tube | Facebook | Threads Request a transcript of this episode Support the show
S3 E144 · Sun, September 22, 2024
Public Relations Strategies When Companies Hire Controversial Leaders
How do you navigate leadership changes, even when the decisions make little sense? In this episode, Doug and Dean Heuman tackle the challenges of handling leadership transitions, especially when the choices seem controversial. Using the recent example of the Edmonton Oilers hiring a new GM, they explore the delicate balance between maintaining trust, managing emotions, and ensuring transparency. Heuman introduces the EFA (Emotion, Fact, Action) approach as a framework for communicators to manage such transitions effectively, stressing the importance of addressing internal and external concerns. When leadership decisions ripple across employees, sponsors, and the broader community – the challenges become intricate, and the stakes are higher. Listen For: 5:51 The Ripple Effect of Leadership Changes 7:59 Edmonton Oilers: A Leadership Change Breakdown 12:42 The EFA Method: Managing Emotions First 18:19 When to Question a Leadership Change 20:12 Answer to Last Episode’s Question From Guest Akeem Anderson Guest: Dean Heuman, Focus Communications Website | Email | LinkedIn Rate this podcast with just one click Stories and Strategies Website Are you a brand with a podcast that needs support? Book a meeting with Doug Downs to talk about it. Apply to be a guest on the podcast Connect with us LinkedIn | X | Instagram | You Tube | Facebook | Threads Request a transcript of this episode Support the show
S3 E143 · Sun, September 15, 2024
How CEOs and Other Senior Executives Are Using Digital Media
As the stakes grow higher in today's fast-paced, interconnected world, top executives are increasingly turning to social and other digital platforms to shape their public personas, engage with critical social issues, and build direct connections with key stakeholders. A new report explores the public relations and communications strategies behind these efforts and how this shift is redefining leadership in the digital age. Listen For 6:32 Executives are Moving Beyond Just Sharing Company News 9:51 Authenticity and Thumb-Stoppers 13:33 Building a Consistent Voice 16:24 Multi-Channel Presence 19:14 Answer to Last Episode’s Question From Guest Shayoni Lynn Guest: Akeem Anderson, H Advisors Abernathy LinkedIn Rate this podcast with just one click Stories and Strategies Website Are you a brand with a podcast that needs support? Book a meeting with Doug Downs to talk about it. Apply to be a guest on the podcast Connect with us LinkedIn | X | Instagram | You Tube | Facebook | Threads Request a transcript of this episode Support the show
S3 E142 · Sun, September 08, 2024
The Disinformation Playbook
There is an anatomy of a disinformation campaign. In this episode we reveal the tactics that make false narratives so dangerously effective. From the subtle beginnings of a lone post to the orchestrated amplification by bots, and finally, the unwitting spread by receptive hosts. These campaigns infect the public psyche faster than you can blink. But we can fight back. We can invest in early warning systems, develop proactive diagnosis and intervention, and perhaps most uniquely, we can conduct experiments to test different interventions and techniques on audiences – simulating exposure to disinformation in a controlled environment. Listen For: 4:40 Understanding the Life Cycle of Disinformation 9:36 The Role of Receptive Hosts (or DisInfluencers) 11:15 Importance of Early Warning Systems 15:06 Experimentation and Simulated Exposure Guest: Shayoni Lynn, Lynn Group Website | LinkedIn How Hate Spreads: How Hate Spreads: A briefing note from The Misinformation Cell - Lynn Mpox and Conspiracy Theories: Mpox and conspiracy theories - Lynn Rate this podcast with just one click Stories and Strategies Website Do you want to podcast? Book a meeting with Doug Downs to talk about it. Apply to be a guest on the podcast Connect with us LinkedIn | X | Instagram | You Tube | Facebook | Threads Request a transcript of this episode Support the show
Thu, September 05, 2024
Throwback Thursday – When Lies BUILD Trust
This is a Replay from Episode 79 which first published in January 2023. In this age of misinformation and disinformation we can all agree lies and deception are bad right? Aren’t they? Philosophers, psychologists, economists – and all those morality experts on social media have always insisted deception harms trust. Four Behavioral Science studies done through the Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania show that assertion just isn’t true. In fact, there lies we hear, knowing they are lies, that make us trust those liars even more. So what’s the truth about lying? Listen For 4:02 Pro Social Lies and Trust 11:06 Altruistic Lies and Moral Credit 14:14 Cultural Differences in Lying 18:08 Lying in Politics Guests Maurice Schweitzer, PhD and Emma Levine, PhD: Emma.Levine@chicagobooth.edu Schweitzer@wharton.upenn.edu Link to Emma and Maurice’s study Prosocial Lies: When deception breeds trust Apply to be a guest on the podcast Connect with us LinkedIn | X | Instagram | You Tube | Facebook | Threads Request a transcript of this episode Support the Show. Support the show
S3 E141 · Sun, September 01, 2024
The AI Solution for Navigating Reputational Risks
Narratives matter. In a world where information spreads faster than ever, understanding and managing the stories that shape public perception is crucial. Constellation is an advanced narrative intelligence platform by Blackbird.AI designed to identify and mitigate reputational risks before they spiral out of control. For marketing and public relations professionals, the stakes have never been higher. With a single post capable of damaging a brand's reputation, knowing how to detect and respond to harmful narratives is essential. Listen For: 3:23 The Importance of Narrative Intelligence in Managing Public Perception 4:41 AI Powered Risk Assessment for Organizations 10:30 Real World Applications and Case Studies 13:31 Mitigating Narrative-Driven Risks in Financial and Political Sectors Guest: Dan Lowden Website | LinkedIn Articles Indian Disinformation Aims to Sow Division in Bangladesh Following Ousting of Prime Minister Go Inside the UK Riot’s Harmful Narratives and Disinformation Campaigns Apply to be a guest on the podcast Connect with us LinkedIn | X | Instagram | You Tube | Facebook | Threads Request a transcript of this episode Support the show
S3 E140 · Sun, August 25, 2024
Marketing For a Tough Industry
Helping a brand within a heavily regulated industry develop a positive reputation can be a challenge. Tobacco, alcohol, adult entertainment, pharmaceuticals, firearms, cryptocurrency, or cannabis. These sectors face stringent regulations and significant public scrutiny. They also present incredible opportunities for marketers willing to navigate these hurdles. In this episode we explore the strategies needed to effectively promote products and services in tough industries, where traditional marketing approaches often fall short, and innovative, compliant strategies are keys to success. Listen For 9:05 Overcoming Industry Challenges Through Earned Media 11:45 The Importance of “Receipts” 14:32 Engaging the Canna-Curious Segment 19:11 Leveraging Testimonials and Case Studies for Older Demographics Guest: Michael Mejer, Green Lane Communication Website | Email | Michael’s LinkedIn | Green Lane Communication’s LinkedIn | Instagram Rate this podcast with just one click Leave us a voice message we can share on the podcast https://www.speakpipe.com/StoriesandStrategies Stories and Strategies Website Do you want to podcast? Book a meeting with Doug Downs to talk about it. Apply to be a guest on the podcast Connect with us LinkedIn | X | Instagram | You Tube | Facebook | Threads Request a transcript of this episode Support the show
S3 E139 · Sun, August 18, 2024
The Hidden Costs of Cutting Corners in PR and Marketing
It’s an often overlooked but critical sin. Taking too many shortcuts in our work. The allure of quick fixes can lead to long-term damage and tank a brand’s reputation and trustworthiness. In this episode we uncover the hidden costs of cutting corners and the ethical implications that come with it. Listen For 4:42 Cutting Corners Using AI 6:26 Prioritizing Your Unique Strengths 11:00 Impacts of Cross Posting Content on Social Media 16:12 Cold Email Campaigns. Yea or Nay? Guest: Jeremy Enns Jeremy Enns is the Founder of Podcast Marketing Academy where he helps scrappy brands & podcast creators make sense of marketing and hit their next growth milestone with step-by-step playbooks and approachable marketing education. Website | X | LinkedIn | Instagram | YouTube | Free Podcast Marketing Audit | Scrappy Podcasting Newsletter Rate this podcast with just one click Leave us a voice message we can share on the podcast https://www.speakpipe.com/StoriesandStrategies Stories and Strategies Website Do you want to podcast? Book a meeting with Doug Downs to talk about it. Apply to be a guest on the podcast Connect with us LinkedIn | X | Instagram | You Tube | Facebook | Threads Request a transcript of this episode Support the show
S3 E138 · Sun, August 11, 2024
How Everyday PR Pros are Using AI to Shave Hours Off Their Workflows
Double the output – but lose the human touch? From automating media monitoring and sentiment analysis to optimizing content and reshaping billing practices. AI tools are revolutionizing the PR landscape. But while AI can handle many tasks efficiently, there are critical areas where human creativity and emotional intelligence remain irreplaceable. It’s not all rosy predictions for AI and PR – there are very real challenges of AI adoption and the surprising inertia many in the field are experiencing. Listen For 3:36 An example of AI Adoption Dramatically Increasing Productivity 7:44 Why PR and Marketing Pros Will Need to Shift to Value-Based Billing 15:29 AI Excels at Certain PR Tasks 21:55 Authenticity Will Stand Out in an AI-Saturated World Guest: Michael Smart Subscribe to Michael's popular weekly newsletter on PR and AI tips Rate this podcast with just one click Leave us a voice message we can share on the podcast https://www.speakpipe.com/StoriesandStrategies Stories and Strategies Website Do you want to podcast? Book a meeting with Doug Downs to talk about it. Apply to be a guest on the podcast Connect with us LinkedIn | X | Instagram | You Tube | Facebook | Threads Request a transcript of this episode Support the show
S3 E137 · Sun, August 04, 2024
Mastering Consumer Shortcuts: How Marketers Leverage Heuristics for Success
We all use mental shortcuts to make decisions. Those mental shortcuts are the reason that first sentence in this episode description is so short. Savvy marketers tap into these cognitive biases to influence out choices and drive success. In this episode, Nathan Yeung shares why understanding these shortcuts is crucial for creating effective marketing strategies and how trust and avoiding overconfidence play pivotal roles in winning over consumers. Listen For 4:21 Utilizing Availability and Accessibility Heuristics 9:08 Channel Strategy and Consumer Habits 11:35 Ethical Use of Cognitive Biases 14:15 Trust and Overconfidence in Marketing Guest: Nathan Yeung, Find Your Audience Website | Email | LinkedIn Rate this podcast with just one click Leave us a voice message we can share on the podcast https://www.speakpipe.com/StoriesandStrategies Stories and Strategies Website Do you want to podcast? Book a meeting with Doug Downs to talk about it. Apply to be a guest on the podcast Connect with us LinkedIn | X | Instagram | You Tube | Facebook | Threads Request a transcript of this episode Support the show
Bonus · Thu, August 01, 2024
Throwback Thursday - The Behavioural Science Communications Firm That's Changing Everything
This episode was originally published September 13, 2022. Enter Behavioural Science, which is an umbrella term capturing economics, anthropology, cognitive neuroscience, sociology, psychology, and political science. It’s the study of when and why individuals engage in specific behaviours by experimentally examining the impact of factors such as conscious thoughts, motivation, social influences, contextual effects and habits. There are hundreds of firms exploring in this field now, working for clients trying to convince people to buy the right soap, vote for the preferred candidate, or choose the right behaviour. It’s a shift away from just best practices and intuition – to seek an understanding of human behaviour as best we can. One is standing out from the field and the industry has noticed. Lynn, in Wales. It’s won dozens of awards including “Fastest Growing Communications Business in the World.” In this episode we meet the founder, Shayoni Lynn. Listen For 4:15 Understanding Behavioural Science 6:15 An Integrated Behavioural Science Approach 20:43 Misinformation and Disinformation Management 18:43 Sludge Audits Guest: Shayoni Lynn, Lynn Website | Email | X | Instagram | LinkedIn Rate this podcast with just one click Leave us a voice message we can share on the podcast https://www.speakpipe.com/StoriesandStrategies Stories and Strategies Website Do you want to podcast? Book a meeting with Doug Downs to talk about it. Apply to be a guest on the podcast Connect with us LinkedIn | X | Instagram | You Tube | Facebook | Threads Request a transcript of this episode Support the Show. Support the show
S3 E136 · Sun, July 28, 2024
Networking: Effective Communication at Big Events
Those big networking events. Many of us enjoy those but the repetitive small talk can be exhausting and challenging especially when conversations are frequently interrupted. In this episode we look at strategies for engaging storytelling in brief interactions, making meaningful connections, and ensuring your conversations stand out. Listen For 5:06 The Power of Listening 9:13 When You’re an Introvert 13:30 Finding Your Wedge into Group Conversations 20:14 Tailoring Your Stories Guest: Robert Kennedy III Website | You Tube RK3’s August 2024 Webinar http://learnwithrk3.com/3swebinar Rate this podcast with just one click Leave us a voice message we can share on the podcast https://www.speakpipe.com/StoriesandStrategies Stories and Strategies Website Do you want to podcast? Book a meeting with Doug Downs to talk about it. Apply to be a guest on the podcast Connect with us LinkedIn | X | Instagram | You Tube | Facebook | Threads Request a transcript of this episode Support the show
S3 E135 · Sun, July 21, 2024
Top Instagram Trends in 2024
Instagram Reels has become critical for brand promotion. Of all the things you can do on IG (Stories, Posts, Carousels…), Reels is number one. SocialInsider studied this recently and found brands have increased their use of reels by 40% compared to the previous year because they’re more engaging than single images or carousels. Brands should have a consistent calendar for creating reels, but also use other content formats like carousels to reach their goals on Instagram. And, as in any PR campaign, it’s important to understand your audience and tailor content to their preferences. The “Reel” success for brands just might be in creating smaller, niche communities for more effective engagement. Listen For 3:38 Why Reels is Number One on Instagram and How Brands have responded 6:30 The Importance of a Content Mix 9:18 Understanding Your Audience 12:00 Why You Need to Get Their Attention in Three Seconds Guest: Adina Jipa, Founder and CMO Social Insider Email | LinkedIn | Instagram | Instagram Benchmarks Report Rate this podcast with just one click Leave us a voice message we can share on the podcast https://www.speakpipe.com/StoriesandStrategies Stories and Strategies Website Do you want to podcast? Book a meeting with Doug Downs to talk about it. Apply to be a guest on the podcast Connect with us LinkedIn | X | Instagram | You Tube | Facebook | Threads Request a transcript of this episode Support the show
S3 E134 · Sun, July 14, 2024
As Communications Director, What’s Your Next Step for the Democrats? Or Republicans?
The debate was a disaster. In this episode, we look at the chaotic political showdown between Joe Biden and Donald Trump, exploring the “What Now” for each party. Janet Brown is an extremely well-respected pollster in Canada with NO political affiliation to either US party. We talk about what she would do if she was in charge of communications strategy for the Democrats and the Republicans. Listen For 6:38 The Need to Focus on Donors 8:40 Utilize Private Meetings for Recovery 14:06 Emulate Ronald Reagan’s “Morning in America” Campaign 21:32 How to Monitor Grassroots Indicators Guest: Janet Brown Website | Email | X | LinkedIn Rate this podcast with just one click Leave us a voice message we can share on the podcast https://www.speakpipe.com/StoriesandStrategies Stories and Strategies Website Do you want to podcast? Book a meeting with Doug Downs to talk about it. Apply to be a guest on the podcast Connect with us LinkedIn | X | Instagram | You Tube | Facebook | Threads Request a transcript of this episode Support the show
S3 E133 · Sun, July 07, 2024
Why Public Relations Shouldn’t Abandon Controversial Industries
The UN Secretary-General António Guterres's has made a controversial suggestion that public relations professionals should sever ties with fossil fuel companies. While his comments are aimed at combating climate change, they overlook the crucial role PR pros play in driving innovation and transparency within these companies. By disengaging, PR experts could inadvertently hinder progress towards net-zero goals, as their expertise is vital in communicating and facilitating the transformative changes necessary for a sustainable future. But this raises another question – when should we say no to working with a company? Listen For 4:02 Understanding the Influence of Public Relations 4:40 The Role of Public Relations in Environmental Progress 6:10 Ethics vs Morality in Public Relations 17:45 Driving Positive Change Guest: Stuart Bruce Website | Email | LinkedIn Rate this podcast with just one click Leave us a voice message we can share on the podcast https://www.speakpipe.com/StoriesandStrategies Stories and Strategies Website Do you want to podcast? Book a meeting with Doug Downs to talk about it. Apply to be a guest on the podcast Connect with us LinkedIn | X | Instagram | You Tube | Facebook | Threads Request a transcript of this episode Support the show
Bonus · Thu, July 04, 2024
Throwback Thursday - The ORID Method for Structured Conversation
This is a Replay from Episode 73 which first published in October 2022. You know how this feels. You’re called into a meeting on something important where a decision or action must be determined. But in the meeting, everyone takes turns making different points (presumably so they feel they’ve contributed to the meeting in front of their superior), the conversation goes wayward and when it comes time to making the decision, everyone’s confused or (worse) misled. This is typically the point where the most senior person in the room then makes decisions, essentially based on what they thought before they entered the room, and the meeting has been a waste of time. It just doesn’t have to be this way. The ORID method (Objective, Reflective, Interpretive, Decisional) traces its origins to a person named Joseph Matthews, a US army Chaplin who had just come home from World War Two. When he returned to his university professorship, he was consumed with the need to help people process the events of their lives – to help people build meaning from their own trials. Matthews met an art professor who showed him that any encounter with art involves a trialogue – or three-way conversation – between the art, the artist, and the observer. The Professor explained: "First you have to take the work of art seriously by observing carefully what's there, and what's not. Then you must look seriously at what is going on inside of you as you observe the art to see how you are reacting, what repels you? What delights you? You have to peel back layers of awareness so that you can begin to ask what it means to you. Art, the professor explained, is like listening. You must work to create your own meaning from an artwork, or a conversation.” Matthews recalled his exposure to phenomenology - the study of phenomena and brought to mind readings of Soren Kierkegaard. Matthews used this structure to create, what was called the art form conversation, and what facilitators affectionately call the focused conversation method. The idea is a structured conversation that helps participants develop their thinking in a logical manner but following a natural human process for focused communication. Logic and facts are introduced first, then emotion is welcomed, followed by interpretation, and then a decision or resolution to the thinking process. In this episode we talk with Robin Parsons, a seasoned professional facilitator who uses the ORID method all the time. Listen For 5:09 Definition and Role of a Facilitator 7:38 The ORID Method Explained 10:03 The Importance of Reflective Thinking 17:42 The Challenges with Surveys in Capturing Full Thinking Processes Guest: Robin Parsons, MBA, CPF, CTF Parsons Dialogue Ltd. Website https://www.parsonsdialogue.com/ Email info@parso
S3 E132 · Sun, June 30, 2024
Shifting Leadership Communication from Command to Curiosity
Leadership, and leadership communication, is evolving. The rules from even just five years ago (pre COVID) have shifted. In this episode Paige Williams shares how we can transform communication and leadership effectiveness by asking the right questions and staying rooted in curiosity. These are strategies that can enhance creativity, engagement, and resilience in your team, whether you’re leading a small group or a large organization. Listen For 5:22 The Importance of Asking the Right Questions 7:09 Modern Leadership and the Ecosystem 10:14 Holding Plans Lightly 18:29 Positive Deviance Guest: Paige Williams, Ph.D. Organisational Behaviour Website | Email | LinkedIn | Instagram | You Tube | Books on Amazon Books by Dr Paige The Leaders’ Ecosystem What Does Good Look Like? Own It! Becoming Antifragile Your Leadership Blueprint Surviving to Thriving Rate this podcast with just one click Leave us a voice message we can share on the podcast https://www.speakpipe.com/StoriesandStrategies Stories and Strategies Website Do you want to podcast? Book a meeting with Doug Downs to talk about it. Apply to be a guest on the podcast Connect with us LinkedIn | X | Instagram | You Tube | Facebook | Threads Request a transcript of this episode Support the show
S3 E131 · Sun, June 23, 2024
How Digital Media is Redefining Consumer Behavior
Awareness is likely the most compelling element of purchase decisions. Hunter, a top consumer marketing communications firm says its studies show the power of awareness in purchase decisions. It’s also critical to have a multi-channel strategy that can capture your audience’s attention and drive them to action. And there’s a surprising amount of strength to in-store communication and word of mouth shaping consumer behavior. In this episode… what makes us buy. Listen for: 5:53 Key Insights from the Diagnostic Phase of the Hunter Study 8:26 The Importance of a Multichannel Strategy 10:59 The Surprising Dominance of In-Person Communication 19:35 Demographic Tendencies of Their Influence on Communication Channels Guest: Heddy DeMaria Website | Email | LinkedIn | Instagram | Facebook Rate this podcast with just one click Leave us a voice message we can share on the podcast https://www.speakpipe.com/StoriesandStrategies Stories and Strategies Website Do you want to podcast? Book a meeting with Doug Downs to talk about it. Apply to be a guest on the podcast Connect with us LinkedIn | X | Instagram | You Tube | Facebook | Threads Request a transcript of this episode Support the show
S3 E130 · Sun, June 16, 2024
Does the C-Suite Still Not Understand Public Relations?
