Smart in Public

It's a HOT TAKE BAY BEE! In this bonus episode of the Smart in Public podcast, the Katies slightly unravel talking about Blue Origin's recent space mission featuring an all-female crew. They unpacked the publicity leading up to the launch, how it aligned to Blue Origin's company mission, the media's reaction, the public backlash, and the implications of celebrity involvement in space exploration. Yes we did some [heavy] critiquing on the PR strategy around the mission, including the focus on superficial aspects rather than substantive discussions about women in STEM and the role of NASA amidst budget cuts. They also reflect on the impact of wealth on space tourism and the need for humility in celebrity culture, ultimately celebrating the achievement while calling for a more meaningful narrative around women in space.Chapters03:04 - The Crew and Their Significance06:05 - Public Perception and Media Coverage08:57 - The Role of Celebrity in Space Exploration12:06 - Critique of Blue Origin's Messaging15:03 - The Broader Implications for Women in STEM18:08 - Conclusion and Reflections on the Future19:40 - Gail King's Perspective on Space Travel22:00 - The Cost of Space Travel and Public Perception24:35 - Celebrity Influence and Public Relations in Space26:04 - Katy Perry: Public Image and Controversies29:58 - Reflections on Female Representation in Space33:01 - Concluding Thoughts on Space Exploration and Celebrity CultureKey TakeawaysThe crew consisted of notable public figures, raising questions about representation.Media reactions highlighted the superficial focus on celebrity appearances.Criticism arose regarding the lack of substantive discussions on STEM.NASA's budget cuts coincided with Blue Origin's flight, raising concerns.The wealth disparity in space tourism was a significant point of contention.Gail King's comments sparked backlash regarding the mission's purpose.Katy Perry's involvement drew mixed reactions about celebrity influence.The conversation emphasized the need for humility in celebrity culture.Connect with us on: Instagram TikTok Web Have a topic or a guest idea? Email us at hello@smartinpublicpod.com

In this episode of the Smart in Public podcast, the Katies discuss the significance of data storytelling across executive messaging, narrative creation, cross-functional campaign development, industry positioning, and public relations. They explore various types of data research, the importance of sample size, and how to effectively leverage data for storytelling and media engagement. The conversation walks comms & marketing leaders how to strategically plan and collaborate across business functions to maximize the impact of data-driven narratives.TakeawaysWhat data storytelling programs are and how they can can be a critical   communication toolLearn good and bad examples of data storytellingWhy sample size is essential for credible research findingsWhere data can fill gaps in narratives where proof points are lackingHow to successfully collaborate across business functions to enhance the impact of dataWhy timing is key when releasing data to align with external eventsWhen to refresh your data should be refreshed in order to remain relevantWhy quick and dirty research has a limited lifespanHow engaging journalists with exclusive data can yield better resultsPlanning early is critical to avoid rushed research processesChapters08:10 - Data Storytelling: The Importance of Data in Communication10:33 - Successful Examples of Data Storytelling13:34 - Challenges in Data Storytelling16:30 - Aligning Data Research with Business Goals19:27 - Funding and Cost Considerations for Research24:30 - Understanding Research Costs and Sample Sizes30:38 - The Importance of Data Storytelling38:33 - Maximizing the Longevity of Data40:54 - Key Recommendations for Effective Data UseConnect with us on: Instagram TikTok Web Have a topic or a guest idea? Email us at hello@smartinpublicpod.com

In this episode of the Smart in Public podcast, the Katies welcome Cath Anderson to the pod to talk about narrative development, messaging, her board seat on Planned Parenthood, career breaks, and A LOT MORE. For those that don't know Cath, she's a comms powerhouse with two decades of experience working in corporate communications and marketing roles. She specializes in shaping company narratives, mitigating reputation risk, and strategically positioning brands for long-term relevance and growth. Cath has built best-in-class communications teams, while advising CEOs and founders across various stages and sectors, from established global brands like Apple, Google, and Meta, to healthcare startups like Amwell and Cityblock Health. Her most recent role was a Corporate Comms Exec at Anthropic.We tap into Cath's experience to discuss the challenges of navigating social and political issues in corporate communications, the significance of internal versus external messaging, and the art of crafting compelling narratives for executives. Chapters02:47 - Navigating Career Transitions and the Power Pause05:40 - Engaging in Strategic Networking and Career Opportunities08:30 - Board Membership and Advocacy in Women's Health11:15 - Communications in a Changing Social Landscape13:57 - Preparing Executives for Social Issues and Crisis Management25:58 - Navigating Emotional Responses in Corporate Messaging28:12 - The Importance of Internal Communication32:08 - Building Trust Through Transparency35:53 - Crafting Compelling Narratives for Executives41:25 - Lessons in Humility and GrowthConnect with us on: Instagram TikTok Web Have a topic or a guest idea? Email us at hello@smartinpublicpod.com

