The PIO Podcast

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Summary: In this episode, Leah Tedesco, a senior consultant at Social Simulator, discusses the importance of crisis communication preparedness and the role of Public Information Officers (PIOs) in crisis management. She explains how Social Simulator's platform replicates various communication channels to train organizations in effectively handling crises. Leah highlights the challenges posed by misinformation and the need for PIOs to adapt to new technologies, including artificial intelligence (AI) and deepfakes. The conversation also explores the future of crisis communication training and the importance of adopting a holistic approach to crisis management.

Leah's BIO: Leah is a Senior Consultant at Social Simulator. She helps design webinars, crisis preparedness training, and social media strategies to help clients build confidence in their digital presence. Leah takes a human-centered approach to social media strategy, working to understand broader communicative values and using that insight to inform how individuals interact with social media. Leah holds an MA in Anthropology from the University of Virginia, with a focus on linguistic and communicative practices in online spaces.

Leah's Email

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Episode Summary: In this conversation, Sam Toles from Civic Social discusses the innovative approach of empowering Public Information Officers (PIOs) in local governments to effectively engage with their communities through social media. He emphasizes the importance of authenticity, strategic planning, and the need for a modern approach to communication that resonates with younger audiences. Toles shares insights on navigating social media algorithms, the significance of platforms like TikTok, and the pitfalls of relying on traditional marketing strategies and style guides. The discussion highlights the transformative potential of social media in public relations and the necessity for government agencies to adapt to the evolving digital landscape. In this conversation, Sam Toles and Robert Tornabene discuss the importance of social media in government communication, emphasizing the need for a culture of content creation within local government. They explore real-world case studies that demonstrate the positive impact of effective social media strategies, highlighting the role of public information officers (PIOs) in fostering community engagement and trust. Toles shares personal insights and anecdotes that illustrate the challenges and successes of implementing these strategies, ultimately advocating for a proactive approach to government communication.

Sam's BIO: Sam Toles is a former local elected official and one of the world’s top experts in digital media and communications. 

 Leveraging over two decades of experience at the intersection of content strategy, technology, and public service, Sam launched CiviSocial, a first-of-its-kind approach designed exclusively for local government communicators who want to cut through the noise, reduce the negativity, and reach their communities effectively.  

 Before founding CiviSocial, Sam served as Chief Content Officer at Bleacher Report and led digital media strategies at major brands including MGM Studios. He’s also run a social media platform as the General Manager of Vimeo. His expertise in content creation, digital storytelling, and audience engagement has driven billions of interactions across the medium. 

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Summary: In this episode of the PIO podcast, Robert Tornabene interviews Amy Maxwell, the public relations manager for the Hamilton County Office of Emergency Management in Chattanooga, Tennessee. Amy shares her journey from working in cardiology to emergency management, detailing her responsibilities as the sole public information officer. She discusses her daily tasks, including managing social media, community engagement, and crisis communication. Amy also highlights the importance of weather radios, the adoption of new alert systems, and her passion for photography and the use of AI in emergency services. The conversation concludes with rapid-fire questions and Amy's insights on organization and continuous learning in her field.

Amy's BIO: Maxwell provides creative support for internal and external communication efforts for HCOEM and 13 volunteer fire/rescue agencies, including print publications, websites, electronic communication, community engagements, media, and video productions. She is the administrator for ten social media accounts and a webmaster for five websites. She prepares Integrated Public Alert Warning System (IPAWS) messages for Emergency Notifications for the public and HCOEM Emergency Notification System, REGROUP.

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Summary: In this episode, Amanda Schoepp, a digital content editor at Hyatt Hotels Corporation, discusses her role in enhancing website copy and transitioning from journalism to content editing. She shares insights on common mistakes made in media releases, the importance of clarity and conciseness in writing, and the differences between content marketing and digital marketing.  The conversation concludes with Amanda's reflections and wisdom on letting go of control.

Amanda's BIO: Amanda Schoepp is an experienced editor and writer, particularly in digital and traditional marketing. With an original background as a reporter, Amanda is a [somewhat nerdy] AP style expert with a keen eye for detail. Past roles include copywriter, editor, and communications specialist for various corporations, startups, content marketing agencies, and nonprofits. Currently, she is a digital content editor at Hyatt Hotels Corporation. 

