Iabc Podcast

In this episode of PodCatalyst, we sit down with Axiosreporter Eleanor Hawkins to talk about what’s really changingin the world of comms and what’s just noise. Eleanor shares how her background in politics and corporate communications shapes the way she covers the industry, and why more companies are getting serious about who they’re trying to reach instead of talking to everyone.She also walks through the rise of the CCO‑plus role, whycomms leaders are getting more visibility (and better compensation), and what that means for teams on the ground. Plus, Eleanor offers a candid take on AI: whereit’s actually helping teams and why 2026 will be about proving its value, not just experimenting with it.Eleanor Hawkins is a communications strategist and writerat Axios. She authors the weekly Axios Communicators newsletter and covers topics and trends that impact how leaders, brands and employers communicate.++++++++++++++LINKS Connect With IABC on Social MediaX (Twitter) | LinkedIn | Facebook | YouTube | InstagramVi

In this episode of PodCatalyst, Andrew Marshall, vice chairman of Cognito, joins IABC Executive Director Peter Finn tot discuss how the communications landscape is being reshaped by independent voices and evolving expectations for executives. Andrew shares how independent voices, from Substack commentators to niche influencers, are reshaping thought leadership. He offers practical advice for engaging with these platforms and why companies need fresh strategies to stay relevant. You’ll also hear insights on preparing executives for high-stakes interviews, mastering industry language to build credibility, and why media training matters more than ever. Plus, Andrew weighs in on AI’s growing role in PR, its limitations, and the skills professionals need to standout.++++++++++++++LINKS Connect With IABC on Social MediaX (Twitter) | LinkedIn | Facebook | YouTube | InstagramVisit IABC Online https://www.iabc.com/ https://www.iabc.com/catalyst

In the latest episode of PodCatalyst, we sit down with TimJohnson, president of UPRAISE Marketing and Public Relations.Tune in as he joins IABC Executive Director Peter Finn to discuss how PR professionals are adapting to an AI-driven landscape, blurring the lines between internal and external comms, and the growing demand for creativestorytelling. Tim shares insights from his own journey — from his earlydays working on his college newspaper, to today as an agency leader — and reflects on how PR has become a vital strategic function in today’s tech-drivenbusiness world. Plus, get Tim’s thoughts on the growing value of authenticity as AI becomes more prevalent, ethical considerations when working with influencers, the need for data-driven content, and where he sees PR heading in the next 10 years.For more than 30 years, Tim Johnson has helped companiesranging from startups to the Fortune 500 in industries as diverse as agriculture, consumer electronics, financial services, many shades of tech, and more.Prior t

This episode of PodCatalyst is brought to you by IABC’spartners at the USC Annenberg Center for Public Relations at the University of Southern California. Provided by the PRFuture podcast, this episode features host Fred Cook in conversation with Matt Tidwell, member of the IABC International Executive Board, Barby Seagal and Victoria Hamilton from Zeno Group, and USC Fellow David Michaelson.Together, the group unpacks the findings of the 2025 GlobalCommunication Report: Mind the Gap, that USC developed in partnership with IABC and Zeno Group. The communicators discuss insights from more than 1,000 PR professionals across the globe and weighs in on how AI, hybrid work, generational shifts, influencer culture, and polarization are transforming the communications landscape. Thank you to Fred Cook and the USC Annenberg Center forPublic Relations for their partnership with this report and for providing this insightful conversation to the IABC audience. ++++++++++++++LINKS EpisodeMind the Gap: 2025 GlobalCommunica

In this episode of PodCatalyst, we bring you another “InUnder 10” conversation from the ground at IABC World Conference 2025 in Vancouver.Sia Papageorgiou, managing partner at the Centre forStrategic Communication Excellence (CSCE), joins guest host Dawn De La Torre to talk about findings from the 2025CSCE Professional Development Survey. The research reveals a clear gap between how communicators rate their own skills and how their managers see their performance.Sia explains why this disconnect happens, what it means forteams, and how to close the gap with better feedback, clearer expectations, and more effective development opportunities. She also shares free resources andhighlights core skills communicators need to sharpen now, including planning, measurement, leadership, and change communication.+++++++++++++++Sia Papageorgiou is one of the world’s leading voices instrategic communication excellence. A globally recognized educator, consultant, and communication strategist, she has earned more than 50 award