In today’s fast-paced and interconnected world, effective communication is more crucial than ever for organizations aiming to maintain a positive public image. Public relations (PR) advisors play a vital role in shaping these communications, ensuring that messages align with company values, respond appropriately to crises, and enhance the brand's reputation. However, a recurring issue is the reluctance of senior executives to heed the advice of their PR professionals. This disconnect can have significant repercussions for both the executive and the organization. Why don’t they get us? Listen For: 3:57 Senior Execs Who Misstep then Double Down 5:03 Importance of Media Training for Execs 7:44 Executive-Level Overconfidence 10:36 Effective Collaboration Between Executives and PR Teams Guest: Michelle Garrett Website | Email | X Michelle’s new book B2B PR That Gets Results Rate this podcast with just one click Leave us a voice message we can share on the podcast https://www.speakpipe.com/StoriesandStrategies Stories and Strategies Website Do you want to podcast? Book a meeting with Doug Downs to talk about it. Apply to be a guest on the podcast Connect with us LinkedIn | X | Instagram | You Tube | Facebook | Threads Request a transcript of this episode Support the show
S3 E129 · Sun, June 09, 2024
Embracing AI as a Stakeholder in Public Relations
Here’s a different perspective. What if we didn’t regard AI as a technology? What if we thought of it as a stakeholder? AI has the power to influence and even revolutionize industries from sustainable development to climate intervention. At the same time, we know the risks involve navigating ethical complexities and misinformation. Maybe we need to expand our perspective beyond this tool we’re learning to use, and accept it as a complex voice we need to influence for the greater good. Guest: Rupert Younger, Founder and Director of the Oxford University Centre for Corporate Reputation X | LinkedIn | Oxford University Centre for Corporate Reputation | Enacting Purpose Initiative | Activist Manifesto Publications Rupert’s original article in Oxford Answers The reputation game: the art of changing how people see you Rate this podcast with just one click Leave us a voice message we can share on the podcast https://www.speakpipe.com/StoriesandStrategies Stories and Strategies Website Do you want to podcast? Book a meeting with Doug Downs to talk about it. Apply to be a guest on the podcast Connect with us LinkedIn | X | Instagram | You Tube | Facebook | Threads Request a transcript of this episode Support the show
Thu, June 06, 2024
Throwback Thursday - The Ethics of AI in PR
This episode was originally published September 13, 2020 but it's just as relevant today as then. Easily one of the most thoughtful episodes we've ever done. "Society is changing... there's a new elite emerging and those elite have huge amounts of power." Professor Anne Gregory, Ph.D., BA, FRSA, HonFCIPR, Huddersfield University, a.gregory@hud.ac.uk "The problem with algorithms is they... discriminate almost by design. They're missing on diversity and inclusion, so you have to get in there as PR people." Jean Valin, BA, BA (Hons), APR, FCPRS, HonFCIPR, Valin Strategic Communications, jvalinpr@gmail.com The Artificial Intelligence in Public Relations panel was founded in 2018. It’s a global volunteer committee, developed through the Chartered Institute of Public Relations (CIPR) comprising senior communications professionals and leading PR academics and researchers. Recently CIPR and the Canadian Public Relations Society (CPRS) partnered to publish the AI in Ethics Guide which seeks to improve ethical decision-making of algorithms and other automated tools to avoid harmful impacts on individuals. To access the Ethics Guide to Artificial Intelligence in PR: https://www.cipr.co.uk/ai Support the Show. Support the show
Bonus · Sun, June 02, 2024
FEED DROP – Punching Above Your Weight With a Smaller Marketing Team
This week we’re featuring an episode of the “Building Better CMO’s” podcast with Greg Stuart. GE has changed a whole lot since Global CMO Linda Boff started working there, more than 20 years ago. It was once a sprawling portfolio company that made everything from microwaves to television shows; recently, it spun off its healthcare, energy, and aerospace divisions into three distinct public companies, and executives like Linda take these core areas of focus very seriously. Linda and MMA Global CEO Greg Stuart discuss how to punch above your weight with a smaller marketing team, why B2B businesses don't have to be boring, the importance of communicating to the rest of the C-Suite in their language. Guest Linda Boff LinkedIn This episode was produced and edited by Eric Johnson from LightningPod.fm . Support the show
S3 E127 · Sun, May 26, 2024
So… You Want to Be a Professional Voiceover Actor?
Andrea Rooz has been a professional voice actor for two decades. In this episode she shares the intricacies of voiceover work, including the importance of acting classes and improvisation skills. She also highlights the shift in the industry from seeking traditional "radio voices" to preferring more relatable, everyday voices. Andrea outlines some of her techniques for maintaining a clear voice, such as chewing gum, staying hydrated, and munching on green apples. She also discusses the challenges of the job, including dealing with demanding clients and the increased competition due to the rise of home studios during the pandemic. Listen For 4:25 – The Industry Shift from “Voice of God” to “Voice of the Everyday Person” 5:19 – How to Adapt Voice to the Product or Service and Audience 10:12 – The Role of Demographics in Voiceover Choice 13:06 – Technical Aspects and Preparation for Voiceover Work Guest: Andrea Rooz Website | LinkedIn | One of Andrea’s TTC reads for the TTC Rate this podcast with just one click Leave us a voice message we can share on the podcast https://www.speakpipe.com/StoriesandStrategies Stories and Strategies Website Do you want to podcast? Book a meeting with Doug Downs to talk about it. Apply to be a guest on the podcast Connect with us LinkedIn | X | Instagram | You Tube | Facebook | Threads Request a transcript of this episode Support the show
S3 E126 · Sun, May 19, 2024
How a Ban on TikTok Might Impact PR and Marketing Pros
TikTok is a powerful social media tool in the United States. About 170 million Americans use the platform and for many marketing and PR agencies it’s the preferred go to tool. The average time on TikTok in 2024, per user, is estimated to be 58 minutes per day. But several governments have banned TikTok from being used on Government devices – including the United States, Canada, the UK and Australia. In India, TikTok is banned altogether. In late April 2024, President Biden signed a bill into law that has bipartisan support. It’s called the National Security Act, 2024. Under the new law, ByteDance, the owner of TikTok, has until late January 2025 to divest itself of TikTok and find new ownership for the social media company. TikTok is fighting back saying the law is unconstitutional. What does the potential ban mean for marketing and PR pros? Listen For 5:10 The Impacts a Ban on Tiktok Will Have on Different Sectors 6:07 Platform Contingency Plans 21:12 Regulation and Market Dynamics Guest: Cayce Myers, PhD, LL.M., JD, APR Email | X | LinkedIn | Website Rate this podcast with just one click Leave us a voice message we can share on the podcast https://www.speakpipe.com/StoriesandStrategies Stories and Strategies Website Do you want to podcast? Book a meeting with Doug Downs to talk about it. Apply to be a guest on the podcast Connect with us LinkedIn | X | Instagram | You Tube | Facebook | Threads Request a transcript of this episode Support the show
S3 E125 · Sun, May 12, 2024
Travel Marketing Strategies
Travel marketing is changing. This episode explores the impact of shifting seasonal travel trends, evolving social media search habits, and the new booking landscape on marketing strategies. Learn how generations differ in their travel planning, how VR and AI are reshaping the industry, and why rich storytelling matters. Discover how to connect with travelers at every stage and measure campaign success through cutting-edge analytics. Listen For: 3:26 Seasonal Travel Trends Shift 4:07 From Bleisure to Lissness 6:11 The Power of TikTok in Travel Marketing 19:58 Data-Driven Measurement Guest: Dani Hannah and Allegra Demerjian Website | E-Book | Dani’s Email | Allegra’s Email | Dani’s LinkedIn | Allegra’s LinkedIn Rate this podcast with just one click Leave us a voice message we can share on the podcast https://www.speakpipe.com/StoriesandStrategies Stories and Strategies Website Do you want to podcast? Book a meeting with Doug Downs to talk about it. Apply to be a guest on the podcast Connect with us LinkedIn | X | Instagram | You Tube | Facebook | Threads Request a transcript of this episode Support the show
Fri, May 10, 2024
SNAPCAST PROMO for This Sunday's Episode
Travel marketing is changing. This Sunday's episode explores the impact of shifting seasonal travel trends, evolving social media search habits, and the new booking landscape on marketing strategies. Support the Show.
S4 E124 · Sun, May 05, 2024
PRSA’s Strategy to Out-Communicate Misinformation
The Public Relations Society of America has united communication professionals across industries to combat misinformation. It’s a critical challenge and a battle we need to be honest about… we’re losing. At the end of 2023, PRSA assembled a group of 25 senior communicators from a wide range of industries, in-house and firms, for an additional meeting, with several follow-up meetings with subject matter experts, all spearheaded by Ray Day, 2024 PRSA Chair-elect. Three main actions emerged: We need to champion honesty and transparency, recognizing the need to enhance message strategies to outpace misleading information (which will always exist) We need to emphasize the importance of community-based listening and education, advocating for civil discussion to foster a more informed and respectful public The PR industry needs to become a trusted entity by reinforcing integrity and reliability across all communication channels Listen For 3:54 A Stakeholder Engagement Process for Addressing Misinformation 10:04 Community Level Education Strategies 13:56 Focus on Building Trust 18:26 Civility and Constructive Discourse Guest: Ray Day LinkedIn PRSA News Release Download the Guidebook Rate this podcast with just one click Leave us a voice message we can share on the podcast https://www.speakpipe.com/StoriesandStrategies Stories and Strategies Website Do you want to podcast? Book a meeting with Doug Downs to talk about it. Apply to be a guest on the podcast Connect with us LinkedIn | X | Instagram | You Tube | Facebook | Threads Request a transcript of this episode Support the show
Fri, May 03, 2024
SNAPCAST PROMO for This Sunday's Episode
This is a promo for this Sunday's episode. We've almost heard ad nauseum about misinformation and disinformation. Yes Yes it's bad and it needs to be stopped. But who is actually doing something about it? PRSA is taking this on. they've assembled a group of 25 senior communicators from a wide range of industries, in-house and firms, for an additional meeting, with several follow-up meetings with subject matter experts, all spearheaded by Ray Day, 2024 PRSA Chair-elect. Three main actions emerged: 1. We need to champion honesty and transparency, recognizing the need to enhance message strategies to outpace misleading information (which will always exist) 2. We need to emphasize the importance of community-based listening and education, advocating for civil discussion to foster a more informed and respectful public 3. The PR industry needs to become a trusted entity by reinforcing integrity and reliability across all communication channels NEW EPISODE this Sunday morning Support the Show.
Thu, May 02, 2024
Throwback Thursday - Nudge Theory
This is a throwback to episode 52 of this podcast. Nudge Theory burst onto the scene in 2008 when Cass Sunstein and Richard Thaler published their book “Nudge: Improving Decisions About Health, Wealth, and Happiness.” The simplest models of economics take preferences as given, but nudge ideas suggest we can be moved, steered, and in some cases manipulated. Nudge has influenced politicians around the World. There are “Nudge Units” in government in the UK, US, Germany, Japan, and even Canada. The World Bank, United Nations, and European Commission have “Nudge” teams. Listen For 6:47 The Fundamentals of Nudge Theory 8:02 The Impact of Context on Behaviour 9:03 Economic vs Psychological Solutions 10:39 Examples of Nudge Theory in Everyday Contexts Canadian Nudge Team = BeSci Team UK Nudge Team = Behavioural Insights Team Australian Nudge Team = Behavioural Economics Team of Australia American Nudge Team = Social and Behavioural Sciences Team Guest: Rory Sutherland Website Rate this podcast with just one click Leave us a voice message we can share on the podcast https://www.speakpipe.com/StoriesandStrategies Stories and Strategies Website Do you want to podcast? Book a meeting with Doug Downs to talk about it. Apply to be a guest on the podcast Connect with us LinkedIn | X | Instagram | You Tube | Facebook | Threads Request a transcript of this episode Support the Show.
S4 E123 · Sun, April 28, 2024
A Close Examination of Each of the Major Social Media Channels in 2024
This episode examines the current state of each of the big social media channels. Which platforms are the most used? Which ones are we engaging the most on? Where are content creators sinking their energy? And what can we predict in the near-term future for each? Listen For 5:57 X (formerly Twitter) 8:45 Facebook 9:54 Instagram 13:36 Threads 16:56 TikTok 18:34 YouTube 20:50 LinkedIn 21:59 Pinterest 22:56 Medium Guest: Stephanie Huston Website | X | LinkedIn | Instagram | You Tube | Facebook | TikTok Follow and Add us to a List on Podchaser Leave us a voice message we can share on the podcast https://www.speakpipe.com/StoriesandStrategies Stories and Strategies Website Do you want to podcast? Book a meeting with Doug Downs to talk about it. Apply to be a guest on the podcast Connect with us LinkedIn | X | Instagram | You Tube | Facebook | Threads Request a transcript of this episode Support the show
Fri, April 26, 2024
SNAPCAST PROMO for This Sunday's Episode
This Sunday's new episode has Stephanie Huston as our guest diagnosing each of the major social media channels. Has Instagram peaked? Is Threads still going? Have we had enough of X? Support the Show.
