The Business Communicators

Networking that Works: How to Adapt and Survive the Job Market in 2025

Fri, 28 Feb 2025 13:00:00 +0000

Success doesn’t teach you much; failure does. On the latest episode of The Business Communicators, Austin, Hattie, and Thomas are joined by Daniel Méndez Aróstica as he shares his insights on how comms pros can navigate a shifting job market through strategic networking, personal branding, and community support.

Daniel discusses his journey of building an open, inclusive community through #CommsJobs that empowers people to connect, learn, and grow, why it’s important to make networking personal, and the importance of being visible and being human.

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Ethical Storytelling and PR’s Future

austin@thebusinesscommunicators.com (Josh Kail, Austin Staton, Thomas Baen) — Mon, 4 Mar 2024 13:00:00 +0000

Understanding your audience, crafting a compelling narrative, and building relationship are the core tools everyone needs to be successful in public relations. However, since artificial intelligence (AI) has entered the chat, how do we evolve the field and adapt our careers?

On the latest episode of The Business Communicators, Josh Kail joins Austin and Thomas for a discussion on the evolving media landscape through digital platforms, social media, and emerging technologies like AI.

Kail emphasizes that, while AI can assist in tasks like data analysis and pattern recognition, it cannot replace the human element in PR - the creativity, empathy, and ethical judgment that are crucial in storytelling and relationship building.

The episode touches on navigating the ethical challenges that come with new technologies and data usage, the Cambridge Analytica scandal, and the potential for misuse of data in influencing public opinion.

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Adapting Comms for the AI and Digital Age: Insights from Axios' Eleanor Hawkins

Mon, 12 Feb 2024 13:00:00 +0000

Eleanor Hawkins, a communication strategist and writer at Axios, joins The Business Communicators to discuss the changing landscape of media and communication, including the impact of AI and digital strategies on the industry.

The episode focuses on the challenges and opportunities faced by communicators in reaching their audience, especially in the context of political events like elections and the evolving media environment. They discuss the role of AI in future elections and the importance of adapting communication strategies to meet audience needs and expectations.

Eleanor highlights the significance of owned content and how companies like Amazon and Spotify successfully leverage it. She stresses the need for communicators to be creative and strategic in their approach, especially in an election year where everything becomes political.

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2023 Unpacked: The Hits and Misses in AI and Comms

austin@thebusinesscommunicators.com (Thomas Baen, Austin Staton) — Wed, 17 Jan 2024 13:00:00 +0000

Before we fully embrace the new year, The Business Communicators takes a look back at their “bold” comms predictions for 2023 while breaking down their hits and near misses. From AI and ChatGPT to fact-checking and propaganda, do Thomas and Austin have a future in forecasting models?

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Are Schools Setting Up Comms Students to Fail?

austin@thebusinesscommunicators.com (Matthew John, Thomas Baen, Austin Staton) — Mon, 11 Sep 2023 12:00:00 +0000

Rutgers grad student Anna Tamke penned an op-ed in PR Week sharing her thoughts on why college has not prepared her for a career in public relations – a plea for higher education to teach real world skills in the classroom.

"It’s a rude awakening when you graduate with a PR degree and realize you’re unemployed in a post-pandemic world with an unreal expectation for what working in your field looks like,” Tamke wrote. “If the education system properly taught students — like myself — what PR is and how to do it, entering the workforce wouldn’t be so hard."

Austin and Thomas are joined by Calgary-based comms pro Matthew John to weigh on the opinion piece, share their personal experience breaking into corporate communications, what schools of higher learning can do to properly equip students to succeed, and why it’s important for students and professionals to look after their own professional development.

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Hustle to Heart: Transforming Side Gigs into Lifelong Passions

austin@thebusinesscommunicators.com (John Havard, Austin Staton, Thomas Baen) — Mon, 28 Aug 2023 12:00:00 +0000

Meek John Havard, the creator of the kids-focused YouTube channel, Cowboy Jack. Launched during the pandemic, Havard created The Cowboy Jack Show as an educational and fun channel for kids that takes them on adventures to explore this amazing world.

Havard describes the channel as a “therapeutic hobby” that has now blown up with more than 8 million views per month. On this episode of The Business Communicators, Havard shares insights into the creation of the show, how he utilizes online resources and his network to grow and evolve the channel, and tips for those looking to monetize, grow, or leverage their passion.

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The Impact of College Football Realignment and Higher Education

austin@thebusinesscommunicators.com (Sam Bradshaw, Austin Staton, Thomas Baen) — Fri, 4 Aug 2023 16:48:55 +0000

What impact will college athletic realignment have on the future of academic institutions? Are schools of higher learning left chasing the highest dollar from TV networks like Fox Sports, ESPN, and streaming services like Apple TV? On the latest episode of The Business Communicators, data analyst Sam Bradshaw discusses the financial implications of college athletics and what it means from a communications angle. Simply put: Don’t think it’s about the money, know it’s about the money.

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It’s a Barbie Marketing World; Mentors That Shaped Us

austin@thebusinesscommunicators.com (Austin Staton, Thomas Baen) — Mon, 17 Jul 2023 12:00:00 +0000

The summer blockbuster season is in full swing amidst Hollywood's striking actors and writers. Now, studios are turning to influencers to hype up releases like Barbie, Mission Impossible, and Oppenheimer. Can content creators seize this opportunity and how will it shake up advertising for brands?

To close the episode, Austin and Thomas discuss their influential mentors and share career-changing advice they wish they had known before diving into the corporate world.

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Meta's Threads Makes a Heavyweight Entrance: How Should Businesses React?

austin@thebusinesscommunicators.com (Chris Ferris, Thomas Baen, Austin Staton) — Mon, 10 Jul 2023 12:00:00 +0000

With nearly 100 million users signed on just days after launch, Meta’s Threads has quickly skyrocketed to the top-ranked app in Apple’s App Store directly placing Twitter on life support. However, is the growth sustainable or will Threads become the next Clubhouse or Google Plus?

On the latest episode of The Business Communicators, Chris Ferris, VP of Digital Strategy at Pierpont Communications, joins the podcast to weigh in on the long-term viability of Threads and Twitter, and what immediate steps your company should take to evaluate the business case for Threads and other digital media platforms.

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Crisis Control: Mastering Communications in the Eye of the Storm

Mon, 3 Jul 2023 12:00:00 +0000

Matt Lanza is a Houston-based forecast meteorologist in the energy sector and part of the team behind the wildly successful Space City Weather and The Eyewell – both dedicated to hype-free weather forecasts that see readers through the storm by providing timely and accurate information.

Lanza, who previously worked as a broadcast meteorologist in Upstate New York, joins The Business Communicators to discuss how communications and cross-agency collaboration is crucial during severe weather disasters, the simplification of complex weather information and its potential impact on people and assets, preparedness during a weather crisis, forecasting El Niño, and more.

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Reddit’s API Rebellion, Fan Power in Sports, and the Apple Vision Pro

austin@thebusinesscommunicators.com (Austin Staton, Thomas Baen) — Mon, 19 Jun 2023 12:00:00 +0000

More than a week after Apple’s WWDC, communications professionals across the globe are evaluating Apple’s latest “one more thing” – the Apple Vision Pro. With a hefty price tag of $3,499, will businesses embrace the headset and utilize augmented reality for their day-to-day operations? What are the implications for communications professionals as we shift toward a world that embraces VR and AR?

Then, Austin and Thomas breakdown Reddit’s rebellion after a number of subreddits (forums) went dark as moderators attempted to hold the platform hostage over CEO Steve Huffman’s new direction on API access – potentially putting some apps like Apollo and others out of business.

The show wraps on the diamond by discussing the Oakland A’s “reverse boycott” with fans demanding that owner John Fisher sell the team due to his efforts to move the franchise to Las Vegas. The podcast analyzes what corporate comms and marketing pros can learn from international sports and how treating the fans/customers always pays dividends in the long run.

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Twitter Names CEO and CNN Takes Heat for Trump Town Hall

austin@thebusinesscommunicators.com (Kim Davis, Thomas Baen, Austin Staton) — Mon, 15 May 2023 12:00:00 +0000

It was a busy week in the business communications world: Former NBCUniversal advertising exec Linda Yaccarino was named the new CEO at Twitter, CNN faced backlash after hosting a town hall with Donald Trump, and YouTube sensation Mr. Beast could face potential legal claims for an Instagram giveaway.

Austin, Thomas, and Kim break it all down – plus share insights on Tucker Carlson’s move to Twitter, and the NFL’s digital media strategy heading into the 2023 football season.

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Lost in the Sauce: The Ethics of a TikTok Murder Investigation

austin@thebusinesscommunicators.com (Meredith Lynch, Austin Staton, Thomas Baen) — Fri, 5 May 2023 12:00:00 +0000

TikTok crime sleuth Ken Waks finds himself in hot water as Texas Monthly opines that “what began as a baseless theory has turned into a social media frenzy—one with the power to frighten the public and hamper police investigations.” Waks has also been accused of leveraging his viral content to promote his FinTech start-up company, Foresyte, which he currently serves as co-founder and chief marketing officer.

What is the cost of virality? Is it worth sacrificing one’s morals or ethics?

LA-based writer and content creator Meredith Lynch joins The Business Communicators to offer her insights into the controversy driven by Waks’ investigation, his numerous brand plugs of Foresyte, and allegations that have surfaced on his since-deleted Twitter account that have racist, homophobic, and misogynistic undertones.

The podcast further breaks down Foresyte, the company CEO Stephen Eddy’s string of deleted DMs and LinkedIn posts boasting about Wak’s TikTok exploits, and the Denver-based firm, Heinrich Marketing, who is providing $1 million in agency services (according to SEC filings) for the company.

The show wraps by analyzing the actions brands must take when working with influencers, the dangers of cyber vigilantes, agency accountability, and lessons to be learned moving forward.

Editor’s Note: The Business Communicators made multiple attempts to reach Foresyte, Ken Waks, and Heinrich Marketing for comment. According to SEC filings, Heinrich Marketing is Foresyte’s established marketing agency. Heinrich president and owner George Eddy is the lead investor. We received no response.

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Taylor Swift's Business Savvy, Fox Corp's $787.5 Million Settlement, and Leaving Pity City

austin@thebusinesscommunicators.com (Austin Staton, Thomas Baen) — Mon, 24 Apr 2023 12:00:00 +0000

Taylor Swift fans made their way to Houston in droves over the weekend but neither Austin nor Thomas attended the sold-out shows. The duo did, however, breakdown Swift’s marketing and business acumen – and how artificial intelligence is impacting the music industry.

Then, the podcast focuses on the $787.5 million Fox Corp. settlement with Dominion, media ethics, and why it’s paramount for communicators to stay informed through a variety of news outlets.

The show closes by discussing Bud Light marketing VP, Alissa Heinerscheid, who took a leave of absence on Friday, and MillerKnoll CEO Andi Owen who faced backlash for telling employees to “leave pity city” when asked whether they’d lose their annual bonuses.

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Time’s Up, TikTok: Why Congress is United in Banning the App

austin@thebusinesscommunicators.com (Austin Staton, Thomas Baen, Kim Davis) — Mon, 27 Mar 2023 11:00:00 +0000

It’s not often that Democrats and Republicans find themselves aligned on policy. However, TikTok CEO Shou Zi Chew unified Congress as he was grilled by a bipartisan committee who argued that the popular short-video app should be banned in the United States.

While TikTok claims it offers a powerful tool to bring people together, momentum appears to be gaining as governments across the globe raise concerns over the app’s alleged ties to the Chinese Communist Party.

Did Chew’s testimony exude trust? Will Project Texas be enough to satisfy Congress? Is TikTok just part of a larger problem with social media platforms and data privacy? Tune in as Austin, Thomas, and Kim discuss on the latest episode of The Business Communicators.

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What Can Starbucks Learn from Texas BBQ; Why ChatGPT and AI will Enhance Business Communication

austin@thebusinesscommunicators.com (Austin Staton, Thomas Baen) — Mon, 6 Mar 2023 12:00:00 +0000

Axios reported last week that “Starbucks committed ‘egregious and widespread misconduct’ while trying to stop labor union campaigns.” How did one of the most-admired corporations in the world get to this point? Austin and Thomas dive into the ramifications of what this means for employee communications, and how Starbucks can learn lessons from Walmart and Texas BBQ joints.

The show closes with a conversation on the sudden rise of ChatGPT and AI – and why communications professionals should embrace the new technology rather than fearing automation.

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The Sudden Silence of Business Leaders; 2023 Comms Predictions

Mon, 6 Feb 2023 12:00:00 +0000

Business leaders have historically played a significant role in using their platform and influence to speak out on pressing issues such as social justice, equality, and sustainability. However, in recent months, companies and organizations that had previously pledged to “create more inclusive cultures” have recently provided a "no comment” when asked to speak on hot-button issues. Why are leaders communicating less during heightened moments of crisis? The podcast breaks down why “authenticity” is paramount when corporate executives engage in civil discourse.

The show wraps as the panel provide their communications-focused predictions for 2023 – propaganda, tech companies going bankrupt, the metaverse, and why TikTok will ultimately be banned in the U.S. according to Austin: “If you don’t think China is using ByteDance to spy on you, you’re completely misguided.”

Editor’s Note: Season five is here! The podcast ushers in a new era with the addition of Kim Davis as a co-host – and we couldn’t be more excited.

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How Kim Davis Cuts Through The Noise and Builds Trust

austin@thebusinesscommunicators.com (Kim Davis, Hattie Horn, Austin Staton) — Tue, 13 Sep 2022 00:00:00 +0000

Communication provides a myriad of opportunities to connect with our audience. However, without the ability to cut through the noise with transparency and clarity, much of the messaging continues to be a struggle. And if you were to ask Kim Davis, President and Chief Strategist of The KD Company, we have a communication problem, and it stems from a lack of trust.

Kim joins Austin and Hattie to share insights from her experiences working with diverse clients and teams to help them transform their approach to increase engagement, productivity, and profits.

