The Crux of the Story

Jon Weisman of the Los Angeles Dodgers, and Nancy Elder, of the New York Mets join The Crux to discuss leading comms for two of the world's leading sports franchises. From working with team execs to dealing with team execs to players’ social media habits, Nancy and Jon provide a fascinating inside look at their roles as communicators in major league baseball.

D. Graham Burnett, director and co-founder for the Institute for Sustained Attention, says the problem of fragmented attention has reached “catastrophic proportions.” He is helping lead a fight against “powerful systems” that are “fracking” society’s attention. How? By building a school and community on the topic, and his writing and teachings, including a Princeton course, “Attention Economy.” For communicators, is there a more essential question than this: How do we get people to pay attention to what we are saying?

In this episode of “The Crux of the Story,” highly respected communicators Tom Martin and Gary Grates cover all things mentoring. From the role of technology, to “official” mentoring programs, to building informal relationships, Tom and Gary discuss how potential mentees can maximize their networking opportunities. Tom and Gary's mentorship experiences stem from their extensive careers as practitioners, consultants, educators, and thought leaders in communications. Plus, check out Tom's new podcast, “Mindful Mentoring with Tom Martin.”

What defines a “crisis” in 2024? Crisis consultant Molly McPherson joins The Crux to discuss the evolution of reputation and crises. From working in the “crisis cauldron” that is FEMA to her hugely popular TikTok posts on high-profile crises, Molly has become a leading and insightful voice in what it take to manage crises in a volatile environment. Plus, she’s a Boston University College of Communication grad!

Martin Reeves of Boston Consulting Group and Tomas Kellner of Amazon discuss how constructing a compelling story around your business strategy will catalyze action internally and create advantages in the marketplace.

NYU Stern professor Alison Taylor joins the Crux to discuss the “do’s and don'ts” of business ethics from her newest book, Higher Ground, How Businesses Can Do the Right Thing. She focuses on how companies should focus on addressing their imperfections, rather than realizing statements on problems they can’t solve. From the UN Climate Week, to Levi’s corporate, she comments how key leaders can improve on commenting on social issues. Finally, Alison notes that company’s cannot solve every social issue, rather they must focus on one to three possible issues they can address.

The Ocean Outlaw Project’s Ian Urbina on Non-Profit Journalism on the Open Ocean by Gary Sheffer and Mike Fernandez

Boston University’s professors Marni Zelnick and Meghan Irons join the Crux to talk about the importance of social responsibility in film-making and journalism. Marni emphasizes the importance of “pulling back the curtain” on real world topics within creative filmmaking as she does in her film Druid Peak. Meghan focuses on how her experience working on writing a narrative on the violence in Dorchester taught her invaluable lessons on the challenges and triumphs of this type of journalism. The unifying factor in creating media that reflects the importance of social issues is centering each narrative on real human stories.

What are the “four corners” companies can employ to conquer stakeholder engagement? How can companies employ expertise when releasing statements on the conflict in Gaza? How can AI be the “cure” for economic disease? Matt McDonald, President of the “data native” business consulting firm Penta Group, joins the Crux on today’s episode to provide profound insight on stakeholder engagement to economic theory.

Don Spetner, senior corporate advisor at Weber Shandwick, talks about the evolution of the Chief Communications Officer role. Where the core of public relations was once media relations, now the internet has allowed everyone to have their own “bullhorn”. Gary, Mike and Don break down two of the most controversial PR flops such as the BP oil spill live cam, as well as the newest Bud Light Campaign. Additionally, Don Spetner warns professional communicators to stop “showing their superman logo” and handling everything themselves. Tune in for more.

Have you ever heard of “forced morality?” Why do companies like Patagonia and Chick-fil-a stick to their values? How can employers show more kindness to employees experiencing grief and loss in their personal lives? On this episode of the Crux, Bradley Akubuiro talks about dexterity and nimbleness within the workplace. He tackles topics such as showing courage in corporate settings, especially during his time in the Boeing workforce. Bradley speaks on his experience as a minority leader and the emotional "tax" this role entails. Tune in to hear more about Bradley's diverse roles, the importance of millennial leaders and more.

How do public policy, business and journalism all come together to shape corporate culture in today’s climate? Today's episode tackles just that. On this episode, we are joined by Judd Legum the author and founder of Popular Information, a newsletter that is described as “unfiltered, unbought and unbossed.” He breaks down how shoplifting policies, such as the one’s in San Francisco, really relate to the phenomena called “Shrink.” Furthermore, this episode also cover’s Judd Legum’s history of creating his newsletter Popular Information and even address’s other aspects of his career including his run for office.

