PR's Top Pros Talk (D S Simon Media)

Wendy Lund, CCO, Organon, discusses the challenges of establishing a culture focused on women healthcare. She emphasizes the importance of having a vision to be successful in overcoming those challenges. Wendy also shares key insights from Organon’s research on how to communicate with women about healthcare.

Mikey Sadowski, Vice President of Global Communications at Intrepid Travel, and Amy Skelding, Managing Partner of the UK Travel Practice at FINN Partners, discuss how they incorporate local perspectives into their storytelling. Mikey explains the two questions he considers when evaluating a new product. Amy highlights how public relations play a crucial role in strategic decision-making.

How can communicators continue to tell compelling stories about their clients? Robin Verges, Senior Vice President of Rubenstein, shares how to use visual elements effectively to enhance your pitch. Robin also offers tips on building strong relationships with the media by building mutual trust.

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Ryan Lilly, Senior Vice President and Managing Director of MWW Health, describes the dos and don'ts of building a healthcare practice at an agency. Ryan explains how healthcare communicators are continuing to lead with a value-based care approach. Ryan also discusses the importance of patient privacy.

Peter Lucht, Head of Corporate Communications at Citizens Financial Group, explains the importance of aligning execution and narrative with the company’s strategy, and of staying ‘on offense’ despite the external environment. He also shares how he collaborates with Citizens CEO Bruce Van Saun in planning meaningful media opportunities that advance Citizens’ brand and reputation and provides a rundown on his focus for 2023.

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How has the role of communications become more important to the C-suite over the course of the pandemic? Jim O’Leary, Edelman’s U.S. Chief Operating Officer and Corporate Affairs Practice Chair, shares key data from the 2021 Future of Corporate Communications study. Jim also discusses insights on how senior communications leaders are helping CEOs navigate social issues, ESG, activism and employee engagement. 

 Download the 2021 Future of Corporate Communications study here. 

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Tina McCorkindale, President and CEO of the Institute for Public Relations, explains the characteristics of disinformation that communicators should look out for. Tina shares what communicators should do to prepare ahead of disinformation including creating a crisis plan. Tina also shares valuable insights from the 2022 Disinformation in Canada report.

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How can communicators redefine success throughout their careers? Cath Anderson, Head of Communications at Cityblock Health, reflects on the moment she realized that success can be defined by her own terms instead of what society or the industry expects. Cath also talks about what PR professionals need to know in order to build their skills.

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Ben Laws, Deputy U.S. Lead for the Business Marketing practice at Edelman, shares key insights from the fifth annual Edelman-LinkedIn B2B Thought Leadership Impact Report. Ben explains why thought leadership is vital for vendors during economic uncertainty. Ben also dives into helpful thought leadership strategies that will help companies stand out, build pipelines and preserve market share in a tight economy.

Download the full report here. 

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Blake McEvoy, Head of U.S. Corporate Affairs for Respiratory & Immunology, Vaccines & Immune Therapies at AstraZeneca, describes the communicator's role in the healthcare transformation. He explains how leaders can provide value to the next generation of workers. He also shares his insights on how the healthcare industry is developing a people, planet, and society-focused approach.

Shannon Moylan, Senior Vice President of Public Relations at imre, explains how the head and the heart concept can be applied to healthcare communications and beyond. Shannon shares valuable advice on how to turn ideas into actions and explains the differences between media outlets. She also discusses the importance of enthusiasm during the pitching process.

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How can organizations increase awareness around DEI? Maria Rodriguez, President & CEO, Vanguard Communications, urges employers to abandon the assumption that employees only want to work on projects that align with their identities. She shares the value of having open conversations with staff members about what projects they are passionate about and comfortable working on. Maria also recommends that companies partner with organizations like ColorComm, the National Association of Hispanic Journalists, and the National Association of Black Journalists in their hiring process.