S3 E122 · Sun, April 21, 2024
The Rise of Virtual Influencers and Global Engagement
Frankie is the dinosaur that went digital. The emergence and impact of virtual influencers can be seen in the United Nations' innovative climate change awareness campaign featuring a dinosaur named Frankie. This multifaceted initiative, which spanned a video in 38 languages, social media outreach, a children’s book, and various global events, successfully reached an audience of 2.2 billion. In this episode we dig into the strategies behind the campaign's broad reach, including content repurposing for diverse platforms and audiences, and the compelling use of personal narratives to forge a community rather than just an audience. Guest: Nicholas Bruneau Website | Email | Skype | LinkedIn Engage with Impact Website Engage with Impact on Amazon Check out the YouTube Trailer for the Engage with Impact book Watch Frankie the Dinosaur Video Rate this podcast with just one click Leave us a voice message we can share on the podcast https://www.speakpipe.com/StoriesandStrategies Stories and Strategies Website Do you want to podcast? Book a meeting with Doug Downs to talk about it. Apply to be a guest on the podcast Connect with us LinkedIn | X | Instagram | You Tube | Facebook | Threads Request a transcript of this episode Support the show
S3 E121 · Sun, April 14, 2024
Exploring the Agile Framework for Communications
In his new book Engage with Impact, Nicholas Bruneau uses interviews and case studies from the UN, EU, World Bank and nonprofit organizations to demonstrate the power of agility in corporate communications today. A – Adopt a Startup Mentality G – Go Digital First I – Inspire with Personal Stories L – Leverage Your Content E – Empower Your Community Listen For 7:32 Utilizing Digital Strategies Effectively 9:32 Developing On-Message Tools 16:54 Optimizing SEO Guest: Nicholas Bruneau Website | Email | Skype | LinkedIn Engage with Impact Website Engage with Impact on Amazon Check out the YouTube Trailer for the Engage with Impact book Watch the original 2012 video Science, It’s a Girl Thing Rate this podcast with just one click Leave us a voice message we can share on the podcast https://www.speakpipe.com/StoriesandStrategies Stories and Strategies Website Do you want to podcast? Book a meeting with Doug Downs to talk about it. Apply to be a guest on the podcast Connect with us LinkedIn | X | Instagram | You Tube | Facebook | Threads Request a transcript of this episode Support the show
Fri, April 12, 2024
SNAPCAST PROMO for This Sunday's Episode
This Sunday's episode is called "Exploring the Agile Framework for Communications." In his new book Engage with Impact, Nicholas Bruneau uses interviews and case studies from the UN, EU, World Bank and nonprofit organizations to demonstrate the power of agility in corporate communications today. A – Adopt a Startup Mentality G – Go Digital First I – Inspire with Personal Stories L – Leverage Your Content E – Empower Your Community See you this Sunday for the full episode. Support the show
S3 E120 · Sun, April 07, 2024
Beyond the Script: Effective Customer Service Communication
In today’s competitive market, exceptional customer service is not just a luxury but a crucial element for business success. With the rise of digital interactions over traditional shopping experiences, customer service agents have become more than problem solvers; they are guides, educators, and relationship builders. Their ability to effectively interact with various types of people, in various kinds of moods, can be the defining factor between gaining loyal customers or losing them. Studies show the cost of acquiring new customers can be five to 25 times higher than the expense involved in retaining existing ones. So investing in the training and development of these agents is not merely an option, it’s a business imperative. Their role as the primary point of contact makes them vital in shaping customer experiences and sustaining the company’s competitive edge. Guest: Priscilla Brooke Website | Email | X | Instagram Priscilla’s podcast Happy to Help Priscilla Brooke is the Head of Podcaster Success for Buzzsprout, a podcast-hosting service, based in Jacksonville Florida. Rate this podcast with just one click Leave us a voice message we can share on the podcast https://www.speakpipe.com/StoriesandStrategies Stories and Strategies Website Do you want to podcast? Book a meeting with Doug Downs to talk about it. Apply to be a guest on the podcast. Connect with us LinkedIn | X | Instagram | You Tube | Facebook | Threads Request a transcript of this episode Support the show
Fri, April 05, 2024
SNAPCAST PROMO for This Sunday's Episode
Communication is really REALLY important in Customer Service. This Sunday's episode is all about strategic ways to communicate to improve your customer service. I asked Priscilla Brooke, head of customer service for Buzzsprout about her philosophies including how she feels about those tiered level of customer service support depending on whether you're mid-level client or a higher paying elite level client. Episode 120 publishes Sunday morning on this podcast app Support the show
S3 E119 · Sun, March 31, 2024
Setting the Rules: Why and How to Regulate AI in Public Relations
What are the rules? In an era where artificial intelligence is revolutionizing communications and marketing, this episode dives into the critical conversation about the impact of AI, the void of formal regulations, and the industry's quest for ethical self-regulation. It may well be up to us as a profession to craft our own ethical guidelines and envision what effective self-regulation could look like to safeguard the future of communications. In this episode, a glimpse into what those regulations might look like. And should we even have rules for something we don’t really understand yet? Listen For 5:29 The Revolutionary Impact of AI and the Need for Self-Regulation 6:47 The Broader Influence of AI and the Challenge of Regulation 9:53 The Premature Nature of AI Regulation and the Importance of Education 14:07 Self-Regulation, Ethical Guidelines, and the Potential Role of Gen Z Guests: Professor Christian Stiegler LinkedIn | Guiding Light | Website Prof. Dr. Christian Stiegler is the Director of Guiding Light - an international organisation for ethics and sustainability in technologies. As an award-winning researcher and internationally renowned expert on emerging technologies, he writes and speaks extensively on subjects such as XR, AI, technology ethics, the metaverse and emerging technologies. Manuel Hűttl, CEO Milk & Honey PR LinkedIn | Facebook | Instagram | Website Manuel Hüttl is Partner and CEO of Milk & Honey PR, a global Public Relations agency dedicated to shaping brand reputation. He is an industry veteran with over twenty years of experience, and opened Milk & Honey’s first continental Europe office in 2022. Manuel Hüttl holds various board positions and leads the AI Steering Group at Milk & Honey PR. Download the AI Ethical Playbook by Milk & Honey Rate this podcast with just one click Leave us a voice message we can share on the podcast https://www.speakpipe.com/StoriesandStrategies Stories and Strategies Website Do you want to podcast? Book a meeting with Doug Downs to talk about it. Apply to be a guest on the podcast Connect with us<
Fri, March 29, 2024
SNAPCAST PROMO for This Sunday's Episode
This is a PROMO for this Sunday's episode. Is it even possible to regulate Artificial Intelligence? Some governments and regulatory bodies are assembling some ideas but there are lots of arguments these are useless. Number one, do we even understand AI and its applications yet as a society? Full episode this Sunday Support the show
S3 E118 · Sun, March 24, 2024
The Power of Podcasts for Developing Brand Affinity
Tyler Chisholm is the CEO of a leading marketing firm and the creative force behind a popular Calgary-based podcast that shines a spotlight on local leaders and innovators. In this episode Tyler shares his strategic insights on how podcasting can be a powerful tool for developing brand affinity, engaging with a community of listeners, and creating a loyal customer base. Listen For 7:01 Overcoming Initial Hesitations 10:10 Podcasting as a Business Tool 18:59 Content Repurposing and Engagement Metrics Guest: Tyler Chisholm Website | Email | X | LinkedIn | Instagram | YouTube | Facebook Listen to Tyler’s podcast Collisions YYC Rate this podcast with just one click Leave us a voice message we can share on the podcast https://www.speakpipe.com/StoriesandStrategies Stories and Strategies Website Do you want to podcast? Book a meeting with Doug Downs to talk about it. Apply to be a guest on the podcast. Connect with us LinkedIn | X | Instagram | You Tube | Facebook | Threads Request a transcript of this episode Support the show
Fri, March 22, 2024
SNAPCAST PROMO for This Sunday's Episode
This is a promo for this Sunday's episode with Tyler Chisholm of Clearmotive Marketing. So many people are trying podcasting these days, Tyler thought he would give it a try. But would he be able to defend it from a business standpoint? Was this helping his business? Was he selling "stuff?" It's definitely helped his brand but the complexity he says is never actually making the ask on your podcast. Support the show
S3 E117 · Sun, March 17, 2024
The Strategic Storyteller
Stories capture imagination and can entertain but they’re most powerful when they also serve a strategic purpose. In this episode, Doug, and Mike Nachshen dive into the profound impact of narrative alignment with business goals. The discussion emphasizes the necessity of strategic intent behind stories, citing examples by Marriott Hotels, a Fortune 50 company, and Ronald Reagan at the Berlin Wall. Listen For: 03:44 Strategy Over Story 07:19 The Physical Power of Messaging 10:01 Audience Desires vs. Business Goals 18:53 The Historic Call to Action Guest: Mike Nachshen, Fortis Strategic Communications LLC Website | LinkedIn Read Mike’s article in PR Daily about Why Strategy Beats Storytelling Every Time Reagan Library Berlin Wall Speech Rate this podcast with just one click Leave us a voice message we can share on the podcast https://www.speakpipe.com/StoriesandStrategies Stories and Strategies Website Do you want to podcast? Book a meeting with Doug Downs to talk about it. Apply to be a guest on the podcast Connect with us LinkedIn | X | Instagram | You Tube | Facebook | Threads Request a transcript of this episode Support the show
Fri, March 15, 2024
SNAPCAST PROMO for This Sunday's Episode
A look ahead to our new episode coming out this Sunday morning. What's more important in public relations - Story or Strategy? Support the show
S3 E116 · Sun, March 10, 2024
The Legal Implications of Employee Reviews
In this episode we’re cross-examining a recent warning from Canada's Competition Bureau that has businesses buzzing and reevaluating their online review strategies. The Bureau has put the spotlight on the potential bias of employee-generated reviews and testimonials, signaling a need for companies to monitor these contributions closely. Yet, in the realm of internal communications, encouraging employees to be brand champions is considered foundational. So, where does the line between advocacy and bias lie? And it isn’t just Canada moving in this direction. There are signs the United States, UK, and Australia may be too. How can organizations navigate this complex landscape? Listen For 4:32 Is it Still Legal for Your Employees to Leave Reviews Without Declaring They are Employees? 10:37 This is Happening in the US, UK, Canada, and Australia 15:43 The Role of Disclosure in Employee Reviews 18:38 Influencers and Native Advertising Ethics Guests: Gavin Tighe and Stephen Thiele Website | Gavin email | Stephen email Listen to Gavin and Stephen’s podcast Beneath the Law Rate this podcast with just one click Leave us a voice message we can share on the podcast https://www.speakpipe.com/StoriesandStrategies Stories and Strategies Website Do you want to podcast? Book a meeting with Doug Downs to talk about it. Apply to be a guest on the podcast Connect with us LinkedIn | X | Instagram | You Tube | Facebook | Threads Request a transcript of this episode Support the show
S3 E115 · Sun, March 03, 2024
The Ukrainian PR Army
For the past 2+ years nights have been tense in Kyiv and throughout Ukraine. Julia Petryk, one of the co-founders of the Ukrainian PR Army joins us one evening to share what life is like now and the critical role of communications in the ongoing conflict. The efforts of the PR Army have helped mobilize a formidable information front to combat disinformation and keep Ukraine's situation in the international consciousness. This episode offers a unique look at the power of strategic communication in times of war and the unyielding fight for national identity and sovereignty. Listen For 3:15 The Role of PR in Conflict Zones 4:37 Founding the Ukrainian PR Army 13:56 Utilizing AI in Counteracting Disinformation 23:25 How PR Pros can Help Guest: Julia Petryk Website | Ukraine PR Army Website | Email | X | LinkedIn | Instagram | Facebook Read Kateryna’s Story on the PR Army website Rate this podcast with just one click Leave us a voice message we can share on the podcast https://www.speakpipe.com/StoriesandStrategies Stories and Strategies Website Do you want to podcast? Book a meeting with Doug Downs to talk about it. Apply to be a guest on the podcast Connect with us LinkedIn | X | Instagram | You Tube | Facebook | Threads Request a transcript of this episode Support the show
S3 E114 · Sun, February 25, 2024
The Evolution of Royal PR
Managing public relations for the British Royal Family is an intricate world, particularly now amidst the backdrop of King Charles III's health concerns. Two people who’ve been very close to that world are David Yelland, former editor of the Sun in the UK, and Simon Lewis who… managed public relations for the Royal Family under Queen Elizabeth II. In this episode we explore the evolution of public relations strategies within the Royal Family. Simon and David share their insider perspectives based on their experience. What are the biggest PR challenges facing the Royals today with the health of King Charles III in question? How has the Royal Family adapted to the digital age? And what advice would they give today? Listen For 3:11 The Evolution of Royal Communications Strategy 4:42 Reviewing the Importance of Simon’s Role as the First Comms Director for the Royal Family 5:54 Transparency and Openness Within the Palace 10:03 The Importance of Duty and Public Service Guests: Simon Lewis, former Communications Director for Queen Elizabeth II David Yelland, former Editor of the Sun Listen to Simon and David on their podcast “When it Hits the Fan” as produced by Raconteur for BBC Radio 4 and BBC Sounds. Rate this podcast with just one click Leave us a voice message we can share on the podcast https://www.speakpipe.com/StoriesandStrategies Stories and Strategies Website Do you want to podcast? Book a meeting with Doug Downs to talk about it. Apply to be a guest on the podcast Connect with us LinkedIn | X | Instagram | You Tube | Facebook | Threads Request a transcript of this episode Support the show
S3 E113 · Sun, February 18, 2024
PRovoke Media Asia-Pacific Comms Leader Study
The third edition of the Asia-Pacific study by PRovoke Media flags Environmental, Social, and Corporate Governance (ESG) as a key driver behind rising optimism and budgets for communications leaders. But underneath the top layers, there’s uncertainty. Listen For 4:21 The Importance of ESG in Asia Pacific 7:50 The Role of Communications Teams and ESG 9:25 Measurement of ESG Efforts 13:32 DEI Challenges Guest: Arun Sudhaman Website | X | LinkedIn | Instagram | Facebook Read the PRovoke Media 2023 Asia-Pacific Communications Index Rate this podcast with just one click Leave us a voice message we can share on the podcast https://www.speakpipe.com/StoriesandStrategies Stories and Strategies Website Do you want to podcast? Book a meeting with Doug Downs to talk about it. Apply to be a guest on the podcast Connect with us LinkedIn | X | Instagram | You Tube | Facebook | Threads Request a transcript of this episode Support the show
S3 E112 · Sun, February 11, 2024
How to Forgive and Accept an Apology
Last week we had a look at how to make an apology when you should – and why most apologies are just awful. But there’s another side to that human interaction – forgiveness. Accepting an apology. An apology can be the key that unlocks forgiveness, yet forgiveness can also occur in its absence, driven by personal growth and healing. In this episode we look at the psychological journeys involved in embracing forgiveness. Listen For 5:22 Why Apologies are Mandatory but Forgiveness is Not 8:13 Forgiveness Benefits the Forgiver 10:10 The Importance of Acknowledging Apologies 15:09 Self-Forgiveness and its Role in Personal Growth Guests: Marjorie Ingall Website | LinkedIn | Instagram | Wikipedia Page | Contact Susan McCarthy X | LinkedIn SorryWatch.com The Meagan Napier Foundation Rate this podcast with just one click Leave us a voice message we can share on the podcast https://www.speakpipe.com/StoriesandStrategies Stories and Strategies Website Do you want to podcast? Book a meeting with Doug Downs to talk about it. Apply to be a guest on the podcast. Connect with us LinkedIn | X | Instagram | You Tube | Facebook | Threads Request a transcript of this episode Support the show
S3 E111 · Sun, February 04, 2024
Saying Sorry: Why is it so Hard?