Kim is also a sports talk show host and producer of “Chalk Talk”, a weekly live-streaming show about sports, news, business, and trending cultural topics featuring interviews with local sports leaders. Kim drops knowledge and gems comms pros are sure to love and want to add to their communication strategy.

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Does Wealth Equate Happiness?

Mon, 25 Jul 2022 11:00:00 +0000

Depending on who we ask or what we consume in the media, the psychology of wealth for many individuals can be viewed as a more subjective term. As a culture that mostly views ‘chasing paper’ to accumulate visible assets, are we doing all that we can to ensure that our abundance is creating a legacy for our families, and impacting in our communities?

Author, CPA, and attorney David York has worked with a number of financially successful clients over the years, and their interactions have left an indelible mark that also drives his latest book, The Gift of Lift – Harnessing the Power of Stewardship to Elevate the World.

David joins Austin, Hattie, and Thomas to talk about stewardship, how to distinguish wealth and money, and more importantly how we can use our stewardship of wealth to make a positive, lasting impression on lives and communities.

The show closes this week by discussing remote work and how one comedian is fighting cancel culture by taking back his own work – even with a massive financial risk.

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Why Brands Must Lead With Purpose; Saudi-backed LIV Golf takes on the PGA Tour

austin@thebusinesscommunicators.com (Austin Staton, Thomas Baen, Diane Primo) — Mon, 13 Jun 2022 11:00:00 +0000

Diane Primo is on a mission to help businesses find their purpose and live it out every day. As the CEO of Chicago-based Purpose Brand Agency, she joins The Business Communicators to share her thoughts on why brands must be relevant, purpose-driven, and committed to consumers to be successful – and why representation matters.

To close the show, Thomas and Austin discuss the upstart LIV Golf Tour, which is financed by the Saudi Public Investment Fund, and has poached several high-profile golfers away from the PGA Tour. Is this a money grab, a reputation campaign, or bad PR?

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The Accidental Brand Strategist with Kate DiLeo

Mon, 6 Jun 2022 11:00:00 +0000

Kate DiLeo is an “accidental brand strategist” who has worked with more than 200 brands across 20 sectors. As a sought-after branding expert, Kate joins The Business Communicators to discuss the power of branding, how businesses have the potential for growth within their own organizations, and why it’s important to stop telling stories and start having conversations.

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Making the Brand: Creative Uses Rap to Build Big Business

Mon, 30 May 2022 11:00:00 +0000

Houston-based rapper Michael Burton, aka Keybeaux, lives and breathes music. A graduate of the University of Houston, Burton leverages his communications degree and works with major brands and small businesses offering his rapping services on Fiverr where his bars and rhymes have generated more than $400,000 in revenue. He joins The Business Communicators to share insights on entrepreneurship, his creative process, and how digital media has transformed the music industry.

The episode closes as Austin, Hattie, and Thomas discuss the mass shooting tragedy at Robb Elementary in Uvalde, Texas, which left 21 dead – including 19 young students. The trio share their thoughts on the failure of leadership and what can be done to prevent more tragedies in the United States.

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#WeLeadComms: Trailblazing an Internal Comms Path in 2022 w/ Mike Klein

Mon, 16 May 2022 11:00:00 +0000

Internal Communications expert Mike Klein joins The Business Communicators in his second appearance for a follow-up discussion on the evolution of internal communications following the COVID-19 pandemic, how the comms landscape has simultaneously changed while remaining the same, and his #WeLeadComms platform that is taking LinkedIn by storm by celebrating leadership, initiative, and courage across communication disciplines, borders and boundaries.

The show opens with Austin, Hattie, and Thomas dissecting an exclusive from Variety on the new “corporate culture” memo from Netflix, and Elon Musk’s hesitation on acquiring Twitter.

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Netflix, CNN+, and Streaming Saturation; Elon’s Twitter Quest

austin@thebusinesscommunicators.com (Austin Staton, Hattie Horn, Thomas Baen) — Mon, 25 Apr 2022 13:30:00 +0000

It was a tumultuous week for shareholders of Netflix as the company’s stock price fell 35% following its latest earnings report – the biggest one-day drop since 2004. Then, CNN, which had planned to spend more than $1 billion on CNN+ over four years announced its collapse just two days following the Netflix saga as executives at Discovery suggested fewer than 10,000 people were watching the service at any given time. Have we finally reached streaming saturation?

The show closes as we wrap week two of the Elon Musk quest to buy Twitter. According to numerous reports, he now has the funding secured, but is this right move for Twitter, its investors, and Elon?

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Global Inflation and Open Communications

austin@thebusinesscommunicators.com (Austin Staton, Thomas Baen) — Mon, 11 Apr 2022 11:00:00 +0000

Whether its residual impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic or the Russian invasion of Ukraine, the cost of goods and commodities has led to a record rate of inflation that hasn’t been seen since in nearly 40 years. But how can impacted brands get ahead of the story? Austin Staton and Thomas Baen discuss global inflation and open communications in a bonus episode of The Business Communicators.

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Creating a Corporate Culture for Good

Mon, 28 Mar 2022 11:00:00 +0000

How can you create a culture of empowerment and build a culture for good? Houda Elyazgi, Chief Client Officer at Saxum, joins The Business Communicators to share her insights on diversity, inclusion, and the challenges facing today’s corporate landscape. Hint: being open-minded and having uncomfortable conversations can serve as a catalyst for change – both internally and externally.

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Shiv Malik Explains Web3, NFTs, and the Metaverse

austin@thebusinesscommunicators.com (Austin Staton, Thomas Baen, Shiv Malik) — Mon, 21 Feb 2022 12:00:00 +0000

Over the last 18 months, Web3, NFT’s, and the Metaverse have entered our everyday vernacular. But what does it all mean for communications and marketing professionals? Shiv Malik, CEO at Pool and our first three-time guest, joins The Business Communicators to discuss decentralization and the data economy.

Shiv Malik is a technologist, award nominated broadcaster, author of two books, former Guardian investigative journalist and co-founder of the Intergenerational Foundation think tank. He joined the Web3 space in mid-2017 as an adviser to the Golem project and subsequently as Head of Growth for Streamr and co-creator of their Data Unions framework. In 2021 he co-founded Pool and currently leads the organization on its mission to bring Data Unions to the world and ensure that people have control of their data and a genuine stake in the digital economy.

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Super Ads and #DreDay Highlight the Super Bowl for Brands

austin@thebusinesscommunicators.com (Austin Staton, Hattie Horn, Thomas Baen) — Tue, 15 Feb 2022 01:29:18 +0000

Each year, brands pay exorbitant amounts for the cost of exposure during America’s greatest sporting event – the Super Bowl. It’s the one time of year brands are almost guaranteed a captive audience. This year’s big game was no different – including an epic halftime performance.

Brands shelled out upwards of $6.5 million for a 30-second ad spot marking the most expensive Super Bowl ad price in NFL history. But were any of them worth the price? And, which brand won the day? Austin, Hattie, and Thomas discuss which ads nailed it, and others that just fell flat.

Then, the podcast closes by discussing the iconic halftime show dubbed as #DreDay. Sponsored by Pepsi, Dr. Dre, Mary J Blige, Snoop Dogg, Kendrick Lamar, Eminem, and a surprise appearance by 50 Cent brought 90s nostalgia and a party atmosphere to SoFi Stadium. It could be said that this year’s performance was one of the top-five shows ever presented.

Let us know what you thought of the Super Bowl and which brands flexed their marketing and communications strength the best.

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Trust, But Verify; Why Do We Work While Sick?

austin@thebusinesscommunicators.com (Austin Staton, Hattie Horn, Thomas Baen) — Mon, 24 Jan 2022 12:00:00 +0000

A CNN Business report says that Americans are showing up sick to work even as Omicron spreads. Why? Millions of frontline employees can’t stay home without missing a paycheck and many don't have paid sick leave. The Business Communicators discusses why this is a problem and offers potential solutions to keep workers healthy and safe.

Who can you trust or is trust overrated?

Let’s talk about trust. The 2022 Edelman Trust Barometer dropped last week, and it reports that trust in government and media is sinking further into the void.

The Trust Barometer reported that people trusted their CEOs more than government and wanted their business leaders to voice more opinion in societal issues. A number of business executives received promotions and the pressure to deliver is high.

Is this a valid expectation? Should Business influence government decisions? Also, trust in the media corroded in the wake of ‘fake news,’ readers have plethora of mediums for their media consumption.

Listen up as Austin, Hattie, and Thomas provide their key takeaways on the annual report.

Music Credit: Smoke (with Lostboycrow) – Feather

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Disruption and Strategic Concepts: How to Ensure Your Business Strategy is Equipped for the Future

Mon, 10 Jan 2022 12:00:00 +0000

How can communications and marketing professionals future-proof their business to survive and profit from change? On the latest episode of The Business Communicators, Jonathan Brill, hailed by Inc. Magazine as a “Silicon Valley legend” joins the podcast to share his insights on creating a sustainable business that empowers employees. Brill shares insights into what makes leaders like Elon Musk and Tim Cook so successful – and how businesses can utilize the same strategies to create success for their workforce.

Then, the podcast breaks down Lake Superior State University and their annual list of “banished” words and phrases – should you oblige? And for kicker’s, we share our thoughts on the latest season of Emily in Paris – our guilty pleasure.

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How to Transform Your Business in 2022; Elon Named TIME Person of the Year; Comms Trends We’re Watching

Mon, 20 Dec 2021 12:00:00 +0000

How can businesses reinvent themselves to ensure long-term success while retaining top-tier talent? Deb Coviello, Founder of Illumination Partners, joins The Business Communicators for a conversation on transforming corporate communications strategies heading into 2022 and the insights needed to equip effective and build leaders.

Then, the podcast breaks down the TIME Magazine’s person of the year, and the list of candidates that Elon Musk topped. Was he deserving, or were other candidates snubbed? The show closes by breaking down the biggest marketing and communications trends of the year – and what to expect heading into 2022.

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Ben Worthen on Leveraging Data for Storytelling; Better.com CEO Faces Backlash

austin@thebusinesscommunicators.com (Ben Worthen, Austin Staton, Thomas Baen) — Mon, 13 Dec 2021 12:00:00 +0000

In the digital media era, data and design are integral tools to effectively engage and captivate your audience through storytelling. On the latest episode of The Business Communicators, Ben Worthen, CEO of Message Lab, joins the podcast to share insights into crafting content and creating experiences that empower communications and marketing professionals to tell stories that people actually want to hear.

Then, Austin and Thomas breakdown the controversy surrounding Vishal Garg, CEO of the digital mortgage firm Better.com, who recently fired 900 employees during a Zoom call that went viral and made headlines worldwide. UPDATE: As of Dec. 10, Garg is taking time off from the company while it conducts a “leadership and cultural assessment,” according to an email to employees from the board of directors.

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Fearless Communication: When Representation Matters in the Workplace

Mon, 6 Dec 2021 12:00:00 +0000

What is fearless, inclusive leadership in the workplace? It’s about being bold, courageous, and transparent about creating a culture where people feel like they belong and can thrive. And, it starts with having an open mind.

In the past 18 months, organizations have restructured their diversity and inclusion programs in the wake of rallying cries for leaders and companies to take a stand about environmental and social issues. Simply take a closer look at how marginalized groups are hired and promoted and according to the 2021 Edelman Trust Barometer -- the need to rebuild trust with their employees and the communities in which they work is paramount.

Brian McComak, founder and CEO of the consulting firm Hummingbird Humanity, joins The Business Communicators to discuss how leaders can evolve by being transparent and committed to creating a safe space for people through a human-centered work culture where real representation matters.

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Creating A Company Culture That Doesn’t Suck

Mon, 22 Nov 2021 12:00:00 +0000

For decades, businesses have exhausted billions of dollars and spent countless hours developing strategies to increase employee engagement, decrease burnout, and improve productivity. And yet, most workplaces still—to put it bluntly—suck. The reason? The corporate world has always been driven primarily by results, so leaders are not hard-pressed to actually change their ways.

S. Chris Edmonds and Mark S. Babbitt, co-authors of Good Comes First, join The Business Communicators for a conversation on why for today’s blended workforce and future generations, this old-school corporate approach of profit and productivity above all else is no longer acceptable. Nor should it be, especially as organizations frame their return-to-work strategies with the intention of bringing their likely-reluctant workforce back into the office.

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Astroworld and Crisis Comms; Aaron Rodgers Fumbles Media Interview; The Problem With Polling Data

austin@thebusinesscommunicators.com (Austin Staton, Thomas Baen) — Mon, 8 Nov 2021 12:00:00 +0000

Following the initial recording of this episode of The Business Communicators, tragedy struck in Houston hours later on Friday, Nov. 5, as eight people died at Grammy-nominated artist Travis Scott’s Astroworld Festival in a mass casualty event. Austin and Thomas open the podcast by discussing what went wrong and how the crisis response was botched by event promoters.

Then, the show breaks down Aaron Rodgers, Green Bay Packers quarterback, handling of his first media interview following his COVID-19 diagnosis. Hint: It did not go well. Find out why Rodgers exclusive interview with The Pat McAfee Show backfired and what communications professionals and business leaders can learn from “friendly” conversations with the media.

The podcast closes with election talk – and why polling data is becoming increasingly unreliable.

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Performing Under Pressure; Facebook Goes Meta; Enes Kanter + Nike

Mon, 1 Nov 2021 11:00:00 +0000

High-stress situations. We all know them, but how do we thrive under pressure and use it to our advantage? Dane Jensen, CEO at Third Factor and an instructor at Queen’s University and the University of North Carolina, joins The Business Communicators to share how some of our highest-pressure moments and what we do in those moments have a major impact on the trajectory of the rest of our lives.

Hailed by Entrepreneur as one of the top virtual speakers of 2020, Jensen shares insights on how business leaders, NAVY Seals and Paralympic athletes utilize pressure to increase their performance and how HR and the corporate world can do the same.

Then, Austin, Hattie and Thomas discuss CEO Mark Zuckerberg’s announcement that the social media giant is renaming its company Meta. What does this mean for the company moving forward, and what lessons can Meta learn from other corporate rebrands?