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Tish Van Dyke, Executive Vice President at JPA Health, describes how the One Health concept can be applied to an organization's core business. Tish describes key findings from JPA’s latest report, "One World, One Health: Exploring the Connectability between Human, Animal and Environmental Health". Tish also shares her excitement for the future of the industry.

Click here to download the report.

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Why are satellite media tours growing in importance as a must use public relations tool? What are best practices? Host Doug Simon interviewed Doug Simon, Founder & CEO, D S Simon Media. They discussed the significant rise in demand for satellite media tours and the increased importance for organizations to communicate with their stakeholders through the media. He offers insights from Nielsen and local TV producers on recent viewership trends. Doug and Doug also shared the benefits of conducting satellite media tours remotely, making them more efficient and authentic.

Jess Muldoon, Group Vice President of Corporate Media at Ruder Finn, discusses how brands and organizations can build a strong thought leadership strategy. She shares why it’s important to take notice of new content formats created by news outlets and journalists alike. Jess also emphasizes the significance of owned content and having an always-on approach.

Adam Christensen, Chief Marketing Officer at Notified, discusses which communications sector receives the most budget and why. He discusses how PR professionals can apply an earned-first mentality to paid media. Adam also explains how communicators can utilize AI to combat distrust.

Ben Finzel, President of RENEWPR and Founding Principal of The Change Agencies, shares some common misconceptions about the role of public relations. Ben shares the story of how The Change Agencies started and its impact on clients. Ben also explains the challenges the communications industry still has to work on, including diversity, equity and inclusion in recruitment, retention and promotion.

Wynona Redmond, President and Founder of Wyn-Win Communications, shares that building trust is key to sustaining a strong reputation. She highlights that, despite technological advancements, face-to-face communication remains profoundly impactful. Additionally, Wynona discusses her passion for connecting communities to corporations about different causes.

Mike Rosich, General Manager of dna Communications, a boutique health communications agency, reflects on how his team uses a patient focused approach in its campaigns. Mike also shares the benefits of partnering with advocacy groups to drive real impact on real people.

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Tricia Mahoney, Chief Marketing Officer of Twisted X Global Brands, highlights the importance of focusing on value and prioritization when scaling brands. She discusses how she empowers her team to feel comfortable trying new approaches. Tricia also shares her optimistic approach when dealing with challenges.

Dara Busch, CEO of North America for Havas PR, shares her excitement about her new role and the evolving public relations landscape. She highlights the growing demand for agencies to deliver a comprehensive multi-channel approach. Dara also emphasizes the importance of transparency and effective communication in building and sustaining long-term relationships.

What lessons can PR professionals learn from Unicorn CEOs about communications? Brendon Craigie, CEO, Tyto, discusses the importance of prioritizing authentic storytelling to have complex topics resonate with massive audiences. Brendon also outlines the unique challenges that Unicorn CEOs face such as mitigating workloads for a fast-growing staff and handling high-pressure situations from a young age. 

Interested in learning more about how Unicorn CEOs approach communications and culture? Download Tyto’s guide “Growing Without Borders: The Unicorn CEO guide to communication and culture” here or listen to the Unicorn CEO series of interviews on “Without Borders”, Tyto’s podcast.

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How can communicators build strong relationships? Michael Kaye, Associate Director of Global Communications at OkCupid, discusses the value of introducing yourself with your pronouns and how to empower your most authentic and confident self. Michael also highlights how OkCupid has led the charge for expanded inclusion for LGBTQ+ daters, and how other companies have followed suit. Michael includes advice to viewers on how to utilize all of their platforms to boost and connect with their networks.