There are a lot of apologies out there. And a lot of them only serve to make things worse. “I’m sorry if you were offended” “We’re sorry if what we said was misunderstood” “The situation is regrettable” “Sorry but we have the right to do it and we reserve the right to do it again” Sometimes a bad apology is because someone wants to hold on to their pride, or deep in their heart an apology can’t be right because they know they’re the hero of their own story. In this episode Susan McCarthy and Marjorie Ingall of SorryWatch.com share some of what they see behind the bad apologies and offer good advice for doing better. Listen For 4:23 Why Apologies are Important to Society 5:54 The Challenges (and Benefits) of Apologizing 9:59 The Key Elements of a Good Apology 13:15 Why Sometimes You Shouldn’t Apologize Right Away Guests: Marjorie Ingall Website | Facebook | LinkedIn | Instagram | Wikipedia Page | Contact | Publishers Website for Book Susan McCarthy X | LinkedIn SorryWatch.com Rate this podcast with just one click Leave us a voice message we can share on the podcast https://www.speakpipe.com/StoriesandStrategies Stories and Strategies Website Do you want to podcast? Book a meeting with Doug Downs to talk about it. Apply to be a guest on the podcast. Connect with us LinkedIn | X | Instagram | You Tube | Facebook | Threads Request a transcript of this episode Support the show
S3 E110 · Sun, January 28, 2024
Muck Rack’s 2023 State of Marketing and PR Leadership Report
The report shows two-thirds of senior leaders say they would describe their role as both marketing and communications but there’s a clear shift happening toward marketing. More focus on brand awareness, broader reach, building media relationships, and managing brand reputation. What does that mean for budgets in 2024? For content strategy? Muck Rack helps us understand the trends. Listen For 4:14 The Roles of Marketing and Communications are merging 6:21 How Budget is Being Allocated 10:41 The Focus on B2B or B2C? 12:38 Is Enough Attention Being Paid to Internal Communications? Download the Muck Rack State of PR Report Guest: Linda Zebian, Muck Rack senior director, communications and community LinkedIn Muck Rack X | Instagram | LinkedIn | Threads | Website Rate this podcast with just one click Leave us a voice message we can share on the podcast https://www.speakpipe.com/StoriesandStrategies Stories and Strategies Website Do you want to podcast? Book a meeting with Doug Downs to talk about it. Connect with us LinkedIn | X | Instagram | You Tube | Facebook | Threads Request a transcript of this episode Support the show
S3 E109 · Sun, January 21, 2024
Challenging the Status Quo in PR Metrics
Historically, our approach to setting objectives and evaluation criteria has been organizational-centric. What is the company trying to achieve? What behavioural changes are needed by our key audiences to accomplish those goals? How do we nudge or persuade the behaviours of our key audiences? But is that satisfying those audiences? Is it ethical for us to think our job is to influence their behaviour? Are we considering how those audiences are evaluating us? In this episode Anne Gregory, a past chair with the Global Alliance and CIPR, and a recipient of Lifetime Achievement awards from both the PRSA and CPRS, says a new approach is needed. One that marks a step toward a new direction, emphasizing a more inclusive and responsive evaluation framework that aligns with the dynamic nature of modern communications and stakeholder engagement. Listen For 5:45 Anne’s Challenge of Traditional Evaluation Methods 8:28 Redefining the Purpose of Public Relations 10:46 Bridging the Gap Between Organizational Goals and Stakeholder Expectations 20:12 Aligning Communication with Your Societal Role and Stakeholder Expectations Guest: Anne Gregory, Ph.D., BA, FRSA, HonFCIPR, Huddersfield University University Website page | Email | X | LinkedIn You can download An evaluation u-turn: From narrow organisational objectives to broad accountability by Anne Gregory and Jim MacNamara here Rate this podcast with just one click Leave us a voice message we can share on the podcast https://www.speakpipe.com/StoriesandStrategies Stories and Strategies Website Do you want to podcast? Book a meeting with Doug Downs to talk about it. Connect with us LinkedIn | X | Instagram | You Tube | Facebook | Threads <br/
S3 E108 · Sun, January 14, 2024
Exploring the Myths of Body Language Analysis on TV and YouTube
In March 2021 Prince Harry and Meghan Markle gave an interview to Oprah Winfrey that was absolute gold for fake You Tube body language experts. Some said it was a significant moment when she touched her nose. Others said she revealed all when she showed the tip of her tongue. And another said the tell-all moment was that one particular blink. The top five videos of those “analyses” generated 5.9 million views. The Royals aren’t alone. A video analyzing the nonverbal communication of family murderer Chris Watts was watched by more than 38 million people. After the Johnny Depp/Amber Heard court case there were numerous body language experts on You Tube giving analysis like “when she licks her lips here, that’s when she’s lying.” Even Dr Phil has done videos analyzing precise body movements he said have definitive meaning. The problem? It’s all voodoo. There is no acceptable scientific method to decode body language. There is no “language of the body.” It is pseudoscience wrapped in bells and whistles to delight and amaze. And it’s based on our human tendency, in our everyday lives, to make judgements based on what see and interpret which is influenced by our internal prejudices. In this episode, the truth about nonverbal behaviour, and why misinterpretation can be downright dangerous to society. Listen For 6:02 Debunking the Famous Myth that 93% of all Communication is Non-Verbal 14:21 How Misconceptions Influence Decision-Making 17:16 Non-Verbal Communication in Credibility Assessment 19:28 Challenges in Applying Non-Verbal Communication Guest: Vincent Denault, Ph.D. , McGill University Postdoctoral Fellow Website | LinkedIn | You Tube Rate this podcast with just one click Leave us a voice message we can share on the podcast https://www.speakpipe.com/StoriesandStrategies Stories and Strategies Website Do you want to podcast? Book a meeting with Doug Downs to talk about it. Connect with us LinkedIn | X | Instagram | You Tube | Facebook | Threads Request a transcript of this episode <a rel="payment"
S3 E107 · Sun, January 07, 2024
The Double-Edged Sword of Generative AI and Why it’s Part of a Broader Problem for Public Relations
There may be an emerging overreliance on generative AI in marketing and public relations. While artificial intelligence can enhance efficiency and creativity, it shouldn't overshadow fundamental marketing strategies. PR and marketing often focus too much on tactics like AI, neglecting the importance of a coherent, overarching strategy. Maybe Generative AI is part of a bigger problem. Listen For 4:47 Strategic Focus Over Tactical Execution 8:27 The Role of Generative AI in Marketing and PR 11:01 The Value of Human Insight in Content Creation 13:27 The Emerging Role of Prompt Engineers Guest: Joe Zappa, Founder Sharp Pen Media LinkedIn | Sharp Pen Media LinkedIn | X | Website | Email Rate this podcast with just one click Leave us a voice message we can share on the podcast https://www.speakpipe.com/StoriesandStrategies Stories and Strategies Website Do you want to podcast? Book a meeting with Doug Downs to talk about it. Connect with us LinkedIn | X | Instagram | You Tube | Facebook Hey, we’re on Threads under Stories and Strategies Request a transcript of this episode Support the show
S3 E106 · Sun, December 24, 2023
FEED DROP – Learning Real Communication With Your Kids
This is a FEED DROP of an episode of the Parenting and Personalities Podcast Imagine your child still hasn’t cleaned their room although you’ve asked them to numerous times. You probably don’t need to imagine. You remind them again, this time in a stronger tone, perhaps even demanding. And they either don’t or they do but the communication between you is strained. Another approach to this might be the “Curiosity Approach.” Your child doesn’t care about a clean room, they care that it’s THEIR room. They care about the ownership of it. So imagine interacting with your child on the possibilities they could do with THEIR room. Possibilities they realize for themselves can only happen if they straighten some things up. The Curiosity Approach is just one of the tools Life Coach Ellie Bambury uses working with parents and their kids to help them forge real communication. Guest: Ellie Bambury, The Big Sister Project Instagram: @thebigsisterproject_ Facebook LinkedIn Contact Kate Mason: Email | Website | LinkedIn | Facebook | X Kate's book on Amazon Connect with Stories and Strategies LinkedIn | X | Instagram | You Tube | Facebook Hey, we’re on Threads under Stories and Strategies Request a transcript of this episode Support the show
S3 E105 · Sun, December 10, 2023
How to Communicate – When People Won’t Evacuate
Hurricanes, floods, wildfires. Depending on where you live there are times when authorities tell you it’s in your best interests to leave your home. This gets people to safety and creates necessary room for emergency teams they so desperately need. Evacuation is scary for residents. Some may have a chronic illness, some are afraid their home or property may be damaged or looted, and yes good old-fashioned stubbornness is another factor. Sometimes people feel they can do a better job of protecting their property than emergency officials and they aren’t necessarily always wrong. But emergency teams are beginning to notice a trend. The percentage of people refusing to leave is growing and that’s creating more danger. Additionally, there are stories of verbal abuse and intimidation toward emergency personnel trying to do a very difficult job. What is a communications pro to do? Guest: Tim Conrad, APR, Butterfly Effect Communications Email | Website | Facebook | X | LinkedIn | Instagram | You Tube Rate this podcast with just one click Leave us a voice message we can share on the podcast https://www.speakpipe.com/StoriesandStrategies Stories and Strategies Website Do you want to podcast? Book a meeting with Doug Downs to talk about it. Connect with us LinkedIn | X | Instagram | You Tube | Facebook Hey, we’re on Threads under Stories and Strategies Request a transcript of this episode Support the show
S3 E104 · Sun, November 26, 2023
Coaching Politicians to be Better Communicators
Politicians, like any public figures, sometimes make verbal slips or misspeak, leading to memorable and often humorous moments. Here are a few notable examples: George W. Bush: Known for his malapropisms, one of his most famous misspeaks was when he said, "They mis underestimated me," combining "misunderstood" and "underestimated." Barack Obama: In 2008, while campaigning, Obama mistakenly said he had visited "57 states" in the U.S., obviously misspeaking the number of states. Dan Quayle: As Vice President, Quayle famously misspelled "potato" by adding an unnecessary "e" at the end during a school spelling bee. Donald Trump: Known for his unique speaking style, Trump once referred to the CEO of Apple, Tim Cook, as "Tim Apple," which became a widely discussed gaffe. Joe Biden once introduced Barack Obama as Barack America. Keeping politicians on message and on strategy can be tough. In this episode we explore a few ways to do it. Listen For 4:35 Storytelling in Political Communication 5:40 Understanding Your Audience and Choosing the Right Channels 7:26 Utilizing Digital Media 13:10 Crisis Management and Reputation Building Guest: Krysten Copeland, KC & Co Communications Website | Email | X | Instagram Rate this podcast with just one click Leave us a voice message we can share on the podcast https://www.speakpipe.com/StoriesandStrategies Stories and Strategies Website Do you want to podcast? Book a meeting with Doug Downs to talk about it. Connect with us LinkedIn | X | Instagram | You Tube | Facebook Hey, we’re on Threads under Stories and Strategies Request a transcript of this episode Support the show
S3 E103 · Sun, November 12, 2023
Immersing Ourselves in AR, VR and XR Technologies. The Next Wave in Communications
The University of Oregon has introduced the first master's program in immersive technologies, focusing on augmented reality (AR), virtual reality (VR), and extended reality (XR). The program aims to create thought leaders and strategists in the field, helping organizations understand and utilize these technologies. Despite slower adoption rates than expected, AR and VR technologies are still experiencing steady growth. The program also highlights successful uses of AR and VR, such as the Australian wine brand 19 Crimes, which uses AR to animate the images of convicts on their wine bottles, providing a richer brand experience for consumers. But are we ready to use these tools? Are our audiences ready to consume them? And how do we ensure they’re used to address not only business opportunities but social and environmental challenges? Listen For: 5:11 The Emergence of Immersive Media in Marketing 7:40 The Challenges in Adopting AR, VR and XR Technologies 10:22 The Impact of Hype-Cycles on Technology Adoption 15:28 The Importance of Media Literacy and Strategic Communication in Emerging Technologies Guest: Donna Z. Davis, Ph.D., APR Associate Professor + Director, Immersive Media Communication Master’s Program + Director, Oregon Reality (OR) Lab | SOJC Link to the Immersive Media Communications Master’s Program X | Link to Donna’s VR publications Rate this podcast with just one click Leave us a voice message we can share on the podcast https://www.speakpipe.com/StoriesandStrategies Stories and Strategies Website Do you want to podcast? Book a meeting with Doug Downs to talk about it. Connect with us LinkedIn | X | Instagram | You Tube | Facebook Hey, we’re on Threads under Stories and Strategies Request a transcript of this episode Support the show
S3 E102 · Sun, November 05, 2023
FEED DROP: Six Presentation Tips for Advanced Speakers
This week we’re offering another bonus episode in the form of a “Feed Drop” by The Speak Good Podcast. This episode was first published by Throughline Group in June 2022. Brad Phillips and Christina Mozaffari reveal six advanced public speaking tips – from how to present more effective slides to how to improve your look during a virtual presentation. Throughline Group Website | Email | Blog | Listen to The Speak Good podcast Connect with Stories and Strategies LinkedIn | X | Instagram | You Tube | Facebook Hey, we’re on Threads under Stories and Strategies Request a transcript of this episode Support the show
S3 E101 · Sun, October 29, 2023
The Four Traits of Inspiring Thought Leaders
In today’s crowded digital landscape, standing out as a genuine thought leader amidst the cacophony of voices is a unique challenge. Many voices may be influential, but all can claim the title of a true thought leader. Some naturally gravitate to this role, others pursue it, a few stumble into it. Some are bold visionaries. Others are evolved communicators, or they have a consistent presence (you know what they’re about). And then some are action-minded community builders. Regardless of how one attains the status of “Thought Leader” it’s important for companies to provide the time and resources for thought leadership development. It should be an intentional part of a leader’s role, rather than just a side project. When nurtured correctly, it can yield significant benefits for the companies and individuals. Guest: Kathleen Lucente LinkedIn | X Red Fan Communications LinkedIn | Instagram | X | Website Rate this podcast with just one click Leave us a voice message we can share on the podcast https://www.speakpipe.com/StoriesandStrategies Stories and Strategies Website Do you want to podcast? Book a meeting with Doug Downs to talk about it. Connect with us LinkedIn | X | Instagram | You Tube | Facebook Hey, we’re on Threads under Stories and Strategies Request a transcript of this episode Support the show
S3 E100 · Sun, October 15, 2023
Finding the Four Minute Window
In 1917 the US Government found a unique way to reach a mass audience before mass media even existed. Movies. When projectionists needed to change the reel mid-movie, that took about four minutes. That was the perfect window of time to deliver a patriotic message and support an effort that ultimately changed the world. The four-minute speeches used an old tool (speeches) but embraced a newer technology (movies). And the true brilliance of the delivery was finding that window of time when people were most likely to listen. In this episode we speak with the chair of the Public Relations Society of America (2023) Michelle Egan, exploring the modern role of communications professionals as we embrace emerging artificial intelligence. And we look at how the role might change over the next 50 years as technologies continue to evolve. Listen For: 5:22 The adoption and perception of AI tools 7:13 Ethical considerations in AI 12:10 The evolution of the PR professional 15:29 The future of PR and professional communications Guest: Michelle Egan, APR, Fellow PRSA, 2023 PRSA Chair LinkedIn | Facebook | Instagram | X | PRSA | PRSA Code of Ethics Read Michelle’s editorial “How Important is it for Your Organization to Have a Code of Ethics?” Rate this podcast with just one click Leave us a voice message we can share on the podcast https://www.speakpipe.com/StoriesandStrategies Stories and Strategies Website Do you want to podcast? Book a meeting with Doug Downs to talk about it. Connect with us LinkedIn | X | Instagram | You Tube | Facebook Hey, we’re on Threads under Stories and Strategies Request a transcript of this episode Support the show
S3 E99 · Sun, October 01, 2023
Harnessing the Influence of Wikipedia for Your Brand
Wikipedia is one of the most-visited websites in the world. Additionally, it has influence. The information on Wikipedia is also disseminated across the web on Google’s Knowledge Graph and associated search page components, quick summaries of topics on Siri and Alexa, and even into news articles, podcast discussions, and government websites. Wikipedia is also of interest for SEO practitioners, heavily influencing Google search results and now impacting outputs from generative AI software like Chat-GPT. Everyone from journalists, investors, and your customers are using Wikipedia to understand your company. Do you understand how it works and what you can do about it? Listen For 4:17 The importance of Wikipedia for PR and SEO 5:51 The role of Wikipedia editors 10:38 Brand presence on Wikipedia 12:13 Common mistakes Brands make on Wikipedia Guest: Rhiannon Ruff Email | LinkedIn | Lumino Digital’s website | Rhiannon’s book Managing a Crisis on Wikipedia Rate this podcast with just one click Leave us a voice message we can share on the podcast https://www.speakpipe.com/StoriesandStrategies Stories and Strategies Website Do you want to podcast? Book a meeting with Doug Downs to talk about it. Connect with us LinkedIn | X | Instagram | You Tube | Facebook Hey, we’re on Threads under Stories and Strategies Request a transcript of this episode Support the show
S3 E98 · Sun, September 17, 2023
Diverse Perspectives, Powerful Results: Multicultural Marketing Insights
The benefits of a multicultural campaign should be obvious by now but let’s document some of them so it’s clear. Reflect societal trends and values You’re able to actually understand more of your audience/stakeholders Involve people in appropriate settings and context Create tailored marketing content and strategies Broaden your brand’s story as inclusive of diverse cultures September 15 through October 15 is Hispanic Heritage Month. It’s recognized in the United States, but also in Argentina, Bolivia, Chile, Colombia, Costa Rica, Cuba, Dominican Republic, Ecuador, El Salvador, Equatorial Guinea, Guatemala, Honduras, Mexico, Nicaragua, Panama, Paraguay, Peru, Puerto Rico, Spain, Uruguay, and Venezuela. There’s also recognition in the United Kingdom, Canada, and Australia. In this episode we connect with Cuban American Manuel Machado from CCOM Group which specializes in multicultural campaigns. Guest: Manuel Machado, Co-Chair CCOM Group Email | X | LinkedIn | CCOM Website | Forbes Article by Manuel Leave a rating for this podcast with one click Leave us a voice message we can share on the podcast https://www.speakpipe.com/StoriesandStrategies Stories and Strategies Website Do you want to podcast? Book a meeting with Doug Downs to talk about it. Connect with us LinkedIn | X | Instagram | You Tube | Facebook Hey, we’re on Threads under Stories and Strategies Support the show
S3 E97 · Sun, September 03, 2023
The Role of Marketing and Public Relations in Central Asia: Explained
It’s an area of the world so few of us in the west really understand. Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan, and Mongolia. All countries that make up what we can refer to as Central Asia. The list of Global Top 100 companies is growing there as Google, Coca Cola and others understand how important it is. In the midst of this region’s rapid growth and transformation, PR and Marketing specialists must consider the unique rules governing their work. The media landscape is different across the region with some nations embracing freedom of speech and press, while others follow a more government-controlled media approach and others still are influenced by powerful oligarchs. In this diverse media landscape traditional media is still powerful but now social media’s influence is growing rapidly and has become a powerful tool in shaping narratives and influencing public opinion. Guest: Alexander Likhtman Email likhtman@itcomms.io Alexander’s bio and articles he’s written On Facebook On LinkedIn On Instagram Leave a rating for this podcast with one click Leave us a voice message we can share on the podcast https://www.speakpipe.com/StoriesandStrategies Stories and Strategies Website Do you want to podcast? Book a meeting with Doug Downs to talk about it. Connect with us LinkedIn | X | Instagram | You Tube | Facebook Hey, we’re on Threads under Stories and Strategies Request a transcript of this episode Support the show
S3 E96 · Sun, August 20, 2023
Cracking the Code to Low Journalist Response Rates
Propel Media has released its Q3 2023 Media Barometer and again it’s showing journalists responded to only 2.99% of nearly 500,000 pitches sent to them. It’s the third straight quarter in which journalist response rates are below three percent and a rather clear signal to PR pros we need to shift our pitching tactics to beyond just mainstream media. This year alone Buzzfeed News shut its doors, Vice filed for bankruptcy, ESPN laid off 20 on-camera personalities, the LA Times laid off 74 newsroom staff, and Insider nixed 100 jobs. Outside the US in Canada, Australia, and Great Britain similar stories are unfolding. In this episode, why response rates are so low and which pitches have a glimmer of hope. Guest: Zach Cutler, Propel https://www.propelmypr.com/ LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/company/propel-crm/ Twitter @propelprm Facebook https://www.facebook.com/PropelPRM Download the Propel Media Barometer – Q3 2023 Leave a rating for this podcast with one click Leave us a voice message we can share on the podcast https://www.speakpipe.com/StoriesandStrategies Stories and Strategies Website Do you want to podcast? Book a meeting with Doug Downs to talk about it. Connect with us LinkedIn | X | Instagram | You Tube | Facebook Hey, we’re on Threads under Stories and Strategies Request a transcript of this episode Support the show
S3 E95 · Sun, August 06, 2023
Change Your Mind = Change Your Brain