The show closes with a discussion on 11-year NBA veteran Enes Kanter and his public outcry against Chinese President Xi Jinping, calling him an 'insecure tyrant, and Nike’s failure to call out slave labor in the world’s largest country.

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When Values Align: Employee Readiness and Organizational Goals

austin@thebusinesscommunicators.com (Austin Staton, Thomas Baen, Ethan McCarty) — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 11:00:00 +0000

The Pandemic. The Great Resignation. Contentious societal and political issues. The challenges we face create unprecedented stress on individuals and families which can seep into the work environment.

Ethan McCarty, the founder and CEO of Integral, joins The Business Communicators for a discussion on the company’s latest employee activation index (download the report here). McCarty shares insights on how organizations are building more inclusive cultures, why employers need to treat their employees like customers, the biggest challenges facing employers in a post-COVID world, and more.

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Why COVID-19 has Changed Employee Comms; Facebook’s Tumultuous Week

Mon, 11 Oct 2021 11:00:00 +0000

Has your employee communications strategy effectively adapted over the past 18 months? If not, how can it improve moving forward? In the season four premiere of The Business Communicators, Houston Methodist Hospital’s Stefanie Asin and LyondellBasell’s Monica Silva join the podcast to share best practices and tips for communicating and engaging employees with compassion and transparency as we emerge in a post-COVID world.

Then, Austin, Hattie, and Thomas close the show by discussing the long-term implications of the Facebook outage, the importance of small businesses owning their own channels, and the allegations from whistleblower Frances Haugen.

Music Credit: Smoke (with Lostboycrow) – Feather

EPISODE SPONSOR: From now until Nov. 12, renew your IABC membership or join IABC and make the commitment to learning, connecting, and having the resources you need for years to come. The code IABC21 provides a 20% discount on international dues to anyone who renews their membership. For more information, visit IABCHouston.com.

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Ragan CEO Diane Schwartz Talks Business Fluency and Earning a Seat at the Table

Mon, 21 Jun 2021 11:00:00 +0000

Editor’s Note: This episode marks the end of season three of the podcast. Season four will debut in fall 2021. Be sure to follow The Business Communicators on social media during the summer months and join the crew for special bonus live episodes.

As CEO of Ragan Communications, Diane Schwartz leads a company that has become a trusted resource for the PR and corporate communications industry for more than five decades. She joins The Business Communicators to share insight on the state of communications in 2021, why communicators aren’t given a seat the c-suite table, and whether certification programs through IABC and PRSA can truly elevate your career.

To close out the season, Austin, Thomas, and Hattie discuss their season three highlights, and why soccer icon Cristiano Ronaldo’s press conference snub cost Coca Cola more than $4 billion in market capital.

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Facebook’s Diana Doukas on Comms, Small Business Recovery, and Data Privacy

austin@thebusinesscommunicators.com (Hattie Horn, Austin Staton, Diana Doukas) — Mon, 14 Jun 2021 11:00:00 +0000

Diana Doukas is the Manager for Economic Impact for U.S. Policy Programs at Facebook where she works with the company’s policy goals and how the platform can empower small businesses. She joins Austin Staton and Hattie Horn on The Business Communicators for an in-depth conversation on her role at Facebook, how the company has created tools to facilitate small business development, lessons learned from the COVID-19 pandemic, and thetechnology that is here to stay in a post-COVID world.

Doukas also shares her insights on the evolving digital media landscape and the ongoing fight to combat the spread of misinformation and bad actors on the platform.

Prior to joining Facebook in 2019, Doukas served as Director of the White House Business Council for President Obama, where she worked closely with business leaders from Fortune 500 companies as well as small and medium enterprises, and as White House Liaison to the U.S. Small Business Administration.

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Corporate Rebranding, Twitter Blue, and Fighting Fake News

austin@thebusinesscommunicators.com (Hattie Horn, Thomas Baen, Austin Staton) — Mon, 7 Jun 2021 11:00:00 +0000

This week on The Business Communicators, the crew discusses Total’s corporate rebranding to reflect its netzero ambitions, Twitter’s latest premium offering, and a new study from MIT and Google that aims to fight misinformation on social media.

Does A Rebrand Really Make A Difference?

As public concern grows over climate change, companies have reinvented themselves to become leaders in the energy transition. French oil company Total recently renamed itself TotalEnergies, to reflect the company’s strategy to become a more diverse energy company.

TotalEnergies is not the first company to rebrand itself to present a better image. Companies and businesses have implemented rebrands as their goals have evolved. Some of them spend millions of dollars to roll out a fresh and updated look. Let’s face it, who doesn’t love all things shiny and new! Investing in rebranding works for some, not for others. Will it work for TotalEnergies? The Business Communicators weigh in.

Will ‘Twitter Blue’ Drive More Revenue For Social Media Giant?

More than 85 percent of Twitter’s revenue comes from advertising, and when the pandemic ignited lockdowns world-wide, sales dropped. Twitter launched Twitter Blue, a monthly subscription service that offers tools such as the ability to edit tweets before posting, and to read long threads in Reader Mode. With more than 200 million daily users on Twitter, it will be ‘wait and see’ if Twitter Blue will be a welcome addition to their content palette. What do Austin, Hattie and Thomas think about it?

What’s The Real Deal About Fake News?

Depending on what is read these days on social media, chances are the information is not always accurate. During the pandemic, fake news and other misinformation about COVID-19 and the vaccine was prevalent on social media, and actually convinced people to not get the vaccine when it was available.

A new study led by MIT and Google proves that social media can slow the spread of fake news with a simple fix: get people to think about the accuracy of information before they share. The study revealed that when prompted to consider a story’s accuracy, people were 20 percent less likely to share fake news. Do we think it will work?

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Amazon’s $8.5 Billion Acquisition; Florida Takes on Silicon Valley

austin@thebusinesscommunicators.com (Thomas Baen, Austin Staton, Hattie Horn) — Tue, 1 Jun 2021 11:00:00 +0000

Amazon made headlines with its massive purchase of MGM. What does this mean for the future of how we consume content? In Florida, Gov. Ron DeSantis signed legislation that takes on Silicon Valley. But, is this an assault on private corporations and their constitutional rights? As America heads back to the office, is video calling a thing of the past, or is it something we should embrace moving forward?

Amazon Expands Media Portfolio with MGM Buy

Amazon made waves in Hollywood with their historic acquisition of MGM studios at a cost of $8.45 billion, giving their streaming services access to a huge catalogue of content. The deal will expand Amazon’s Prime Video with about 4,000 films including the James Bond franchise, and 17,000 television shows such as the Handmaid’s Tale.

Was the buy a good move for Amazon? What will it mean for its competitors’ Netflix, Disney+, and Hulu?

Florida Moves to Stop Censorship with New Social Media Law

Florida governor Ron DeSantis signed SB 7072 recently that “guarantees protection for Floridians against the Silicon Valley elites.” The bill restricts how large social apps and websites can moderate users’ content, and will allow users to sue if they believe they were banned without sufficient reason.

Tech industry giants Amazon, Google, Intel, Samsung, Facebook and others are suing Florida saying the bill is a violation of private companies’ constitutional rights.

Tech and Florida have come out swinging. Who’s going to win this one?

Do I Need to Turn My Camera On During A Video Call?

Video conference calls have become the new normal. Video conference fatigue is also a real thing according to Stanford University research. Can companies gradually transitioning back to the workplace be a possible solution for eliminating the exhaustion people are feeling from virtual meetings?

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Mask On, Mask Off; Crisis Comms + Cyber; How We Brainstorm

austin@thebusinesscommunicators.com (Hattie Horn, Thomas Baen, Austin Staton) — Mon, 17 May 2021 11:00:00 +0000

After a week off, The Business Communicators are back! The trio discuss the communications efforts behind the latest guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, why comms teams should be diligent in preparing for potential cyber threats, TikTok and (surprise) privacy, and tips to effectively channel your creative ideas.

Mask On, Mask Off: The Rules of Engagement

The most recent guidelines from the CDC say that individuals that are fully vaccinated can resume activities prior to the pandemic without a mask. However, if required by state and local guidelines, you will still be required to wear a mask. For the most part, the rules of engagement for wearing or not wearing a mask are still confusing for most people. The Business Communicators offer insight to what comms pros should look out for.

Cyberattack Shuts Down the Largest U.S. Fuel Pipeline

After a forced shut down by one of the most disruptive cyberattacks in recent history, the Colonial Pipeline has returned to normal operations. As the operator of the largest U.S. fuel pipeline, the shutdown initiated a widespread supply shortage and caused temporary price spikes. This was clearly a crisis many were not prepared to manage. How did it happen and what can Colonial do to make sure it doesn’t happen again? The Business Communicators weigh in.

Will TikTok’s New Login Feature Gain Users’ Trust?

TikTok ranks as the 7th most used social network in the world, with 689 million global active users, according to the Hootsuite Digital 2021 Report. TikTok announced recently that its new “Login with TikTok” feature will let users log into other apps useing their TikTok credentials. The intentions might sound good on the surface, but it’s a pretty big ask for a company that was trusted so little last year. Should users be concerned? Austin, Hattie and Thomas discuss what comms pros should think about.

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Can Honesty Truly Transform the Workplace?

Mon, 3 May 2021 11:00:00 +0000

Ron Carucci, best-selling author, speaker and managing partner at Navalent, has spent nearly four decades working with leaders and organizations pursuing transformational change for their organizations, leaders and industries. Ron’s work has been featured in Fortune, CEO Magazine, Business Insider, MSNBC, Inc, Business Week, and more.

Ron joined The Business Communicators to discuss current issues impacting businesses (environmental, social and governance) and recent research that culminated into his upcoming book, To Be Honest, that reveals what it takes to build purpose-driven companies of honesty and justice.

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Speaker Jodi-Ann Burey Shares How We Can Disrupt The Workplace

austin@thebusinesscommunicators.com (Austin Staton, Hattie Horn, Jodi-Ann Burey) — Mon, 26 Apr 2021 11:00:00 +0000

If you have not met Jodi-Ann Burey, you’re in for a treat. Simply put, she is a disrupter, speaker and a writer who works at the intersections of race, culture, and health equity.

Jodi’s TED talk, “The Myth of Bringing Your Full Authentic Self to Work,” embodies her disruption of traditional narratives about racism at work and has almost 1 million YouTube views.

Jodi-Ann joins Hattie Horn for an engaging conversation about her mission to disrupt “business as usual” to achieve social change; and, strategies companies and business leaders can implement that enable their people to feel confident about bringing their full, authentic selves to work.

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Bezos Says Farewell; CEOs, Brands, and Social Issues; Influencers and Fraud

austin@thebusinesscommunicators.com (Thomas Baen, Austin Staton, Hattie Horn) — Mon, 19 Apr 2021 11:00:00 +0000

Amazon Founder and CEO Jeff Bezos wrote his final letter to shareholders last week offering clear insight about the customer experience, efficiency, long-term thinking, managing crisis and more. What are the key takeaways for comms pros and business leaders?

Then, should CEOs get involved in discussing hot-button political and social issues? If so, how far are they willing to go to affect change?

The show closes by discussing a new survey published in PR Week finding that 55 percent of Instagram influencers were involved in some form of social media fraud and fakery in 2020. Can we trust influencers moving forward?

Takeaways from Jeff Bezos’ Final Shareholder Letter

Each year, Amazon CEO Jeff Bezos writes a thought-provoking shareholder letter that offers clear insight about the customer experience, efficiency, long-term thinking, managing crisis and more. In his final shareholder letter, Bezos states that “if you want to be more successful in business (in life, actually), you have to create more than you consume.” Bezos also acknowledges the company needs “a better vision for our employees’ success.” His messages are clear and concise, and his tone is inclusive and respectful of all the stakeholders involved in the company’s success.

Austin, Hattie and Thomas discuss Bezos’ final shareholder letter and takeaways communicators and business leaders alike can benefit from.

Should Business Leaders Get Involved in Politics?

In a previous episode, The Business Communicators discussed the Edelman Trust Barometer that revealed a widespread mistrust of government, and more trust in company CEOs. More recently, companies have been speaking out against states implementing voting laws that opponents say will make voting more difficult for underrepresented voters, particularly Black voters. This raises questions for The Business Communicators:

Should business leaders get involved in political/government issues?
How far are they willing to go to affect change?
Will getting involved help or hurt their reputation?
How are companies/business leaders communicating to their employees their stance?

We’re Number One for All Things Comms!

Shoutout to Catalyst, the official publication of the International Association of Business Communicators for including The Business Communicators in their list of recommendations to members as one of 14 Podcasts to Add to Your Communication Toolkit. We’re number one on the list for All Things Comms!

Thank you, IABC, for your support, especially to our sponsors and listeners who tune in and share your insight about the key issues and trends that impact our industry. Let’s keep building!

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Daniel Vaughn Talks BBQ, Digital Media, and How to Keep Your Audience Wanting More

Mon, 12 Apr 2021 11:00:00 +0000

Daniel Vaughn is the barbecue editor at Texas Monthly and he is the ultimate barbecue snob. In fact, @BBQSnob is his handle on both Twitter and Instagram where he actively engages with fans and readers throughout the U.S.

Vaughn is a licensed architect, he is the author of the bestselling book, The Prophets of Smoked Meat and the creator of popular blog Full Custom Gospel BBQ. He joins The Business Communicators to talk about the science of BBQ, his unique career path, the importance of following your passion, and why brand and audience engagement is crucial to maintain small business success.

Listeners will also learn how to use a variety of media platforms to amplify messages that keep audiences coming back for more. And, Vaughn shares his insights on the most underrated BBQ spots in Texas, including some you haven’t heard of, and some that might make the coveted Texas Monthly Top 50 later this year.

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Lil Nas X, VW Controversy, Vaccine Passports

austin@thebusinesscommunicators.com (Hattie Horn, Thomas Baen, Austin Staton) — Mon, 5 Apr 2021 11:00:00 +0000

The month of April blew in bringing fools, fire and vaccine passports. In this week’s episode, Austin, Thomas and Hattie talk about Volkswagen’s April Fool fail, Nike’s clap-back on rapper Lil Nas X’s "Satan Shoes," and concerns about the new vaccine passport policy.

