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.

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Christal P. Austin is a strategic public relations advisorwith over 20 years of experience. She’s been an active IABC member since becoming the founding president of the Barbados chapter in 2008. In 2023, she presentedat IABC World Conference in Toronto and joined the Program Advisory Committee for the 2024 and 2025 World Conferences. Christal is also a United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) award-winning writer, a decorated Toastmaster, and a passionate lecturer in social media and crisis communication. She holds a post-graduate diploma in business administration from the University of Surrey, a certificate in integrated marketing communication from IE Business School, and a Google project management certificate.

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