To Contact Amanda via LinkedIn

http://amandaschoepp.com/

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Summary: In this episode of the PIO podcast, host Robert Tornabene interviews Jamie Sacco, the Public Information Officer for Shawnee, Oklahoma. Jamie shares her journey from working in news to becoming a PIO, discussing her role's unique challenges and opportunities. She emphasizes the importance of community engagement, effective communication strategies, and the need for a proactive approach in addressing local issues such as homelessness and the opioid crisis. Jamie also highlights the significance of crisis communication and the use of technology in her work, including social media and emergency alert systems. The conversation concludes with insights on the future of public information officers and the evolving communication landscape in local government.

Jamie's BIO: Jamie Sacco was hired as the Public Information Officer for the City of Shawnee and the Shawnee Fire Department in November 2023. Prior to working for the City, Jamie was an Assignment Desk Editor at FOX26 in Houston, where she covered many major events. She also has experience as a Trial Technician, where she assisted on high-priority cases presented in civil and federal court.

Jamie has a bachelor's degree in communication with a focus in Broadcast Journalism. She completed the 2024 Leadership Shawnee Class 37 with honors and is currently a member of the National Information Officers Association.

To contact Jamie via LinkedIn

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Episode Summary: In this episode, Robert Tornabene interviews Juliet Casey, the Director of Marketing and Media Design at Los Medanos College. They discuss Juliet's transition from journalism to public information, the importance of accuracy and accountability in communication, and the impact of community engagement. Juliet shares her experiences in recruitment strategies for community colleges, the challenges faced in public information roles, and her thoughts on the role of AI in communication. The conversation emphasizes the significance of effective messaging and the need for public information officers to maintain high standards in their work.

Juliet's BIO; Juliet V. Casey is an award-winning bilingual communications professional and former journalist. She has worked in major news organizations across the Southwest. She has served as a public information officer and communications director for government agencies in Nevada and California. During her time in government, she has gained extensive experience in issue management, strategic leadership, crisis communications and integrated marketing. Casey loves sharing her free time with family, neighbors, and pugs. 

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Episode Summary: In this episode, Sergeant Jessica Shehan, a Public Information Officer for the Virginia State Police, shares her journey into law enforcement and the unique challenges of her role. She discusses the importance of transparency in communication, the impact of social media on public relations, and her experiences in recruitment and community outreach. Jessica emphasizes the rewarding nature of her job and the continuous learning involved in adapting to modern communication methods. In this engaging conversation, Jessica Shehan discusses her efforts to revive community engagement through the Special Olympics, the challenges of recruiting volunteers, and the use of technology and AI in public information roles. She shares her aspirations for professional development and the ongoing recruitment challenges law enforcement faces. The discussion concludes with rapid-fire questions that reveal personal insights and reflections on leadership and community service.

Jessica's BIO: I joined the Virginia State Police in 2006 after graduating from Virginia Commonwealth University. Over the years, I have served in various roles, including recruitment, which has helped prepare me for my current Division 1 Public Information Officer position. I love my position, and I am excited to be leaning toward new training to expand my knowledge. 

In my spare time, I teach Spin and enjoy working out. I am also a wife and full-time mother to two beautiful daughters and three energetic dogs.

[email protected]

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Summary: In this episode of the PIO podcast, Scott Mann, a retired Green Beret, shares his journey from a small town in Arkansas to becoming a leader in the U.S. Army Special Forces. He discusses the challenges of transitioning to civilian life, the emotional toll of military service, and the importance of storytelling for healing. Scott also addresses the controversial withdrawal from Afghanistan and the abandonment of allies, emphasizing the need for self-reliance and resilience in today's divided society. His books, 'Operation Pineapple Express' and 'Nobody's Coming to Save You,' explore these themes and call for a return to community and connection amidst the chaos. In this conversation, Scott discusses the abandonment of Afghan allies and the subsequent rise of terrorism, highlighting the failures of intelligence and the hubris that has led to a growing vulnerability in the United States. He emphasizes the importance of community resilience and preparedness in the face of potential threats, advocating for proactive measures and collaboration between local communities and law enforcement. Scott also stresses the need for a shift in mindset regarding terrorism, urging individuals and organizations to take the threat seriously and prepare accordingly.