Jargon is at the very essence of every current corporate climate, but what do all these terms mean? On this episode of the Crux of the Story we are joined by editor, Veronica Majerol, and contributing writer, Jordyn Holman of the New York Times’s column “Shop Talk”. They break down the essence and importance of clarifying the often confusing jargon within the business world. From “dogfooding” to “impact chats”, this episode tackles defining what terms like this actually mean.

Scientist and award-winning communicator Chris Reddy from Woods Hole Oceanographic Institute joined us on The Crux to talk about effective science communication in a crisis. For more than 25 years, Chris has been called on for high profile ocean disasters including the Deepwater Horizon oil spill. He shares with us lessons learned, such as keeping the humanity of those affected in the forefront of the messaging. In a time when science has been weaponized and distorted, Chris’s perspective on clear, accurate communication offers thoughtful insight and opportunity to work together toward common understanding.

The power of trust can transform a business from top to bottom, and is proven to affect the bottom line as well. Trust is more than just a coms issue, but a strategic business issue as well. Join us for a fascinating discussion with Russell Dubner from Boston Consulting Group about his work with the C-suite to evaluate and establish trust in leading companies.

PRLab celebrates its 45th anniversary--It is the longest-operating student-run PR agency in the country. Creating a synergy between clients and students that benefits both is a key to success, leading to multiple awards through the years. Join our conversation to discuss what has changed, and what remains the same as the next generation prepares for careers in communication.

According to a recent Gallup poll, 71% of Americans approve of unions, the highest point since 1965.This week we sat down with Roy Bahat and Tom Kochan to discuss the best strategies for business leaders to deal authentically and respectfully with an organized workforce.

How can a leader remain authentic in the face of controversy or public criticism? Navalent’s Ron Carucci offers four key factors for success. Listen for a fascinating discussion on leadership, honesty, and finding satisfaction in the top spot.

As the Crux Celebrates its 100th episode, we sit down with three pros to discuss podcasts and the evolution of corporate communication. We look at the importance of technology and its many new uses to reach stakeholders. We discuss storytelling as an essential, enduring component of our work.

Pfizer’s Sally Susman joined “The Crux” to talk about her new book, “ “Breaking Through: Communicating to Open Minds, Move Hearts, and Change the World” chronicling the journey of vaccine development and offering guidance for other communicators. “I always thought the data would win the day. But it was the storytelling that won the day and not the storytelling of celebrities or rock stars or sports heroes or politicians so much as the storytelling of grandmas who got to see their grandkids, young college students who got to go back on campus. These kinds of very human, totally real stories told by loved ones, friends, neighbors, were very crucial to building consensus for the vaccine.” In addition to her experience surrounding vaccine development, Sally offers insights for communicators on clear writing, genuine and informed apologies, staying calm in crisis, and keeping a sense of humor throughout the journey. Tune it for more communication insights from one of the most important efforts during a worldwide crisis.

ChatGPT is a hot topic these days, often with more questions than answers. Dr. Wildman, professor of Philosophy, Theology, and Ethics at Boston University, and his “Data, Ethics, and Society” class put together the first-ever blueprint for the academic use of Chat GPT and similar AI models. The Generative AI Assistance (GAIA) Policy “stresses transparency, fairness, and obligations for both students and teachers.” In this episode, Wildman addresses the reality that AI generated language is not going away, but also explores ways to use the technology to increase skill sets without allowing it to damage an industry. Listen to a fascinating discussion of the ethical implications but also the far-reaching opportunities for this powerful technology.

As communicators, it is important to understand world events from multiple perspectives. The New Humanitarian partners with local news sources to get in-depth, long term coverage of significant events from the people directly impacted by the events including the recent earthquake in Syria and Turkey.

A discussion with Richard Bowman and David Boyle about their new book “Prompt: A Practical Guide to Brand Growth Using Chat GPT,” which offers tips and insights for communicators on how to use human creativity to curate effective content to boost your brand.

“We are not going to let one week in December define us.” Southwest Airlines’ chief administration and communications officer, Linda Rutherford, gives Mike and Gary a “behind the scenes” perspective on the challenges faced and on the ground strategies implemented during Southwest Airlines’ winter storm disruption. Decision-making “in the fog of battle” is tough, and Rutherford offers clear advice for communicators looking to manage a crisis through uncertainty with compassion and action.