Understanding the structural changes that happen in our brain when we change our minds adds a fascinating dimension to the study of this cognitive phenomenon. We already recognize that external factors such as new information, social influences and familiarity play significant roles in our decisions but exploring the underlying neural transformations provides deeper insights. When we alter our perspectives or revise our beliefs, intricate neuronal connections within our brains undergo modifications. These changes involve the strengthening or weakening of synaptic connections between neurons to form new neural pathways. Change your mind and you change you. Guest: Allyson Andrade, Ph.D. Candidate Behavioural Neuroscience, University of Guelph Aandra02@uofguelph.ca Leave a rating for this podcast with one click Leave us a voice message we can share on the podcast https://www.speakpipe.com/StoriesandStrategies Stories and Strategies Website Do you want to podcast? Book a meeting with Doug Downs to talk about it. Connect with us LinkedIn | X | Instagram | You Tube | Facebook Hey, we’re on Threads under Stories and Strategies Request a transcript of this episode Support the show
S3 E94 · Sun, July 23, 2023
Exploring Trust in Media Brands Today
An online survey of 300 people in the United States, Germany, and South Korea explores consumer perceptions of media brands vs other brands. Among the findings: When people trust the content shown on the platform, they were more likely to trust the platform (and vice versa) The media channel being used (i.e., television news) has a significant impact on the level of trust in the content being consumed We think of television, radio, film, music, social media, print, outdoor ads, and video chats as media brands We don’t think gaming, online retailing, influencers or global tech brands are media Guest: Steffen Heim LinkedIn Download the study Exploring Trust in Media Brands today: Definition, Dimensions and Cross-National Differences Leave a rating for this podcast with one click Leave us a voice message we can share on the podcast https://www.speakpipe.com/StoriesandStrategies Stories and Strategies Website Do you want to podcast? Book a meeting with Doug Downs to talk about it. Connect with us LinkedIn | X | Instagram | You Tube | Facebook Hey, we’re on Threads under Stories and Strategies Request a transcript of this episode Support the show
S3 E93 · Sun, July 09, 2023
Influencing Behaviors Through Social Marketing
One might use social media in a social marketing campaign but they are starkly different things. Social marketing is a marketing approach designed to influence behavior with the primary goal to be achieving the common good. The first evidence of social marketing was in 1963 at the Indian Institute of Management when they introduced a national family planning program with high quality, government brand condoms distributed and sold throughout the country at low cost. Other campaigns you know have followed the social marketing approach including anti-tobacco campaigns, skin cancer campaigns promoting the use of sunscreen with slogans like “Slip! Slop! Slap!” AIDS, water conservation, and numerous health industry campaigns have also followed the social marketing approach. Guest: Julie Colehour, Partner C+C Julie is the co-author of Social Marketing: Behavior Change for Good , Edition 7 Connect with Julie on LinkedIn Connect with Julie on Twitter www.cplusc.com Leave a rating for this podcast with one click Leave us a voice message we can share on the podcast https://www.speakpipe.com/StoriesandStrategies Stories and Strategies Website Do you want to podcast? Book a meeting with Doug Downs to talk about it. Follow us on: LinkedIn Twitter Instagram Facebook Our NEW You Tube Channel Request a transcript of this episode Support the show
S3 E92 · Sun, June 25, 2023
How to Make Internal Communications More Inclusive
Measurement is a key part of the success of any professional communications plan. And it’s the same with internal communications. But the right kind of measurement, and measuring the right things is just as important. A 2023 Deloitte Study shows 58% of corporate affairs leaders consider data and insights to be their top area for improvement. Good internal communication should go beyond proving value, it should be a strategic tool, helping leaders diagnose issues, find resources, create programs and take action based on insights from data analysis. Guest: Aniisu Verghese, Ph.D. https://www.aniisu.com/ aniisu3@gmail.com Look for Aniisu’s newest book Inclusive Internal Communications on Amazon Leave a rating for this podcast with one click Leave us a voice message we can share on the podcast https://www.speakpipe.com/StoriesandStrategies Stories and Strategies Website Do you want to podcast? Book a meeting with Doug Downs to talk about it. Follow us on: LinkedIn Twitter Instagram Facebook Our NEW You Tube Channel Request a transcript of this episode Support the show
S3 E91 · Sun, June 11, 2023
The Best PR Campaign that Changed the World
The Chartered Institute of Public Relations (CIPR) has launched an initiative to find the ultimate Campaign that Changed the World over the last three quarters of a Century. CIPR is asking YOU to vote on one of the seven PR Campaigns shortlisted below as the best in the last 75 years: 1948-59 Rosa Parks and the Montgomery Bus Boycott 1960-69 Civil Rights Movement in the United States 1970-79 The first Earth Day 1980-89 AIDS activism: a medical breakthrough 1990-99 Virgin Atlantic vs British Airways 2000-09 iPhone Launch 2010-19 Climate Change: The Paris Agreement 2020-23 Covid, vaccinating the world You’re familiar with each of these including some iconic moments and sound bites, but how much do you know about the actual campaigns? We cover them all in this episode. If you were to pick just one… JUST ONE… what would it be? Read the CIPR News Release SPOILER - Voting closed June 23, 2023 and the winner was... 2000-09 iPhone Launch Guest: Anne Gregory, Ph.D., BA, FRSA, HonFCIPR, Huddersfield University Email a.gregory@hud.ac.uk On Twitter @gregsAnne Leave a rating for this podcast with one click Leave us a voice message we can share on the podcast https://www.speakpipe.com/StoriesandStrategies Stories and Strategies Website Do you want to podcast? Book a meeting with Doug Downs to talk about it. Follow us on: · LinkedIn · Twitter · Instagram · Facebook · Our NEW You Tube Channel Request a transcript of this episode Support the show
S3 E90 · Sun, May 28, 2023
The Evolution of the Communications Engineer
With the emergence of more generative AI (see Chat GPT3 or GPT4…) there’s a new required skillset emerging in Communications – we are going to need skilled people who know how to prompt the AI software successfully. Prompt engineering is a concept in artificial intelligence in which the description of the task the AI software is supposed to accomplish, is embedded in the input. Those who know how to speak with the software, to prompt the most effective outputs, become extremely valuable. Very quickly this is changing how young people prepare for a career in PR, with many including data science now in their studies. Aaron Kwittken saw this coming. He built a new PR platform that leverages natural language processing and machine learning to help brands more effectively target and pitch journalists around the world. It’s an idea that makes perfect sense now, but it was a tougher sell to investors when it first started. Guest: Aaron Kwittken, founder and CEO Prophet and Stagwell Marketing Cloud’s Comms Tech Unit Web page https://www.prprophet.ai/ Aaron’s personal weg page https://aaronkwittken.com/ Email Info@AaronKwittken.Com Leave a rating for this podcast with one click Leave us a voice message we can share on the podcast https://www.speakpipe.com/StoriesandStrategies Stories and Strategies Website Do you want to podcast? Book a meeting with Doug Downs to talk about it. Follow us on: LinkedIn Twitter Instagram Facebook Our NEW You Tube Channel Request a transcript of this episode Support the show
S3 E89 · Sun, May 14, 2023
Oh the Things We Can Do With Generative AI (including Chat GPT)
It’s as if we have a new toy. When Open AI released Chat GPT-3 last November, and made it fully accessible to the public, it suddenly changed how we can create engaging and relevant content for our audiences, with just a few prompts. Not only can we CREATE content, but we can also gather valuable insights into customer behaviours and preferences like never before. By analyzing the data generated by customer interactions, businesses can identify patterns and trends they can use to optimize their strategies. But it’s all so new for so many of us. What exactly can we do with this NEW TOY? Leave a rating for this podcast with one click Guest: Brad Williamson, Lead Strategist Catch Digital Catch Digital website https://www.catchdigital.io/ Email hello@catchdigital.io Leave us a voice message we can share on the podcast https://www.speakpipe.com/StoriesandStrategies Stories and Strategies Website Do you want to podcast? Book a meeting with Doug Downs to talk about it. Follow us on: LinkedIn Twitter Instagram Facebook Our NEW You Tube Channel Request a transcript of this episode Support the show
S3 E88 · Sun, April 30, 2023
How AI Tools Are Already Impacting the PR Profession – And Where It’s All Going
We’ve seen this coming for a long time, but thanks to skepticism, and maybe a little sleepwalking, it’s never really bubbled to the top. But with the launch of Open AI’s ChatGPT Tool in November 2022 based on the GPT-3 dataset there’s a sudden surge of interest in in the PR industry around what’s happening with Artificial Intelligence and how we might be either impacted or supported (depending on your personal level of optimism). An exceptional new report by Stephen Waddington and Andrew Bruce Smith, available through CIPR looks at 10,000 marketing tools and focuses its analysis on those related to public relations. And if you suspected Chat GPT is just the tip of the iceberg – you’re right. Download the Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools and the impact on public relations (PR practice (2023) Guest: Stephen Waddington, Founder and Managing Partner of Wadds Inc. Website https://www.wadds.co.uk/ Email stephen.waddington@wadds.co.uk Follow on Twitter @wadds Follow on LinkedIn Listen to our 2020 episode with Jean Valin and Anne Gregory examining the AI in PR Ethics Report. Leave us a voice message we can share on the podcast https://www.speakpipe.com/StoriesandStrategies Stories and Strategies Website Do you want to podcast? Book a meeting with Doug Downs to talk about it. Follow us on: LinkedIn Twitter Instagram Facebook Our NEW You Tube Channel Support the show
S3 E87 · Sun, April 23, 2023
FEED DROP – Micro Influencers – When Smaller is Better
This week we’re offering a bonus episode in the form of a “Feed Drop” by the podcast Woman Up With the Sister Brand. This episode was first published by Woman Up in early March 2023 Macro influencers offer huge audience numbers, sometimes in the millions. But right now the trend is toward micro influencing and there are all kinds of reasons for that not the least of which is there are “fake” macro influencers out there charging insanely high fees AND THEY’RE BEING FOLLOWED BY BOTS. Micro influencers also tend to bring, not only a targeted audience but a loyal one. Forbes estimated micro influencers offer a 60% higher engagement rate which leads to a 20% higher conversion rate. They’re often more willing to work with new or smaller brands and best of all they provide access to niche communities. But how do you know the right micro influencer to choose? How do you know they’re “On Target?” And what kinds of fees are the going rate? Listen to, and follow, Woman Up With the Sister Brand https://thesisterbrand.com/podcast What do you think of the Feed Drop Concept? Let us know in this anonymous survey Support the show
S3 E86 · Sun, April 16, 2023
Social Media is OVERRATED!!
A 2023 new study by Social Insider reveals what most social media experts already know. Engagement by followers on social media – ALL social media channels – is down… again. While Tik Tok ranks by far the highest for engagement, it too is in decline. But more and more leaders, PR pros, marketers, continue to rely on social media. Many think it’s just a matter of “going viral” or growing their following to the point they can be considered an influencer. None of that is impossible but maybe more than a little exaggerated. While social media has value, it’s increasingly evident it’s only a tool in the box. In this episode, PR veteran Robert Wynne has some cautious words about putting all your eggs in the social media basket. Guest: Robert Wynne, President Wynne Communications Email Robert rob@wynnepr.com Website https://www.wynnepr.com/ Robert’s Book: The Persuasion Business on Amazon Check out the Med-PR Networking Conference in New York https://www.wynneevents.com/med Read the Social Insider blog referenced in these show notes. Leave us a voice message we can share on the podcast https://www.speakpipe.com/StoriesandStrategies Stories and Strategies Website Do you want to podcast? Book a meeting with Doug Downs to talk about it. Follow us on: LinkedIn Twitter Instagram Facebook Our NEW You Tube Channel Request a transcript of this episode Support the show
S3 E85 · Sun, April 02, 2023
PR and Marketing for Web 3.0
Web3 marketing refers to marketing strategies and tactics specifically designed to reach audiences within the Web3 ecosystem. Web3 refers to the decentralized and distributed internet and the technologies that enable it. There are many ways to interpret Web3 communications. It might include using a decentralized social network or web forum to engage with audiences, using blockchain-based systems to track and verify the effectiveness of marketing campaigns, or using decentralized apps (often called dApps) to create interactive and immersive marketing experiences in a digital world. Guest: Robert Lund, Chief Creative Officer and Co-Founder Studio TBD Website https://studio-tbd.io/ Twitter https://twitter.com/StudioTBD_NYC Insta https://www.instagram.com/tbd.products/ Email info@studio-tbd.io Leave us a voice message we can share on the podcast https://www.speakpipe.com/StoriesandStrategies Stories and Strategies Website Do you want to podcast? Book a meeting with Doug Downs to talk about it. Follow us on: LinkedIn Twitter Instagram Facebook Our NEW You Tube Channel Request a transcript of this episode Support the show
S3 E84 · Sun, March 19, 2023
Digging Deeper Into the Edelman Trust Barometer
Trust is at the core of all great relationships. With it, the living and working environment is energetic, productive, a joy to be in. Without it there’s lethargy and it’s almost impossible to move forward. Trust provides a sense of safety. For the last 23 years the Edelman Trust Barometer has helped leaders gauge who people believe in and who they expect to step up. Right now it’s business leaders who are assuming the leadership mantle. Business has emerged as an ethical force for good in an increasingly polarized world. In this episode we speak with the executive director of Intellectual Property of the Edelman Trust Institute. Guest Tonia Ries, Executive Director, Thought Leadership, Edelman Trust Institute trustinstitute@edelman.com 2023 Edelman Trust Barometer https://www.edelman.com/trust/2023/trust-barometer Read the Facial Resemblance Enhances Trust study from McMaster University Leave us a voice message we can share on the podcast https://www.speakpipe.com/StoriesandStrategies Stories and Strategies Website Do you want to podcast? Book a meeting with Doug Downs to talk about it. Follow us on: LinkedIn Twitter Instagram Facebook Our NEW You Tube Channel Request a transcript of this episode Support the show
S3 E83 · Sun, March 05, 2023
The Truth About Umms and Uhhs
If you aren’t accustomed to hearing your own voice it’s one of the first things that stands out… all those umms and uhhs. One out of every 60 words we say is umm or uhh. Interview guests will frequently ask “Could you edit all those out?” At Toastmasters someone is even assigned to count your umms and uhhs as you present and report them to you (that’s not distracting at all). But what do those verbal fillers really mean? Are they necessarily negative? Is there a threshold whereby too many suddenly becomes negative? Should you work to eliminate them from your speech? Or is it possible these little expressions are essential pieces of the fabric and machinery that make up verbal conversation and understanding? Guest Nick Enfield, BA (Hons) (ANU), PhD (Melbourne), FAHA FASSA FRSN Professor Linguistics, Director Sydney Social Sciences and Humanities Advanced Research Centre Email: nick.enfield@sydney.edu.au Website: http://nickenfield.org/ Leave us a voice message we can share on the podcast https://www.speakpipe.com/StoriesandStrategies Stories and Strategies Website Do you want to podcast? Book a meeting with Doug Downs to talk about it. Follow us on: LinkedIn Twitter Instagram Facebook Our NEW You Tube Channel Request a transcript of this episode Support the show
S3 E82 · Sun, February 19, 2023
Headlines with Ragan’s PR Daily – Chat GPT and Other News
Things happen fast in the world of public relations and marketing and Ragan’s PR Daily is one of the best ways to keep on top of industry best practices and new ideas. In this episode we chat with the Executive Editor of PR Daily, Allison Carter about: 2:43 ChatGPT – Read the article in Ragan’s 6:26 Netflix’ Password Sharing Nightmare – Read the article in Ragan’s 10:13 Is Social Media Heading in the Right Direction? – Read the article in Ragan’s 12:48 Journalist Response Rates are Down – Read the article in Ragan’s 15:59 Culture Wars Claim M&M’s – Read the article in Ragan’s Guest Allison Carter, executive editor of PR Daily @allisonlcarter on LinkedIn and Twitter Leave us a voice message we can share on the podcast https://www.speakpipe.com/StoriesandStrategies Stories and Strategies Website Do you want to podcast? Book a meeting with Doug Downs to talk about it. Follow us on: LinkedIn Twitter Instagram Facebook Our NEW You Tube Channel Request a transcript of this episode Support the show
S3 E81 · Sun, February 05, 2023
Is the Person You’re in Conversation With – Faking it?
We all fake human connection from time to time. We’re tired, the person we’re speaking with just doesn’t get it, or they’re deliberately trying to be difficult. Sometimes, and we wouldn’t want to admit this out loud, but sometimes the person talking to us just isn’t important enough for us to care. One form of this happens with interviews celebrities, athletes, and politicians give every day. With some of those interviews you can see the person being interviewed is enthused and interested but other times they’re either uninterested or giving us that “Fake Personality.” Guest: Kayley Hamilton, CEO Kayley Media Website https://www.kayleymedia.com/ Connect with Kayley on: Instagram https://www.instagram.com/kayleyhamilton_/ Facebook https://www.facebook.com/kayleyhamiltonmedia LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/company/kayleymedia/?viewAsMember=true Leave us a voice message we can share on the podcast https://www.speakpipe.com/StoriesandStrategies Stories and Strategies Website Do you want to podcast? Book a meeting with Doug Downs to talk about it. Follow us on: LinkedIn Twitter Instagram Facebook Our NEW You Tube Channel Request a transcript of this episode Support the show
S3 E80 · Sun, January 22, 2023
Do Sales Funnels Still Work? Or Is the Concept Springing Leaks?
The concept of the sales funnel is more than a century old. But depending on which Marketing Guru you listen to today – the funnel concept is either long dead or consistently proving itself alive and well. Common criticisms: Too linear Imply a finite end Focus on conversion Rely on abundant attention Are funnels being replaced? Or do they still capture the customer journey? Guest: Megan Dougherty, One Stone Creative Send Megan an email https://onestonecreative.net/contact/ On Twitter @oscpodcasting On Instagram @oscpodcasting Download the 2022 State of Business Podcasting Report Leave us a voice message we can share on the podcast https://www.speakpipe.com/StoriesandStrategies Stories and Strategies Website Do you want to podcast? Book a meeting with Doug Downs to talk about it. Follow us on: LinkedIn Twitter Instagram Facebook Our NEW You Tube Channel Request a transcript of this episode Support the show
S3 E79 · Sun, January 08, 2023
When Lies Build Trust
In this age of misinformation and disinformation we can all agree lies and deception are bad right? Aren’t they? Philosophers, psychologists, economists – and all those morality experts on social media have always insisted deception harms trust. Four Behavioral Science studies done through the Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania show that assertion just isn’t true. In fact, there are lies we hear, knowing they are lies, that make us trust those liars even more. So what’s the truth about lying? Guests Maurice Schweitzer, PhD and Emma Levine, PhD: Emma has a PhD from the Wharton School, University of Pennsylvania; a BA (philosophy, politics, and economics) and BS (economics) from the University of Pennsylvania. She is an Associate Professor of Behavioral Science and the Charles E Merrill Faculty Scholar at the University of Chicago Booth School of Business. Emma.Levine@chicagobooth.edu Maurice has a PhD in economics, is the Cecilia Yen Koo Professor of Operations, Information, and Decisions and Management at the Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania. He is the Director of the Wharton Behavioral Lab and has published over 100 articles on trust, negotiations, and emotions. Schweitzer@wharton.upenn.edu Link to Emma and Maurice’s study Prosocial Lies: When deception breeds trust Leave us a voice message we can share on the podcast https://www.speakpipe.com/StoriesandStrategies Stories and Strategies Website Do you want to podcast? Book a meeting with Doug Downs to talk about it. Follow us on: LinkedIn Twitter Instagram Facebook Our NEW You Tube Channel Support the show
S3 E78 · Sun, December 25, 2022
Integrating the Newer Tools Into Traditional Marketing and PR
Things move so quickly now it almost seems wrong to consider digital marketing, SEO, influencer marketing, and even social media as “newer tools.” But the way in which we use them, our habits, and even connected applications, are changing fast. Our clients still need us to help them strengthen their brands, make breakthroughs into new markets, launch products and services. We had better know how to use these newer tools as well as the tools and applications built to go with them. Guest: Anna Crowe MBA, CEO Crowe PR https://crowepr.com/ info@crowepr.com On Instagram and Twitter @acrowepr Leave us a voice message we can share on the podcast https://www.speakpipe.com/StoriesandStrategies Stories and Strategies Website Do you want to podcast? Book a meeting with Doug Downs to talk about it. Follow us on: LinkedIn Twitter Instagram Facebook Our NEW You Tube Channel Request a transcript of this episode Support the show
S3 E77 · Sun, December 11, 2022
A Close Look at Today’s Social Media Channels With Grey Group
According to the Datareportal July 2022 global overview more than half the world now uses social media (59%). 4.7 billion people around the world are using social media. The question is no longer whether people are using social media but what they’re using them for and how can comms pros and marketers harness this growing habit? Grey Group ranks among the world’s top advertising and marketing agencies and in this episode, two of their social media leaders helps go beyond what’s trending to actually understand what’s happening with social media and how we can harness its true power most effectively. In this episode we talk about the latest trends in social media and forecast what’s next for each channel. Will Twitter survive? Will Snapchat? Guests: Joey Scarillo, Caine Fair – Grey Group podcasts@grey.com Listen to Grey Group’s Podcast 5Things: This Week in Social On Apple Podcasts On Spotify Leave us a voice message we can share on the podcast https://www.speakpipe.com/StoriesandStrategies Stories and Strategies Website Do you want to podcast? Book a meeting with Doug Downs to talk about it. Email Doug directly doug@storiesandstrategies.ca Follow us on: LinkedIn Twitter Instagram Facebook Request a transcript of this episode Support the show
S3 E76 · Sun, November 27, 2022
Taking an Organizational Stand on Social and Political Issues. Is it Worth it?