Volkswagen is the Biggest (April) Fool

If we had to grade Volkswagen’s effort to promote the company’s lone electric vehicle to coincide with April Fool’s Day, they earned an ‘F.' It all started with a leaked press release from Volkswagen announcing a rebrand to “Voltswagen” and that the change was a “public declaration of the company’s future-forward investment in e-mobility.”

The company said the “Voltswagen” branding would be on all its EVs going forward. Turns out, it’s a big fat lie, and an April Fool’s fail. Their attempt to pull a harmless prank shows that jokes like these don’t always pan out and possibly can erode consumer trust.

Nike, Lil Nas X, and ‘Satan Shoes’

Lil Nas X can teach a master class on creating fame. The rap artist is intuitive, and creative, in using digital media to promote his music and most recently, his collaboration with MSCHF to sell 666 pairs of modified Nike Air Max 97s as “Satan Shoes.”

Nike sued MSCHF alleging unauthorized use of the Nike logo and requested the court to cancel orders of the Satan Shoes, but not before MSCHF was able to sell off all but one pair of the custom shoes. Sneaker heads and critics alike are taking opposite corners in the controversy. Lil Nas X most likely is smiling and thinking, “Where’s the fire?”

Marketers, take note.

Can Vaccine Passports Help Revive the Economy?

Proponents say that if we can identify people who have received the COVID-19 vaccine, or at lower risk of spreading it could help open travel among other things. That’s a good thing. We desperately need the effort to work, to get our economy booming again and with summer around the corner, people back to enjoying travel beyond the grocery store, the backyard and the living room sofa.

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Vaccines for Doughnuts; Media Merger Talks; David Dobrik’s Downfall

austin@thebusinesscommunicators.com (Austin Staton, Thomas Baen, Hattie Horn) — Mon, 29 Mar 2021 11:00:00 +0000

In the latest spirited conversation of The Business Communicators podcast, Austin, Thomas and Hattie exchange viewpoints over US businesses that are offering free stuff to people that get vaccinated, the pros and cons of a potential media merger between The Athletic and Axios, and why social influencer David Dobrik’s scope of influence should have included him not making stupid decisions.

Free Money, Donuts and Dope: But You Have to Get Vaccinated First

Breaking news: Getting the vaccine against COVID-19 can score you some swag! Knowing the protection benefits of getting vaccinated against a dangerous virus doesn’t seem to be enough to convince some people to take the jab. So, businesses across the US are offering perks to those who receive COVID shots. But is this the right approach or is it a promotional stunt to increase revenue and publicity?

Startups Axios and The Athletic Talk Merger, Consider SPAC Deal

Does bigger mean better? That’s what startups Axios and The Athletic seem to think. While the online news platform and sports-media outlet have done well on their own, they’re betting on scale to improve their odds of success. Each online company has its own loyal base of followers and by consolidating, the long-term plan is to bring additional digital publishers whose content draw consumers willing to pay for it and pull in premium advertisers wanting to get on the gravy train. Will subscribers climb aboard?

David Dobrik Called Out for Sexual Misconduct, Now He’s Crying Foul

We’ve discussed the genius of social influencer David Dobrik on previous episodes of The Business Communicators. His presence on YouTube, TikTok and podcasts has built a fanbase of millions and he’s grown his estimated net worth to $20 million. The Wall Street Journal dubbed him Gen Z’s Jimmy Fallon and Dobrik could do no wrong. Until now.

Dobrik is riding a wake of multiple accusations of sexual assault against members of his VlogSquad content creation group. Though Dobrik issued a tearful apology, it doesn’t seem to be working. YouTube has demonetized his platform and he’s losing fans and sponsorships left and right. Is his 15 minutes over as fast as it started?

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March Madness: We Miss The Water Cooler Talk; The Importance of Self Care

austin@thebusinesscommunicators.com (Thomas Baen, Hattie Horn, Austin Staton) — Mon, 22 Mar 2021 11:00:00 +0000

The NCAA’s March Madness is well underway, one year after the annual collegiate basketball tournament was canceled due to COVID-19. What does that have to do with communications? Plenty. The Business Communicators discuss how universities have reimagined their robust strategies to keep fans engaged to overcome the lack of physical connections. The show also focuses on how employees have missed the chance to connect at the water cooler, and how maintaining mental health is crucial as we emerge from the isolation created by the pandemic.

Editor’s Note: Are you on Clubhouse? If so, we launched a group! Join The Business Communicators on Clubhouse by clicking here.

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Connect with The Business Communicators on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube and LinkedIn, and find out more about our show at TheBusinessCommunicators.com. And, if you haven’t done so already, be sure to subscribe to our podcast on iTunes and leave us a five-star review. Questions or comments? Send us an email to podcast@iabchouston.com or text “podcast” to (713) 360-0133.

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Tom Cruise and Deep Fakes; The Future of Network TV and the Digital Age

austin@thebusinesscommunicators.com (Hattie Horn, Thomas Baen, Austin Staton) — Mon, 8 Mar 2021 12:00:00 +0000

Have you seen Tom Cruise’s clips on Tik Tok? He’s golfing, performing coin magic and talking to Mikhail Gorbachev. Or is he? The Business Communicators discuss the realities of “deep fakes” and the potential ramifications they could have on world events, the stock market, and why comms pros need to be prepared to combat misinformation in the evolving digital age. Then, the podcast dissects the upcoming multi-billion-dollar NFL contracts and what it means for the future of TV networks and the way we consume digital content.

The show opens with Austin, Hattie and Thomas discussing a new Tik Tok account, @deeptomcruise, that features what seem like real videos of Cruise, that if one didn’t look deeper would believe they are the real thing. It’s both mind-blowing and baffling.

But, Tom Cruise isn’t the only deep fake account on the internet -- and that is terrifying. With software becoming increasingly sophisticated, the alarming mountain of misinformation they communicate -- and the confusion they create -- could have a lasting impact on how we operate as communications professionals.

Next up, Chicago Bears coach Mike Ditka once said, "If you're not IN the parade, you WATCH the parade. That's life. Amazon is in the parade as the frontrunner to sign a deal with the National Football League to carry a significant number of games exclusively on Thursday nights. This is a big deal for the Amazon Prime streaming service and perhaps not so good for traditional TV. The Business Communicators discuss what the big move means financially for the future of cable network markets, the NFL, and how we consume media.

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Connect with The Business Communicators on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube and LinkedIn, and find out more about our show at TheBusinessCommunicators.com. And, if you haven’t done so already, be sure to subscribe to our podcast on iTunes and leave us a five-star review. Questions or comments? Send us an email to podcast@iabchouston.com or text “podcast” to (713) 360-0133.

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Click That! Why Photography Can Elevate Your Communications Game

austin@thebusinesscommunicators.com (Austin Staton, Marc Morrison, Hattie Horn) — Mon, 1 Mar 2021 12:00:00 +0000

Photography is visual artistry. The right images have the ability to transform in ways mere words cannot. Ask Austin-based photographer Marc Morrison, who has shot worldwide campaigns more than two decades, and his commissions have ventured into various genres.

His portraiture includes everyone from celebrities to Fortune 500 CEOs and world leaders. And Marc’s work has appeared in countless outlets like Fortune, Forbes, The Verge, TIME, Rolling Stone, Essence, New York Times, Golf Digest and Sports Illustrated.

Whether it’s shooting for global brands like Samsung, Sony Music, Ogilvy & Mather and ExxonMobil, or with A-list artists and athletes like Cardi B, Lil Wayne, Tan France or Myles Garrett – Marc pushes creative boundaries while understanding how to achieve a client’s vision.

On this week’s episode of The Business Communicators, Marc joins Austin Staton and Hattie Horn to talk about working with clients to develop a strategy that achieves their vision, and how images elevate campaigns and communications. Plus, he’ll also share amazing behind-the-scenes stories on what it’s like working with some of the world’s biggest artists.

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Crisis in Texas; Australia takes on Facebook; Life’s Simple Joy

austin@thebusinesscommunicators.com (Dan Gold, Thomas Baen, Austin Staton) — Mon, 22 Feb 2021 12:00:00 +0000

As Texas recovers from Winter Storm Uri, many across the country are asking, “what went wrong” in the Lone Star State. From a crisis communications perspective, many Texans were left in the dark by state-level leaders and the Electric Reliability Council of Texas (ERCOT). With more than 4.5 million customers without power – and many more without access to clean water – could this have been prevented?

Pinch-hitting for Hattie Horn this week, Dan Gold, an award-winning global MarComs strategist hailing from Canada, joins Austin Staton and Thomas Baen to dissect the crisis in Texas, and how Texans could have benefitted from effective crisis management. The Business Communicators offer their insights for a crisis comms playbook and give key takeaways that businesses can use to equip their teams in the event of a crisis.

Then, Facebook has taken a drastic approach in Australia to ban all news stories from its site, after a long-running battle over who should pay for news online. Rather than pay media companies in return for linking to their stories, as a forthcoming Australian law would require, the company opted to block all such links on its platform. What does this mean for free speech and access to information in Australia? Will it have longer-lasting implications globally?

The show closes with a new segment that focuses on writing prompts and extemporaneous speaking. This week’s: “Name something simple that brings you joy.” To our listeners: We want to hear from you. Tell us on social media what things in life bring you joy. We’ll share the best responses on next week’s episode of the podcast.

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Connect with The Business Communicators on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube and LinkedIn, and find out more about our show at TheBusinessCommunicators.com. And, if you haven’t done so already, be sure to subscribe to our podcast on iTunes and leave us a five-star review. Questions or comments? Send us an email to podcast@iabchouston.com or text “podcast” to (713) 360-0133.

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The Lincoln Project Exposed; Censorship on Social Media; Bye, Aunt Jemima!

austin@thebusinesscommunicators.com (Thomas Baen, Hattie Horn, Austin Staton) — Mon, 15 Feb 2021 12:00:00 +0000

This week, The Business Communicators tackle the biggest headlines in the PR, branding and digital media world. The show begins by analyzing the downfall of The Lincoln Project, and Aunt Jemima’s rebranding, finally retiring the racist stereotype that has adorned its label for decades. Then, Austin, Hattie and Thomas weigh in on why Instagram banned Robert Kennedy Jr. from the platform, and the emergence of Clubhouse, the upstart $1 billion social media platform taking the world by storm.

First up, The Lincoln Project, a political Super PAC which raised more than $90 million ahead of the 2020 election, is under fire after co-founder John Weaver is alleged to have sexually harassed more than 20 men. What did the organization know and when? To make matters worse, it’s speculated that the organization hacked co-founder Jennifer Horn’s Twitter account last week after she stepped down from her role due to Weaver's "grotesque and inappropriate behavior." Can the organization be trusted moving forward, or are these communications and ethical failures the beginning of the end for the Super PAC?

Then, although reinventing the company was a long-time coming, will the new look and image of the Pearl Milling Company resonate with consumers that are used to the previous image and name that sustained Aunt Jemima for over 100 years; or once the new packaging is on retail shelves will customers say “yum” or “yuk”, and will it mean that the Pearl Milling Company might get flattened by the competition?

Next up, the Kennedy name is powerful, and it is also synonymous with controversy. Instagram has shut down Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s account for spreading misinformation about COVID-19 vaccines. With more than 800,000 followers on Kennedy’s account, Facebook, which owns Instagram, announced that it would flag or remove posts from users and groups that spread misinformation about vaccines. Spreading misinformation on social media is dangerous. Full stop. However, can are digital media companies taking censorship too far, and is their business model sustainable with a lack of moderation?

Closing out the show, if you are a social media enthusiast like us, you’re likely well-aware of Clubhouse, the invite-only social audio app, where everyone wants to be part of the club. Founded in March 2020 by Paul Davison and Rohan Seth, Clubhouse boasts more than six million weekly users and boasts a value of over $1 billion. Buoyed currently by a host of A-list celebrities including Elon Musk and Oprah Winfrey, Clubhouse's exclusivity, candid conversations, and the opportunity to share the stage is what currently makes it so alluring. Although Davison and Seth say Clubhouse was created for everyone, can the app maintain its appeal to user once it’s open to all?

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Staying Relevant: Chris Brogan Shares his Opinion about Authenticity and Thought Leaders

Mon, 8 Feb 2021 12:00:00 +0000

As communications professionals, we aspire to be labeled as “thought leaders” within our organization. But, is attaching that label ourselves detrimental to our careers? Chris Brogan, a New York Times Bestselling author, joined The Business Communicators to share the truth about authentic leaders, his insights on brand strategy, and why real stories sell.

Brogan, president of Chris Brogan Media and CEO of Owner Media Group, Inc., is a sought-after keynote speakerand has consulted with the biggest Fortune 100 brands in the world. Brogan joined the podcast for a humorous and candid conversation about all things comms. Listeners will learn:

tips on personal branding
how companies can truly embrace diverse and inclusion
channeling your passions into a single focus
the future of agile working in a post-COVID world and how to avoid a sterile work environment
how to truly resonate with a global audience
why being the smartest person in the room could be detrimental to your corporate ambitions

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Trust Barometer with Edelman’s Tonia Ries; NFL All-Pro Emmanuel Sanders talks Journaling

Mon, 1 Feb 2021 12:00:00 +0000

Despite a strong global economy and near full employment, none of the four societal institutions that the study measures—government, business, NGOs and media—is trusted according to the 2021 Edelman Trust Barometer.

Tonia Ries, the Global Executive Director of Intellectual Property at Edelman and steward of the Edelman Trust Barometer, joins The Business Communicators to discuss the cause of this paradox and how it is a wake-up call and challenge for these institutions to look at new ways to effectively rebuild trust with their stakeholders.

Then, NFL All-Pro Wide Receiver Emmanuel Sanders has always preferred to use pen and paper. Before winning the Super Bowl with the Broncos, as a teenager he used a journal to organize his thoughts and create his vision for the future. Emmanuel is also an entrepreneur, husband and father who continues to use journals to track his goals and build upon his dreams.