As communicators are increasingly tasked with engaging all of their stakeholders, organizational listening becomes essential, whether in corporations or non-profits. Quinnipiac University strategic communication professor and senior research fellow at The Page Center, Katie Place explains her research on organizational listening and marginalized publics and how companies can engage all stakeholders in new ways, simply by taking the time to sit down and listen. Denise Sevick Bortree of the Arthur W. Page Center at Penn State highlights free training modules they have produced to equip communicators to be effective listeners. Denise also highlights the upcoming Page Center's Annual Awards for Integrity on February 22 at 7 p.m. EST, which will recognize three public communications leaders who have demonstrated the value of “truth well told.”

Nobel laureate, holocaust survivor, and former BU professor Elie Wiesel did not let his circumstances define him but used them in a positive way to make the world better. Today, one of his former students, Ingrid Anderson, continues his legacy at Boston University's Elie Wiesel Center for Jewish Studies. In this episode Anderson talks about the importance for business leaders to educate themselves on current cultural issues surrounding antisemitism, to positively impact both internal and external stakeholders.

What is PwC’s My+? What does governance mean in a communications context? How does communication function in one of the Big Four? In this episode, we are joined by PwC’s US and Mexico Communications Leader Megan DiSciullo. In her role, Megan is responsible for leading 170+ communications practitioners across a range of disciplines. Prior to joining PwC, Megan spent nearly nine years at Edelman in its business and social purpose practice. Tune in to hear about the lessons learned from PwC's reorganization change, what it's like to work remotely at PwC, and the company’s first DE&I Transparency Report.

What are the key takeaways in an investor relations course at Boston University College of Communications (BU COM) look like? What is an Account Supervisor at Prosek Partner's typical day like? Is an MBA required for communicators? In this episode, we welcome a panel of BU alums who are working in financial communications: Sarah Dasher, Lindsay Jablonski, and Shaye Spector. Professor Sarah Dasher is teaching investor relations at COM. She has over 15 years of experience in strategic communications, including serving as Cisco's global activations insights lead. Lindsay is a Prosek Partners Account Supervisor. She assists alternative asset management clients in the credit, hedge fund, and private equity industries with media relations and brand building. Shaye is an Assistant Account Executive at Prosek as well. She was the Editor-in-Chief of the BU COMmunicator during her time at BU. Listen in to learn how to develop business expertise, what to do when clients approach you for support, and how to keep up to date with the business world.

What is a company’s role in national security? How do communications professionals navigate large mergers and acquisitions? How is corporate political spending bad for business and democracy? In this 90th episode, we look back at the show's fourth season (episodes 69-80). We covered everything from politics to sports to economics. Subscribe to the podcast feed on SoundCloud, Spotify, and Apple Podcasts. Check out more episodes by visiting thecruxpodcast.org.

How do we define impact? What role does leadership play in ESG impact investing? How should small and large businesses approach ESG issues? In this episode, we welcome Nick Andreou and Marya Besharov to discuss their MIT Sloan Management Review article titled ”Rethinking How We Measure Companies on Social and Environmental Impact.” Marya Besharov is a professor of organizations and impact and academic director at the University of Oxford’s Skoll Center for Social Entrepreneurship at Saed Business School. Nick is the founder of Impact Edge Consulting and a visiting fellow at the center. Tune in to hear about the Skoll Center and its work, how to build a winning business, and how communicators can push companies to bridge the gap between ESG aspirations and reality.

What are the key findings in Peppercomm/Ragan Corporate Character Barometer? Why don’t communicators have a handbook for navigating social or political issues? Why does humor play such an important role in business settings? In this episode, we welcome Peppercom CEO Steve Cody. Steve is also the current chairman of the Institute for Public Relations, a longtime member of the Arthur W. Page Society, a member of the advisory councils of the College of Charleston and the University of Florida, and was named one of Northeastern University’s 100 most successful alumni. But most importantly, he is a lifelong comedian, climber, and dog lover. Tune in to hear Steve’s perspective on Adidas’s relationship with Ye, Ruder Finn’s acquisition of Peppercom, and find out whether if you need to be funny to work at Peppercom.

What is Smart Brevity? Where did the idea come from? Why is it so difficult to achieve for most of us? In this episode, we welcome Axios founding editor-in-chief, Nick Johnston. Before Axios, Nick was the managing editor at Bloomberg, covering the White House, Capitol Hill, and the 2008 presidential campaign. Tune in to hear about Cox Enterprises' acquisition of Axios, how technology inspired the creation of Smart Brevity, and the difference in emoji usage between generations.

What does it mean to be a communication leader in a large enterprise like Microsoft? How has the increase in shareholder activism affected the role of a communicator? What is "productivity paranoia"? In this episode, we are joined by Microsoft Vice President of Communications, Frank Shaw. Frank has been at Microsoft since 2009 and today leads a team that defines and manages Microsoft communications strategies worldwide. Tune in to hear about the future of Microsoft Teams in the workplace, Microsoft’s M&A with Activision Blizzard, and find out what his LinkedIn’s #CommsConversations series is all about.

