imPRessions: a pollack group production

The September 11 attacks changed NYC, and the world, forever. This week’s episode acknowledges the 25th anniversary of 9/11, as the grief and aftermath still impact many people today. Christine Nicholas, CEO of Nicholas & Lence Communications and former President and CEO of NYC & Company, was at the forefront of efforts to rebuild New York City’s $27 billion tourism industry following 9/11, helping develop the strategic communications campaigns and partnerships that showed the world how resilient New York was. In this powerful episode, Cristyne shares how communications leaders balanced sensitivity with the need to inspire optimism, coordinated messaging across city leadership, and managed intense global media attention.

Getting a story into the news is only the beginning. Today, stories move across platforms, shape public conversations and, in some cases, inspire real-world action. In this episode, Jenn and Brittany sit down with Em DeCiccio, Director of Operations at Lift Our Voices, to discuss what makes stories resonate beyond the newsroom. Drawing on her experience at CNN and Fox News and her current work in communications and advocacy, Em shares how complex issues gain traction, how storytelling can build momentum for change and what communicators can learn from the way journalists frame the stories that matter.

Influencer marketing has evolved far beyond sponsored posts and vanity metrics. As audiences become more selective about the content they engage with and the companies they trust, brands are rethinking what successful influencer partnerships really look like. This week's imPRessions episode explores the world of influencer marketing with Amanda Brunak, Influencer Marketing Manager at OLIPOP. Tune in as we discuss how influencer marketing has evolved in recent years, why engagement is only one piece of the measurement puzzle, and how brands can build long-term partnerships that resonate with consumers rather than feel transactional.

Today, the relationship between people and their pets has shifted tremendously. From matching outfits, to birthday parties, holiday card portraits, and everything in between, pets are no longer just companions, but family members and support systems for many across the world. Today’s episode celebrates our beloved pets with Yvonne Brossard, Senior Manager of Consumer & Public Relations at Petco, and covers how changing consumer attitudes toward pets are reshaping marketing, communications, and brand strategy. Plus, Yvonne offers marketing intel that fits across any industry. You don’t want to miss this one!

Political reporting dominates our social feeds and increasingly influences the way brands communicate. It’s a critical component of journalism and is more than just what’s happening in Washington, D.C. Policy stories are all around us - in our local media and affect businesses and societies on a personal level. Today’s imPRessions guest is Kevin Grant, executive director of the All-Britton Journalism Institute, who shares insight into how reporters are connecting national political developments to local audiences and how media consumption habits are reshaping the news cycle.

Graduation season is upon us, so what better time than to speak with PRWeek’s 2026 PR Student of the Year, Sophie Schaked? In this month’s bonus episode, Jenn and Brittany speak with one of the brightest PR minds of the future. Tune in to hear what Sophie's generation believes will shift the PR industry and advice for those seeking a career in the field.

PR professionals know the thrill of landing a placement in a top-tier publication. For clients, big names equate to big wins, and while mainstream media is usually an indicator of success, one important medium is often overlooked: trade media.

In today’s episode, we sit with Allison Carter, Editor-in-Chief at PR Daily, to unpack why trade media needs a front row seat in every PR strategy.

Sponsorships can be one of the most powerful tools in a brand’s marketing arsenal, but only when they’re done right. There is more to an effective partnership than slapping a logo onto the website and posting about it on social media. It takes thought and strategy.

And one of those brands that knows how to do it right is joining us today. Jennifer Symington, Assistant Vice President of Marketing at American Honda Motor Co., discusses how Honda transforms sponsorships into meaningful cultural moments.

Editor’s note: At 1:39, Jennifer Symington is referenced as being with Honda Motor. The correct company name is American Honda Motor Co.

Las Vegas is the epicenter for entertainment, luxury, and nightlife. Ever wonder what goes into the PR and marketing for some of the most iconic properties on the The Strip? Look no further.

This week, Jenn and Kalli welcome Kassidy Krystek, former Director of Public Relations and Communications of Resorts World Las Vegas. Today’s deep dive conversation tackles what it really takes to build momentum in a city where every property is fighting for headlines - and bookings.

If you’ve dreamed about working in the music industry, you’re going to love our first guest of season 4! Laura Whitmore is the Senior Vice President of Marketing for Positive Grid, one of the most popular music brands in the industry.

In today’s episode, Jenn and Kalli chat with Laura about how to effectively market new products, what the future of music marketing is heading, and more.