In the 50th episode of Smart in Public, The Katies unpack the fallout from Salesforce CEO Marc Benioff’s recent controversial comments and what it reveals about the modern relationship between leadership, communication, and reputation.

They explore how Benioff’s remarks led to public backlash and even a Salesforce Foundation board member’s resignation, raising deeper questions about how powerful CEOs perceive risk, influence, and accountability. The conversation examines the role of communications professionals in managing a founder’s public persona, balancing authenticity with responsibility, and navigating the increasingly politicized landscape where every statement becomes a brand statement.

From the difference between market power and reputation to the reality that “the mic is never off,” Katie and Katie share real-world insights on reputation as business insurance, the importance of internal influence for comms teams, and how leaders can build — or lose — trust in an instant.

Whether you’re a communications strategist, PR professional, or business leader, this episode offers a candid look at how to manage power, perception, and consequence in today’s high-visibility world.

🔑 Key Takeaways

• Marc Benioff’s comments highlight the reputational risks facing high-profile CEOs.
• Reputation management remains crucial — even for leaders with massive market power.
• The political landscape is reshaping how business leaders communicate.
• Communication professionals must navigate multiple audiences simultaneously.
• Strong internal relationships are key to influencing leadership decisions.
• Reputation is a form of business insurance that builds long-term trust.
• “Conquest over consequence” may work for some, but not for most.

🕒 Chapters

00:00 — Introduction and context
 02:59 — Marc Benioff’s controversial comments
 05:55 — The founder’s role in communication
 08:52 — Navigating audience expectations
 11:52 — The impact of reputation on business
 14:58 — The comms person’s dilemma
 17:58 — Conquest communications explained
 20:49 — Final thoughts
 26:00 — Navigating business challenges
 28:27 — Why reputation matters
 30:32 — The “CEO whisperer” effect
 36:26 — Hot takes on leadership and perception
 41:58 — Reflections on modern communication strategies

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