What does the future of the ESG framework look like? How important is it to align ESG goals with capital returns? How does Prudential think about its public voice on social issues? In this episode, we welcome Prudential CCO Alan Sexton to discuss the evolving importance of ESG for communicators. Prior to joining Prudential in 2018, Alan had spent more than 20 years working for several public relations firms – including Ogilvy and Burson-Marsteller – counseling them through business transformations and public policy issues. Tune in to this episode to learn about Prudential’s communication framework for navigating social issues and advice on how to handle an ESG backlash.

What is National Truth and Reconciliation day in Canada? What are land acknowledgments? What is Orange Shirt Society? In this episode, we welcome Creative Fire CEO Leanne Hall. Prior to joining Creative Fire in 2019, Leanne was the National Leader of the Deloitte Indigenous practice, serving over 275 Indigenous communities across Canada. She has served as a director for the Canadian Council for Aboriginal Business, a member of the Board of Governors for Wilfrid Laurier University, and a WXN Top 100 Most Powerful Women in Canada Award Winner. Tune in to learn about Enbridge's reconciliation action plan, residential schools, and what American businesses can do to engage in allyship.

How is satellite imagery combating misinformation in the Russia-Ukraine war? What was it like to grow up in a Hispanic family? Have you ever wondered what kinds of careers a satellite company offers? In this episode, Fernando Vivanco, vice president of communications at Maxar, joins us to discuss the various projects for which Maxar provides satellite imagery. Fernando has been a senior-level communicator for a number of blue-chip technology-driven companies, including Boeing, Honeywell, Medtronic, and TE Connectivity. Tune in to hear about the amazing work at Maxar, from monitoring illegal mining in the Amazon to helping build the foundation of the metaverse, as well as advice on how to prove the value of communication at a new company.

How did Elon Musk’s 2018 pay package elevate CEO pay? How can we objectively measure and report annual CEO salaries? Since 2017, has the SEC reporting requirement led to any real change in compensation policies? In this episode, we are joined by New York Times business reporter Peter Eavis. Peter joins us to discuss executive compensation and corporate profits. Prior to the Times, Peter was with the Wall Street Journal, Fortune, and TheStreet.com in which he won a Loeb Award for his work. Tune in to hear Peter’s insights for communicators on how to provide a persuasive rationale for CEO pay packages, as well as what big business stories to look out for in 2022.

How are the Sandy Hook shooting and the Jan. 6 insurrection linked? What is the basis of a conspiracy theory? And how do we combat conspiracy hoaxers? University of Connecticut journalism professor Amanda J. Crawford argues for being transparent and being open. Amanda is a veteran political journalist and academic researcher who focuses on journalism ethics, media law, misinformation, and the role of journalists in a democracy. Amanda is writing a book about the fight for the truth after Sandy Hook, "Truth for the Dead." Tune in to this episode to hear about the linkage between social media and gun violence, the Alex Jones trial, and companies’ role in raising awareness about conspiracy theories.

What was the plan for Coach K’s retirement announcement? What is a media and politics class at Duke University like? And what did Mike do at the Voice of America? Tune in to hear insights from Duke University’s VP for Public Affairs and Government Relations and Chief Communications Officer Mike Schoenfeld. In this episode, Mike discusses how universities’ communications leadership needs to get involved in athletics. He also reflects on his experience with sports communications and shares valuable tips on how to best work with coaches and teams.

What is a Chief Impact Officer? Why do business transformations fail? How are companies assessing the value of communicators? In this episode, we are joined by U.S. Chief Operating Officer, Corporate Affairs Practice Chair, and Global Chair of Impact Jim O’ Leary. With nearly two decades of experience, Jim oversees a global network of corporate reputation, business marketing, and advisory services teams across more than 60 offices. Tune in to hear Jim’s insights on Edelman’s fantastic research, such as the Trust Barometer, behavioural science collaborations with Harvard Business School, and the disinformation shield.

What is Clean Creatives’ mission? What is the F-list? This week we were joined by Clean Creatives Director Duncan Meisel. With the looming climate crisis, Meisel argues that ad and PR agencies should “cut ties” with fossil fuel companies. Why is it so difficult to take climate action given the science? Tune in to this episode to hear Meisel’s insights on climate communication, agency-client relationships, and the war for talent in the creative industries.