In episode 26, the Katie's welcome Roberto Munoz, CEO of Munoz Communications, to give our listeners a crash course in comms consulting. This episode comes at a time when we're seeing a flood of top communications talent leave the corporate world to become consultants, and Roberto is the perfect guest to help set anyone -- from the seasoned consultant to the consultant curious -- on the right track for building a client pipeline, identifying what services you want to offer, how much to charge, how to evolve with the market, and even how to simply get started.Thank you Roberto for joining us!!Chapters00:00 - Introduction to Roberto and Boysen's Consulting Journeys02:56 - The Rise of Consultants in the Market06:12 - Navigating Imposter Syndrome08:35 - Building a Personal Brand11:56 - The Importance of Community14:53 - Pricing Strategies for Consultants17:56 - Testing Ideas and Feedback20:57 - Final Thoughts and Audience Questions35:18 - The Deconstructed Agency Model38:03 - Fractional CCO: A New Approach41:31 - Navigating the Consulting Landscape44:49 - Building Relationships with VCs47:57 - Finding Clients and Opportunities49:05 - Starting Your Consulting Journey52:11 - Leveraging AI in Consulting56:54 - Essential Tech Tools for ConsultantsHave a question, guest idea, or a topic recommendation? Email us at hello@smartinpublicpod.com.Connect with us on: Instagram TikTok Web Have a topic or a guest idea? Email us at hello@smartinpublicpod.com

In episode 25 of the Smart in Public Podcast, the Katies welcome Alexandra Whiting, Head of Content at The Memo, to chat through the world of content creators; brand messaging; and telling stories that will actually build a community. Of course, it wouldn't be like us to not get side tracked into the importance of other areas like the challenges of PR / media relationships and the unique approach The Memo takes in curating parenting products - but we think you'll enjoy all those topics too! Think of Alexandra as a deep well of insights on authenticity in motherhood content and the empowerment of women in business, emphasizing the need for genuine connections and community in the parenting space. It's a really great episode to learn about how to get under the hood of a brand and we learned a lot from this chat!TakeawaysThe importance of creative writing and marketing.Write hooks that capture the audience's attention and drives engagement.How to write better pitches.Adapting to new formats and audience expectations across blog and magazine content.How to create an online communityMaintaining authenticity in contentChapters01:49 - Alexandra Whiting's Career Journey05:50 - Lessons from Working in Magazines10:01 - The Importance of the Hook in Content13:43 - PR Perspectives on Engagement and Pitches18:43 - Transitioning from Magazines to Content Creation28:34 - The Evolution of Content Marketing32:30 - The Power of Loyalty Programs36:43 - Creating a Unique Shopping Experience for New Parents45:28 - Authenticity in Motherhood Content53:59 - Empowering Women in BusinessConnect with us on: Instagram TikTok Web Have a topic or a guest idea? Email us at hello@smartinpublicpod.com

In episode 24 of Smart in Public, the Katies deliver an in-depth analysis of corporate Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) in today's business environment. This timely episode explores how companies are adapting their DEI strategies, the crucial role of communications teams in driving meaningful change, and strategies for maintaining authentic corporate values during shifting market dynamics.Key Discussion Points:The current state of corporate DEI initiatives and their effectivenessStrategic approaches to measuring DEI success beyond short-term metricsImpact of employee feedback on DEI program developmentBuilding resilient brand values in challenging market conditionsRole of communications teams in corporate leadership decisionsEssential Insights:Strategies for developing authentic DEI programsMethods for measuring long-term DEI successUnderstanding employee perspectives on corporate DEI effortsManaging brand reputation during policy changesElevating communications in corporate decision-makingMaintaining transparency in corporate messagingFor Communications Professionals: Learn how to advocate for meaningful DEI initiatives, develop effective measurement strategies, and navigate complex corporate decisions while maintaining brand integrity.For Business Leaders: Gain insights into balancing stakeholder expectations, measuring DEI program effectiveness, and maintaining authentic corporate values in today's business environment.#CorporateDEI #CommunicationsStrategy #BusinessLeadership #EmployeeEngagement #CorporateCulture #DEIInitiatives #BusinessCommunicationsConnect with us on: Instagram TikTok Web Have a topic or a guest idea? Email us at hello@smartinpublicpod.com

