PR Explored: The Podcast for Public Relations and Communications Pros
PR Explored is a podcast hosted by Michelle Garrett, a public relations professional, who interviews trusted and respected experts about topics related to PR and communications. Each episode takes a deeper dive into industry trends and questions facing PR pros today, offering insights from some of the brightest minds in the business. The show is designed to provide practical knowledge and inspiration for those working in the field.
Episodes
To Speak or Not to Speak: Crisis, Trust and Reputation in the Statement Era
In this episode of PR Explored, host Michelle Garrett, a PR consultant, author, and writer, welcomes Crystal Borde, a vice president at Vanguard Communications and past president of PRSA’s National Capital Chapter, about her PRSA ICON session on crisis communications.Borde explains how social media has accelerated crises and misinformation, and describes the post-2020 “statement era,” when organiz
Navigating the Noise: Strategic Decision-Making for Communicators
In this episode of PR Explored, host Michelle Garrett, a PR consultant, author, and writer, welcomes Jen Elting, senior manager of strategic partnerships and media relations at the Northeast Ohio Regional Sewer District, to discuss her upcoming PRSA ICON session, “Stop Feeding the Zombies: A Strategic Triage for Communicators Drowning in Noise.” Elting describes how communicators shifted from peri
Leveraging Wikipedia for PR: What Pros Need to Know
In this episode of PR Explored, host Michelle Garrett, a PR consultant, author, and writer, interviews Wikipedia consultant and ghostwriter Jonathan Rick about how Wikipedia works and why it matters for PR. Rick explains that Wikipedia reflects what reliable mainstream media has reported, not “truth,” and editors enforce a neutral point of view, rejecting promotional language. He says the biggest
Does Your Website Content Still Matter?
In this episode of PR Explored, host Michelle Garrett, a PR consultant, author, and writer, welcomes conversion rate optimization specialist and website consultant/copywriter Gill Andrews, who shares her work helping service providers and SaaS optimize websites and teaching through content, books, and Udemy courses. They discuss why websites are often neglected (overwhelm, unclear starting point,
B2B PR and Comms From an In-House Perspective
In this episode of PR Explored, host Michelle Garrett, a PR consultant, author, and writer, interviews guest Gina Rau about B2B PR and comms from an in-house perspective. Rau recounts her “bowl of spaghetti” career across B2C and B2B, agency and in-house roles, and argues that broad experience helps partnership across marketing. She contrasts in-house work—deeper company knowledge, broader respons
The Most Expensive B2B Marketing Strategy Is Waiting
In this episode of PR Explored, host Michelle Garrett, a PR consultant, author, and writer interviews her guest B2B growth strategist Gina Tobasso about why manufacturers and other B2B companies should treat marketing as a continuous process, especially amid ongoing uncertainty (COVID, supply chain disruptions, tariffs, reshoring). Tobasso says many B2B companies underinvest in marketing, recommen
B2B PR & Marketing Studies, Surveys & Stats
In this episode of PR Explored, host Michelle Garrett, a PR consultant, author, and writer interviews her guest Sword and Script founder Frank Strong about trends and 2026 research. They discuss pricing reputation via balance-sheet “goodwill,” the limits of click-based optimization versus long-term brand value, and why in-person trade shows are resurging, with PR pros better used networking, creat
Accessible Communications: Create Impact, Avoid Missteps and Build Trust
In this episode of PR Explored, host Michelle Garrett, a PR consultant, author, and writer, interviews her guest Matisse Hamel-Nelis, PR consultant, trainer, professor, and speaker, to discuss her new co-authored book with Lisa Riemers on accessible communications in PR, created to help practitioners “create impact, avoid missteps, and build trust.” Hamel-Nelis shares how a Twitter hashtag mistake
Staying on Top of Current Trends in Public Relations
In this episode of PR Explored, host Michelle Garrett, a PR consultant, author, and writer, interviews her guest, Nicole Schuman, managing editor of PRNews, who describes her role planning editorial content, newsletters (including Friday Five and her weekly PR Roundup), podcasts, events, and social strategy. They discuss industry trends, including major agency mergers and acquisitions leading to l
Trade Media 101: How to Pitch and Build Relationships in B2B PR