In this episode of PodCatalyst, our “In Under 10” seriesbrings you a behind-the-scenes conversation from IABC World Conference 2025 in Vancouver.Christal P. Austin, public affairs officer for the Government of Barbados, joins guest host Dawn De La Torre to unpack what it really takes to lead during a crisis. Drawing on firsthand examples from government communications, Christal shares how today’s communicators can respond to crises with clarity and credibility, especially when misinformation,disinformation, and social media chaos are in the mix.You’ll hear why some defensive strategies like denial canprotect your organization and when they absolutely shouldn’t. Plus, Christal introduces a lesser known but powerful tool: ingratiation. Done right, it’s more than damage control, it’s an opportunity to reconnect with your audience in a meaningful way.+++++++++++++++Christal P. Austin is a strategic public relations advisorwith over 20 years of experience. She’s been an active IABC member since becoming the foundi

In this episode of PodCatalyst, we continue our “In Under 10” series with a powerful conversation recorded live at IABC World Conference 2025 in Vancouver.Juli Holloway, SCMP, IABC Fellow, and communications advisor at the Tulo Centre of Indigenous Economics, joins guest host Dawn De La Torre to discuss Indigenous-led communication methods and their role in building authentic, cross-cultural relationships. Juli shares how prioritizing empathy, community service, and meaningful engagement can transform the way communicators connect with diverse audiences.As Juli puts it, “We don't need saviors, we need supporters,” a powerful reminder that true allyship begins with listening, not leading.From integrating Indigenous voices early in the process to leading with humility over ego, Juli offers practical guidance for anyone looking to make their communication efforts more inclusive and impactful. Whether you’re working locally or globally, this episode is a must-listen for communicators striving to build trust a

In this episode of PodCatalyst, Moody’s Chief Corporate Affairs Officer Christine Elliott joins IABC Executive Director Peter Finn to share her journey of transforming the company’s communications function. By integrating branding, government relations, community impact, and sustainability into the work they do, Moody’s communicators have become invaluable players in the company’s strategy. Christine walks us through how she created Moody’s digital content team and its Story Lab, their source for premium content, including a Netflix-like docuseries that was shortlisted at Sundance. These efforts and more have had notably positive effects on Moody’s social engagement and brand sentiment. As a former journalist for ABC News, Christine reflects on her career path to the C-suite, offering practical advice and insights for communicators aiming to advance their careers and make a meaningful impact in their organizations.+++++++++++++++Christine Elliott is chief corporate affairs officer at Moody’s. She leads Moody’

In the latest episode of PodCatalyst, Peter Finn sits down with friend of the podcast Chris Lee from Gallagher Communication. Chris helps us unpack this year’s Gallagher State of the Sector 2025, looking at different profiles of communicators: thrivers, strivers, and survivors. He walks us through how to address change fatigue, smart ways to use AI with the human touch in mind, and more. As an added bonus, Chris shares his fascination with quantum computing breakthroughs and the future of work. +++++++++++++++Chris Lee is vice president, employee experience and internal communication practice at Gallagher Communication. In this role he helps employers rediscover the magic that people can bring to the table when they’re properly engaged and motivated.Chris has over 25 years of experience in marketing, brand, and communications. He is also the president of the Board of Directors for IABC Toronto and has served on other various boards and committees. Chris hosts a successful podcast called Why Does It Feel So Wr

In the latest episode of PodCatalyst, we speak with MergeGupta-Sunderji, a highly respected leadership expert. We dig into common misconceptions across generations, research that busts certain generalizations, ways to tap into certain strengths, advice to help bridge the gap without compromising quality, and more.Merge is a speaker at IABC World Conference, takingplace in Vancouver, 8-11 June. Tune in to this conversation to get a better idea of what you can expect from her session, “Generations Exposed: Unexpected Insights Into the People You Work With.” _________________________________Merge Gupta-Sunderji turns managers into leaders. Ahighly respected leadership expert and columnist, Merge gives people specific and practical tools to achieve leadership and communication success. Over 94,000 managers in 29 countries have attended her fun, content-rich keynotes and facilitated workshops. A leader at one of Canada’s premier oil and gas companies and a board leader at a Credit Union for a combined total of ove