He joins the show to talk about his partnership with TRU RED to launch their Expert Notetaking Collection of writing journals and pens for entrepreneurs to bring their most creative ideas to life. Our listeners can check them out at staples.com/spark2finish.

The show closes as Austin, Hattie and Thomas break down the recent Wall Street and Reddit saga and whether or not financial institutions can be trusted moving forward. And, a discussion on why Budweiser is winning the advertising battle ahead of this week’s Super Bowl.

Music Credit: Smoke (with Lostboycrow) – Feather

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What Comms Pros Can Learn from Amanda Gorman’s Inaugural Poem and the COVID-19 Vaccine Rollout

austin@thebusinesscommunicators.com (Austin Staton, Hattie Horn, Thomas Baen) — Mon, 25 Jan 2021 12:00:00 +0000

Amanda Gorman captivated a global audience last week as she delivered her poem, The Hill We Climb, at the inauguration. And, a new presidential administration is tasked with rebuilding trust as the country aims to mitigate risk associated with the deadly COVID-19 pandemic. What lessons can communications learn from the inaugural poem and the COVID-19 vaccine rollout?

Gorman, a 22-year-old Harvard grad, became the youngest inaugural poet ever, joining the likes of Robert Frost and Maya Angelou. Why was her message of national unity while reflecting on the fragile state of the country so impactful? What role did social media play in elevating her message to a global audience? And, what are the key takeaways from her poem that businesses can use to identify and develop effective messaging?

Then, a New York Times article suggests that “we’re underselling the vaccine.” Why? Early on during the COVID-19 pandemic, many health experts — in the U.S. and around the world — decided that the public could not be trusted to hear the truth about masks. Instead, the experts spread a misleading message, discouraging the use of masks. While their motivation was mostly good, the message was still a mistake and it confused people.

Now a version of the mask story is repeating itself — this time involving the vaccines. Once again, the experts don’t seem to trust the public to hear the full truth. How can communications professionals, healthcare workers and the government collaborate to help rebuild trust and transparency with the public?

Music Credit:Smoke (with Lostboycrow) – Feather

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Digital Media and Dance Music: How Feather is Building a Brand

Mon, 18 Jan 2021 12:00:00 +0000

For emerging electronic DJ and producer Kyle Featherstone, known professionally as Feather, music is the great equalizer. Kyle’s love for EDM and his need to produce music during the COVID-19 pandemic led him to TikTok where to date, his work has reached millions of followers and fans.

Born in Minnesota and currently residing in Nashville, Kyle joins The Business Communicators for an engaging conversation on:

how digital media has allowed him to directly connect with his fans, and build a community that is organically, and authentically his own
the creative process behind his debut EP, Becoming
why it’s critical to build a team of trusted advisors to sharpen your craft
how collaboration is changing the game for emerging artists inside the music industry

Editor’s Note: Special thanks to Kyle for allowing our podcast to use his track, Smoke, for this episode. Listen to Feather’s EP, Becoming, on Spotify.

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Chaos in the Capitol: Why Ethical Communications are Pivotal

austin@thebusinesscommunicators.com (Thomas Baen, Hattie Horn, Austin Staton) — Mon, 11 Jan 2021 12:00:00 +0000

Editor’s Note: This episode was recorded on Friday, Jan. 8, hours before Twitter permanently suspended Donald Trump's account “due to the risk of further incitement of violence.”

Just days into the new year, the weaponization of social media ignited a firestorm of violence in Washington D.C., leaving five dead, and the country in chaos. To mitigate potential harm, President Trump was banned from nearly all digital platforms for “incitement of violence” just days before the 2021 inauguration. How did we get here? The Business Communicators dives into the role communications played in the chaos, and why now more than ever, words matter when helping move this country forward.

Then, do politics, pizza and public relations mix? The show delves into an ill-advised press release from Pizza Inn last week that “demanded” changes to nonexistent voter fraud. Was this merely a PR stunt? Did it violate the IABC and PRSA Code of Ethics? Why did a Dallas-based agency, Champion Management, ultimately issue the press release on behalf of Pizza Inn CEO Brandon Solano? And, how can agencies avoid an ethical quandary moving forward?

Note: Please consider listening to our debut episode as Axios’ Sara Fischer discussed the weaponization of social media.

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Bah! Humbug! The North Face Goes Viral for the Wrong Reason; 2020 Comms Trends; The Truth About Santa Claus

austin@thebusinesscommunicators.com (Austin Staton, Hattie Horn, Thomas Baen) — Mon, 21 Dec 2020 12:00:00 +0000

Bah! Humbug! The year 2020 might have stolen that phrase from Ebenezer Scrooge. But, was the year a total loss? On the final episode of this “unprecedented” year, The Business Communicators trio break down why a Texas-based company had their order for co-branded winter jackets rejected, why virtual reality is poised to shape the rest of the decade for communicators, the top comms trends of the year, and the truth about Santa Claus.

The show opens with discussion of Santa Claus and his impending tour of the globe amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, and why Todd Anderson, CEO of Innovex, called out The North Face for refusing his order of 400 jackets to be given as holiday gifts to his employees. Anderson was told by his distributor that The North Face rejected the idea of placing an oil and gas services logo on its jackets. Anderson responded to The North Face with a charged letter that has industry experts debating if The North Face was right in its stance, or if they’re merely virtue signaling.

Then, with communications professionals trying to close the gap between the official message and their employees, virtual reality represents yet another tool that can’t be ignored. And according to a new study by Murion, twice as many learning and development leaders will utilize reality for soft skills training by 2022. What’s in it for you?

The show closes by analyzing the existing stock of social media tools and the most noteworthy social media trends and updates that your company should utilize as we head into 2021.

Connect with The Business Communicators on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube and LinkedIn, and find out more about our chapter at IABCHouston.com. And, if you haven’t done so already, be sure to subscribe to our podcast on iTunes and leave us a five-star review. Questions or comments? Send us an email to podcast@iabchouston.com or text “podcast” to (713) 360-0133.

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IABC Chair Bonnie Caver and the Future of Comms; David Dobrik’s Viral Marketing

Mon, 14 Dec 2020 12:00:00 +0000

2020 has rocked the status quo for corporations. But, has the agile work environment elevated the value of communications professionals? And, will 2021 mark the year that influencers scrap paid endorsements in favor of equity brand partnerships?

Bonnie Caver, chair of the International Executive Board for IABC, joins The Business Communicators to break down the state of the industry, why 2020 has given communicators a voice at the table, why innovation is transforming the way we work, and the path forward for IABC.

Then, the Business Communicators discuss influencer marketing and the latest puzzle created by David Dobrik that is changing the way content creators interact with their millions of followers. Is this the future of marketing, and should businesses consider scrapping paid endorsements in favor of an equity stake in their company?

Connect with The Business Communicators on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube and LinkedIn, and find out more about our chapter at IABCHouston.com. And, if you haven’t done so already, be sure to subscribe to our podcast on iTunes and leave us a five-star review. Questions or comments? Send us an email to podcast@iabchouston.com or text “podcast” to (713) 360-0133.

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Houston Texans President Jamey Rootes talks a Winning Game Plan for Success

Mon, 7 Dec 2020 12:00:00 +0000

What’s the winning game plan for business success, and how does effective communication impact the outcome? Jamey Rootes, President of the Houston Texans and international best-selling author of The Winning Game Plan, joins The Business Communicators to drop some knowledge about the quintessential leadership playbook for continuous business success. Jamey also discusses his close relationship with former Texans’ owner Bob McNair, and why you don’t need to reinvent the wheel when you can “rip off & do better.”

Then, the trio breaks down news that the U.S. National Labor Relations Board has filed a complaint against Google and its parent company Alphabet, accusing the tech juggernaut illegally surveilling employees. What does this mean for businesses moving forward, and where does trust fall into the equation?

The show closes with a discussion on a Warner Bros. decision that sent shockwaves through the film industry last week when it announced that its entire slate of 2021 movies — and its big Christmas film, “Wonder Woman 1984” — will debut on HBO Max the same day they appear in movie theaters.

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AGT Champion Brandon Leake Discusses Poetry, Storytelling, and Social Justice in America

Mon, 23 Nov 2020 12:00:00 +0000

Thanksgiving week is here and The Business Communicators welcome America’s Got Talent champion Brandon Leake to the podcast. If you’re not familiar with Brandon, you should be. Not only is he a role model, he is one of the most talented young communicators in the U.S. He’s a gifted storyteller through the art of poetry and spoken word, the founder of Called to Move, and will be in Houston on Monday, Nov. 30, for an exclusive one-night only event at the Houston improv.

Brandon joins the show to discuss his inspirations and why he got started in the art of spoken word and poetry, his motivations as a communicator to share personal and authentic stories, his role in positively impacting those from underrepresented communities, and tools of his trade that can help any communicator improve their skills.

If you’re interested in seeing Brandon perform at the Houston Improv, click here to purchase tickets. Or, if you’d like to win a pair of tickets to his Houston show, just text “Brandon” to (713) 360-0133.

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Why COVID-19 Has Changed B2B Sales Forever; Do Consumers Really Want ‘Humaning’

austin@thebusinesscommunicators.com (Thomas Baen, Hattie Horn, Austin Staton) — Mon, 16 Nov 2020 12:00:00 +0000

Consumers crave authenticity and a real connection from brands, so ‘humaning’ is the newest marketing approach for one popular snack maker. But is ‘humaning’ an ingredient that should be added to the marketing buzzword mix?

Then, The Business Communicators dive into recent research from McKinsey & Company that reveals more than three quarters of buyers and sellers say they now prefer digital self-serve and remote human engagement over face-to-face interactions.

How can this digital shift have an impact on mental health? With less human contact and connection, will it become a means to an end for consumers and businesses?

Connect with The Business Communicators on Twitter, Instagram, YouTube and LinkedIn, and find out more about our chapter at IABCHouston.com. And, if you haven’t done so already, be sure to subscribe to our podcast on iTunes and leave us a five-star review. Questions or comments? Send us an email to podcast@iabchouston.com or text “podcast” to (713) 360-0133.

Editor’s Note: If you’re interested in purchasing Chris Yandle’s book ahead of the holiday season, click here.

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Why Representation in Children’s Books Matters; Burger King Shares the Throne

Mon, 9 Nov 2020 12:00:00 +0000

Allyson Neal isn’t just a digital communications expert -- she’s the author of nine books that are having a lasting impact on children. With 70 percent of all children’s books featuring white children or animals, Neal is changing the status quo by publishing family-oriented books that embrace diversity. She joins The Business Communicators to discuss her career, and why she’s using her platform to create a world that is better for all children.

The episode closes by breaking down the big winner of the 2020 election -- and one you might not expect -- and a viral marketing campaign created by Burger King that is bringing the fast food industry together amidst the COVID-19 pandemic.

Editor’s Note: If you’re interested in purchasing Allyson’s books ahead of the holiday season, visit her author page on Amazon.

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Reputation Matters: Can Joe Rogan and Spotify Coexist? The Best (and Worst) of Comms in 2020

austin@thebusinesscommunicators.com (Hattie Horn, Thomas Baen, Austin Staton) — Mon, 2 Nov 2020 12:00:00 +0000

It’s election week and season three, episode one of The Business Communicators is here! Austin Staton, Hattie Horn and Thomas Baen discuss the controversy clouding Joe Rogan’s podcast, why reputation is paramount for world leaders and corporations, and the evolving nature of influencer advertising.

Months after Joe Rogan brought the most-downloaded podcast in the world to Spotify in a $100 million deal, his show is under fire after Alex Jones joined him for a three-hour episode last week. By giving the political-extremist and conspiracy theorist a platform to spew misinformation, can Joe Rogan and Spotify coexist moving forward?

While the world has been rocked by COVID-19, effective communication has never been more important. So, who was the best in 2020? Following a report from Provoke Media, The Business Communicators dissects the leaders and corporations that have gotten it right (and wrong) as the world shifts into a new normal – and why it matters.

The show wraps with a discussion on British regulators clamping down on “hidden advertising” by social media influencers. Is influencer marketing an effective tool for advertisers? Is transparency crucial for consumers to make decisions?

Connect with The Business Communicators on Twitter, Instagram, YouTube and LinkedIn, and find out more about our chapter at IABCHouston.com. And, if you haven’t done so already, be sure to subscribe to our podcast on iTunes and leave us a five-star review. Questions or comments? Send us an email to podcast@iabchouston.com or text “podcast” to (713) 360-0133.

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The Richards Group is Under Fire; Election 2020; Why Quibi’s $1.8 Billion Plan Failed

austin@thebusinesscommunicators.com (Austin Staton, Thomas Baen, Hattie Horn) — Mon, 26 Oct 2020 11:00:00 +0000

As season two of The Business Communicators winds down, the podcast introduces two new co-hosts – Hattie Horn and Thomas Baen. Joined by founder Austin Staton, the trio dive into the scandal impacting Dallas-based The Richards Group following Stan Richards’ remarks on a proposed ad campaign for Motel 6 being “too Black” for the chain’s “white supremacist” guests. The fallout has jeopardized the employment status of the firm’s nearly 700 employees and more than $200 million in annual billings. How can the largest independent agency in America move forward?

Then, the podcast shifts gears with the election less than two weeks away and discusses the barrage of campaign texts and phone calls encouraging last-minute donations and support for federal and state-level candidates. Is this an effective campaign and marketing strategy?

The show wraps up following the Oct. 21 news that Quibi, which is backed by $1.8 billion from Hollywood studios and other investors, intends to wind down its operations and start a process to sell its assets, just six months after its launch. With content being king, is the COVID-19 pandemic to blame, or is stiff competition from the likes of Netflix and Apple TV+ responsible for the six-month lifespan of the “innovative” streaming platform?

Connect with The Business Communicators on Twitter, Instagram, YouTube and LinkedIn, and find out more about our chapter at IABCHouston.com. And, if you haven’t done so already, be sure to subscribe to our podcast on iTunes and leave us a five-star review. Questions or comments? Send us an email at podcast@iabchouston.com.