For the Boston University College of Communication (BU COM) Class of 2020, what was it like to look for a job during a pandemic? In this episode, we welcome three alumni to hear about their unique and unprecedented journeys entering the workforce post-graduation. With the “Great Resignation,” what skills did they learn at BU that really helped them? How did they navigate all of those difficulties and still find a place with values that matched their own? Tune in to hear from an honors graduate and winner of the 2020 COM Blue Chip Award, Nicole McPherson. Nicole is now an Account Executive at BCW’s Technology Practice in San Francisco. Joining her are Hailey McKee and Jessica Nelson, who both earned master’s degrees in PR from COM in 2020. Today, Hailey is an Account Executive at Fleishman-Hillard’s Corporate Reputation department. Jessica is currently an Account Executive at GCI Health in Atlanta.

How is corporate political spending bad for business and democracy? How should companies navigate political giving when shareholders have diverse political views? Building on this issue, how should communicators work with the legal and public affairs team? In this episode, we are joined by Associate Professor at the University of Southern California (USC) Gould School of Law Dorothy Lund. She recently co-authored an article in Harvard Business Review titled “Corporate Political Spending is Bad Business” with Leo Strine, Jr., a lawyer and former Chief Justice of the Delaware Supreme Court. Dorothy and Leo argue that political spending is “time-wasting and costly” and that actually, such spending greatly intensifies corporate risk. Tune in to hear Dorothy’s guidance on how businesses can involve their shareholders in political donations decisions and most importantly, how Mike could have become an accountant?

Why is it crucial every Fortune 500 company hire an historian? How does understanding the past contribute to today’s DEI efforts? Accept responsibility, understand the past, apologize proactively, and respond meaningfully. This is how every company should handle historical transgressions, according to Dr. Sarah Federman. Sarah is an Assistant Professor of Negotiation and Conflict Management at the University of Baltimore and a Fulbright Peace & Conflict Resolution Specialist. Previously, she had spent a decade as a senior advertising executive working with big brands. Join us on this episode to hear Sarah’s guidance on the need for every company to understand and respond to historical transgressions.

Given the ongoing Russian invasion of Ukraine, what should multinational companies be doing from a risk and reputation perspective? What is a hybrid war? What is a company’s role in national security? In this episode, we are joined by Weber Shandwick Executive Vice President of Geopolitical Strategy and Risk, Michelle Giuda. Before this position, Michelle served as Assistant Secretary of State, in which she led the State Department’s global communications strategy and operations. Tune in to hear Michelle’s insights on the importance of ‘home country’ as an emerging stakeholder and the modern multi-dimensional warfare that is taking place.

How is data and AI driving corporate decision making? What should marketers and communicators be doing about AI and its implications? But most importantly, what does retirement look like for a Hall of Fame communicator? In this episode, we are joined by Founding Executive Director of the Data and Trust Alliance Jon Iwata. He is also currently an Executive Fellow at the Yale School of Management. Previously, for 35 years, Jon served as IBM inaugural chief brand officer where he spearheaded things like Smart Plan and Watson. Join us on this episode to hear Jon’s insights on the future of responsible data and AI usage.

The biggest acquisition deal ever in the tech and gaming world between Microsoft and Activision Blizzard. How do comms professionals navigate big M&A deals? What cultural issues do you prepare for? And what is SoundExchange? On this 72nd episode of The Crux, we welcome Helaine Klasky, the CCO of Activision Blizzard, who has quite a model communicator’s resume. She has worked at the highest levels of government, business, entertainment, and education. Tune in to hear her insights on the topic and why didn’t Gary work for Helaine?

Have the Olympic Games become too controversial for corporate sponsors? Do Super Bowl ads pay off? And what is Karate Combat? On this 71st episode of The Crux we get answers to these questions from Michael Hargrave, president of Discover Sports & Entertainment, who has guided big brands such as Anheuser-Busch to Bank of America through sports sponsorships and events. Tune in to hear his insights on how brands navigate around the politicization of the Olympics, the rationalization behind Super Bowl ads, and the future of sports marketing.

In our seventieth episode of The Crux, we welcome Peter Goodman who is a New York Times' economics journalist and author of "Davos Man: How the Billionaires Devoured the World." Previously, he was an executive global news and business editor at the Huffington Post, as well as the Shanghai bureau chief for the Washington Post. Peter has covered some of the most momentous economic transformations and upheavals of our time.

In our sixty-ninth episode of The Crux, we welcome US chief communications officer for one of the world’s leading professional services firms KPMG, Maureen Davenport. Maureen joined KPMG herself in 2019 after an 8-year stint at Fannie Mae where she also served as CCO and helped drive its reputation and business performance. Within one year of joining KPMG, Maureen was tasked with the challenge of an executive transition as KPMG selected a new US Chair and CEO in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic.