PR's Top Pros Talk

Pamela Greenwalt, Chief Communications and Marketing Officer at  SAG-AFTRA , reflects on the impactful initiatives taken to secure the ethical use of AI. She explains how AI and deepfakes compromise the integrity of artistic expression. Pamela also encourages other communicators to approach the use of AI with caution and awareness.

Raoul Bhavnani, Chief Communications Officer of Betterment , is redefining fintech with a human-centered approach. He discusses the role of AI in driving innovation internally and externally. Raoul also shares how Betterment’s hybrid work model boosts employee and customer engagement.

Sarah Robarts, President and Founder of  Ballantines PR , discusses the importance of collaboration between employees, brands, and strategic partnerships. Doug and Sarah delve into the significance of arts and culture within the media landscape. She also shares insights on how to integrate passions into your work.

Davelyn Tardi Reyes, Public Relations Director at Discover Puerto Rico , discusses her tactics for building strong relationships with journalists. She emphasizes the importance of staying informed by engaging with local communities. Davelyn also shares an example of a successful brand partnership.

Sarah Wood, Founder and Chief Communication Consultant at Sarah Wood Communication , offers valuable insights on how organizations can utilize their owned channels. She emphasizes the importance of repurposing content while ensuring consistency and communication. Sarah also advises businesses not to underestimate the power of public relations in helping them achieve their vision.

Megan Noel, Global President of Corporate Affairs at  Golin , offers valuable insights from  Golin’s 2025 Trends Report . She underscores that business transformation and corporate reputation are now inseparable. This convergence demands that companies must approach every decision through a dual lens of operational excellence and reputational impact, recognizing that these elements are inextricabl...

Curious about what’s next for communicators in 2025? In our second episode of “What to Watch for in 2025”, 12 of PR’s Top Pros share their unique perspectives. Topics covered include earned media, evolving client relationships, tech innovations, and more. Diana Littman, U.S. Chief Executive Officer, MSL Chris Hook, Communications Lead, Cadence Lucia Lee, Vice President of Media and Public Affairs,...

Renee Mailhiot, Senior Vice President of Earned Media at  Edelman , explains how she collaborates with clients to understand their media coverage goals. She shares how she prepares spokespeople to deliver authentic messages that align with the company's narrative. Renee also emphasizes the importance of cultivating strong relationships with journalists in today’s ever-changing earned media env...

Kary Zate, Senior Director of Marketing Communications at  Locus Robotics , and Christina Gorini, Vice President at  FINN Partners , discuss how they combat misinformation through education. Christina explains how they create in-person experiences to create deeper understanding and engagement. Kary shares insights on how he utilizes testimonials to increase brand awareness.

Mike Gehrig, Managing Director of The Motion Agency , delves into the role of media relations in driving meaningful outcomes. Mike discusses how effective media relations tactics can expand a story's reach and audience engagement. He also emphasizes the importance of analyzing data to uncover meaningful insights.

What’s in store for communicators in 2025? 11 PR’s Top Pros share their top insights in our first episode of What to Watch for in 2025. Some of the topics discussed include challenges navigating disinformation, diversifying media, and the balance between AI and human intelligence. - Doug Simon, CEO, D S Simon Media - Bradley Akubuiro, Partner, Bully Pulpit International - Renee Mailhiot, Senior Vi...

Emily Teitelbaum, Chief Communications Officer of  Libra Group , shares her proactive approach to understanding and leveraging AI. She highlights how comms can lead an organization in adopting new technology and how AI can enhance authenticity and foster collaboration. Emily also reflects on the expanding expectations of – and opportunities for – the CCO.

Bradley Akubuiro, Partner at  Bully Pulpit International , discusses valuable insights on how communicators can combat disinformation. Bradley highlights the importance of aligning goals with business objectives. He also shares the importance of leading with your values.

Blake Simpson, Senior Vice President, Chief Communications and Corporate Affairs Officer at  Adtalem Global Education , explains how her team defines and measures campaign effectiveness. She shares the importance of integrating non-traditional, owned, and earned media to create a cohesive strategy. She also talks about how the CCO role will continue to evolve.

Melissa Marasco, Corporate Brand & PR at Guardant Health , shares how to leverage the principles of ethos and logos to strengthen strategic communication efforts. She explains the psychological drivers of brand awareness, emphasizing how subconscious decisions influence consumer behavior. Melissa also discusses the importance of blending art and science in storytelling.

For brands aiming to connect with the Hispanic community this holiday season, it’s crucial to understand the traditions that matter to them. Yerddy explains why brands should partner with influencers who are dedicated to social justice and sustainability initiatives. Additionally, she emphasizes the need for communicators to invest in the future of Hispanic students. Yerddy Lanfranco is the Senior...

Julie Murphy, President of  Sage Communications , provides insights on what businesses should expect when working with federal government organizations. She delves into the dynamics of a presidential transition. Julie emphasizes how public relations and rapid response strategies increase visibility in government media. Additionally, she highlights the role of government employees.

Meghan Kelleher, Founder and CEO of  Corner Market Communications , discusses the significance of a people-first culture and how it drives her business forward. She reflects on the core values her team developed. Meghan also emphasizes the role joy plays in fostering a thriving work environment.

Andrea Sok, Founder and CEO of  Sok Influencer PR , offers valuable insights into her role as a fractional CCO/CMO. She explains how a fractional CCO/CMO can quickly adapt to a company’s culture and operations, providing high-level strategic guidance. Andrea also emphasizes how working with an external strategist can offer a fresh perspective.

Saul Hafenbredl, Partner at CB&A, A Finn Partners Company, and Jacqui Lipson, Partner at Finn Partners, delve into the 2025 Education Marketing Trends report, exploring the rise of state-based marketing and its impact on campaign strategies. Joined by Doug Simon, CEO of D S Simon Media, they discuss the evolving dynamics between federal and state communications, the role of education reporters...

Ronica Cleary, Founder and CEO of Cleary Strategies , reveals how viewing a story from a producer's perspective is crucial to achieving earned media success. Doug and Ronica share their experiences of transforming ideas into powerful TV stories that resonate with viewers. Ronica also highlights the growing importance of remote interviews in today’s media landscape.

Kevin Whalen, Partner at the Guyer Group , addresses some misconceptions about analyst relations. He emphasizes that leaders must be transparent about their company’s challenges to forge a strategic path forward. Kevin discusses various meeting formats and details their unique benefits. He also shares valuable resources that can help organizations navigate their growth journeys.

Lauren Meckstroth, Vice President at  Fahlgren Mortine , shares how her team spots trends that clients can contribute to. She emphasizes the importance of selecting the right storytelling medium based on the scope of the subject. Lauren also explains the benefits of taking risks if it makes sense for a client. Learn more about D S Simon Media .

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. Learn more about D S Simon Media .

Alex Schriver, Senior Vice President of Public Affairs at the  Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers of America  (PhRMA), explains how he builds trust with key stakeholder audiences through internal and external localization efforts. He shares how he applies a campaign-style approach to communicate and engage with his team to “win the day.” Additionally, Alex emphasizes how leaders can ensure...