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Disruption: Data Analytics, Influencers and Making 2020 Work for You

austin@thebusinesscommunicators.com (IABC Houston, Austin Staton, Mike Berland) — Wed, 16 Sep 2020 11:00:06 +0000

Innovation and finding your discomfort zone can make or break your business. So, how can you make 2020 work for you? Mike Berland, the founder and CEO of Decode M, an insights and strategy firm based in New York, joins The Business Communicators to discuss maintaining momentum in a chaos-driven world, data analytics, digital innovation by the professional sports leagues and brands that have pivoted successfully during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Berland brings decades of knowledge to the conversation from his time spent time working as an executive with Edelman, the former head of communications for the NHL, and a strategic advisor for former NYC Mayor Michael Bloomberg and former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton. Listeners will hear his insights on:

What brands have captured momentum and are thriving amidst the constant crises of 2020?
What are the threats to momentum that leaders and entrepreneurs should be aware of when it’s sidelined by something like a global pandemic, massive protests, and a volatile election?
What steps can communicators take to pick up speed and reach maximum momentum quickly once it’s all over and life is back to business as usual?
And so much more.

Connect with The Business Communicators on Twitter and Instagram, and find out more about our chapter at IABCHouston.com. And, if you haven’t done so already, be sure to subscribe to our podcast on iTunes and leave us a five-star review. Questions or comments? Send us an email to podcast@iabchouston.com.

Join the IABC Houston Community

Community is a new way to keep in touch with IABC Houston members in real time through text messaging. Whether you’re looking for the latest IABC Houston news, job listings, professional development opportunities or special offers, text “podcast” to (713) 360-0133 and we’ll add you to our list (don’t worry, we won’t spam you).

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Championing Effective Work Environments w/ WoodMac’s Nicole Braley

austin@thebusinesscommunicators.com (IABC Houston, Nicole Braley, Austin Staton) — Wed, 2 Sep 2020 11:00:34 +0000

Navigating today’s business environment isn’t easy—but it’s not the first time we’ve been forced to rethink our strategies for success. Wood Mackenzie’s Nicole Braley, VP of Marketing for the Americas, joins The Business Communicators podcast for an engaging discussion on rethinking the workplace in the “new normal.”

The work-from-home environment provides challenges but also opportunities for business success. Fear and uncertainty are powerful movers, but business communication professionals need to focus on facilitating connections. The good news is – this is up to you. Yes, each of us has a role to play in championing the most inclusive and effective work environment in this ‘new normal.’ Nicole shares her strategies and tactics that you can immediately implement in reaching a remote and diverse workforce as we all are forced to rethink the workplace in 2020.

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The Fight for Privacy and Taking Ownership of your Personal Data

Wed, 19 Aug 2020 11:00:30 +0000

Shiv Malik, Head of Growth at Streamr, makes his second appearance on The Business Communicators podcast. Has progress been made on the data privacy front in the last 10 months? Shiv brings listeners up to speed on data unions (and what they are) and how consumers are inching closer to owning their personal data.

Shiv, a former investigative journalist at The Guardian, then offers insights on Silicon Valley’s monopolization of user data, how legislation in the EU and U.S. could benefit communicators and consumers alike, and why Chinese-owned apps like TikTok are just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to data privacy.

Then, Chris Mykrantz, founder of Mykrantz & Co., joins the podcast to discuss navigating a post COVID-19 world as communicators and why now is an opportunity to reset your communications strategy and help your organization understand the “new normal.”

Connect with The Business Communicators on Twitter and Instagram, and find out more about our chapter at IABCHouston.com. And, if you haven’t done so already, be sure to subscribe to our podcast on iTunes and leave us a five-star review. Questions or comments? Send us an email at podcast@iabchouston.com.

Join the IABC Houston Community

Community is a new way to keep in touch with IABC Houston members in real time through text messaging. Whether you’re looking for the latest IABC Houston news, job listings, professional development opportunities or special offers, text us at (713) 360-0133 and we’ll add you to our list (don’t worry, we won’t spam you).

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Gone phishing: Hackers aren’t taking a break — and neither should you

Wed, 5 Aug 2020 11:00:11 +0000

The personal information of millions of Americans were exposed due to data breaches in 2019, and Google’s Threat Analysis Group (TAG) reported over 40,000 nation-state hacking attacks in the last year alone. In recent weeks U.S. government agencies and medical institutions leading the COVID-19 pandemic response experienced cyberattack spikes.

Clearly businesses and public institutions are in the crosshairs of opportunistic and professional hackers. What can you as your organization’s professional communicator do to help protect your organization?

Angela Haun and Brad Culp join The Business Communicators for an in-depth discussion on digital security and how communicators play a crucial role in the cyber world. This episode focuses on COVID-19 and medical espionage, the importance of staying vigilant while working remotely, how to create relatable content for your stakeholders and key tips on staying cyber secure.

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2020 Vision: Effectively Engaging Virtual Audiences

Wed, 15 Jul 2020 11:00:37 +0000

Tracey Shappro does it all. As the president and CEO of Vision Production Group in Houston, Texas, she brings her experience working with major global brands to the latest episode of The Business Communicators podcast to share her insights on the importance of effectively engaging audiences during the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.

As a two-time Emmy-Award winner and two-time honoree as “One of the Top 100 Producers in America” by AV Producer Magazine, Tracey will dive into:

the importance of pivoting your creative style to bring the most value for you clients;
integration of emerging technology like AR/VR and drone cinematography into your portfolio;
advice on navigating challenges throughout your career; and
adapting to change as a business owner.

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Creating a Culture of Care: Mental Health + Communications

Wed, 1 Jul 2020 11:00:07 +0000

Courtney Phillips is a mental health warrior and spends her time advocating in the community and sharing stories of hope and healing through her outreach initiative, Hope for Invisible Wounds, which provides resources and tools for those suffering from mental anguish.

Courtney brings her more than 14 years of strategic communications and public relations experience across the federal government, healthcare and corporate sectors, to The Business Communicators podcast to share insights into her personal story, her advocacy efforts, the role of corporate communications plays in creating a culture of care, and so much more.

GIVEAWAY: As a token of our appreciation, we’re doing a giveaway for our listeners. From now until July 8, if you leave a five-star review and a comment on iTunes for this podcast you will be eligible to a free Google Nest Mini. Here’s how you win. Once you leave the review, screen cap it and email it to podcast@iabchouston.com. Then, on July 9, we’ll use random.org to select the winner. It’s the easy, so don’t miss out!

Resources

SAMSHA National Helpline | 1-800-662-HELP (4357)
National Suicide Prevention Crisis Lifeline | 1-800-273-8255

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Building Connections and Managing Your Message

austin@thebusinesscommunicators.com (IABC Houston, Austin Staton, Jim Karrh) — Wed, 17 Jun 2020 11:00:05 +0000

Jim Karrh, a professional speaker, consultant, host of the Manage Your Message Podcast, and the author of The Science of Customer Connections, joins The Business Communicators podcast to discuss the importance of building lasting connections, managing your message as a communicator, and tips on helping professionals talk about their businesses more effectively.

In this episode, Jim brings his decades of expertise into the conversation by leveraging his experience from serving on the faculty of three universities and contributing his research in top peer-reviewed journals. He offers his analysis on COVID-19 creating a shift in the way businesses are valuing the marketing and communicating field, pivoting our message from one of self-interest to one that places our clients and customers at the forefront, and so much more.

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Facing the Issues with Sam Chen

austin@thebusinesscommunicators.com (IABC Houston, Sam Chen, Austin Staton) — Wed, 3 Jun 2020 11:00:03 +0000

Sam Chen, host and anchor of the "Face the Issues" talk-show, political strategist, college professor and author joins The Business Communicators to discuss trending topics in the world in 2020 – the media environment, Election 2020, COVID-19 and an evolving communications landscape. Tune in for Sam’s unique insight on a variety of current narratives from a communications perspective, where he’ll address these questions and more:

As a news talk host, how do you frame a political conversations in an era when people try to avoid these discussions?
What is a critical takeaway from the pandemic from a communications perspective?
As a COVID-19 patient, what did you discover about communications and technology during your time of social isolation?
How do corporations ‘turn the page’ to transition out of COVID-19 communications, while maintaining a tone of empathy and care?

Regardless if you’re listening in June 2020 or many months down the road, we’ll unpack valuable lessons learned during these challenging times and how communications can lead change during crises. Plus, you’ll want to hear more on Sam’s book, Thirteen Minutes: Winning, Losing, and Living as Taught by the 2016 Election, and how you can win a signed copy!

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Getting Vocal: #CommsChat with Chris Griesemer

Wed, 20 May 2020 14:00:03 +0000

On this episode of The Business Communicators, we welcome Chris Griesemer, principal at Voice for Any Choice, an accomplished voiceover actor and podcast host. With nearly 20 years in the business and hundreds of projects from commercials to video games under his belt – along with hosting his podcast on the side – Griesemer has established a successful career with his unique talent, powered by his passion for what he does. While some might assume it was an easily built profession for someone with a natural ‘ear’ for imitating voices from different cultures to celebrities, it was from humble beginnings and hard work that he was able to create his niche in the market of voiceover talent.

During this episode, Griesemer shares his story of overcoming teenage insecurities to discover his path to becoming a professional voice actor. Despite his young age and having no formal training or experience in the industry, Griesemer’s perseverance, passion and pursuit of opportunities led him to work for notable clients including international beverage companies, major retailers, travel and entertainment businesses and more. In his work, he brings the ‘voice’ of varying cities and countries to life through impressions, expanding his reach to international clients as he can easily communicate messages as a ‘local’ – all from his home office in central Texas. His story gives us an inside look at a unique facet of the communications field, and reminds us of best practices and key focus areas that resonate with our profession: quality and the creative process.

You won’t want to miss the entertainment and insight with Chris Griesemer in this special episode. You never know – you might even hear a familiar voice during the show!

Connect with The Business Communicators on Twitter and Instagram at @BizCommunicator, and find out more about our chapter at IABCHouston.com. And, if you haven’t done so already, be sure to subscribe to our podcast on iTunes and leave us a five-star review. Questions or comments? Send us an email at podcast@iabchouston.com.

Connect with Chris Griesemer

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Communicating in a #PostCorona World; Think Different with Madam Confection

Wed, 15 Apr 2020 11:00:20 +0000

In this timely episode of The Business Communicators, Mike Klein, Founder and Principal at the internal and change communication consultancy, Changing the Terms, joins the podcast to tackle a serious topic dominating our world in early 2020. The COVID-19 pandemic has swept across the globe and continues to threaten livelihoods and lives.

As this ‘new world’ of communicating during a pandemic is unprecedented and like nothing else we’ve seen in our lifetimes, it has presented an opportunity for increasing connectedness with others via mobile and digital communications platforms. But how do we best apply these technological resources to serve our audiences as communicators? How do we navigate conducting ‘business as usual’ without being tone-deaf to the personal impacts that many continue to face as a result of this disease?

Tune in for Mike’s professional insight on communicating during this health crisis, where he’ll answer critical questions including these and more:

Are businesses seeing the value of internal communications in this unique environment, and is it a stable trend?
How do we pivot from managing the current situation to planning for post-pandemic communications?
Can we maintain this new level of interconnectedness after the crisis passes?
How do we convey empathy in communicating difficult news with employees?

Plus – we’ll discuss mental health and how it’s being recognized in the business world now more than ever before. Regardless if you’re listening in April 2020 or many months down the road, we’ll unpack practical applications for communicating during any crisis impacting audiences on a personal level.

Following our conversation with Mike Klein, Allysun Theuhmayzing joins the show to share insights into her California-based bakery, Madam Confection, and how she is navigating the COVID-19 pandemic as a small business owner. Allysun shares great tips on how your kids can learn the practical skills of cooking in an educational way, how social media has helped her business, and why this pandemic is allowing her to think differently and creative moving forward.

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Crisis Management and COVID-19 featuring Judge Ed Emmett

Wed, 1 Apr 2020 11:00:08 +0000

The Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) has disrupted the global markets and the pandemic is now impacting many within our own community. Schools have closed, local businesses have shuttered, and many are unsure of the long-term implications to their careers and personal health.

In this time of uncertainty, how can we navigate the COVID-19 crisis as communicators? Join The Business Communicators and our panel of experts for an informative discussion on crisis management during the COVID-19 pandemic. Featuring former Harris County Judge Ed Emmett, Pierpont COO Clint Woods, and Dr. Chris Yandle, our panel will share insights into government and corporate response, working remotely, and the importance of maintaining a focus on mental health for you and your family.

In this episode, listeners will hear advice on:

Tips and approaches for sustaining good mental health during this crisis
How corporations should balance taking care of their employees and their business
Do’s and Don’ts for employee comms
Lessons learning from the first month of the COVID-19 response

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Laughs and Life Advice with America’s Got Talent Alum + Comedian, Preacher Lawson

Wed, 4 Mar 2020 12:00:18 +0000

Preacher Lawson, a comedian and alum from America’s Got Talent and the star of Get To Know Me on BET Plus, joins The Business Communicators ahead of his national tour stop in Houston.

With more than 1 million followers across his digital media platforms, Lawson has gained a loyal following and now hosts his own stand-up comedy tour across the U.S. However, despite his swift rise to comedic fame in just a few years, Lawson’s road to success was not without struggles and obstacles to overcome along the way.

In this episode, Lawson shares his story of perseverance and drive to achieve his goals, and how these life lessons can be applied to the professional world. Overcoming fear, financial struggles and competition on America’s Got Talent, Lawson highlights his journey and shares his keys to reaching personal and career goals. As communicators, his story reminds us of the importance of employing character attributes such as self-confidence, persistence and grit achieve success in our professional pursuits.

You won’t want to miss the laughs and life lessons with Preacher Lawson in this special episode! Also, be sure to catch Preacher March 12-14 at the Houston Improv.

Click here to buy tickets.

Connect with The Business Communicators on Twitter and Instagram, and find out more about our chapter at IABCHouston.com. And, if you haven’t done so already, be sure to subscribe to our podcast on iTunes and leave us a five-star review. Questions or comments? Send us an email at podcast@iabchouston.com.