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Natalie Boden, Founder and CEO of BODEN Agency, shares her insights on how brands can engage with the Hispanic cohort authentically during Hispanic Heritage Month (and beyond) and why understanding local and cultural nuances matter when reaching this fast growing community. She also discusses her new children’s book, “Sasha’s Big Question,” which she wrote in response to the question “Mom, why do you work?” which many moms (more than dads) are faced with during their motherhood and career journeys. To purchase the book visit: https://store.bookbaby.com/book/sashas-big-question

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Stacey Grimsrud, Vice President at Bospar, talks about her background in local TV news and why the platform is still vital for brands to get their message across to consumers. Stacey shares valuable advice on what specific material communicators should include in their pitches to make them stand out to reporters and drive results for companies. Stacey also discusses how communicators can be an advocate for newsrooms as companies conduct massive layoffs across the country.

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Cathy Fink, President, Makovsky, offers insights into the challenges of taking on a leadership role at a legacy PR agency. She shares lessons learned and practices from her experiences at a larger public traded company that can have a positive impact in a smaller organization. Cathy also discusses the evolving role of communications and the increased need for transparency.

What does it mean to be a patient-focused organization? Krysta Pellegrino, Chief Client Officer at Health+Commerce, shares insights on how to put actions behind words and effectively communicate the patient focus. She also offers advice on how to be creative within a regulated industry?

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Nicole Rodrigues, CEO and Founder of NRPR Group and The Kingdom, reveals how she leverages her public relations expertise to build her businesses. She explains how to utilize social media to build trust with potential clients. Nicole also highlights the role of AI and storytelling in keeping audiences engaged.

Valarie De La Garza, CEO, Fenton, shares insights on how to create positive social change through strategic communications. She discusses the shift from just talk to action for demonstrating greater inclusivity. Valarie also goes into navigating the definition of what social good is from multiple perspectives.

Jackie Cox Battles, New York Consumer Brand Practice Lead and North America Consumer Brand Practice Growth Lead at Weber Shandwick, explains the importance of earned media as more consumers feel disconnected from brands. Jackie describes valuable approaches she uses with clients such as “story doing” and more. Jackie also shares key data from the ‘Earned Effect Study’.

Avra Lorrimer, Executive Vice President at H+K Strategies, shares her thoughts on brand behavior as we emerge from the pandemic. She talks about how brands can navigate humor and the responsibility to support those who have suffered and fallen behind over the past year.

Linda Descano, CFA®, Executive Vice President of Red Havas, explains that understanding the business of business is one of the most important skills communicators can have. She explains how communicators can conduct their own research about their companies by asking themselves key questions and utilizing valuable resources. Linda also predicts future trends for 2023 and beyond. To share your feedback, contact: Doug Simon: dougs@dssimonmedia.com or news@dssimonmedia.com - 212.736.2727 For more info go to: https://www.dssimon.com

Jonathan Heit, Co-Founder and Global CEO of Allison, shares how he applies client insights to continuously grow the agency. He discusses the impact of measurement. Jonathan also explains Allison’s successful onboarding and training practices.

Laura Brusca, Chief Communications Officer at Forbes, discusses her team's strategies for success when promoting and protecting the brand. Laura talks about her involvement with New York Women in Communications (NYWICI). Laura also explains the important role of relationship-building.

Jonathan Jordan, General Manager, Edelman Southern California, shares key findings from the agency’s Trust Barometer special report, “The Belief-Driven Employee.” He discusses the rise of pandemic-induced burnout, and the ways leaders can effectively reduce it. Jonathan also shares how his background in management consulting has helped him succeed in the PR industry.

Dallas Lawrence, Head of Communications at Roku Platform Business, dissects the nuances of the streaming world and how communicators can effectively gain leverage in that space. He discusses how the streaming platform has changed advertising, dubbing it a ‘renaissance period’ for ads, with many brands producing more dynamic content to communicate their specific messaging. You can learn more about Roku Advertising here.

Michael Kempner, Founder and CEO of MikeWorldWide, discusses the significance of maintaining a strong reputation. He explains how communicators can play an active role in reputation management. Michael also shares what tools his team uses to mitigate potential risks.

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Cori McKeever, Global President of Healthcare at Golin, discusses the means in which firms can optimize their campaigns and communications to appeal to the right audiences. She takes it further into her specific industry, healthcare, and how the modern climate on health following COVID can influence the PR tactics brands implement. She emphasizes the distinction in tactics used to reach Pharma clients and general health/wellness clients.