In the latest episode of PodCatalyst, IABC ExecutiveDirector Peter Finn returns as host, sitting down with Shane Hatton to talk all things company culture. From the critical role communicators play in shaping the language of the organization, to understanding Gen Z’s expectations, what this year’s Edelman Trust Barometer means for leaders, and more, this conversation covers some of the more pressing issues today’s workforce faces.  Shane is a speaker at this year’s World Conference, takingplace in Vancouver, 8-11 June. Tune in to this conversation to get a better idea of what you can expect from his Master Class, “Culture Is Your Unseen Competitive Advantage — Is Yours by Choice or by Chance?” and session, “Gen Z Uncensored.” +++++++++++++++ Shane Hatton is a global expert in leadership and teamculture with over a decade of experience developing remarkable leaders, teams and cultures. Blending business experience with psychology, Shane’s passion lies in empowering leaders to communicate, connect, and collabor

Founded in 1973, the Commission on Public Relations Education (CPRE) provides recommendations on public relations education for universities and professional associations around the world. CPRE’s latest signature report, “Navigating Change: Recommendations for Advancing Undergraduate PR Education,” offers an in-depth look into what’s needed and expected of educators and practitioners when it comes to guiding the next generation of PR professionals. The report is based on a survey of nearly 200 educators and just over 460 practitioners, including members from IABC.  Matt Tidwell, IABC board member, sits down with Drs. Elizabeth Toth and Pamela Bourland-Davis, lead editors of the report, to understand the research and its findings. Tune in as they discuss key findings of the report, from the role of ethics to DEI, data/analytics, the future of the workplace and more. This episode originally aired in March 2024. ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ Matt Tidwell, PhD, APR, is on the faculty o

This episode of PodCatalyst features guest host Kamyar Naficy, chair of the IABC International Executive Board, and Jessamyn Katz, CEO of Heyman Associates, a leading executive search firm focused on communications, corporate affairs, marketing, and investor relations. Jessamyn has been with Heyman Associates for nearly two decades. Since 2019, she’s led the firm’s strategy and day-to-day operations. In January 2024, she stepped into the role of CEO. Tune in as Jessamyn touches on the trends she’s seeing in national and global executive searches. As the role of the communicator evolves, the function only grows more important. Learn about the shifts she’s seeing in strategy, managing communications through political cycles, the emergence of comms “plus” roles, skills gaps and the evolution of AI, and more. +++++++++++++++ As CEO of Heyman Associates, Jessamyn sets high standards for client work. She manages the overall success of the firm while also leading major national and global searches. After near

With 64 countries around the world hosting elections, representing nearly 50% of the global population eligible to vote, many have dubbed 2024 as the year of elections. How do communicators navigate this landscape, especially as things continue to feel more polarized each year? We spoke with David Imber, political communications expert and principal of David Imber Advisory, on what has been one of the hottest topics this year. Tune in as we discuss what communicators can learn from the political sphere (whether or not you think you’re into politics), how to decide when to speak out on topical issues, navigating polarization in the workplace, what makes communicators uniquely poised to tackle this space and more. +++++++++++++++ David Imber is principal of David Imber Advisory, practicing in public affairs, crisis and issues management, advocacy and strategic communications. He is retained by a diverse range of clients, from pension funds to not for profits. This multi-sectoral practice allows him to advi

In the latest episode of PodCatalyst, Matt Tidwell, member of the IABC International Executive Board, sits down with Fred Cook to discuss findings from “Communicating Culture During a Hybrid Revolution,” a joint report from IABC and the USC Center for Public Relations. Tune in as they discuss how the shift to remote and hybrid work is impacting corporate culture, management employee dynamics, morale and the widening training gap for early career professionals. IABC members can access the report online here: https://www.iabc.com/About/Purpose/Reports +++++++++++++++Fred Cook has worked at Golin for over 30 years, during which he has had the privilege to work with a variety of high-profile CEOs, including Herb Kelleher, Jeff Bezos and Steve Jobs. He has also managed a wide variety of clients, including Nintendo, Toyota and Disney. In 2014, Cook published "Improvise: Unconventional Career Advice from an Unlikely CEO", which shares the wisdom he gained as a cabin boy on a Norwegian tanker, doorman a