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CNBC’s Brian Sullivan on the Global Economy, COVID-19 and Comms in 2020

Thu, 27 Feb 2020 12:00:02 +0000

Brian Sullivan, a Senior National Correspondent at CNBC, joins The Business Communicators to cover all things ‘media’ in 2020.

Drawing from his 20 years of financial journalism and television experience, Brian shares his insights from the field in facing today’s media affairs challenges, ever-changing communications platforms, and the continuously evolving landscape of the industry in which today’s business communicators work.

Tune in to hear Brian’s take on a variety of topics, including:

The global energy market adapting to the energy transition
The impact of the Coronavirus on the global economy
How the rise of social media has changed traditional media affairs, and the strategies developed to combat these inherent challenges
Why social media strategy and content should be customized for specific platforms – there is no successful ‘one size fits all’ scenario
The status of the communications industry – is this a turning point?

You won’t want to miss this exclusive interview with one of today’s notable media correspondents covering the hottest U.S. and world stories!

Additional Links

Follow Brian Sullivan on Twitter

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Political Campaigns Turned Communications Gain

austin@thebusinesscommunicators.com (IABC Houston, Austin Staton, Michael Moore) — Mon, 24 Feb 2020 12:00:08 +0000

Politics. The word alone is enough to make many cringe or quickly seek to change the subject. But with mixed feelings aside, there is a diamond in the rough when it comes to political campaigns and the strategic marketing examples that communicators can extract from them for their own practice.

Michael Moore, a seasoned communications professional and candidate running for Houston’s Harris County Precinct 3 Commissioner, joins The Business Communicators to share his experiences in a variety of industries – from political campaigns to public transportation, to entrepreneurship and energy. In this episode, Michael recalls the valuable lessons learned from his decades of navigating communications for diverse audiences, many of which were gleaned from years on the campaign trail. Michael passes along these learnings during this discussion, packaged in personal anecdotes from his career. Tune in for more on the following keys to success as a communications professional – regardless if your audience is a large corporation or a private citizen!

Social media strategy: Have a plan but update it daily.
Digital marketing advantage: Flexibility at any stage of a communications campaign
Interpersonal communication success: Agree to disagree!

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A Dream Realized: Progressing Your Passion Into a Successful & Fulfilling Career

Wed, 22 Jan 2020 12:00:12 +0000

Passion and purpose – these are essentially what drive us in life, regardless of our pursuits, talents, field of work or career paths. But how do we realize our professional goals and dreams to enjoy the results of our hard work – and ultimately, the reward of a personally fulfilling career? What if we’re starting from the beginning, faced with challenging odds, or taking a risk in a new environment? There’s no ‘one size fits all’ path to success, but we can strategically plan to make the journey more effective as we progress.

Jennifer Cannon, Global Marketing Manager at Gyrodata, joins The Business Communicators to provide insight on how to successfully build a communications career and navigate the unknowns of an unfamiliar industry. Sharing her experiences in the engineering and oil and gas fields, Jennifer enlightens listeners with practical advice on transitioning from a novice to a well-equipped brand ambassador in a new organization – especially in a technical industry. You’ll take away valuable tips and tricks to add to your communicator’s toolkit, including:

Secrets to success in launching a fulfilling communications career (it’s not what you may expect!)
Easy methods to keep your craft sharp – no matter your industry or expertise
Fool-proof strategies for creating marketing campaigns that resonate with customers – every time!
BONUS: The critical skill set communicators MUST have to effectively market their company, services and products.

Whether you’ve recently graduated from a university or have many years of experience to your credit, you won’t want to miss this opportunity to gain pivotal guidance to impact your professional success – and most importantly, your fulfillment!

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University Lessons: Communications in the Niche Market of Higher Education

austin@thebusinesscommunicators.com (IABC Houston, Austin Staton, Josh McDaniel) — Wed, 8 Jan 2020 18:00:05 +0000

Over the last 10-15 years, external communications in the higher education field has experienced a drastic shift in effective methods and mediums. What was once an industry largely focused on direct mail outreach to prospective students in the early 2000s, university marketing communications has now migrated to a primarily digital world, utilizing social media and other e-marketing platforms as key sources for attracting prospects and engaging with current students and alums.

In this episode, The Business Communicators welcomes Josh McDaniel, Director of Marketing and Branding at Northwestern State University. Known by his social media monikers as ‘@TheRealJMac,’ McDaniel shares his unique experience in business marketing communications for the higher education industry. This session will highlight the lessons learned and best practices McDaniel has extracted from this niche market, including application points for both seasoned communications professionals as well as young communicators looking to launch their career:

Discover social media secrets for effective university marketing – and leverage these best practices for any industry communications plan.
Learn about the ONE tool that any communications professional should have in their arsenal for success.
Experiment with emerging platforms (why trial and error is a necessity).
BONUS: JMac’s advice for university students and recent college graduates to successfully launch their careers!

You won’t want to miss this opportunity to become a ‘student’ and learn valuable lessons of the higher education communications world!

Follow Josh McDaniel on Twitter and Instagram.
Follow Northwestern State on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

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A Comms Journey From the White House to Hollywood

Wed, 23 Oct 2019 11:00:12 +0000

Every communications journey has its own story. For some, it’s internal comms. For others, it’s digital media. For John Phillippe, it’s a path from the Clinton White House to Hollywood — and ultimately owning his own business ventures.

John, who currently resides in Houston, Texas, joins The Business Communicators to share his story of how an entrepreneurial mindset, a few breaks along the way, and the power of networking have powered his career.

This episode of The Business Communications Podcast is brought to you by Pierpont.

In business for more than 30 years, Pierpont is the largest independent PR, marketing, digital and integrated public affairs firm in Texas, serving clients regionally, nationally and globally.

At Pierpont they are focused on building strong and lasting client partnerships, and they do so by delivering measurable outcomes that mirror your organizational goals.

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Streamr’s Shiv Malik on Investigative Journalism, Data Unions, and Piracy in Silicon Valley

austin@thebusinesscommunicators.com (Shiv Malik, Austin Staton, IABC Houston) — Wed, 2 Oct 2019 11:00:35 +0000

Are businesses from Silicon Valley holding you hostage? Can a free press exist in a democracy when data rights AREN’T owned by its citizens?

Shiv Malik, Head of Communications at Streamr, and a former investigative journalist for The Guardian — breaking exclusive front page stories on everything from the UK government to ISIS — joins The Business Communicators to discuss the state of journalism in democratic states, his transition to corporate communications, and the innovative approach his company Streamr is taking to give individuals ownership of their personal data.

This episode of The Business Communications Podcast is brought to you by Pierpont.

In business for more than 30 years, Pierpont is the largest independent PR, marketing, digital and integrated public affairs firm in Texas, serving clients regionally, nationally and globally.

At Pierpont they are focused on building strong and lasting client partnerships, and they do so by delivering measurable outcomes that mirror your organizational goals.

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Entrepreneurship, Magic and Mayhem with the internationally acclaimed Ben Jackson

austin@thebusinesscommunicators.com (IABC Houston, Ben Jackson, Austin Staton) — Wed, 18 Sep 2019 11:00:14 +0000

Ben Jackson, who is an international award-winning magician featured on NBC’s TODAY show, and has consulted for the Hollywood film Sin City: A Dame to Kill For, starring Joseph Gordon-Levitt, joins The Business Communicators to share insights into building a brand and a viable business — and most importantly, following your passion and identifying you why.

After leaving his pre-med career behind, Ben has embraced the art of communicating through an entrepreneurial mindset. This episode will focus on why it’s important to take risks in your career, the importance of following your passion with a purpose, the value of networking and mentorship, and why it’s critical to embrace communications trends to advance your personal brand or business.

Additional Links

Follow Ben Jackson on Facebook and Instagram.
If you're located in Houston, consider purchasing tickets to an upcoming performance of Magic, Music + Mayhem.

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That One Blond Kid: Jeremiah Davis on DM’s, Drones, and Digital Collabs

Wed, 4 Sep 2019 11:00:15 +0000

Today’s consumer brands are beginning to tap into lucrative marketing opportunities presented through high-quality photography and videography on digital and social media platforms. What was once an environment reliant on static visuals and scripted television advertising methods alone has progressed into a world of connecting with target audiences via breathtaking photography and captivating videography – visual communication focused simply on brand awareness.

Jeremiah Davis, known by his personal brand as ‘That One Blond Kid’ (or ‘TOBK’), joins The Business Communicators to share his personal experience in entrepreneurship – from the beginning of his career in cold-contacting wildly successful creators, to now producing major projects for retail and music brands such as Adidas, MVMT, MTV and The Chainsmokers. In addition, TOBK discusses the latest technology elevating brand marketing, including drone photography and videography, as well as how it’s changing traditional creative processes.

This session will reveal trade secrets and lessons learned from a successful and extraordinarily young pioneer in the advanced digital communications world:

How new technology is changing the game and upping the marketing ante for today’s hottest brands
Why ROI is no longer the success metric for integrated marketing efforts
How strategically connecting with prospects in unconventional ways can make all the different when pitching your brand
The future of digital communication – the number one talent that will see explosive demand in the industry in coming years

You won’t want to miss this discussion to help you stay sharp and relevant as we look ahead to what’s next for the communications industry in 2020!

Connect with The Business Communicators on Twitter and Instagram, and find out more about our chapter at IABCHouston.com. And, if you haven’t done so already, be sure to subscribe to our podcast on iTunes and leave us a five-star review. Questions or comments? Send us an email at podcast@iabchouston.com.

Additional Links

Follow Jeremiah on Instagram, YouTube, and be sure to check out his website.
Check out TOBK's latest music video, Takeaway, featuring The Chainsmokers.
Check out TOBK as he takes on San Francisco in the adidas Printed Series NMD Taped Boost video.

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Netflix's The Great Hack: The dark truth about data privacy w/ Professor David Carroll

austin@thebusinesscommunicators.com (IABC Houston, Austin Staton, David Carroll) — Wed, 21 Aug 2019 11:00:03 +0000

Every day, masked behind seemingly harmless mobile applications and modern technology, there lies a darker force watching your every move – your routines, personal preferences, commonly visited locations, retail purchases and more. We’re surrounded by this force and more often than not, have unknowingly ‘opted in’ to providing this personal data. Technology has arguably progressed our world into a more informed, connected and efficient society. But at what cost?

David Carroll, associate professor at Parsons School of Design and a key subject on the original Netflix documentary, The Great Hack, joins The Business Communicators to look behind the curtain at the mass amounts of data collected by today’s corporations, governments, and media sectors around the world

In The Great Hack, Prof. Carroll explores how a data company named Cambridge Analytica came to symbolize the dark side of social media in the wake of the 2016 U.S. presidential election.

This insightful session sparks the questions that communicators may not want to ask, but need to in order to stay relevant:

What is the new ‘holy grail’ of digital marketing channels?
How do data rights differ across various countries?
Is it time to question the unfair deal we’ve made with technology? How do we renegotiate and make the trade more balanced?
How do we prevent false advertising as communicators?

Join us in this captivating episode to learn who’s watching…and if you have any privacy.

Connect with The Business Communicators on Twitter and Instagram and find out more about our chapter at IABCHouston.com. And, if you haven’t done so already, be sure to subscribe to our podcast on iTunes and leave us a five-star review. Questions or comments? Send us an email at podcast@iabchouston.com.

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Changing the Game: Social Media Secrets with Kami Huyse

austin@thebusinesscommunicators.com (Kami Huyse, Austin Staton, IABC Houston) — Wed, 7 Aug 2019 11:00:02 +0000

Social media has transformed our world since the launch of Twitter and Facebook. These platforms, along with Linkedin and others, have shaped the landscape of two-way communication for businesses in the digital age. For entrepreneurs and small businesses getting started, building a sustainable online community can seem like a giant hill to climb, complicated by pay-to-play opportunities thwarting organic engagement with loyal brand supporters. Joining The Business Communicators to examine these social media topics in depth is Kami Huyse, APR, and CEO of Zoetica, a digital marketing and public relations agency in Katy, Texas.

This episode will delve into the intriguing questions you may have never thought to ask about navigating and extracting maximum value from business tools inherent in today’s social media platforms:

Debunking the concept of “how many ‘likes’ is my brand worth?”
How have fluctuating platform algorithms impacted business accounts?
What will mark a challenge for social media in the next decade?
What is the BIG hot topic on the social media scene moving into 2020?

Plus, stay tuned to the end to find out how you can score a valuable free gift from Kami!

Connect with The Business Communicators on Twitter and Instagram, and find out more about our chapter at IABCHouston.com. And, if you haven’t done so already, be sure to
subscribe to our podcast on iTunes and leave us a five-star review. Questions or comments? Send us an email at podcast@iabchouston.com.

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Think Forward: How to Write Your Own Story Every Day

Wed, 3 Jul 2019 11:00:02 +0000

Professional development efforts, including sharpening interpersonal communication skills and seeking out a mentor, are oftentimes an afterthought in contrast with the daily demands in our professions. But despite what cynics may claim, ROI isn’t always quantitative. Research proves that ‘soft’ skills are just as important as ‘hard’ skills in today’s competitive business environment. Harnessing these skills enables communications professionals to be better equipped to ‘Think Forward,’ which was the 2019 theme of the annual IABC World Conference. Marketing + Communications Manager and IABC Houston President-Elect, Hayley Ross, joins The Business Communicators to discuss this topic and key takeaways from the event, sharing how we can apply these best practices in our day-to-day routines.

In this episode, we’ll rediscover the lost art of interpersonal communication and apply those best practices in ‘thinking forward’ for sharpening the professional mindset:

Cultivating a mindset of ‘thinking forward’ – what does it mean and how do I adopt this?
Navigating unexpected change – beyond just acclimating to a new reality – that fosters professional and personal growth
Engaging and connecting in meaningful communication while living in a world of 24x7 digital distractions

You’ll also hear Millennial communications professionals’ anecdotal reflections on college-to-career transitions 10 years later – including their surprises along the way!

