The Crux of the Story

How do public policy, business and journalism all come together to shape corporate culture in today’s climate? Today's episode tackles just that. On this episode, we are joined by Judd Legum the author and founder of Popular Information, a newsletter that is described as “unfiltered, unbought and unbossed.” He breaks down how shoplifting policies, such as the one’s in San Francisco, really relate to the phenomena called “Shrink.” Furthermore, this episode also cover’s Judd Legum’s history of creating his newsletter Popular Information and even address’s other aspects of his career including his run for office.

Jargon is at the very essence of every current corporate climate, but what do all these terms mean? On this episode of the Crux of the Story we are joined by editor, Veronica Majerol, and contributing writer, Jordyn Holman of the New York Times’s column “Shop Talk”. They break down the essence and importance of clarifying the often confusing jargon within the business world. From “dogfooding” to “impact chats”, this episode tackles defining what terms like this actually mean.

Scientist and award-winning communicator Chris Reddy from Woods Hole Oceanographic Institute joined us on The Crux to talk about effective science communication in a crisis. For more than 25 years, Chris has been called on for high profile ocean disasters including the Deepwater Horizon oil spill. He shares with us lessons learned, such as keeping the humanity of those affected in the forefront of the messaging. In a time when science has been weaponized and distorted, Chris’s perspective on clear, accurate communication offers thoughtful insight and opportunity to work together toward common understanding.

The power of trust can transform a business from top to bottom, and is proven to affect the bottom line as well. Trust is more than just a coms issue, but a strategic business issue as well. Join us for a fascinating discussion with Russell Dubner from Boston Consulting Group about his work with the C-suite to evaluate and establish trust in leading companies.

PRLab celebrates its 45th anniversary--It is the longest-operating student-run PR agency in the country. Creating a synergy between clients and students that benefits both is a key to success, leading to multiple awards through the years. Join our conversation to discuss what has changed, and what remains the same as the next generation prepares for careers in communication.

According to a recent Gallup poll, 71% of Americans approve of unions, the highest point since 1965.This week we sat down with Roy Bahat and Tom Kochan to discuss the best strategies for business leaders to deal authentically and respectfully with an organized workforce.

How can a leader remain authentic in the face of controversy or public criticism? Navalent’s Ron Carucci offers four key factors for success. Listen for a fascinating discussion on leadership, honesty, and finding satisfaction in the top spot.

As the Crux Celebrates its 100th episode, we sit down with three pros to discuss podcasts and the evolution of corporate communication. We look at the importance of technology and its many new uses to reach stakeholders. We discuss storytelling as an essential, enduring component of our work.

Pfizer’s Sally Susman joined “The Crux” to talk about her new book, “ “Breaking Through: Communicating to Open Minds, Move Hearts, and Change the World” chronicling the journey of vaccine development and offering guidance for other communicators. “I always thought the data would win the day. But it was the storytelling that won the day and not the storytelling of celebrities or rock stars or sports heroes or politicians so much as the storytelling of grandmas who got to see their grandkids, young college students who got to go back on campus. These kinds of very human, totally real stories told by loved ones, friends, neighbors, were very crucial to building consensus for the vaccine.” In addition to her experience surrounding vaccine development, Sally offers insights for communicators on clear writing, genuine and informed apologies, staying calm in crisis, and keeping a sense of humor throughout the journey. Tune it for more communication insights from one of the most important efforts during a worldwide crisis.

ChatGPT is a hot topic these days, often with more questions than answers. Dr. Wildman, professor of Philosophy, Theology, and Ethics at Boston University, and his “Data, Ethics, and Society” class put together the first-ever blueprint for the academic use of Chat GPT and similar AI models. The Generative AI Assistance (GAIA) Policy “stresses transparency, fairness, and obligations for both students and teachers.” In this episode, Wildman addresses the reality that AI generated language is not going away, but also explores ways to use the technology to increase skill sets without allowing it to damage an industry. Listen to a fascinating discussion of the ethical implications but also the far-reaching opportunities for this powerful technology.