PR's Top Pros Talk

Meghan Kelleher, Founder and CEO of Corner Market Communications, discusses the significance of a people-first culture and how it drives her business forward. She reflects on the core values her team developed. Meghan also emphasizes the role joy plays in fostering a thriving work environment.

Andrea Sok, Founder and CEO of Sok Influencer PR, offers valuable insights into her role as a fractional CCO/CMO. She explains how a fractional CCO/CMO can quickly adapt to a company’s culture and operations, providing high-level strategic guidance. Andrea also emphasizes how working with an external strategist can offer a fresh perspective.

Saul Hafenbredl, Partner at CB&A, A Finn Partners Company, and Jacqui Lipson, Partner at Finn Partners, delve into the 2025 Education Marketing Trends report, exploring the rise of state-based marketing and its impact on campaign strategies. Joined by Doug Simon, CEO of D S Simon Media, they discuss the evolving dynamics between federal and state communications, the role of education reporters, and the growing need for grassroots journalism.

Ronica Cleary, Founder and CEO of Cleary Strategies, reveals how viewing a story from a producer's perspective is crucial to achieving earned media success. Doug and Ronica share their experiences of transforming ideas into powerful TV stories that resonate with viewers. Ronica also highlights the growing importance of remote interviews in today’s media landscape.

Kevin Whalen, Partner at the Guyer Group, addresses some misconceptions about analyst relations. He emphasizes that leaders must be transparent about their company’s challenges to forge a strategic path forward. Kevin discusses various meeting formats and details their unique benefits. He also shares valuable resources that can help organizations navigate their growth journeys.

Lauren Meckstroth, Vice President at Fahlgren Mortine, shares how her team spots trends that clients can contribute to. She emphasizes the importance of selecting the right storytelling medium based on the scope of the subject. Lauren also explains the benefits of taking risks if it makes sense for a client.

Learn more about D S Simon Media.

Michael Kempner, Founder and CEO of MikeWorldWide, discusses the significance of maintaining a strong reputation. He explains how communicators can play an active role in reputation management. Michael also shares what tools his team uses to mitigate potential risks.

Learn more about D S Simon Media.

Alex Schriver, Senior Vice President of Public Affairs at the Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers of America (PhRMA), explains how he builds trust with key stakeholder audiences through internal and external localization efforts. He shares how he applies a campaign-style approach to communicate and engage with his team to “win the day.” Additionally, Alex emphasizes how leaders can ensure their employees' voices are genuinely heard and valued.

Erin Simon, Vice President and Head of Plastic Waste and Business for World Wildlife Fund, shares valuable insights on bringing people together to tackle environmental challenges. Jessica Berk Ross, Managing Partner of Global Public Affairs for FINN Partners, discusses her strategies for navigating complex issues and fostering consensus. They also emphasize the power of storytelling in raising awareness and driving action.

Toni Harrison, Founder and CEO of Etched Communication, discusses the importance of having PR professionals involved in the business decision-making process. She shares how organizations can authentically engage with their original customers while reaching new audiences. Toni also explains how implementing measurement techniques throughout a campaign can optimize results.