HearSay

In this episode, Michael Maslansky, Lee Carter, and special guest Michelle Mahony from Daggerwing, dive into the evolving role of language in business, with a special focus on internal communications and DEI. As companies face external pressures and shifting political climates, how do they navigate the tension between staying true to their values and adjusting their language? They explore the real-world challenges internal comms and HR teams face when words like “diversity” and “equity” come under scrutiny—and what happens when companies change course, stay firm, or try to find middle ground. 

In this episode, CEO of Maslansky + Partners, Michael Maslansky, and President and Partner Lee Carter discuss the challenges businesses face in realigning their Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) strategies following recent executive orders from the new administration. With companies grappling to find a balance between adhering to their DEI commitments and navigating external pressures from political entities and advocacy groups, Michael and Lee dive deep into how companies can effectively communicate and implement these changes. Tune in to hear firsthand of how businesses can continue to champion DEI amidst a rapidly shifting landscape. 

In this episode, Michael Maslansky and Lee Carter tackle a pressing question for businesses and trade groups: Should they publicly speak out on tariffs, or is silence the smarter move? And if they do want to engage, how should they do it? We explore the risks and rewards of making a statement, the challenge of breaking through public skepticism, and the evolving strategies needed to shape the conversation. Plus, they debate whether traditional corporate messaging still works—or if it’s time for a radically different approach. 

Dive into the latest episode of HearSay, where Michael Maslansky, Lee Carter, and Ben Feller serve up a no-holds-barred analysis of the Super Bowl ads—because if there’s one thing we love discussing more than touchdowns, it’s bold messaging!  Did brands play it too safe, or did they hit that sweet spot of emotional resonance we’re all craving—(even if the game itself was lacking)? The crew takes a critical look at the pharma industry’s ads, dissecting Pfizer’s heartfelt strategy and questioning the audacity of the Hims & Hers ad that boldly capitalizes on our skepticism about Big Pharma. From themes of patriotism and diversity to an oddly low focus on actual products, this episode is packed with sharp insights into how powerful messaging can shatter or strengthen a brand’s image in today’s fast-moving landscape. Tune in for spirited debates that might just change how you think about the ads we all saw!

Welcome back to a new season of HearSay! In this episode, CEO Michael Maslansky and President and Partner, Lee Carter delve into the complexities of communication strategies under the Trump administration. With public trust at an all-time low, companies must redefine their messaging to connect authentically with audiences, avoid becoming targets of political and social backlash, and stay aligned with national narratives. Listen in as they offer insights and strategies to help you build resilient communication strategies for turbulent times.

In our final episode of the season, we dive into the language moments that defined politics, culture, and business in 2024. From groundbreaking political quotes to cultural catchphrases and impactful business language, we explore not only what was said but what it means for the future. Join us for an engaging discussion on the implications of these language moments and what they might signal for 2025. 

Equity, access, and impact are terms often used but seldom fully understood or effectively communicated within the healthcare sector. In this episode of HearSay, President and Partner Lee Carter, Senior Vice President Maria Boos, and guest Rajni Samavedam, CEO of Rabin Martin, delve into why it’s important to go beyond corporate social responsibility, how to measure impact without the numbers, and actionable ways to reframe the story for success. 

It’s been one of the most unconventional and consequential presidential elections in American history. Amid the confusion, division, and turbulence, we spotted some valuable insights and important takeaways. This special live episode of HearSay will help you make sense of the outcome so you can thrive in these post-election days, with lessons from both sides that you can leverage for your own work. 

In this episode of HearSay, Partners Michael Maslansky, Lee Hartley Carter, and Katie Cronen navigate the complex terrain of "bad facts" in messaging—a topic that is as timely as it is uncomfortable. In a landscape fraught with political controversies like Biden’s age and corporate scandals such as skyrocketing pharmaceutical prices, denial is simply not an option. Instead, our hosts unpack a transformative approach to confronting these tricky realities through the framework of the four Rs: Reject, Rebut, Reframe, and Replace. Tune in to sharpen your communication strategy and understand the power of language in the face of adversity.

You’ve got a breakthrough innovation that is much better than what’s come before – why is it so hard to sell it? In this episode, CEO Michael Maslansky, Partner Keith Yazmir, and Senior Vice President Will Howard dissect the challenges of selling innovation whether you are selling enterprise technology, a new investment product, or plant-based meat. They discuss language tactics for conveying the benefits of innovation, address resistance to change, and offer solutions for navigating unrecognized problems. Through compelling examples and practical insights, the episode provides valuable guidance for navigating the complexities of selling innovation in today's dynamic market landscape.