In February 2022, the New York Times reported findings from interviews with undergraduate seniors entering the workforce as well as a recent survey of millennials (some of whom are now in their 40’s), about their expectations of companies for whom they intend to work. 61 percent said they preferred companies who take a stand on social issues. Half said they would quit their job if it didn’t align with their values. None of this is surprising, it’s been a trend for years. To engage in Corporate Social Responsibility means in the ordinary course of business a company is operating in ways that enhance society and the environment. But does CSR require taking a stand publicly on social and political issues? Many say it does. Critics say if a company embraces diversity and inclusion, how can it also “take a stand?” One company that’s not just talking the talk but walking the walk when it comes to social and political issues, is Cision, a comprehensive communications platform serving public relations and marketing professionals widely known for its global newswire services. Guest: Jay Webster, Cision Chief Product & Technology Officer and Cision Comms Cloud President On LinkedIn @Jay Webster Leave us a voice message we can share on the podcast https://www.speakpipe.com/StoriesandStrategies Stories and Strategies Website Do you want to podcast? Book a meeting with Doug Downs to talk about it. Email Doug directly doug@storiesandstrategies.ca Follow us on: LinkedIn Twitter Instagram Facebook Request a transcript of this episode Support the show
S3 E75 · Sun, November 13, 2022
Building Reputation Capital Before the Crises
No doubt you already know tenets of good crisis planning: Be prepared, be accountable, respond quickly (or at least timely), tell the truth… Several years of living in a COVID World and the sudden emergence of all those crisis experts has the basics of crisis management drilled into our heads. But one aspect doesn’t get as much hype: The need to build a solid reputation in advance so, like armor, it will protect you when the crisis hits. A new book by TJ Winick dives into this principle. Guest: TJ Winick More about TJ TJ’s book Reputation Capital: How to Navigate Crises and Protect your Greatest Asset on Amazon Contacting Stories and Strategies Leave us a voice message we can share on the podcast https://www.speakpipe.com/StoriesandStrategies Stories and Strategies Website Do you want to start a podcast? Book a meeting with Doug Downs to talk about it. Email Doug directly doug@storiesandstrategies.ca Follow us on: LinkedIn Twitter Instagram Facebook Support the show
S3 E74 · Sun, October 30, 2022
Halloween Special: Those Career Moments That Terrify Us
We’ve all had those moments in our careers. Moments of sheer terror. That time we emailed to “Reply All,” that time we put the wrong phone number or website in the news release, that spelling error you didn’t catch before distributing the newsletter to thousands of people. And sometimes the terror is out of our control. That horrible, unethical boss, that huge project you’re assigned that you aren’t ready for, and co workers from Hell! That time you were fired. It’s little comfort but these moments have happened to everyone. And if you haven’t experienced a moment of terror yet… it’s your turn next. Guests: Jolene (Jack O Lantern) Ondrik Eye on Culture jolene@eyeonculture.ca Jolene’s previous episode on Stories and Strategies (Apple link) Doug (Danger) Lacombe Communicatto Inc doug@communicatto.com Doug’s previous episode on Stories and Strategies (Apple link) Leave us a voice message we can share on the podcast https://www.speakpipe.com/StoriesandStrategies Stories and Strategies Website Do you want to podcast? Book a meeting with Doug Downs to talk about it. Email Doug directly doug@storiesandstrategies.ca Follow us on: LinkedIn Twitter Instagram Facebook Support the show
S3 E73 · Sun, October 16, 2022
The ORID Method for Structured Conversation
You know how this feels. You’re called into a meeting on something important where a decision or action must be determined. But in the meeting, everyone takes turns making different points (presumably so they feel they’ve contributed to the meeting in front of their superior), the conversation goes wayward and when it comes time to making the decision, everyone’s confused or (worse) misled. This is typically the point where the most senior person in the room then makes decisions, essentially based on what they thought before they entered the room, and the meeting has been a waste of time. It just doesn’t have to be this way. The ORID method (Objective, Reflective, Interpretive, Decisional) traces its origins to a person named Joseph Matthews, a US army Chaplin who had just come home from World War Two. When he returned to his university professorship, he was consumed with the need to help people process the events of their lives – to help people build meaning from their own trials. Matthews met an art professor who showed him that any encounter with art involves a trialogue – or three-way conversation – between the art, the artist, and the observer. The Professor explained: "First you have to take the work of art seriously by observing carefully what's there, and what's not. Then you must look seriously at what is going on inside of you as you observe the art to see how you are reacting, what repels you? What delights you? You have to peel back layers of awareness so that you can begin to ask what it means to you. Art, the professor explained, is like listening. You must work to create your own meaning from an artwork, or a conversation.” Matthews recalled his exposure to phenomenology - the study of phenomena and brought to mind readings of Soren Kierkegaard. Matthews used this structure to create, what was called the art form conversation, and what facilitators affectionately call the focused conversation method. The idea is a structured conversation that helps participants develop their thinking in a logical manner but following a natural human process for focused communication. Logic and facts are introduced first, then emotion is welcomed, followed by interpretation, and then a decision or resolution to the thinking process. In this episode we talk with Robin Parsons, a seasoned professional facilitator who uses the ORID method all the time. Guest: Robin Parsons, MBA, CPF, CTF Parsons Dialogue Ltd. Website https://www.parsonsdialogue.com/ Email info@parsonsdialogue.com Leave us a voice message we can share on the podcast https://www.speakpipe.com/StoriesandStrategies Visit the Stories and Strategies website Do you want to podcast? <a href='https://ca
S3 E72 · Sun, October 02, 2022
New Research Suggests We Each Have 6,200 Thoughts Per Day
Researchers at Queen’s University in Canada have established a method that, for the first time, can detect indirectly when one thought ends and another begins. Dr Jordan Poppenk and his team call them “Thought Worms,” consisting of consecutive moments when a person is focused on the same idea. This is an extraordinary window into the mind for anyone in professional communications and marketing. Scientifically understanding how consciousness flows from one thought to the next, and the rate at which this happens, gives us keen insight into understanding, and yes, the ability to persuade effectively. For example, how many thoughts will a person actually have while drinking a cup of coffee? And does the action itself (sitting down for coffee) influence how we think? In this episode we talk with the lead researcher, Dr Jordan Poppenk to better understand our Thought Worms. Guest: Dr Jordan Poppenk Canada Research Chair in Cognitive Neuroscience Contact Dr Poppenk through Queen’s University Download the research paper Share your Halloween story via https://www.speakpipe.com/StoriesandStrategies Stories and Strategies Website Do you want to podcast? Book a meeting with Doug Downs to talk about it. Email Doug directly doug@storiesandstrategies.ca Follow us on: LinkedIn Twitter Instagram Facebook Support the show
S3 E71 · Sun, September 18, 2022
How to Pitch Micro Media (Like Podcasts)
Micro media is a somewhat new term we can use to describe media created by companies, brands and individuals housed (mainly) online. Personal blogs and corporate sites that invite fans and industry leaders to contribute, are two other examples. In the olden days (circa 1980) the most common way to promote your business was to buy advertising in macro media outlines – usually via a big PR firm. But technology and social trends have changed. Micro media outlets are gaining significance as they grow larger and larger audiences. Podcasts are a perfect example. There are 120 million podcast listeners in the United States but according to the podcast index there are barely 300,000 podcasts with new episodes in the last month. So, micro media outlets are beginning to sway the narrative of public opinion away from the traditional media gatekeepers. And micro media sources give the best opportunity to drill down into niche audiences which have always been extremely valuable. In this episode, how to hone your pitch to micro media sources. Guest: Shelby Janner, Zilker Media Zilker Media website Sign up for Zilker Media’s Podcast Guest Insider Use the Stories and Strategies Coupon Code with the Podcast Guest Insider: @Stories10 Email Shelby shelby@zilkermedia.com . Share your Halloween story via https://www.speakpipe.com/StoriesandStrategies Stories and Strategies Website Do you want to podcast? Book a meeting with Doug Downs to talk about it. Email Doug directly doug@storiesandstrategies.ca Follow us on: LinkedIn Twitter Instagram Facebook Support the show
S3 E70 · Sun, September 04, 2022
The Behavioural Science Communications Firm That’s Changing Everything
Within Public Relations and Marketing we often use what are considered to be best practices for our strategies. It’s natural. If a methodology, including survey and analysis, has worked in a similar situation previously, that’s the one to use. The challenge with surveys or polls is they’re often unreliable. They’re unreliable because we, humans, often don’t answer in a way that matches our true intentions – because our answers are clouded with aspirational intent, or even more simply, we don’t know our true intentions which are probably based more in habit than we’d like to acknowledge. Enter Behavioural Science, which is an umbrella term capturing economics, anthropology, cognitive neuroscience, sociology, psychology, and political science. It’s the study of when and why individuals engage in specific behaviours by experimentally examining the impact of factors such as conscious thoughts, motivation, social influences, contextual effects and habits. Taking a BS approach to challenges can really begin to move the dial. There are hundreds of firms exploring in this field now, working for clients trying to convince people to buy the right soap, vote for the preferred candidate, or choose the right behaviour. It’s a shift away from just best practices and intuition – to seek an understanding of human behaviour as best we can. One is standing out from the field and the industry has noticed. Lynn, in Wales. It’s won dozens of awards including “Fastest Growing Communications Business in the World.” In this episode we meet the founder, Shayoni Lynn. Guest: Shayoni Lynn, Lynn Lynn website https://lynn.global/ Email contact@lynn.global Twitter Instagram LinkedIn Stories and Strategies Website Do you want to podcast? Book a meeting with Doug Downs to talk about it. Email Doug directly doug@storiesandstrategies.ca Follow us on: LinkedIn Twitter Instagram Facebook Support the show
S3 E69 · Sun, August 21, 2022
The Five Situations Your Senior Leaders Will See or Hear You
Stephen Krempl believes if you want to get noticed the right way by your senior leaders you must recognize there are only five situations in which those leaders will see or hear you. And when those situations arise, if you can master the art of turning a negative into either a neutral or a positive, you’ll get much further ahead.” To use a metaphor, does that mean candy coating everything? And to stretch the metaphor, won’t that make us a little sick? Stephen Krempl doesn’t think so. He notes there are really only five key situations our senior leaders really see or hear us. Five stages with limited stage time for each. We need to make those opportunities count. Guest: Stephen Krempl Stephen has worked for and with numerous Fortune 500 companies in training or corporate training and development roles. Companies such as Pepsico, Starbucks, Motorola, Visa, BNP Paribas, Schneider Electric, and Barclay’s Bank. Amazon Link to Stephen’s book Positively Negative: How to Turn Negative Messages into Positive Ones Stephen’s other book, The 5% Zone: Visibility Strategies That Get You Recognized and Rewarded in Any Organization Stephen’s website Email Stephen info@kremplcommunications.com Stephen on Twitter: @krempl Stephen on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephen-krempl/ Do you want to podcast? Book a meeting with Doug Downs to talk about it. Email Doug directly doug@storiesandstrategies.ca Follow us on: LinkedIn Twitter Instagram Facebook Support the show
S3 E68 · Sun, August 07, 2022
Could Spy Agencies, Like the FBI, MI5, and CSIS, Use Some PR Help?