Scott's Bio: Lieutenant Colonel (Ret.) Scott Mann is a former U.S. Army Green Beret with tours worldwide, including Colombia, Peru, and multiple deployments in Afghanistan. He is a warrior storyteller, host of The Scott Mann Podcast, and the founder of Rooftop Leadership and Scott Mann Leadership Academy, where he shares the rapport-building and storytelling skills he learned in Special Forces to help today's leaders make better human connections in high-stakes,
low-trust engagements. Scott is the author of Nobody is Coming to Save You, a leadership field guide to making better human connections in this time of division, and the instant New York Times Best Seller, Operation Pineapple Express, a third-person narrative detailing the harrowing stories of the Veterans, volunteers, and Afghan Allies who navigated the US abandonment of Afghanistan in August of 2021. He is the founder of the 501 (c) (3) Task Force Pineapple, which supports Veterans and educates civilians. Scott is also a playwright and actor with his award-winning play, Last Out: Elegy of a Green Beret, touring stages across the country to provide healing to our Veterans and Families of the Fallen, as well as providing insight to our citizens on the personal cost of the longest war in our Nation’s history.To learn more about Scott’s whole body of work, visit ScottMann.com.

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Our premiere sponsor, Social News Desk, has an exclusive offer for PIO Podcast listeners. Head over to socialnewsdesk.com/pio to get three months free when a qualifying agency signs up.

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Summary: In this episode of the PIO Podcast, Stephen Kuhr shares his extensive experience in emergency management, discussing his journey from the New York City Emergency Medical Service to his role at Colorado Springs Utilities. He emphasizes the importance of crisis communication, the differences between public and private sector emergency management, and the critical lessons learned throughout his career. Stephen highlights the need for transparency and effective communication during crises, and he shares practical insights on integrating crisis communications into emergency management plans.

Steven's BIO: Steven Kuhr has spent his career in Emergency Management, building a diverse portfolio of leadership positions across multiple sectors. Mr. Kuhr served as Director of Emergency Management, Enterprise Continuity, and Security Operations at Colorado Springs Utilities.

While serving in this position, Mr. Kuhr oversaw crisis, risk, and resiliency operations for energy and water utilities and dam operations for Colorado’s second largest city. During this 0time, Mr. Kuhr also served as a Director with the InfraGard-Denver and co-founded the Colorado Critical Infrastructure Alliance.

Earlier, Mr. Kuhr served with the New York City Office of Emergency Management as a founding Deputy Commissioner, leading emergency operations and multi-risk emergency planning. 
Prior to that he served with the New York City Fire Department as EMS Deputy Chief and Special Operations Commander. 

Mr. Kuhr is a trusted Crisis Management Leader. He has advised elected officials, CEOs and “C-Suite” Leaders during complex emergencies, major disasters, and terrorist attacks. Mr. Kuhr is also a respected consultant, serving as Managing Director and Emergency Management Practice Leader at Kroll Inc., and President and Chief Operating Officer at Strategic Emergency Group LLC. Mr. Kuhr has advised a variety of organizations in several business industries and government sectors to include federal, state, and local government agencies, transportation (rail, aviation, seaport, and surface), financial, energy (electricity/natural gas), water/wastewater, dams, major league baseball, cable news,  commercial properties, defense, justice, law enforcement, and an agency serving people with disabilities and special needs.

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Summary: In this episode of the PIO podcast, Kent Keller, former police officer and now CEO of OS Media Group, shares his journey from law enforcement to marketing for public safety agencies. He discusses the importance of community engagement, the challenges public information officers face, and how his company aims to support smaller agencies with their communication needs. Keller also explores the role of social media and AI in public safety, and offers insights into the future of public information officers and best practices for effective communication.

Kent's BIO: Kent Keller is a retired police officer who now lives in the Omaha-Metro area after serving more than 11 years in Northern Colorado. Kent's last assignment as a sworn officer was as the Greeley Police Department's PIO & Media Relations Manager. Due to a career-ending on-duty car accident, Kent founded OS Media Group and transitioned to being the Greeley Police Department’s first-ever civilian contracted PIO & Media Relations Manager. 

 While serving in this new capacity, Kent & OS Media Group more than doubled the Greeley Police Department’s followers across all social media channels. In addition, they increased GPD’s community engagement, helped skyrocket apprehensions of career criminals, completely refreshed the look of their brand, authored hundreds of press releases, and deployed tens of thousands of social media posts. Community Outreach campaigns and techniques started in Greeley by OS Media Group have been adopted by several other Denver-Metro police and public safety agencies.

 Kent also recognized a need and lack of support for small to medium-sized public safety agencies to have the same access to excellent social media management and branding assets, even if they didn’t have the same budget. Kent and his team can help you connect better with your community or step in and do it for you.

 You can see more examples of OS Media Group’s work and client success stories at OSMGMarketing.com. You can contact Kent directly by email at [email protected]. 

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Our premiere sponsor, Social News Desk, has an exclusive offer for PIO Podcast listeners. Head over to socialnewsdesk.com/pio to get three months free when a qualifying agency signs up.