Laura Duda, SVP & CCO, Goodyear, shares insights on positioning a brand outside of its traditional vertical. She shares the challenges of integrated messaging following an acquisition and a joint venture with a competitor. Laura also provides her perspective on how polarization and politics can challenge a company’s external communications approach.

Christina Stejskal, VP, Global Communications, Fender, emphasizes the importance of crafting inclusive marketing campaigns and strategic overarching messaging. She shares examples of how the brand manages to keep existing customers engaged and involved while offering insights into securing quality media over quantity.

What is social marketing? Jennifer Wayman, President & CEO at Hager Sharp, breaks down misconceptions around the term. She discusses how to sell behavior change as a product. Jennifer also emphasizes the importance of public and private partnerships in social marketing.

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As the Founder and Partner at V2 Communications, Maura FitzGerald values frequent communication and feedback from employees when it comes to return-to-work planning. She emphasizes the increased need for CEOs to be more active in internal and external communications. Maura also underscores the importance of being socially conscious in a fast-paced industry.

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How can you find clients that inspire your workforce? Dale Bornstein, CEO, M Booth, emphasizes the importance of forging relationships with clients that energize your team and view them as partners. She also offers advice on how to foster company culture in a hybrid environment by replicating moments of togetherness.

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Lisette Paras, President & Founder of Gravitate PR, shares the key questions she asks clients to get a deeper understanding of their full ecosystem. Lisette also describes working with global companies and the evolution of technology PR.

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What areas does the Recording Academy focus on when they are not preparing for The GRAMMY Awards?® Andie Cox, Vice President of Communications at the Recording Academy, discusses how the organization creates awareness for a range of initiatives such as advocacy for artists and pandemic relief. Andie also offers insights into the balance between entertainment publicity and a corporate brand story.

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Toni Harrison, Founder and CEO of Etched Communication, discusses the importance of having PR professionals involved in the business decision-making process. She shares how organizations can authentically engage with their original customers while reaching new audiences. Toni also explains how implementing measurement techniques throughout a campaign can optimize results.

Paddi Hurley, Managing Director of Health at Allison, describes when clients should move forward with a branded healthcare campaign versus an unbranded healthcare campaign. Paddi emphasizes the importance of taking time to find an authentic spokesperson. Paddi also shares how technology can play a role in clinical trials.

Barbara Wagner, President of Barbara Wagner Communications, shares her journey of starting an agency amid the pandemic. She shares insights on working with clients in the arts and real estate space. Barbara also shares best practice for building a story and pitching to the media.

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Jennifer Curley, President & CEO, Curley Company, discusses how associations had to navigate the challenges of hosting events as a result of the pandemic. She emphasizes the importance for associations to provide member value. Jennifer also goes into how the agency helped their clients to be nimble in the current dynamic environment.

Chrissy Faessen, Principal at ConwayStrategic, shares the methods she uses with clients to develop strategic and authentic messaging. Chrissy also explains how she connects with reporters through email and social media and discusses developing visibility opportunities during tight news cycles for her healthcare clients.

What are the most important things to keep in mind when pitching to a podcast? Christina Nicholson, Owner of Media Maven and Founder of Podcast Clout, shares insights on how to make your pitch stand out and what mistakes to avoid. She also offers tips on how to identify relevant podcasts on national and local levels.

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Nick Nelson, Senior Vice President of Corporate Purpose at Edelman, and Doug Simon, CEO of D S Simon Media, engage in a compelling discussion about the 2024 Edelman Trust Barometer Special Report: Business & Racial Justice in America. Nick emphasizes the critical role of creating safe spaces for employees. He emphasizes how the use of precise language can significantly impact engagement. Nick also encourages communicators to facilitate participation in diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives.

Download the report here.