In the latest episode of PodCatalyst, we sit down with Joe Spratt, expert, strategic communications and change, at McKinsey & Company. Tune in as we dig into the future of comms through the lens of the C-suite, based on a series of in-depth conversations, interviews, and survey results that McKinsey & Company conducted. Joe walks us through key findings of the report, where the value of the communicator really shines, an outlook on what’s needed for upskilling and where the profession is going next. Joe Spratt is an expert in McKinsey & Company’s Chicago Office. He is a leading member of the Strategic and Change Communications practice, working with clients to drive greater communications performance and impact in times of change. Spratt leads the practice’s work on comms function assessment and operating model design. He is dedicated to bringing out the best in people in client organizations. His expertise centers on organizational communications and change. Spratt counsels chief communications

Earlier this summer, IABC hosted communicators from all over at its annual World Conference, held this year in Chicago. In this special edition of PodCatalyst, we catch up with attendees between sessions to get their aha moments. From insights around how they’re are thinking about AI, to better practices for accessibility, rethinking hiring practices with cognitive biases in mind, training the next generation of comms pros and more, consider this episode a peek into the minds of your IABC peers. Special thanks to Edgewood College for sponsoring this episode. Visit online.edgewood.edu to learn about their innovative Business Communication and Leadership online master’s program. LINKS 16 Things We Learned at IABC World Conference 2024 Connect With IABC on social media https://twitter.com/iabc https://www.linkedin.com/company/iabc/ https://www.facebook.com/IABCWorld  https://www.youtube.com/user/IABClive https://www.instagram.com/iabcgram/ Visit IABC Online https://www.iabc.com/ https://catalyst.iabc.com

In the latest episode of PodCatalyst, we sit down with Candace Denison, communications and engagement manager at Rocky View County, to discuss misinformation and the role of the communicator. As we navigate the Wild West era of AI, allowing misinformation to spread easier than before, how can communicators come armed with facts? What tactics and strategies must be used, and in what instances does a wider network of experts need to be tapped into? Tune in to this edition of In Under 10 to get Candace’s take — and a little good news — on how we can approach this complex topic. Candace Denison's two-decade legacy in communications champions innovation, adaptability, and leadership. As she advances her Masters of Arts in Leadership, her thesis, "Strategies for Leaders to Counteract Misinformation," promises to be a cornerstone for contemporary managers. Denison’s dedication to the PR industry's evolution makes her a torchbearer in navigating the complexities of misinformation. Through her ex

In the latest episode of PodCatalyst, we sit down with Becca Chambers, chief communications officer at ControlUp. Her journey to the C-suite began with a role in sports PR and from there took a few twists and turns, including grad school and landing on her love of all things branding and communication. Today, she remains a staunch advocate for communicators in the C-suite, advocating for a clear designation of the role that complements — not competes with — marketing and PR. In her 20s, Becca learned she was neurodivergent. After time and research, she learned how to embrace the ways her mind worked and used it to her advantage. During this conversation, we learn more about addressing neurodivergence in the workplace and where the role of the communicator overlaps. Becca has also built her personal brand on LinkedIn successfully the last few years, and shares her take on how to make the most of the professional platform. Tune in for this episode that will help you think differently about the way you approac

In the latest installment of In Under 10, we talk to Emily Caister about what communicators can learn from Taylor Swift’s marketing mastery. Whether you consider yourself a Swiftie or not, there’s something for everyone to learn.  Tune in as we discuss the pop star’s approach to branding, as well as how dialing into pop culture more broadly can help communicators tap in to the human element of their work. Emily Caister will present at this year’s World Conference, 23-26 June in Chicago. Learn more about her session online here. LINKS Connect With IABC on social media https://twitter.com/iabc https://www.linkedin.com/company/iabc/ https://www.facebook.com/IABCWorld  https://www.youtube.com/user/IABClive https://www.instagram.com/iabcgram/   Visit IABC Online https://www.iabc.com/ https://catalyst.iabc.com/ https://wc.iabc.com/ --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/iabc/message