The World’s intelligence agencies have long suffered from a perspective they’re too secretive. That’s not just the stuff of Hollywood movies and books, these are real perceptions backed by studies and reviews critical of the communications in those agencies. They all conclude there’s a need to be more intelligent about Intelligence. The degree of secrecy in these Agencies has always been a delicate balance. But there are many today who say the level of secrecy in intelligence is a symptom of increasing obsolescence as well as an obstacle to reform. In this episode we talk with a former analyst at two of Canada’s intelligence agencies, The Communications Security Establishment (CSE) and Canadian Security Intelligence Service (CSIS) to get his perspective on how a refreshed view of communication practice might make a world of difference. Guest: Phil Gurski Borealis Threat and Risk Consulting Website https://borealisthreatandrisk.com/ Email borealisrisk@gmail.com Check out any of Phil’s books Phil’s Podcast Canadian Intelligence Eh? Stories and Strategies website Do you want to podcast? Book a meeting with Doug Downs to talk about it. Email Doug directly doug@storiesandstrategies.ca Follow us on: LinkedIn Twitter Instagram Facebook Support the show
S3 E67 · Sun, July 24, 2022
How the Real-Life Siri (GPS Girl) Found Her True Sense of Direction
Worldwide Karen Jacobsen is known for her voice – the voice of female Australian SIRI or GPS Karen. She’s been heard on 400 million GPS and smart-enabled devices and today she’s a successful motivational speaker, singer/songwriter, and author. But the road to success was trickier than you might image shortly after Karen’s voice began appearing on our smartphones she ran into her own, real-life “Recalculating,” moment and needed to find her way back. In her own words, “It’s never too late to recalculate.” Guest: Karen Jacobsen Connect with Karen: Website The GPS Girl On Twitter On LinkedIn On Instagram YouTube Karen’s music can be heard here - karenjacobsen.com Have a listen to Karen’s new single THE SLIPSTREAM Karen’s book The GPS Girl’s Road Map for Your Future: Put Yourself in the Driver’s Seat Karen’s book Recalculate: Directions for Driving Performance Success Do you want to podcast? Book a meeting with Doug Downs to talk about it. Email Doug directly doug@storiesandstrategies.ca Stories and Strategies Website Follow us on: LinkedIn Twitter Instagram Facebook Support the show
S3 E66 · Sun, July 10, 2022
Finding Your Niche Skill or Authority to Future-Proof Your Career
In the work world the true generalist is very different from the specialist. The specialist tends to have a deep understanding of a certain content area while the generalist has a broader scope of the work landscape. The pros of being a generalist are understanding connections between departments and, theoretically, the ability to adapt to handling many different tasks. The cons include exhaustion from doing too many tasks over time (we tend to reward good workers with more work). The benefits to being a specialist include having a deep knowledge with less competition, but the cons include the need to avoid becoming obsolete as technology continually changes. The school of thought has always been that there are more opportunities for the Generalist. Are there? Has that started to change? As the Gig Economy begins to grow, and the work atmosphere is forever changed by COVID, it’s becoming increasingly clear we are living in a Specialized World. Guest: Talia Beckett Davis Pink Pearl PR Founder Women in PR Contact Talia talia@womeninpr.ca talia@pinkprfirm.com publicrelationsacademy.com https://womeninpr.com/ Listen to Talia’s previous episode on Stories and Strategies On Apple On Spotify Do you want to podcast? Book a meeting with Doug Downs to talk about it. Register for the FREE July 13, 2022 Webinar Event "Getting Started With Your Podcast" Email Doug directly doug@storiesandstrategies.ca Follow us on: LinkedIn Twitter Instagram Facebook Support the show
S3 E65 · Sun, June 26, 2022
Four Tips for New PR Grads
So, you’re graduating with a Communications or Marketing degree? Congratulations. It’s a growing industry and there are plenty of opportunities. The US Bureau of Labor Statistics forecasts employment of PR specialists to grow 11 percent from 2020 to 2030 with 29,000 new jobs every year. One Canadian study (McGill University in Montreal) predicts more than 36,000 job openings to become available in the PR Industry in Canada by 2026. In general, a PR pro is responsible for managing the relationship between an organization and its various audiences, including stakeholders, investors, the media, the government, and the general public. Each audience has different needs and an organization’s objectives with regards to each audience differ. So PR pros are tasked with creating and implementing communication strategies to: Provide information Manage the organization or individual’s reputation Positively influence public opinion Effectively respond to crises Comply with government enforced transparency laws and regulations If you’re graduating now and entering the workforce, it’s an exciting time – with new technologies daily but accompanied by ever escalating audience expectations for engagement and openness. In this episode, Communications vet Michelle Garrett offers her thoughts for those starting out to help them navigate the inevitable bumpy roads and choppy waters. Guest: Michelle Garrett Email michelle@michellegarrett.com Website https://michellegarrett.com/ Follow Michelle on Twitter @PRisUs Listen to Michelle’s other episodes on Stories and Strategies Snake Oil on Apple Podcasts – on Spotify PR Trends on Apple Podcasts – on Spotify Read Michelle's article in Muck Rack on this topic PR Associations The Canadian Public Relations Society The Canadian Association of Communicators in Education The Chartered Institute of Public Relations The Global Alliance for Public Relations and Communication Management The International Communications Consultancy Organisation The Institute for Public Rela
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S3 E64 · Sun, June 12, 2022
How Executives Use Social Media to Lead
A new survey by Brunswick Group makes it clear executive leaders today are not only expected to be online, but to be active and connected. 2,800 readers of financial publications and 3,600 employees in large companies were surveyed worldwide and in-depth interviews were conducted with more than a dozen leaders and their teams at various companies. 82% of employees said it’s important for business leaders to use social media to communicate about the company’s mission, vision, values 86% of financial publication readers felt leaders should be online By a four to one ratio, employees would rather work for a CEO who uses social media than one who does not Link to the Study Guest: Craig Mullaney, Partner Brunswick Group Craig Mullaney is a Brunswick partner in Washington, DC. Craig advises clients on a broad range of critical issues, with a specialist focus on leadership communications and US-Japan cross-border issues. He is one of the leading authorities on executives’ use of digital media and pioneered Brunswick Group’s Connected Leadership research. He joined Brunswick from Facebook where he led strategic partnerships and founded Facebook’s Global Executive Program. Craig has provided strategic counsel to leaders ranging from former heads of state and Fortune 50 CEOs to presidents of major charitable foundations, scientific luminaries, and numerous TED speakers. He is a New York Times bestselling author, and a decorated Army combat veteran. Salutatorian / BS, History at United States Military Academy at West Point Rhodes Scholar / MSt. / MSc. Diplomatic History / Economic History at University of Oxford. Follow Craig on Twitter @craigmmullaney and on LinkedIn Craig’s New York Times Bestseller “The Unforgiving Minute, a Soldier’s Education” Connect with Stories and Strategies on Twitter @stories_strats. We follow back. Let’s talk about the podcast idea doug@storiesandstrategies.ca Support the show
S3 E63 · Sun, May 29, 2022
A Look at the Personality Traits of Some in History Who Had Influence
In today’s world a social media influencer is one who has the power to affect purchasing decisions of others because of their authority, their knowledge, their title, or their relationship with their audience. Often that means they have a large social following, but it can also mean they just have the right people following them in a position to take action. But influence isn’t new. All through history there have been influencers – those who used their positions to make the world a better place and definitely those who used their influence in bad ways. In this episode we study the influence of people such as Abraham Lincoln; Diana, Princess of Wales; Mother Theresa, Henry the VIII, Adolph Hitler and more… What was it about their personalities that gave them rise to influence? Guest: Kate Mason, Australia’s personality coach Check out Kate’s book “Who is this Monster (or Treasure) in my House?” Listen to Kate’s podcast Personalities, Parenting, and Partners Connect with Stories and Strategies on Twitter @stories_strats. We follow back. Let’s talk about the podcast idea doug@storiesandstrategies.ca Support the show
S3 E62 · Sun, May 15, 2022
Case Study – A Simple Message, Easy Call to Action, Complicated Outcomes
Utility Safety Partners has a simple message. Like all One-Call services it advocates for people and professional contractors to contact them before they dig a hole. One contact and locate markings result a short time later by any company with buried facilities int eh area, and you can dig that hole for your deck, or fence post, or whatever work needs to be done. That’s a message that benefits everyone right? It’s a simple action contacting just one entity for all this, there’s no particular delay to the project… you would think compliance would be 100%? Of course it isn’t. That’s human nature. And it’s the communications challenge for all One-Call services around the World taking this easy message, and this easy call to action, and making it human habit. Guest: Mike Sullivan, President Utility Safety Partners https://utilitysafety.ca/ info@utilitysafety.ca @utility_safety on Twitter Check out Mike’s podcast on Apple Prairie Podcast Connect with Stories and Strategies on Twitter @stories_strats. We follow back. Let’s talk about the podcast idea doug@storiesandstrategies.ca Support the show
S3 E61 · Sun, May 01, 2022
Making Communications More Accessible
This Spring the PRCA (Public Relations and Communications Association) updated its Guidelines for Accessible Communications. They provide more detail on video and animated graphics, thoughtful use of language and representation, and hosting of physical and virtual events. We talk about making our processes and materials more accessible and at times we even take steps on a specific project to make sure they are. But accessibility is seldom a core value that is delivered on. And yet the numbers of people impacted are staggering globally: Over 400 million people have severe hearing loss Nearly 300 million people are visually impaired Nearly 200 million people have cognitive disability People with disabilities make up 15% of the World’s population People with disabilities control nearly $13 Trillion worth of buying power Understanding the importance of accessible communications will force us as communications professionals to pay greater attention to engaging people with disabilities in our processes and materials. And accessible communication benefits all audiences, making information clear, direct, and easy to understand. Guest: George Coleman, CEO, Current Global Link to Current Global’s Making communications accessible by design Link to the PRCA Accessible Communications Guidelines George loves telling stories. Big, tall or short. He’s been doing it for more than 25 years for some of the world’s most iconic brands. He started his career as an electronics engineer, but craved a more creative canvas, and made the leap into marketing communications. Following a stint at the BBC, he joined his first PR agency and the rest, as they say, is LinkedIn profile history. He founded Interpublic Group agency Creation in 2011 and served as global president, before teaming up with Current Marketing to form Current Global in 2019. Outside of work he’s often found in his vegetable patch or brewing beer. He’s also a film fanatic, collects original cinema posters and has a cat called Butch Cassidy and a dog called Sundance. Email George: gcoleman@currentglobal.com Connect with George on Twitter @theprmonkey Connect with Stories and Strategies on Twitter @stories_strats. We follow back. Support the show
S3 E60 · Sun, April 17, 2022
Behavioural Economics and Public Relations
The hot hand fallacy in basketball. Why we tend to grab a coffee to start our day or to have difficult conversations. The fact IKEA furniture is so hard to assemble sometimes is part of why it’s so popular. How does that make sense? All examples well-explained by Behavioural Economics. Statistically there’s no such thing as a hot hand in basketball. We need that coffee due to the Anchoring Effect. And IKEA furniture? We feel a sense of personal pride when we’ve finally solved the puzzle. In this episode, if we as PR and Marketing people are in the business of persuasive communications then we need to go beyond making people think or feel differently. We need to change or reinforce their behaviours. That’s where BE comes in. Guest: Adrian Wheeler Twitter @adrianprague Connect with or DM Stories and Strategies with comments and episode ideas comms_podcast. We follow back. Support the show
S3 E59 · Sun, April 03, 2022
How to Respond to a Reputational Crisis
LANGUAGE IS CLEAN IN OPENING CLIP When actor Will Smith went up on stage at the Oscars and slapped comedian Chris Rock – the noise was shocking… the impact reverberating. At the Oscars, Rock had made a joke about Smith's wife, Jada Pinkett Smith having a buzzed haircut. Pinkett Smith has spoken publicly about her diagnosis with alopecia, which can cause baldness. Husband Will promptly stood up, took to the stage, and slapped Rock in the face. There’s no question one moment can jeopardize your reputation. And this incident can be termed among the more offensive – it was a physical assault. Formal statements are common afterward and Smith did that apologizing within days to Rock but the public downfall can be career-ending. In this episode we talk with a PR pro who has worked with professional athletes and executives facing this kind of reputational crisis. Guest: Alee Opuiyo Website: www.Dynamicpublicrelations.com Instagram: @DynamicPublicRelations Twitter: @Dynamicprpro Facebook: www.facebook.com/Dynamicpublicrelations Phone Number: 240-393-3100 Contact Stories and Strategies by email doug@storiesandstrategies.ca Connect with or DM Stories and Strategies with comments and episode ideas comms_podcast. We follow back. Support the show
S3 E58 · Sun, March 20, 2022
Exploring What the Metaverse Means to Marketing and Communications Strategies
The Harris Poll conducted a survey recently on how Americans understand and perceive the metaverse. While the majority don’t understand what it is, 70% of Gen Z and Millennials (22-40 year olds) are interested in interacting within it. They’re interested in video games yes but also social interactions and virtual meetups. Many want to visit virtual stores and have brand experiences. What does all this mean for how marketing and communications professionals will adjust their strategies? Will conferences include virtual trade shows where we can buy good and services with non-fungible tokens (NFTs)? Can showcase events like airshows take us on a ride on a Lockheed Martin F-22 Raptor? Will PR pros pitch new media including a digital version of the product they’re trying to get news coverage for? In this episode we talk with Matthew Feider of The Harris Poll which has done the research. The future does look META. Guest Matthew Feider, The Harris Poll Matthew.feider@harrispoll.com Website https://theharrispoll.com/ Link to Poll results news release Connect with or DM Stories and Strategies with comments and episode ideas comms_podcast. We follow back Support the show
S3 E57 · Sun, March 06, 2022
Intercultural Communication in the Workplace
Communication between and among cultures has existed for thousands of years. Successful rulers such as Alexander the Great and Genghis Khan built enormous empires because they appreciated and assimilated aspects of different cultures as they expanded. But fast-forward to 2022 and we as communications professionals can often seem to struggle with the concept. Some organizations have done very well expanding in this global environment. Others, not so much. In this episode we talk with the President of IABC India Subhamoy Das who has studied the various academic literature and even led communications efforts for companies who are stepping foot into new cultures. Guest: Subhamoy Das, President IABC India Subhamoy.das@gmail.com The IABC Guide for Practical Business Communication: A Global Standard Hofstede Cultural Dimensions Cultural Advantage: A New Model for Succeeding With Global Teams, Mijnd Huijser Connect with or DM Stories and Strategies with comments and episode ideas comms_podcast. We follow back Support the show
S3 E56 · Sun, February 20, 2022
The Future of Corporate Communications
A lingering pandemic, accelerating technological abilities, in turn creating ever increasing stakeholder demands and expectations – combined with misinformation and disinformation in rampant circulation. Where are we going? What does the role we fill today look like in the future? If it is our job as Comms Pros to help our organizations make sense, understand and express values, and navigate social and political minefields… how do we do that when things are changing so fast? How do we kick the football when the goal posts keep moving? In this episode, Gini Dietrich, one of the most respected voices in American Public Relations digs deep into new research to help us decipher the playing field. Read Gini’s newsletter article on this topic Access the full Study by Edelman 2021 Future of Corporate Communications Gini on Twitter @ginidietrich Follow Gini’s podcasts Spin Sucks Inside PR Agency Leadership Podcast Gini’s Book – Spin Sucks Connect with or DM Stories and Strategies with comments and episode ideas on Twitter comms_podcast. We follow back Support the show
S3 E55 · Sun, February 06, 2022
PR Trends to Keep an Eye on in 2022
More working from home, more freelancers, great focus on influencer marketing, and the rising wave of popularity for audio and video formats. In her December newsletter, communications trend-setter Michelle Garrett takes stock of many of the things impacting marketing and communications right now. Surveys are showing more than 90% of employers confirm they will permanently offer remote work opportunities compared to just 52% the previous year. Another survey is proving the Gig economy is real and there are distinct advantages to employers hiring skilled consultants. And when it comes to measuring the effectiveness of marketing efforts – there could be a revamp in store with a new lens for success to be applied. Guest: Michelle Garrett Email michelle@michellegarrett.com Website https://michellegarrett.com/ Follow Michelle on Twitter @PRisUs Michelle’s December 2021 Newsletter re PR Trends Connect with or DM Stories and Strategies with comments and episode ideas comms_podcast. We follow back. Support the show
S2 E54 · Sun, June 06, 2021
Using Communications to Power Small Business
We know it as comms-pros – communications is the glue that holds a business together. But too often smaller businesses can’t afford professional comms. It’s a pure expense that doesn’t seem to directly generate revenue. In this episode we speak with a New York Agency that has found a solid way to help small businesses succeed – and convince them it’s good ROI. Guest Tash Benjamin, TKing Enterprises https://tkingenterprises.com/ tbenjamin@tkingenterprises.com Support the show
S2 E53 · Sun, May 23, 2021
Nudge Theory Part II with Rory Sutherland
One could argue the concept of strategies that are both transparent (fully allowing for freedom of choice) and subtly manipulative at the same time is hardly new – perhaps only the term “Nudge Theory” is what’s new. In this episode we explore whether Nudge Theory is a brilliant concept of behavioural economics making life better for people, or a euphemism for psychological manipulation and social engineering. Guest Rory Sutherland, Vice chairman Ogilvy UK Book Rory to speak at your event Check out Nudgestock 2021 Have a listen to Rory's excellent podcast Support the show
S2 E52 · Sun, May 09, 2021
Nudge Theory Part I with Rory Sutherland
Nudge Theory burst onto the scene in 2008 when Cass Sunstein and Richard Thaler published their book “Nudge: Improving Decisions About Health, Wealth, and Happiness.” The simplest models of economics take preferences as given, but nudge ideas suggest we can be moved, steered, and in some cases manipulated. Nudge has influenced politicians around the World. There are “Nudge Units” in government in the UK, US, Germany, Japan, and even Canada. The World Bank, United Nations, and European Commission have “Nudge” teams. Guest Rory Sutherland, Vice chairman Ogilvy UK https://www.ogilvy.com/ Check out Nudgestock 2021 To book Rory for your event email Canadian Nudge Team = BeSci Team UK Nudge Team = Behavioural Insights Team Australian Nudge Team = Behavioural Economics Team of Australia American Nudge Team = Social and Behavioural Sciences Team Support the show
S2 E51 · Sun, May 02, 2021
The Sin of Slow in Crisis Communications
Research shows more than one-quarter of crises spread to international media within an hour; two-thirds of crises reach media outlets worldwide within the first 24 hours (Freshfields Bruckhaus Deringer). The democratization of information means we all have access to a global audience 24-7. First impressions set the narrative within minutes that you may be battling for years to come if you’re slow with initial messaging. In this episode we speak with Crisis Communications expert Shawna Bruce about the sin of being slow when crisis strikes. Guest: Shawna Bruce, M.D. Bruce and Associates https://www.mdbruceandassociates.com/ bruceandassociatesltd@gmail.com Support the show
S2 E50 · Sun, April 25, 2021
From the Language of Science to the Language of People
There has never been a more important time for good science communication. Not only is it important for us to understand the value of evidence-based solutions but to actually understand the fallibility and imperfection of science too. Since 2005 Laurentian, University in Sudbury Canada, has delivered graduate education in Science Communication in partnership with Science North, the second-largest science Centre in Canada. It’s the only program in the Country that offers a graduate-level blend of theoretical foundations and experiential learning in science communication. Guest: Chantal Barriault, Ph.D. Program Director, Laurentian University https://laurentian.ca/program/science-communication cbarriault@laurentian.ca Support the show
S2 E49 · Sun, April 18, 2021
How to Be a Great Podcast Guest
Podcasts are radio but on demand, dedicated to your niche interest, and (for the most part) commercial free. There are two million podcasts worldwide right now and counting. And lots of them need guests!! They are a terrific channel to advance your authority as a subject matter expert but like any media interview, there’s a skill, a science, and an art to the delivery. In this episode, Brad Phillips, the media trainer known worldwide as Mr Media Training becomes the Podfather. Guest Brad Phillips, Throughline Group brad@throughlinegroup.com https://www.throughlinegroup.com/ Have a listen to Brad’s podcast - Tge Speak Good Podcast https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-speak-good-podcast/id1571169187 Check out Throughline’s Blog https://www.throughlinegroup.com/blog/ On Twitter - @throughliners and @mrmediatraining Follow Stories and Strategies on Twitter @comms_podcast Support the show
S2 E48 · Sun, April 11, 2021
The Invention of Color
As early as 40,000 years ago humans used a combination of soil, animal fat, burnt charcoal, and chalk to create colour palettes (or color in America). We know that story… but here’s the one we don’t know. In a world before trains, reliable road networks, automobiles, and urban settings, most people lived rural lives. Colour was seasonal and bound by the natural light and local environment. Someone living in coastal Wales would have seen the green of the hills, but only occasionally punctuated by pink or yellow wildflowers. Indigo and purple would have been rare and fleeting. A Shoshone person living in Utah would have seen a world of red, orange, gold, and brown – but green would have been rare. When colour finally did enter into the people’s lives, it was disorienting and somewhat… immoral. Guest Carolyn Purnell, Ph.D. https://www.carolynpurnell.com/contact Links to three part series in Psychology Today available below: The Invention of Color The Color Revolution Taming Color Link to Tedx Talk given by Carolyn Link to Carolyn’s book – The Sensational Past: How the Enlightenment Change the Way We Use Our Senses Support the show
S2 E47 · Sun, April 04, 2021
The Epigenetics of Leadership
LEADERSHIP COMMUNICATIONS SERIES - Episode 4 The emerging science of epigenetics explains how our lifestyle and environment have influence on our gene expression over time. It’s a growing field of research that’s changing the nature vs nurture debate as we begin to understand gene expression is influenced by external factors such as our physical environments, homes, neighbourhoods, upbringing, and current lifestyle choices. Simply, while our genes are fixed, our genetic expression (which is passed to our children) is interconnected with a wide range of environmental factors. This has both a metaphorical and literal impact on how leaders should communicate. Guest Jayson Krause https://www.level52.ca/ https://www.level52.ca/contact The Book – The Science Behind Success The Science Behind Success by Jayson Krause — Level 52 Support the show
S2 E46 · Sun, March 28, 2021
Communicating with Elite Performers
LEADERSHIP COMMUNICATIONS SERIES - Episode 3 There are many articles written by psychologists about the “theory” of working with elite-level performers; extremely few people actually get to do it. Duff Gibson is a Canadian Olympic gold medal winner who was hired to coach the next generation of athletes. He knew the sport, he knew the strategies, he knew the mindset required to perform, he knew the psychology of leadership… and he would learn a lot on the job. Guest: Duff Gibson, Canada Olympic gold medal winner 2006 duffgibson@icloud.com Support the show
S2 E45 · Sun, March 21, 2021
You Want a Seat at the Table? Earn it
LEADERSHIP COMMUNICATIONS SERIES - Episode 2 Communications professionals have long stated they “want a seat at the table,” meaning communications needs to be part of the executive decision-making function. And that seat should be filled by someone well-versed in strategy, best-practices, and able to represent the rest of the team so everyone is sharing that seat. In this episode we get some insights from Wendy Beauchesne, someone who has climbed from comms pro to CEO. Guest: Wendy Beauchesne, CEO Alberta Cancer Foundation acfonline@albertacancer.ca Support the show
S2 E44 · Sun, March 14, 2021
The Trust Trifecta of Leadership
LEADERSHIP COMMUNICATIONS SERIES - Episode 1 There is substantial evidence that cultures of high trust outperform those where trust is low. There’s less employee turnover, higher employee engagement, better aligned organizations and more collaboration if we trust one another. That all begins with strong leadership. In this episode we speak with the author of “The Trust Trifecta,” Jordan Berman. Guest Jordan Berman jordanberman8@gmail.com To purchase a copy of the Trust Trifecta link here The Trust Trifecta | Iguana Books Support the show
S2 E43 · Sun, March 07, 2021
The Psychology of Giving and Receiving Feedback
Adopting a growth mindset, as opposed to a fixed mindset, is one of the best strategies for accepting and giving constructive feedback. A growth mindset thrives on challenge and sees failure, not as evidence of unintelligence but as a springboard for growth and stretching existing abilities. From these two mindsets springs a great deal of our behaviour, our relationship with success and failure both personally and professionally, and ultimately, our ability to be happy. Guest: Dr Steve Joordens, Psychologist, University of Toronto Scarborough steve.joordens@utoronto.ca Support the show
S2 E42 · Sun, February 28, 2021
Is it Better to be Street-Smart or Book-Smart in PR?