Planning and prioritizing communications initiatives is crucial to any business, but how can you do it effectively? Stacey Jones, Chief Communicator at Honeywell, shares her process for assembling the right team. She explains how to gain the trust of the C-suite when developing new strategies. Stacey also shares the importance of connecting communications plans to business objectives. Learn about D S Simon Media: https://www.dssimon.com

Karen Clyne, Executive Vice President & Technology Sector Lead at BCW (Burson Cohn & Wolfe), explains how technology companies can best utilize PR. Karen also shares her excitement about the Metaverse and its growth opportunities. Karen also highlights the role of education when working with client partners. 

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Is being a people person enough to qualify you as a PR professional? Sharon Reis, Principle of The Reis Group, highlights the importance of analytical skills and love for brands and news consumption as key assets in a communicators toolbox. Sharon also discusses the need for increased focus on team well-being. 

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Why should marketers invest in the Metaverse? Marji Sherman, Vice President of Digital at Cognito Media, dives into the benefits, such as, building brand awareness with Metaverse conferences and innovative office environments that change the way employees and clients interact. Marji also highlights the power of NFTs when it comes to brands selling merchandise.

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How has entertainment PR changed with the rise of streaming platforms? Erik Bright, Owner of Prodigy Public Relations, shares insights on how his firm generates buzz for independent films. He also discusses the role of the film festivals, and their transition into a hybrid environment.

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Sarah Berman, President, The Berman Group, discusses how real estate companies are trying to bring employees back into the office. She shares examples of creative communications approaches that owners and operators are implementing. Sarah also offers insights into how technology has become the driver for growth in both residential and commercial real estate.

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John Seigenthaler and Katie Seigenthaler, Managing Partners at FINN Partners, share insights on the current state of local and national news. Katie highlights how local news can spark and sustain growth. John discusses how PR professionals can support shrinking newsrooms. They stress the importance of sharing truthful and honest stories to combat disinformation.

How is communications different from marketing? Amy Bonitatibus shares how she navigates a dual role as the CCO of Chase and CMO of Chase Home Lending. She discusses how creating synergies between both teams amplifies the impact of the message. Amy also emphasizes the increased importance of bringing the earned media voice into paid content.

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Sara Whitman, Chief People Officer at Hot Paper Lantern, shares insightful data from The 2023 War for Frontline Talent report. Sara explains how HR and other communications professionals can work together to re-recruit employees. Sara discusses why the C-suite should utilize LinkedIn to highlight employee achievement. Sara also shares her excitement for the future of work.

Download the full report here: https://hpl.hplcreative.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/The-2023-War-For-Frontline-Talent.pdf

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Cheryl Overton, Founder and Chief Experience Officer of Cheryl Overton Communications, defines the designing for the margins philosophy and shares how she applies it through her work with clients. Cheryl also explains how brands can obtain loving consumers and discusses her 2024 trend predictions.

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Teresa Bigelow, Founder of Spiral5, talks about the agency's Starter Publicist Incubator program which teaches communicators how to be freelancers by developing their skill sets and networks. Teresa also explains the impact of the program and gives valuable advice for new freelancers.

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Cathy Decker, Co-Founder & Principal, The Decker/Royal Agency, discusses how to create a welcoming environment and navigate the challenges of hospitality while staying safe. She sheds light on an agency’s role in working with hospitality brands, and how one can integrate with management to create the most customer value.

What do communicators need to know about AI? Tomás Puig, Founder and CEO of Alembic, breaks down common myths about generative AI. He highlights the impact of earned media in reaching a broader audience. Curtis Sparrer, Principal of Bospar PR, shares his experience discussing the impact of AI with colleagues and clients. Tomás and Curtis stress the significance of gaining insights from experts before implementing AI.

Jen Fuhrman-Kestler, Managing Director of Health Services at Ketchum, discusses how the changing health ecosystem will affect communications. Jen shares the importance of keeping audiences front of mind when collecting and analyzing data. Jen also talks about some of the trends health communicators might see throughout 2024.

