PR's Top Pros Talk

Tim Johnson, President of Upraise Marketing + Public Relations, provides insights on how startups can adeptly begin their brand narrative in PR. He discusses the various channels and mediums for these firms to plan for and capitalize on to ensure the receive positive consumer sentiment. He also explains the role of agencies in working with the startups and the need for ‘nimble feet’ as the new brand changes and alters their positioning frequently in the early stages.

Sabrina Macias, Vice President of Global Communications at DraftKings, addresses how communicators can reach their audiences in authentic and nuanced ways. She goes in depth on how brands can control the narrative of their portrayal in their respective markets and business environments. She emphasizes the importance of preparation for one’s public relations moves based on other contingent factors such as consumer sentiment, cultural factors, and other stakeholders of the firm.

Vanessa Wakeman, Founder & CEO, of The Wakeman Agency, a social change firm providing strategic communications support to nonprofits and socially responsible companies, discusses how brands can start integrating social justice into their messaging in an authentic way. She dives into the agency’s Louder than Words initiative, which was developed to help correct pervasive funding inequities in the social change sector, through the first ever directory of BIPOC led nonprofits. The directory will provide pathways for socially responsible companies to identify and partner with nonprofits led by people of color. Vanessa also emphasizes the power of language and the need to evaluate and adjust the use of certain phrases that do not reflect or create a sense of belonging for all.

Cathy Decker, Co-Founder & Principal, The Decker/Royal Agency, discusses how to create a welcoming environment and navigate the challenges of hospitality while staying safe. She sheds light on an agency’s role in working with hospitality brands, and how one can integrate with management to create the most customer value.

Valarie De La Garza, CEO, Fenton, shares insights on how to create positive social change through strategic communications. She discusses the shift from just talk to action for demonstrating greater inclusivity. Valarie also goes into navigating the definition of what social good is from multiple perspectives.

Christina Stejskal, VP, Global Communications, Fender, emphasizes the importance of crafting inclusive marketing campaigns and strategic overarching messaging. She shares examples of how the brand manages to keep existing customers engaged and involved while offering insights into securing quality media over quantity.

Jennifer Curley, President & CEO, Curley Company, discusses how associations had to navigate the challenges of hosting events as a result of the pandemic. She emphasizes the importance for associations to provide member value. Jennifer also goes into how the agency helped their clients to be nimble in the current dynamic environment.

Cathy Fink, President, Makovsky, offers insights into the challenges of taking on a leadership role at a legacy PR agency. She shares lessons learned and practices from her experiences at a larger public traded company that can have a positive impact in a smaller organization. Cathy also discusses the evolving role of communications and the increased need for transparency.

Laura Duda, SVP & CCO, Goodyear, shares insights on positioning a brand outside of its traditional vertical. She shares the challenges of integrated messaging following an acquisition and a joint venture with a competitor. Laura also provides her perspective on how polarization and politics can challenge a company’s external communications approach.

Ken Jacobs, PCC, CPC, Principal, Jacobs Consulting & Executive Coaching, discusses the key role leadership plays in an organization’s success. He stresses the importance of building trust and fostering influence with your constituents as a leader. Ken also emphasizes the increased need to have an opportunity mindset.