In this episode of PR Explored, host Michelle Garrett, a PR consultant, author, and writer, interviews her guest, Kelly Rodriguez, editor-in-chief of Refrigerated & Frozen Foods (BNP Media), to explain what trade media is and why it matters for B2B PR.Rodriguez contrasts trade and mainstream coverage, emphasizing trade media’s highly engaged niche audiences, subject-matter expertise, and indus
A Quiet Shift - How Polarization Is Reshaping Corporate Speech
In this episode of PR Explored, host Michelle Garrett, a PR consultant, author, and writer, interviews her guest, Fred Cook, director of the Annenberg Center for Public Relations at USC and chair emeritus of Golin, about USC’s 2026 Global Communication Report, “A Quiet Shift,” on how political and social polarization is reshaping communications. Based on a survey of about 800 PR professionals worl
Social Media Strategies to Boost Your B2B PR Efforts
In this episode of PR Explored, host Michelle Garrett, a PR consultant, author, and writer talks with her guest Andy Lambert, co-founder of ContentCal (acquired by Adobe) and author of Spheres of Influence, to discuss how B2B companies should approach social media and PR, especially on LinkedIn and YouTube.Lambert highlights LinkedIn’s algorithm shift toward personal profiles and subject-matter ex
Staying Crisis-Ready: What Matters Most?
In this episode of PR Explored, host Michelle Garrett, a PR consultant, author, and writer talks with her guest crisis communications expert Shawna Bruce, who shares her 40-year communications background, including 25+ years in military public affairs, work at Dow Chemical, and her current focus (since 2018) on training organizations to prepare for crises.They discuss why crisis communications is
Modern media training: Rethinking how we prep executives
In this episode of PR Explored, host Michelle Garrett, a PR consultant, author, and writer talks with her guest Katie Suiters of Brighton Media to discuss modernizing media training for executives. Suiters contrasts outdated, scripted talking-point memorization with a hyper-custom approach that builds authentic, teachable communication skills across scenarios, including media interviews, internal
PR and Search – What Really Matters When Advising Clients
In this episode of PR Explored, host Michelle Garrett, a PR consultant, author, and writer talks with her guest Katie Robbert, CEO of Trust Insights, about how SEO and GEO (generative AI engine optimization) affect PR work.Robbert explains GEO as serving a new “business to machine” audience—LLMs like ChatGPT, Gemini, and Claude—which summarize information from sources such as listicles and quoted
PR Scams: Fake PR isn’t worth it. How to spot paid media masquerading as earned media
PR scams are EVERYWHERE these days. We also see a rise in the number of agencies selling “fake PR” placements. My guest, Bill Byrne, co-founder of Remedy PR, and I delve into this topic on this episode of PR Explored. What should you watch out for? How can you tell when someone is trying to sell you something that's too good to be true? And how should you vet a PR provider to ensure you'
How to Leverage Original Research to Boost Your PR Results
In this episode of PR Explored, host Michelle Garrett, a PR consultant, author, and writer, interviews Becky Lawlor of RedPoint Insights about using original research to support B2B PR and thought leadership. Lawler defines original research (surveys, internal proprietary data, or unique analysis) versus third-party stats and explains how it builds authority by “owning the narrative.” She emphasiz
The Rise of Personality Brands - and What It Means for PR & Comms Pros
In this episode of PR Explored, host Michelle Garrett, a PR consultant, author, and writer, interviews Fatou B. Barry, founder of the PR Girl Manifesto, a global community and editorial platform created to provide culturally competent PR resources, strategy, and professional development. They discuss the rise of “personality brands” as a structural shift where companies prioritize long-term identi
How to Maximize Your Job Search: Strategies Beyond Submitting Applications
In this episode of PR Explored, host Michelle Garrett, a PR consultant, author, and writer talks with her guest, Stacia Doss from Glassdoor, as they dive deep into the current job market’s complexities and provide actionable advice for job seekers.In this episode, they discuss effective job search strategies, the importance of networking, leveraging AI, and how to stand out in a crowded field. Thi
PR: On the Hiring Horizon - Soft Skills That Matter