Michael Roth, Owner and Managing Partner, The Bliss Group, discusses the importance of integrating earned media with paid media. He emphasizes the need to form strategic alliances with practices with relevant expertise. Michael also shares how his experience in law school helped him navigate through PR.

How can communicators get the most value out of data analytics? Geoffrey Sidari, Senior Vice President of Analytics at WE Communications, offers best practices on developing a data strategy and necessary skillsets. Geoffrey also shares predictions on the future of data analytics in communications.

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Eleanor Hawkins, Communications Strategist and Writer for Axios, shares valuable insights into how communications leaders can cut through the noise by getting comfortable with data, leaning more into what their audience is saying, and more. Eleanor also discusses the research behind the successful Smart Brevity® method.

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Workplaces have forever changed and the role of HR is now more important than ever as a result of the pandemic. Tina Beaty is the Vice President of Marketing, SHRM, an association that creates better workplaces where employers and employees thrive together. She shares her PR and marketing strategies to change the national dialogue on DEI and workplace culture. 

Cause the effect you want to see at work. Download SHRM’s workplace conversation starter cards here. 

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Amina Colter Jones, Senior Vice President, on Edelman’s Health and Multicultural teams, explains how safe spaces can lessen the divide between executives and associates when it comes to racial justice progress. Amina shares the impact of affirmative action and explains why communicators should research the policies. Amina also shares her advice on how companies can be more inclusive in their hiring process.

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Leslie Bishop, Managing Partner and EVP of Global Strategy at 5WPR, reveals the top categories consumers tend to splurge on. She explains how a personal referral can impact spending behavior. Leslie also shares why consumers are choosing to shop in-store versus online. Download 5WPR’s 2024 Consumer Culture Report here. Learn about D S Simon Media: https://www.dssimon.com

Jamie Dowd, North America Health Lead at Weber Shandwick, discusses the impact of misinformation and shares how brands can address it with empathy. Jamie talks about her passion for supporting female leaders in PR. Jamie also shares the importance of maintaining momentum for female-driven campaigns.

Why are companies shifting focus from CSR to ESG? Gloria Janata, President and CEO of TogoRun, discusses how the move impacts the role of the communications function. Gloria also dives into TogoRun’s efforts on reducing disparities in healthcare.

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Aaron Sherinian, Senior Vice President of Deseret Management Corporation, explains how the deforestation of local news is making an impact on the media landscape. Aaron also explains the opportunity the media has if they engage more stories of faith with their viewership. Aaron also discusses how faith and media continue to form a strong community.

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Matt Kovacs, President of Blaze PR, explains what organizations should focus on when developing their public relations budget. Matt discusses how to have productive check-ins with clients. Matt also describes how communicators can be a resource to clients even after a campaign ends.

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Rick Gould, Managing Partner at Gould+Partners, encourages business owners to run their company as if they’re going to sell it. He shares tips on selling a firm, and how both parties can capture the most value from the transaction. Rick also reveals the factors that buyers are most cognizant of such as the owners market salary, an owner’s ‘understudy’ and more.

Knight Stivender, Partner at MP&F, highlights the value of trusting your instincts during a generational transition. Knight explains how she integrates her journalism background into her agency role. Additionally, she shares how she took her clients' feedback and successfully expanded the agency’s service portfolio. 

Sophie Merven, Head of Communications, IHG Hotels & Resorts, shares her outlook for travel post-COVID from a global perspective. She also discusses how the organization was forced to rethink themselves and make significant changes as a result of the pandemic. Sophie also emphasizes the increased role of PR and earned media in the current environment.

Lisa Rosenberg, Partner + President, Consumer Brands at Allison+Partners, shares insights on the future of brand communications. She speaks about how her experience as a judge at Cannes provided a window into how brands can deploy a compelling narrative to forge meaningful connections in an increasingly fragmented world. Lisa also explains how brands can avoid becoming a “chaser of culture” and move towards making a more sincere and meaningful impact.