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Damage Control: Recovering When You Make a Mistake

austin@thebusinesscommunicators.com (IABC Houston and Austin Staton, Mandi Kane) — Wed, 5 Jun 2019 11:00:22 +0000

Mistakes are part of being new to any profession, but how you recover from them can change the trajectory of your career. Mandi Kane, a senior managing advisor based in Nashville, Tennessee, joins The Business Communicators to share her insights on overcoming mistakes as a professional, and how communicators can learn and grow from these experiences.

In this episode, listeners will learn:

How to apply the same strategies you use every day to bounce back from a faux pas and build trust.
The importance of understanding what happened and that you understand how it can be avoided in the future.
And, important tips on transparency, preparedness, and so much more!

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Silence Isn’t Golden for Crisis Communicators

Wed, 15 May 2019 11:00:15 +0000

Planning in advance for the unthinkable and unimaginable circumstances that will inevitably come our way is key to success for crisis communicators. Remaining silent during a crisis impacting your company – in an age of 24x7, instant news coverage – is guaranteed for public relations doom. Bill Salvin, Founder and President at Signal Bridge, joins The Business Communicators to recount his lessons learned and to share nuances of communicating in a crisis, bringing his vast PR insight from the U.S. Navy Reserves to the oil and gas industry.

This episode explores the critical questions that are oftentimes overlooked by communicators until a crisis beckons an immediate answer and plan of action:

Is my organization prepared for a crisis with the infrastructure and systems in place to appropriately and quickly respond?
When a crisis occurs, will we be ready to issue a statement within a very brief window of time? (Hint: You’ll learn today’s expected response time versus what it was 10 years ago!)
What if I have a tight PR budget? How can I still be prepared with limited resources to leverage?

Additionally, Bill shares his advice on proactively steering your company in the direction of PR success – during a crisis!

Connect with The Business Communicators on Twitter and Instagram, and find out more about our chapter at IABCHouston.com. And, if you haven’t done so already, be sure to
subscribe to our podcast on iTunes and leave us a five-star review. Questions or comments? Send us an email to podcast@iabchouston.com.

Bonus: View the Ken Starr interview clip that was discussed in the episode.

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Riding the Digital Wave: The Fast, The Furious and The Unpredictable

Wed, 1 May 2019 11:00:05 +0000

Adapting to change in an age of constant technology advances is critical in the communications profession. If we don’t shift our thinking to embrace the fast, furious and unpredictable nature of today’s digital strides, we risk falling behind the curve of new standards for success set by our industry peers. The Business Communicators welcomes Saxum Founder and CEO, Renzi Stone, to share his perspective on this subject and take a closer look at the implications of how ‘staying on top of our game’ impacts our success as a team.

In this episode, we’ll examine principles for operating effectively as a team through championing digital advances. No matter whether you’re representing a small business or a large corporation, recognizing these realities serves to remind us of the importance of staying current:

If we don’t shift our thinking, digital tools are worthless.
If you aren’t aligned as a team to create value for clients, you’re at risk for losing them.
The speed of change is daily – are you on top of your digital game TODAY?

Bronze Quill Reminder: The clock is ticking with the 2019 Bronze Quill entry deadline just around the corner! Don't miss your chance to be recognized by peers for outstanding communications work, or to serve as a judge in this Awards program. The deadline to enter is Friday, May 3. For more information, visit BronzeQuillAwards.com.

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Measurement is Not a Four-Letter Word for Marketing and Communications

austin@thebusinesscommunicators.com (Thomas Baen, Austin Staton, IABC Houston) — Wed, 17 Apr 2019 11:00:28 +0000

Data measurement and analytics are tools that every communicator should have in their bag. But, how can we use these tools effectively to encourage buy-in from senior executives and key stakeholders? Marketing Data Scientist and IABC Houston board member, Thomas Baen, joins The Business Communicators to discuss how businesses can leverage key data insights to create a profit center that enhances their corporate narrative, campaigns, and brand awareness.

This episode equips communicators with tips on:

Using data analytics to earn a seat at the table with senior execs
Ensuring that you’re delivering the right message — at the right time, to the right person, in the right medium — that is effective and efficient
And, why communicators should avoid vanity metrics and focus on data that matters

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Identifying Influencers to Elevate Organizational Success

Wed, 3 Apr 2019 11:00:14 +0000

Some say that being able to identify the influencers inside your organization is the 'ultimate strategy.' Why? Because it reduces friction and increases impact. But how do you accomplish this with a globally-dispersed employee base, challenging a communicator to reach teams in the face of diverse cultural nuances? The Fifth Business' Client Partnership Director and IABC Executive Board Member, Michael Nord, joins The Business Communicators to discuss this topic in depth.

At its foundation, this episode explores how identifying the right people inside any organization can:

Help managers reach all corners of the company
Support communicators in their work to identify the ‘real’ issues
Propel any company into a more coherent and connected organization

Additionally, Michael offers his unique perspective as a native Netherlands-based communicator for reaching culturally and geographically diverse employee groups. ‘Hot-button’ questions Michael addresses include:

What are the challenges a communications professional might expect when working in a different country?
How do internal communicators navigate and effectively engage with a diverse employee base?
Where do you start to begin identifying influencers within an international organization – and even more so – how can you BECOME an influencer within this corporate landscape?

Connect with The Business Communicators on Twitter and Instagram, and find
out more about our chapter at IABCHouston.com. And, if you haven’t done so already, be sure to subscribe to our podcast on iTunes and leave us a five-star review. Questions or comments? Send us an email to podcast@iabchouston.com.

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Geoff Morrell’s Communications Journey from the Pentagon War Room to the BP Executive Suite

Wed, 20 Mar 2019 11:00:05 +0000

Former ABC News White House Correspondent and Pentagon spokesperson Geoff Morrell joins The Business Communicators to discuss his unique career path that landed him in London as the Group Head of Communications and External Affairs at BP, overseeing the strategic communications efforts for a company with operations in 70 countries. Morrell shares insights into crisis communications, rebuilding a corporate reputation, working with former Secretary of Defense Robert Gates under George W. Bush and Barack Obama, and why the ability to write is the most crucial tool for any communicator.

Morrell also recalls strategies from his experience in the external communications field, using personal examples of demonstrated success in reaching, and re-engaging, diverse stakeholders. Subscribers will learn:

What resulted from an advertising campaign launched with the goal of regaining public and media attention following the Deepwater Horizon oil spill when Morrell joined BP in 2011.
How an organization restructure changed the landscape and success factor for BP’s internal and external communications function.
Why campaign and messaging efforts are best executed by individual regions to match culturally-preferred communication styles and methods.

BONUS: Morrell also took some time to share his personal advice on advancing in your communications career – you won’t want to miss his guidance on how to:

Plan for success while remaining flexible for the unexpected.
Tapping into your emotional quotient (EQ) in developing communications plans to better relate to and demonstrate alignment with audience goals.
and more!

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The Evolution of the Media and the Rise of Fake News

Wed, 6 Mar 2019 12:00:01 +0000

How has communications evolved over the past 25 years? From print communications in the mid-90s to radio and television broadcasting – fast-forwarding to today’s self-publishing model via numerous social media and 24/7 news platforms available – communicators must adopt these new technologies to optimize business communications success. The Business Communicators welcomes public affairs veteran and Hill+Knowlton Strategies’ Managing Director, Joe Householder, to weigh in on this topic, the evolution of the media, the current political landscape, and the rise of fake news.

This episode will review key questions for communicators today, including:

How has the corporate world adopted the ‘self-publishing’ model in today’s communications environment?
Is ‘fake news’ impacting corporations today, and how do they battle this?
Is there a concern on news media trying to be first to report a story versus being accurate? How do you combat this?

Additionally, Householder will address the critical concern of news media editorialization and how to prevent this in telling your organization’s story.

Connect with The Business Communicators on Twitter and Instagram, and find
out more about our chapter at IABCHouston.com. And, if you haven’t done so already, be sure to
subscribe to our podcast on iTunes and leave us a five-star review. Questions or comments? Send us an
email at podcast@iabchouston.com.

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Taylor Bisciotti on the NFL Network’s shift to digital content; personal branding

austin@thebusinesscommunicators.com (IABC Houston and Austin Staton) — Fri, 22 Feb 2019 12:00:00 +0000

Taylor Bisciotti is a reporter for the NFL Network — and the youngest female on-air personality ever hired by the network. She joins The Business Communicators to share her insight on breaking into a male-dominated industry, and the NFL’s shift to embracing digital content to enhance their reach with a new audience of fans.

This episode will cover the data behind a shift to digital content and how it compares with network ratings, the importance of being authentic when sharing your message, and leveraging your personal brand to enhance your professional profile.

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The PR and Digital Influencer Machine behind SXSW

austin@thebusinesscommunicators.com (IABC Houston and Austin Staton) — Thu, 21 Feb 2019 12:00:00 +0000

Held annually in Austin, Texas, since 1987, South By Southwest (SXSW) brings together experts from the tech, film, and music industries, to help creative people achieve their goals. SXSW senior publicist Brett Cannon and Giant Noise vice president Jennifer Sinski join The Business Communicators to break down the PR machine behind the festival, and how leveraging digital influencers has crafted power messaging to enhance the annual event on a global scale.

This episode shares insights on how to reject complacency and maintain a competitive edge in public relations, how to effectively leverage influencers to enhance the reputation of your business or brand, and more.

Connect with The Business Communicators on Twitter and Instagram, and find
out more about our chapter at IABCHouston.com. And, if you haven’t done so already, be sure to
subscribe to our podcast on iTunes and leave us a five-star review. Questions or comments? Send us an
email at podcast@iabchouston.com.

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Storytelling in a Digital World – The Art of Audio Tales

austin@thebusinesscommunicators.com (IABC Houston and Austin Staton) — Wed, 20 Feb 2019 12:00:00 +0000

Why is the art of audio storytelling – essentially born with the introduction of Apple’s podcast platform in 2004 – just now on the rise? Milieu Media Group's Luke Brawner joins The Business Communicators in this insightful conversation on the importance of sharpening your edge on the art of audio storytelling and podcasting for your organization.

Given the low barrier to entry, is podcasting a largely missed opportunity for organizations today spanning from the ‘mom and pop shops’ to large, Fortune 500 companies?

In this episode, discover the answers to these burning questions and more:

Will 2019 see an increase in use of this communication channel for small businesses to international corporations?
What types of stories should companies weave in podcasting? How often should these be shared?

Be sure to check out Brawner's flagship show, The H, and his latest creation, Thirty Pop.

Connect with The Business Communicators on Twitter and Instagram, and find
out more about our chapter at IABCHouston.com. And, if you haven’t done so already, be sure to
subscribe to our podcast on iTunes and leave us a five-star review. Questions or comments? Send us an
email at podcast@iabchouston.com.

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Pierpont CEO Phil Morabito on the Convergence of Marketing + Communications

austin@thebusinesscommunicators.com (IABC Houston and Austin Staton) — Tue, 19 Feb 2019 12:00:00 +0000

Over the last decade, the marketing and communications disciplines have seen a significant convergence. The days of perfecting a specific craft in a niche role of either focus within an organization are long gone, replaced by the demand for well-rounded and multi-faceted marketing communications professionals. Pierpont Communications’ Founder & CEO, Phil Morabito, joins The Business Communicators to explore this industry shift impacting our individual competitive edge – and more importantly, to address how to conduct a SWOT analysis to ‘up the ante’ on your personal brand.

This episode covers strategies to audit your career progress and overall personal brand value, taking in to account critical metrics such as:

Professional Development: It’s YOUR responsibility.
Digital Media: Are you adapting with technological advances?
Complacency vs. Change: Are you evolving with the industry?
…and much more!

After tuning in, you’ll be armed with the tools to conduct a personal SWOT analysis. Along with addressing any weaknesses to focus on for improvement, you’ll gain a better appreciation for areas in which you’re already a rock star communicator.

Connect with The Business Communicators on Twitter and Instagram, and find
out more about our chapter at IABCHouston.com. And, if you haven’t done so already, be sure to
subscribe to our podcast on iTunes and leave us a five-star review. Questions or comments? Send us an
email at podcast@iabchouston.com.

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Axios’ Sara Fischer on the Weaponization of Social Media; Digital Media Trends

austin@thebusinesscommunicators.com (IABC Houston and Austin Staton) — Mon, 18 Feb 2019 12:00:00 +0000

Technology has and always will be a reflection of human will and society, leveraged for both positive and negative outcomes. Can consumers and businesses remain confident in their use of digital media platforms, despite the efforts of bad actors? Axios Media Reporter and author of Axios Media Trends, Sara Fischer, joins The Business Communicators to unwrap the keys to success for today’s communicators in cultivating digital media.

This episode will tackle today's tough questions highlighting both the benefits and challenges of digital media application in 2019:

Is the rise of social media use by politicians and mass influencers here to stay?
What digital best practices should businesses extract from successful public figures for their own impact?
Social activism in engaging consumer markets: Is it a ‘do’ or ‘don't?’
Is print media officially dead, or is this still a relevant communications medium?

Connect with The Business Communicators on Twitter and Instagram, and find
out more about our chapter at IABCHouston.com. And, if you haven’t done so already, be sure to
subscribe to our podcast on iTunes and leave us a five-star review. Questions or comments? Send us an
email at podcast@iabchouston.com.

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Introducing The Business Communicators

austin@thebusinesscommunicators.com (IABC Houston and Austin Staton) — Mon, 11 Feb 2019 06:00:00 +0000

Introducing The Business Communicators, a podcast presented by IABC Houston. Host Austin Staton guides listeners on a journey to explore the world of communications while discussing the key issues and trends that impact our industry. Each episode will feature conversations with c-suite executives, strategists, nationally-acclaimed journalists, and digital influencers.

Beginning Feb. 18, the premiere week will break down the weaponization of social media, the importance of building an influential and strong network, the value of audio storytelling in the corporate world, and so much more.

Connect with the The Business Communicators on Twitter and Instagram, and find out more about our chapter at IABCHouston.com. And, if you haven’t done so already, be sure to subscribe to our podcast on iTunes and leave us a five-star review. Questions or comments? Send us an email at podcast@iabchouston.com.

Editor's Note: Special thanks to Hayley Ross, Thomas Baen, and John Harris for helping this show get off the ground!

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