James Canning was the PR pro for one the region’s most popular politicians. Everything was going exceptionally well for his boss and for James. And then one morning that all changed. 

Nathan Fletcher abruptly ended his State Senate campaign and days later, after being accused of sexual harassment, he announced he was stepping down from elected office, giving up his job as a San Diego County Supervisor. 

For the first time publicly, James discusses what that was like for him and his colleagues, and how he dealt with the backlash from Nathan’s critics and some members of the media. James also was on the frontlines when former Detroit Mayor Kwame Kilpatrick resigned under mounting pressure and allegations. 

James discusses that, his love for the Detroit Lions, cooking, painting, his Flack Talk podcast, and more with Tony and Juan.

The key moments in this episode are:
00:00:00 - Introduction and Background
00:04:31 - Nathan Fletcher's Resignation
00:08:12 - Flack Talk and Journalism
00:10:27 - Career Path and Motivation
00:12:45 - Networking and Mentors
00:13:19 - Finding Common Ground
00:16:36 - Shocking News
00:21:36 - Dealing with Crisis
00:24:52 - Public Scrutiny
00:25:40 - The Impact of Crisis Communication
00:30:54 - Moving Forward from Past Leadership
00:31:44 - Continuing Service Amidst Challenges
00:33:48 - Creative Outlets and Artistic Endeavors
00:37:49 - Brand Building and Leadership
00:38:31 - Setting the Creative Standard
00:39:59 - Functional Art and Creativity
00:41:46 - Michigan Values and Connection to San Diego
00:47:56 - Impactful Interview and Personal Insights

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