Joanna O’Connell, VP and Principal Analyst, Forrester Research, dives into the shifting trends in the relationship between consumers, brands and content publishers. She discusses the challenges of navigating these changes as a communicator. Joanna emphasizes the importance of looking at different communications and marketing channels as a whole, rather than separate entities. She also highlights the increased need for data transparency and using data for value creating experiences.

A strong digital footprint has become a key factor for a successful launch. Nicole Rodrigues, CEO and Founder of NRPR Group, highlights the importance of getting PR right by being patient. She also shares how in-house communicators can gain the trust of an agency by giving strategic advice.

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Sarah Berman, President of The Berman Group, explains how the global real estate industry can utilize the Metaverse. Sarah also shares how Metaverse 3.0 events can be accessible and engaging to clients and participants alike.

Learn more about Metaverse 3.0 here: https://www.dssimon.com/metaverse/

Rosanna Maietta, Chief Communications Officer and Senior Counselor to the CEO at the American Clean Power Association, shares her tips on how to navigate a fast-paced news cycle and build strong relationships with reporters to combat misinformation. Rosanna also talks about the evolution of the communications role.

How can communicators retain their seat at the decision-making table in 2022? Gini Dietrich, Founder and CEO of Spin Sucks and Arment Dietrich, stresses the importance of communicating company values and keeping employees engaged in the wake of the Great Resignation. Gini also shares her passion for PR measurement and using attribution models to quantify communication effectiveness.

To share your feedback, contact:

Doug Simon: dougs@dssimonmedia.com 

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Tim Johnson, President of Upraise Marketing + Public Relations, provides insights on how startups can adeptly begin their brand narrative in PR. He discusses the various channels and mediums for these firms to plan for and capitalize on to ensure the receive positive consumer sentiment. He also explains the role of agencies in working with the startups and the need for ‘nimble feet’ as the new brand changes and alters their positioning frequently in the early stages.

Lori Jung, Co-Founder of Hudson West PR and Marketing, explains that the new pivot for 2023 includes preparing for the unexpected. Lori shares the importance of having open communication with clients by implementing weekly calls and quarterly meetings to determine PR-based tactics. Lori also describes some ways communicators can work smarter with reporters to increase media coverage for their clients.

To share your feedback, contact:

Doug Simon: dougs@dssimonmedia.com 

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For more info go to: https://www.dssimon.com

Trey Ditto, CEO, Ditto PR, thinks you should be happier at your PR job. In fact, he’s created his entire business model around employee happiness. Trey's desire is to teach anyone willing to listen how they can make their business a better place to work. One person at a time, his goal is to improve the PR industry.

To share your feedback, contact:

Doug Simon: dougs@dssimonmedia.com 

or

news@dssimonmedia.com - 212.736.2727

For more info go to: https://www.dssimon.com

Stacey Kumagai, Communications Specialist at Media Monster Communications, Inc., shares why having open conversations with clients about their successes and failures leads to stronger storytelling. Stacey also explains the impact employee ambassadors have during a campaign. Stacey also talks about how the communications industry will evolve and how to prepare for the unexpected.

To share your feedback, contact:

Doug Simon: dougs@dssimonmedia.com 

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news@dssimonmedia.com - 212.736.2727

For more info go to: https://www.dssimon.com

Nick Borelli, Marketing Director for Meetaverse™ by Allseated and Doug Simon, CEO of D S Simon Media, describe the role of video in a Metaverse event and how it increases opportunities for sponsors and presenters. Nick explains how conducting Metaverse events can increase accessibility and community for participants. Nick also shares stories of how attending and building Metaverse events has impacted him personally and professionally.