In this episode of PR Explored, host Michelle Garrett interviews Kristina Markos, an associate professor and co-founder of GenSpark Solutions. They discuss the significance of soft skills such as listening, presenting, collaboration, and curiosity in public relations. Kristina shares her varied background in agency work and academia, emphasizing the transition needs between generations in the work
How Public Speaking Can Boost Your PR Efforts
Public speaking is a powerful way for thought leaders to stand out from the crowd.How can PR pros and communicators leverage speaking opportunities to help clients get more visibility for themselves and their brands? In this episode of PR Explored I talked with guest Tricia Richards-Service, founder of I Need a Speaker, which helps organizations and event planners find the right speaker for their
PR for Nonprofits: Doing More with Less
In this episode of PR Explored, host Michelle Garrett, a PR consultant, author, and writer chats with Marc Whitt, a seasoned public relations consultant and author.The conversation explores Whitt’s extensive 40-year career in PR, primarily within higher education and nonprofit sectors.They discuss essential topics such as the unique challenges faced by nonprofit PR professionals, the importance of
2026 PR Trends You Need To Know
Here we go, heading into 2026. Changes are coming at PR pros faster than they can keep up. But, what should we really focus on? What trends deserve our attention? And which ones should we adopt a wait-and-see approach for? My guest, Bill Byrne of Remedy Public Relations, is with me to discuss what to expect as we hurdle into the new year. Whether you’re in B2C or B2B PR and comms, we’ll cover the
Managing a Social Media Crisis: How PR & Social Teams Can Work Together
Social media is a valuable part of a company’s marketing program – but it can sometimes take a turn we may not have anticipated .What happens when your brand finds itself in the midst of a crisis created by a social media post?Well, first, you probably panic. Then, you might turn to your social media or PR team for help.How can a company best manage a crisis created when a customer complaint goes
Media Training Advice for Better Executive Communications
In this episode of PR Explored, host Michelle Garrett, a PR consultant, author, and writer, invites communications and presentations coach Joel Schwartzberg to discuss key message development and the importance of media training for executives. Joel shares his approach to executive communication, emphasizing the importance of having a clear and compelling point, and offers practical tips on how to
Do This Before You Press Play On PR
This episode of PR Explored explores how companies can make the most out of a partnership with a PR consultant or agency.What do B2B clients need to bring to the start of the engagement?Join my guest, John Forberger, communications strategist for B2B companies, and me as we dig into this topic. Follow the host: Website: www.michellegarrett.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/prstrategist/You
How to Leverage Brand Authority in Your PR Strategy
In this episode of PR Explored, host Michelle Garrett, a PR consultant, author, and writer, welcomes guest Amanda Milligan to discuss brand authority and its critical role in public relations and marketing.Amanda shares her background in content, SEO, and brand strategy, emphasizing the importance of holistic marketing efforts.They delve into how brand authority is measured, identify practical ste
ESG in the Age of AI
In this episode of ‘PR Explored,’ hosted by Michelle Garrett, PR consultant and writer, the focus is on the intersection of Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) criteria, Artificial Intelligence (AI), and corporate ethics in the realm of Public Relations.The guest, Bo Breuklander, founder of Breuklander Communications, shares insights on how AI affects sustainability, governance, and the br
Telling Stories That Stand Out
In this episode of PR Explored, host Michelle Garrett, a PR consultant, author, and writer, interviews Lou Covey, a veteran journalist with 55 years of experience.Lou shares his journey from journalism to exploring cybersecurity and creating the Cyber Protection Magazine. They discuss the state of PR today, including formulaic approaches, the impact of AI, and the importance of storytelling.They a
How to Develop Effective Communication Strategies in the Misinformation Age
In this episode of PR Explored, host Michelle Garrett discusses misinformation and its impact on public relations with guest Jennifer McGinley, a PR consultant specializing in healthcare.They delve into the definitions of misinformation, disinformation, and malformation, providing insights into how organizations can prepare and respond to these challenges.The conversation covers proactive crisis c
