The WordBirds Podcast with Chris Willis

Cut the jargon. Boost the clarity.

Jolene Peixoto, Relex Solutions’ anti-marketing comms leader, joins WordBirds to challenge buzzwords and embrace plain English messaging.

Why it matters: Clear, concise communication builds trust, drives engagement, and sets your brand apart.

Key takeaway: Prove your value with data and authenticity—not empty claims.

🎧 Listen now to sharpen your message.

This special episode brings you the top insights from WordBirds Season 6, hosted by AI voices Lance and Audrina (from NotebookLM).

Why it matters: This AI-powered and hosted recap dives into must-hear lessons on intentional communication, bridging generational gaps, and building trust.

Catch up: Perfect for anyone who missed an episode—but don’t stop here. Go back and listen to each conversation in full for the stories behind the insights.

Why it matters: Communicators often get stuck in tactical roles, but real value comes from strategic influence. In this episode, Bronagh Hanley, Partner & CCO at Preface Global, shares how she built influence at companies like Netflix and Discovery, and how you can too.

Key takeaways:

• Ask "why" to uncover the strategy behind every communication.
• Build C-suite relationships by proving the business value of comms.
• Learn how one strategic move can shift your entire career.

Go deeper: Listen to Bronagh’s insights on shaping corporate communication into a business-driving force.

In this episode (part 2 of 2), we talk with Joanna Parsons about the power of measurement in internal communications. Joanna, author of Innovative Internal Communications, explains why many comms teams avoid measurement, how to align goals with business strategy, and practical ways to demonstrate value. We also explore how measuring impact can elevate internal comms from a tactical function to a strategic partner.

Why it matters:
Without clear metrics, internal comms risks being undervalued. Measurement shows leadership the real business impact — from reducing attrition to improving alignment.

The big picture:
Effective measurement connects comms to outcomes that matter: savings, revenue, or employee engagement. It's not just about people listening — it’s about showing how comms moves the business forward.

What’s next:
Learn how to build a measurement framework, communicate value to leadership, and start experimenting with data-driven strategies to strengthen your comms career.

Chris Willis and guest Michael Franklin, founder and executive director of Speechwriters of Color, dive into the complexities of communicating across a multi-generational workforce and navigating evolving workplace expectations.

Why it matters: Understanding how different generations interact in the workplace is crucial to fostering collaboration, increasing engagement, and driving organizational success.

The big picture: Good communication is universal, but tailoring messages to resonate with diverse audiences—across generational, geographical, and ideological lines—makes the difference between connection and miscommunication.

What’s next: Leaders and communicators must work together to bridge these gaps, ensuring every voice is heard while maintaining cohesion within the workforce.

Chris Willis and guest Monique Zytnik author of Internal Communication in the Age of Artificial Intelligence, and Chairman of IABC EMEA as they explore the changing landscape of internal communications in an AI-driven world.

Why it matters: Internal communicators are pivotal in aligning communication strategies with organizational goals, fostering engagement, and reducing costs.

• AI offers tools to enhance, not replace, human communicators, reinforcing their strategic role.

The big picture: Leadership must champion effective communication to shape company culture.

• Strategic internal communications are key in navigating tech-centric environments.

What’s next: Discover practical examples of AI integration and the future of storytelling in leadership.

• Monique Zytnik challenges communicators to influence leadership and question the status quo.

Chris Willis sits down with Rachel Adam, Head of Brand and Communications at Sonar, to explore the critical role of strategic communications in shaping and amplifying brand identity.

Why it matters: Strategic communications are vital for aligning brand and comms to drive business success.

• Effective storytelling can command the narrative and elevate your brand.
• Navigating internal and external messaging is crucial for maintaining a cohesive brand identity.

Go deeper: Rachel shares her journey through B2B tech PR and the key lessons she’s learned.

• From storytelling to navigating internal and external messaging, Rachel offers invaluable insights.
• Learn how to align brand and communications for business success.

What’s next: Tune in to learn how to command the narrative and elevate your brand through effective communication.

In this episode of WordBirds, Chris Willis interviews Dave Guarino, Head of Global Communications at Wolters Kluwer.

What it's about: Understanding the journey to a C-suite position in communications provides invaluable lessons for aspiring leaders.

• Dave shares his transition from stick-ball fanatic to financial compliance to corporate communications.
• Offers practical advice on building a career in communications.

The big picture: Strategic thinking and effective team leadership are crucial for success in corporate communications.

• Dave emphasizes the importance of these skills in his roles as CCO.

Yes, and: This episode is a must-listen for anyone aiming for the C-suite or just starting in the field.

• Provides valuable insights on what it takes to succeed in corporate communications.

In this episode of WordBirds, Chris Willis interviews Joanna Parson, CEO of The Curious Route and author of Innovative Internal Communications.

Why it matters: Joanna’s journey from a curious thinker to a leading internal communications expert offers valuable insights and practical advice on rethinking internal comms strategies.

Driving the news: Joanna shares key takeaways from her new book and discusses how curiosity can drive innovation and improve communication within any organization.

What’s next: Tune in to explore how these insights can be applied to enhance internal communications in your own organization.

Yes, and: This is part 1 of 2 episodes speaking with Joanna Parsons. Part 2, coming soon, focuses on the measurement of internal comms!

Navigating crisis communications

In this episode of WordBirds, Chris Willis sits down with communications expert Roberto Munoz (Fannie Mae, HSBC, Tesco) to explore the critical role of crisis communications.

Why it matters: Effective crisis communication can be the difference between maintaining your brand's reputation and losing it. Roberto shares strategies from his experiences with major brands like Tesco and Fannie Mae.

• Balancing speed and accuracy during a crisis.
• Ensuring your message aligns with your brand's values.

Details: Roberto provides actionable insights to help businesses prepare for and navigate crises.

• The importance of having a crisis communication plan.
• Tips for staying calm and focused under pressure.

What’s next: Whether you're preparing for a crisis or navigating one, this episode offers valuable strategies to help your business emerge stronger.