Learn more about the Metaverse Spectrum Business Conference here: https://metaversebusinessconference.com/ 

To share your feedback, contact:

Doug Simon: dougs@dssimonmedia.com 

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Marie de Foucaud, Founder and CEO of Elovation Consulting, describes how the Saudi Fashion Commission is making a huge impact on local communities. Marie highlights her experience connecting with upcoming talent and political leaders for the Saudi 100 Brands project. Marie also shares what communicators need to know before working with international brands.

Monique Kelley, Associate Professor of Strategic Communication and PRSSA Faculty Advisor at Boston University's College of Communication, CEO and Founder of Monique Kelley Consulting, LLC, and Founding Member of CHIEF in Boston, talks about the “Great Breakup” and its impact on female communicators. Monique emphasizes the importance of self-care and discusses the ways she implements the practice in her daily routine. Monique also shares valuable advice for college students.

To share your feedback, contact:

Doug Simon: dougs@dssimonmedia.com 

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Peter Cook, Chief Communications Officer at the American Bankers Association, shares how his team serves as the voice of the banking industry in Washington and the challenge of representing banks of all sizes. He explains his range of responsibilities at ABA, how he applies his journalism background to his job, and the importance of data in reaching a skeptical public.

How can you help clients break down muscle memory in conversation? Ethan Rasiel, CEO of Lightspeed PR & Marketing, recommends asking clients to participate in mock interviews that allow them to test language that any type of audience can understand, such as, journalists, partners, or potential customers. Ethan also explains the 5 behaviors that PR impacts and how communicators can effectively approach them.

To share your feedback, contact:

Doug Simon: dougs@dssimonmedia.com 

or

news@dssimonmedia.com - 212.736.2727

For more info go to: https://www.dssimon.com

Alex Ebanks, Vice President of Communications for ESSENCE Ventures, shares some exciting milestones for the brands she works with. Alex describes how organizations can effectively lead the next generation in their internship and mentorship programs. Alex explains the important factors she considers before choosing to partner with an agency. Alex also shares valuable advice to students about how to make a lasting impression while networking. 

Click here to watch the “Time of Essence” documentary series. 

Sabrina Macias, Vice President of Global Communications at DraftKings, addresses how communicators can reach their audiences in authentic and nuanced ways. She goes in depth on how brands can control the narrative of their portrayal in their respective markets and business environments. She emphasizes the importance of preparation for one’s public relations moves based on other contingent factors such as consumer sentiment, cultural factors, and other stakeholders of the firm.

Hanna Bautz, Account Lead at Next PR, shares how creating structure around quarterly plans can boost productivity and collaboration. She explains how she uses the project management triangle model to hone her creative problem-solving skills. Hanna also emphasizes the importance of understanding client’s preferred communication styles. Learn about D S Simon Media.

The first episode of our series "How PR is Promoting AI" features Chris Hook, Senior Group Director of Communications and Marketing at Cadence Design Systems. Chris describes how he tested the messaging for the launch of the first AI powered supercomputer for design. Chris also shares how communicators can effectively tell stories about AI being used in products and services.

Dave Fleet, Global Head of Digital Crisis at Edelman, shares key findings from the agency’s “2022 Connected Crisis Study”. Dave shares how executives can engage with Gen Z and other key stakeholders when navigating and addressing today’s most pressing issues. Dave also explains how companies of all sizes can plan and prepare for a crisis.

Download the “2022 Connected Crisis Study” here: https://www.edelman.my/sites/g/files/aatuss366/files/2022-10/2022%20Edelman%20Connected%20Crisis%20Study.pdf

To share your feedback, contact:

Doug Simon: dougs@dssimonmedia.com 

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For more info go to: https://www.dssimon.com

Darlene Hollywood, Principal, Hollywood Agency, shares tips on getting media coverage for local organizations and brands. She emphasizes the importance of focusing on the people when crafting the story. Darlene also discusses the need for building strong relationships when it comes local media.  

To share your feedback, contact:  

Doug Simon: dougs@dssimonmedia.com  

or news@dssimonmedia.com - 212.736.2727  

For more info go to: https://www.dssimon.com