Professional communications is about making an impact to help the organization. It must get things done, change attitudes, or at least understand them. At the same time, we need to be evidence-based, use “best practices”, provide ROI and meet KPI. Is our battle on the street or in the boardroom? Is it better to be street-smart or book-smart working in PR and Marketing? Guest: Eva Shortt, Zahav PR https://zahavpr.com/ info@zahavpr.com Connect with Eva on Instagram: instagram.com/zahavpr Take the Quiz “Are you more book smart or street smart?” https://play.howstuffworks.com/quiz/are-you-more-book-smart-or-street-smart Support the show
S2 E41 · Sun, February 21, 2021
Communication Strategies when De-escalation is Needed
Those who respond to help people in high-tension, or even life-threatening situations, need strong communication skills and the right training. Police Officers, Security Guards, front-line health care workers, even bus drivers all find themselves, with alarming frequency, in interactions where safety is at risk. In this episode we speak with an expert in de-escalation and mental health training who has dedicated her professional life to helping those, who must help others. Guest: Dr Yasmeen Krameddine, Ph.D. Protraining.com yasmeenk@protraining.com Support the show
S2 E40 · Sun, February 14, 2021
When the Words Mean Nothing – and the Message Means Everything
You may have recently heard on social media a song from the early 1970’s, Prisencolinensinainciusol, by Adriano Celentano. The song’s lyrics are in no language – total and utter nonsense. It was a smash hit in 1973 in Italy, France, Belgium, and the Netherlands. The song resurfaced on social media in 2010 and once again in 2020. Seems every generation finds it and marvels in the creativity and originality. The idea itself has a long and storied history going to back to creative arts. It uses Grammelot, a system of language, based on gibberish, popularized by Commedia dell’Arte, a theatrical form that emerged in 16th Century in Italy. In this episode we speak with a leading professor in business ethics and stakeholder theory who says the creative arts can have powerful impacts to human dignity in organizations, and help managers to develop their moral imagination. Guest Simone de Colle, Ph.D. in Management and Business Ethics, Darden School of Business, University of Virginia) Associate Professor of Business Ethics & Strategy, IESEG School of Management in Paris s.decolle@ieseg.fr Dario Fo example of Grammelot https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8A4n9Ez9O8g&list=RD8A4n9Ez9O8g&index=5 Professor de Colle’s presentation mentioning grammar of improvisation: https://responsiblecapitalism.it/presentations Support the show
S2 E39 · Sun, February 07, 2021
11 Capabilities of a Communications Professional or Team
The Global Capability Framework is the Global Alliance’s benchmark for how professionals in public relations and communications management perform at their best. It applies to individuals as well as those who assemble teams of communications professionals, including entire departments. The framework took two years to build with contributions from all around the World. In this episode we explore the 11 capabilities, speaking with one of the authors of the Framework, Dr Amy Thurlow. Guest Professor Amy Thurlow Ph.D., APR, FCPRS Amy.thurlow@msvu.ca Link to the Global Capabilities Framework https://www.globalalliancepr.org/capabilitiesframeworks Support the show
S2 E38 · Sun, January 31, 2021
The Success of Digital News Start-ups
According to World Press Trends 2019, digital news subscriber numbers are up 208% over the last five years. That could be a welcome sign that local news may survive after all. As many legacy news outlets struggle, industry analysts are looking to digital start-ups to fill the need. And without some of the traditional business models, some are showing remarkable creativity. In this episode we speak with the co-founder of an award-winning digital model based in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada. Guest: Karen Unland karen@taprootpublishing.ca https://www.taprootedmonton.ca/ “On every continent and in every market context, innovating news publishers are finding ways to adapt and thrive in the face of changing consumer behaviour and competition that is driven, in large measure, by the rapid changes and challenges of digital technology.” Dr François Nel, Editor of World Press Trends 2019 Support the show
S2 E37 · Sun, January 24, 2021
Exploring the Impacts of COVID-19 on Health Care Communications Professionals
In a special report, authors Anne Gregory, Ph.D., Bill Nichols, Ph.D., and Professor John Underwood examine the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic for professional communicators in the English National Health Service (NHS). Specifically, they look at the first three months of the pandemic from March 2020 to the beginning of June 2020 – the period when communication was initiated and the peak of first-wave infections. Inevitably they found gaps we can all learn from. Guest: Professor Anne Gregory, Ph.D., BA, FRSA, HonFCIPR, Huddersfield University, a.gregory@hud.ac.uk The article Anne refers to ““The lived experience of health communication professionals during the Covid-19 pandemic” is not yet available. Once it’s public, we will publish a link to it in these show notes – please check back. Support the show
S2 E36 · Sun, January 17, 2021
Stirring the Right Pot
Throughout this COVID pandemic we all know frontline healthcare workers have been doing extraordinary work and working under exceptional stress. A few weeks ago, between Christmas and New Year’s, one physician in London, part of the NHS system, made a comment on Twitter that caught the ire of public relations professionals not only in the UK, but other parts of the world. Dr Meenal Viz seemed to suggest removing anyone “with the title Communications Manager” from NHS Communications, because “we don’t need to pay someone £30k to update the hospital Twitter feed.” It’s so hard to communicate on Twitter – that limitation of 280 characters. In this episode we chat with Dr Viz, toss the character limit aside, and get to the heart of the message… and to the right audience intended. Meenal Viz, Ph.D. Clinical Fellow info@meenalsworld.com Link to Meenal’s World podcast (via apple) https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/meenals-world/id1499166981 Support the show
S2 E35 · Sun, January 10, 2021
Progress, in a World of Cancel Culture
Cancel Culture is a neologism meaning it’s a newly coined term. It’s essentially the phenomenon of publicly shaming, rejecting, and ceasing to provide support to people, companies, or stores if they are deemed unacceptable. Celebrities are frequent targets but not exclusively. The shaming, for the most part, is done through social media. T.S. Eliot once wrote, “Only those who will risk going too far can possibly find out how far one can go.” But how are we, as people, supposed to progress if accountability, and the inherent ability to “cancel” is left to the unaccountable? Guest: Alex Malouf, SCMP alexgmalouf@gmail.com @alex_malouf Support the show
S1 E34 · Sun, December 13, 2020
Ode to Joy (and Positivity)
This is an episode about “Positivity” which has everything to do with communication. It’s a state of mind we all want but let’s be honest, it can also be really annoying. False positivity is an irritating personality quirk. The official definition from the Oxford Dictionary implies that positivity is not something you are; it's more something you feel. Positive Psychology is an investment in who you are and what you can do to live your best life. Your best life looks and feels different every day. Annoyed yet? 😊 Guest Josephine Tite, Positivity Centre hello@positivitycentre.com Support the show
S1 E33 · Sun, December 06, 2020
Stressing the Benefits… of Stress
Stress is almost an evil word in our lives today. Nobody wants stress. Do we? Actually, could you imagine life with no stress? In this episode we speak with a neuroscience expert who says we can all benefit from the right kinds of stress. Guest: Sue Langley, Langley Group, Australia sue@langleygroup.com.au Support the show
S1 E32 · Sun, November 29, 2020
Why Are There So Few African American Males in Public Relations?
According to 2015 numbers by the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, of the total number of men working in public relations and related services and advertising, 5.9 percent are African American. In this episode we speak with a PR Executive who has researched the perceptions, experiences, and possible barriers for African American males to getting into, and leading within, the field of communications. Guest: Chuck Wallington marketing@conehealth.com Link to Ken Chenault address to Barron’s Tech Conference https://bit.ly/2HAhl2B Support the show
S1 E31 · Sun, November 22, 2020
PRCA in Latin America
By membership the Public Relations and Communications Association is the largest PR Association in the World; 35,000 members and growing. Based in the UK, the PRCA has offices in Dubai and Singapore, and now Buenos Aires as it ventures into Latin America. In this episode we catch up with Isobel Arrowsmith to talk PR throughout Latin America. Guest Isobel Arrowsmith MPRCA, Director of the Americas, PRCA isobel.arrowsmith@latam.prca.global https://latam.prca.global/ Special thanks to ToDoComunica for promotion: https://todocomunica.org/2020/11/20/mas-historias-mas-estrategias-mas-america-latina-por-favor/ Support the show
S1 E30 · Sun, November 15, 2020
A Little Less Presentation. A Little More Conversation
Presentations are stereotyped. A speaker stands in front of an audience, uses PowerPoint to guide a talk. And says very little that departs from the slides being shown. Frequently, the speaker provides a handout or electronic version of the PowerPoint as a record of the talk. Depending on the nature of the talk, a few minutes may be left at the end for questions. This format is almost universal. And it takes place thirty to forty million times a day, according to some estimates. It’s led to a new expression … Death by PowerPoint … one slide at a time. In this episode we speak with Eric Bergman who believes with a little less presentation and a little more conversation … we can make presentations more interesting, and ultimately effective. And we can relegate the term Death by PowerPoint to the dust heap of history. Guest: Eric Bergman, BPA, ABC, APR, MC, FCPRS fwiw@me.com For a copy of One bucket at a time link here https://amzn.to/2HvnYmc Support the show
S1 E29 · Sun, November 08, 2020
Communication Strategies We Learn at Work (and Use at Home)
Work is the place we get learning opportunities through professional development. Many of those opportunities introduce sophisticated communications strategies intended to be work lessons but let’s be honest, they’re life lessons too. Some of those strategies and tips are so good, we can’t help but use them at home and in our personal lives. Guest Sheryl Kent sherylkent@telus.net Support the show
S1 E28 · Wed, November 04, 2020
The 2020 US election through a psychological lens
The political pundits have lots to say about the 2020 US Presidential election. In this episode we examine the result and the leadership styles through a neuroscience and psychological lens with a leading high-performance team psychologist who works with businesses, sports teams, and the military. Guest Dr Jeremy Holt, Ph.D. Chartered Occupational Psychologist Centre for Team Excellence jeremy@cfte.co.uk Support the show
S1 E27 · Sun, November 01, 2020
Media? We Don’t Need No Stinkin’ Media
Earned media is always valuable but the opportunities to create your own channels and your own stories have never been better. Gone are the days organizations needed to rely on the news media filter to get their story out there… today it’s Journalism DIY. And best part? This works great for pitching your story to the news media. We speak with former Edmonton Journalist Shawna Randolph. Guest: Shawna Randolph, Randolph Communications info@randolphcommunications.com Support the show
S1 E26 · Sun, October 25, 2020
Creativity – the UNcommon sense
It’s a powerful tool that can solve complex problems, build resilience, create empathy, and develop space for human determination. Psychologists have found creativity is more a personality trait than the result of a high IQ; and those traits are most commonly found in people we might call nonconformists, curious, or persistent. In short, creativity is borne from divergent thinking as opposed to convergence. Guest: Helen (Hel) Reynolds hi@commscreatives.com To see Hel’s cartoons, visit https://commscreatives.com/ Support the show
S1 E25 · Sun, October 18, 2020
Change Management Needs to Change
Change Management exists as a process and strategy because change is both inevitable and critical in business. In simple terms, it’s so important, the change must be managed. But modern trends are moving away from controlling every aspect of those strategies and are seeking to empower team members to play a more active design role in the change. In this episode we speak with a corporate leader from a global corporation steering through significant change. Tammy Arseneau, MBA tarseneau@suncor.com Support the show
S1 E24 · Sun, October 11, 2020
Why Professional Comedians Have Serious Presentation Skills
Watch a good comedian on stage and it just seems so easy. But we all know what goes into it… timing, structure, body language, the ability to think on their feet, heckler management… everything that goes into a great presentation at work. Those are serious skills and many leaders looking to advance in their careers begin to see the only impediment is their ability to learn what comedians have mastered. Guest: Lars Callieou, professional stand-up comedian https://extralars.com/ Facebook Firepit Comedy Tour https://www.facebook.com/search/top?q=firepit%20comedy%20tour Support the show
S1 E23 · Sun, October 04, 2020
Women in PR – Canada, USA, the Americas
Everything begins with an idea. Talia Beckett Davis had one a few years ago to start a networking, coaching, idea-sharing, and training group dedicated specifically to women. That was in 2014. Today there are chapters all through the Americas from Canada to Buenos Aires. Guest: Talia Beckett Davis, Founder of Canadian Women in Public Relations and American Women in Public Relations (Women in PR North America) talia@womeninpr.ca talia@pinkprfirm.com publicrelationsacademy.com https://womeninpr.com/ Support the show
S1 E22 · Sun, September 27, 2020
The 2020 IPR Disinformation in Society Report
The Institute for Public Relations has issued its 2020 Report measuring how Americans perceive intentionally misleading news or information. Guest Tina McCorkindale, Ph.D, APR, President and CEO of the Institute for Public Relations @tmccorkindale https://instituteforpr.org/contact Link to the full study: https://instituteforpr.org/2020-disinformation-report Support the show
S1 E21 · Sun, September 20, 2020
Secrets of Content Marketing
The Content Marketing Institute defines content marketing as a strategic marketing approach focused on creating and distributing valuable and consistent content to attract and retain a clearly defined audience, ultimately driving desired action. Key word? Valuable. In this episode, we speak with Amanda Milligan of Fractl, a Content Marketing Agency based in Washington, DC. Guest: Amanda Milligan, Marketing Director, Fractl amanda@frac.tl Amanda’s podcast is called “Cashing in on Content Marketing” Support the show
S1 E20 · Sun, September 13, 2020
The AI in PR ethics report
"Society is changing... there's a new elite emerging and those elite have huge amounts of power." Professor Anne Gregory, Ph.D., BA, FRSA, HonFCIPR, Huddersfield University, a.gregory@hud.ac.uk "The problem with algorithms is they... discriminate almost by design. They're missing on diversity and inclusion, so you have to get in there as PR people." Jean Valin, BA, BA (Hons), APR, FCPRS, HonFCIPR, Valin Strategic Communications, jvalinpr@gmail.com The Artificial Intelligence in Public Relations panel was founded in 2018. It’s a global volunteer committee, developed through the Chartered Institute of Public Relations (CIPR) comprising senior communications professionals and leading PR academics and researchers. Recently CIPR and the Canadian Public Relations Society (CPRS) partnered to publish the AI in Ethics Guide which seeks to improve ethical decision-making of algorithms and other automated tools to avoid harmful impacts on individuals. To access the Ethics Guide to Artificial Intelligence in PR: https://www.cipr.co.uk/ai Support the show
S1 E19 · Sun, September 06, 2020
Coffee may be the best communications strategy of them all
Why is coffee so perfect for conversations? In fact, coffee houses were born in 18th Century Austria as a place for middle-and-upper class society to meet and discuss ideas. They spread to England quickly. Fast-forward to today and it seems everything coffee means every social, and perhaps the secret weapon for communications strategy. Guest: Professor Thomas Merritt, Ph.D., M.Sc., B.Sc Laurentian University, Sudbury, Ontario, Canada tmerritt@laurentian.ca Support the show
S1 E18 · Sun, August 30, 2020
Is Digital Media Leaving a False Impression?
In digital media, Reach can be defined as the total number of people who see your content and Impressions as the number of times your content is displayed. But it’s not that simple. Older concepts like pass-along rates and generic multipliers are resulting in some fuzzy math leaving us scrounging for “breadcrumbs,” amongst the “rat babies.” We speak with digital media guru Doug Lacombe who does his best to create a positive impression. Guest: Doug Lacombe, President Communicatto Inc doug@communicatto.com https://www.communicatto.com/ Support the show
S1 E17 · Sun, August 23, 2020
Your Brain in Crisis-Mode
Understanding how our brains operate in a crisis can help leaders think more clearly and effectively manage emergencies. In this episode Dr Steve Joordens, Psychologist at the University of Toronto Scarborough, helps us understand why sometimes our brains have a mind of their own… and what we can do about that. Guest: Dr Steve Joordens, Psychologist, University of Toronto Scarborough steve.joordens@utoronto.ca Centre for Crisis and Risk Communications - https://centreforcrisiscommunications.com/ Secret Code SNSJGR Support the show
S1 E16 · Sun, August 16, 2020
The Value of Mentorship in Professional Communications
Some of the key benefits of mentorship in professional communications include the ability to foster an exchange of ideas, friendship, and expertise in an industry that is constantly changing. Guest Tamara Vineberg @TamaraVineberg Support the show
S1 E15 · Sun, August 09, 2020
Working From Home and the Impacts to Communication and Leadership
Are office workers really more productive working from home? Truth is, the idea is so novel, we aren’t too sure. With COVID-19, there’s a better opportunity to explore the medium and long-term effects of the concept. One thing is for sure, there will be substantial impacts to how we communicate and how we lead. Guest: Professor Nita Chhinzer, Ph.D., Assistant Professor Human Resources, Department of Management University of Guelph, ON, Canada chhinzer@uoguelph.ca nitachhinzer.com Support the show
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