How PR and Content Teams Can Work Together to Maximize Thought Leadership
In this episode of PR Explored, host and PR consultant Michelle Garrett sits down with her longtime friend and colleague Erika Heald to discuss the crucial role that thought leadership plays in content marketing and PR.Erika, a seasoned marketing communications consultant and former journalist, delves into her journey and experience in the field, highlighting the importance of having a strategy to
Why Podcasts Should Be Part of Your PR Strategy
In this episode, host Michelle Garrett, a public relations consultant and writer, interviews Doug Downs, the host of ‘Stories and Strategies’ podcast.They discuss the significance of podcasting in PR and marketing, highlighting how podcasts can build brand trust and engage audiences more deeply than traditional social media posts.Doug shares insights into his journey with ‘Stories and Strategies,’
What to Expect When You're Expecting PR
In this episode of PR Explored, host Michelle Garrett, a PR consultant, author and writer, talks with public relations consultant Crystal Richard about managing client expectations in the realm of public relations.They delve into Crystal’s background, which includes over 15 years in the PR industry and founding her own company, Crystal Richard & Co. Crystal also shares details about her lifest
How to Bring “Boring” Industries to Life
Working with companies in so-called “boring” industries can be its own type of challenge.PR and communications pros in industries like construction, manufacturing, agriculture and others often struggle to find creative ways to talk about what they do.How can those in public relations and marketing breathe new life into their efforts when working in these industries?Michelle's guest, Ayo Abbas
Ethical PR: Navigating Trust and Responsibility
In this episode of PR Explored, host Michelle Garrett, a public relations consultant, discusses the crucial topic of PR ethics with industry experts Mary Beth West and Jared Mead. They explore the importance of ethical practices in public relations, share their extensive backgrounds, and discuss the creation of an online PR ethics community on LinkedIn.The episode covers why ethics in PR is often
How PR Fits Into Customer Buying Decisions
In this episode of PR Explored, host Michelle Garrett, a public relations consultant, author and writer, interviews Sunny Hunt, CEO of Hunt Interaction, about the intersection of public relations (PR) and the customer buying journey.Sunny discusses the importance of integrating PR with sales and customer success teams to better understand and meet customer needs, ultimately driving revenue and sho
Accessibility in PR and Communications
In this episode of PR Explored, host Michelle Garrett, a public relations consultant and writer, interviews Matisse Hamel-Nelis, founder and principal of Matisse Nelis Consulting. They discuss the importance of digital accessibility in public relations and communications. Matisse explains her background, her work in teaching, and her PR & Lattes blog and podcast.Matisse emphasizes the importan
PR for Startups
In this episode of PR Explored, host Michelle Garrett, a PR consultant and writer, interviews Kathy Kashani, the principal of Azul Communications, about the nuances of public relations for startups.Kathy discusses her journey from a long-time PR agency veteran to an independent PR consultant, focusing on consumer goods and B2C brands, especially startups. The conversation centers around defining a
Mid-Year Check on PR Trends to Watch
It’s time for a mid-year check-in on PR trends. Has AI destroyed PR as we know it? Is TikTok the only social media channel that matters?Back in December, Bill Byrne of Remedy Public Relations and I discussed which PR trends we’d be keeping an eye on as we headed into the new year. Some of the trends we noted: AI in PR. The shrinking number of media outlets. How silos impact our work. The role the
The Future of the Public Relations Industry
The public relations industry is undergoing a seismic shift, driven by artificial intelligence, hybrid work, a changing media landscape, and deepening political divides.Across four generations — Gen Z to Baby Boomers — PR professionals are navigating these transformations, each with unique perspectives on where the industry is headed.On this episode of PR Explored, we discuss the findings of this
Burnout in PR and Social Media Marketing
Burnout in the PR and social media marketing fields is rampant.Many communications pros are exhausted. The non-stop news cycle. The demand to be “always on.” The rising stress level, as day-to-day responsibilities continue to grow.Surveys repeatedly show that those working in public relations and social media marketing experience some of the highest rates of burnout.It’s no wonder, because, more t
How to Stay on Top of the Evolving Mediaverse
The media relations game is ever-changing. While traditional media outlets remain coveted by businesses that want to be in the news, non-traditional outlets are on the rise.Podcasts, newsletters and social media influencers now often play a key role in effective media outreach. PR pros need to ensure they’re immersed in as much client-relevant content as possible, regardless of where it comes from
Trending PR Topics with guest Eleanor Hawkins
Eleanor Hawkins, a communications strategist and writer at Axios, and PR Consultant Michelle Garrett discuss trending topics in the world of communications. Hawkins authors the weekly Axios Communicators newsletter covering topics and trends that impact how leaders, brands and employers communicate.Follow the host: Website: www.michellegarrett.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/prstrategist
Beyond Writing: Essential PR Skills
Newer to PR? Or maybe you’ve worked in PR for a while but are trying to keep up with the changing landscape. Sure, writing is important. But what other skills and aptitudes are vital for today’s public relations and communications professionals?As roles become more sophisticated and communication challenges more complex, PR pros must prove value, adapt to new technologies, navigate ethical challen
PR’s Role in AI-Based Search
In this episode of PR Explored, host Michelle Garrett, a public relations consultant, is joined by Christopher Penn of Trust Insights to discuss the impact of AI on public relations, particularly in terms of search. The conversation covers the evolution and deployment of AI models, the importance of SEO and broad content distribution, and the ethical implications of AI in content creation. The dis
How AI-Based Search Impacts PR: Does Your Strategy Need an Overhaul?
AI is transforming how we search and engage with content online. In this episode of PR Explored, host Michelle Garrett is joined by digital marketing expert Andy Crestodina to discuss how AI-based search is reshaping the PR and marketing landscape. From AI optimization strategies to leveraging PR for brand visibility in generative search engines, Andy shares actionable insights to help professiona
Crisis Communications: EVERY Organization Needs a Plan
In this episode of PR Explored, host Michelle Garrett, a public relations consultant, welcomes crisis communications expert Shawna Bruce to discuss the critical importance of effective crisis management for brands and organizations. They cover how social media has amplified the visibility of crises, making preparedness more crucial than ever.Shawna shares her experience from her 40-year career in
PR Measurement: Not Optional
In this episode of PR Explored, host Michelle Garrett, a public relations consultant, talks with guest Jonna Burke about the importance of measurement in PR.They discuss the evolving landscape of AI and automation, the necessity of having strong data acumen, the importance of setting measurable objectives, the challenges around vanity metrics, and the significance of frameworks like the Integrated
Exploring the Refreshed PESO Model with Gini Dietrich
In this episode of PR Explored, host Michelle Garrett, a PR consultant and writer, is joined by Gini Dietrich, founder of Arment Dietrich and Spin Sucks, to discuss the refreshed PESO model.They explore the evolution of the model from its tactical roots to a focus on outcomes, and discuss the importance of owned media as the foundation of any PR strategy.Gini shares her insights on the rising role
Unlocking the Synergy Between PR and Social Media
PR and social media benefit from leveraging each other – yet often, there’s a disconnect between the two. Silos may exist that prevent them from collaborating to maximize a brand’s communications. How can public relations and social media pros work together to get more out of each other’s efforts?My guest, Karen Freberg, a professor of strategic communication at the University of Louisville and so
PR Pitching Amidst Continuing Media Layoffs
The media layoffs aren’t stopping – and that can make it even more difficult for public relations professionals to land earned media coverage for their companies and clients. My guest, Frank Strong of Sword and the Script Media, and I will discuss approaches PR pros can use to find opportunities and garner coverage in these challenging conditions.This is the first episode of my new show, PR Explor