In episode 23 of Smart in Public, the Katies sit down with Cheryl Sanclemente, Chief Communications Officer at Lattice, for ​a real-talk conversation about career development, ​mentorship, comms leaders on boards, the sentiment in HR tech​ during a time of massive layoffs across the industry, ​and ​age old question of work-life balance.Key Discussion Highlights:Career Transformation: Cheryl's remarkable journey from finance to tech leadershipAI in the Workplace: Exploring the critical role of HR in responsible AI integrationCommunications Strategy: Navigating the evolving landscape of corporate communicationsProfessional Growth: The transformative power of mentorship and networkingWork-Life Balance: Strategies for working parents managing career and familyKey Topics Covered:Cheryl's professional journey from Salesforce to LatticeThe impact of artificial intelligence on modern workforceHR technology trends in the current job marketESG communications and leadershipNetworking strategies for career advancementBalancing professional ambitions with family responsibilitiesListeners will gain valuable insights into:Career development in the tech industryNavigating professional transitionsLeveraging mentorship for career growthAdapting to technological changes in the workplaceChapters04:49​ Cheryl's Career Journey and Transition to Tech09:15​ Navigating Layoffs and New Opportunities14:14​ The Role of a Chief Communications Officer19:16​ Balancing Transparency in Communications23:02​ AI's Role in People Management26:05​ Communicators as Change Agents30:03​ Authenticity in Corporate Storytelling31:40​ The Evolving Role of Comms at Davos34:52​ Building Presence at Global Events38:31​ Board Involvement 40:57​ The Power of Mentorship and Sponsorship45:25​ Balancing Work and Family LifeThis episode is perfect for professionals in tech, HR, communications, and anyone interested in career development and work-life balance.#CareerGrowth #TechLeadership #WorkLifeBalance #AIinWorkplace #HRTech #ProfessionalDevelopmentConnect with us on: Instagram TikTok Web Have a topic or a guest idea? Email us at hello@smartinpublicpod.com

This week, the Katies are joined by Allie Cefalo, Marketing Partner at Kleiner Perkins, who shares her journey from leading global communications teams to running marketing for one of the world's best known Venture Capital firms. In this episode, you'll get a peek into the world of VC comms and the insider communications strategies. Discover how top VC firms support founders, craft compelling brand narratives, and navigate the evolving landscape of startup marketing.We laughed a lot, we learned a lot, we shared some embarrassing stories. It's an episode you won't want to miss!Podcast HighlightsInsider strategies for startup storytellingThe critical role of video in modern marketingAuthentic branding techniquesCommunications and marketing intersectionCareer insights for PR and marketing professionalsEpisode Timestamps02:43 - Transitioning from Communications to Marketing05:41 - Business Storytelling Evolution08:42 - Video's Impact on Marketing11:29 - Personal Branding for Leaders14:33 - Communications Accountability17:18 - Comms and Marketing Convergence20:18 - PR Career Development23:24 - Strategic Communications for Founders25:45 - Startup Audience EngagementDon't miss this revealing conversation packed with actionable insights for entrepreneurs, marketers, and communications professionals!Connect with us on: Instagram TikTok Web Have a topic or a guest idea? Email us at hello@smartinpublicpod.com

Corey duBrowa, CEO of Burson and a communications powerhouse with a 30-year career at companies like Google and Starbucks, shares his insights on the evolving landscape of PR. He discusses the transformative impact of AI on communication strategies and the necessity of adaptability. Corey also emphasizes tailored messaging during crises and the importance of early communication involvement in decision-making. Additionally, he explores the art of storytelling, drawing parallels with music and highlights the role of effective leadership in navigating talent dynamics.

Looking for a job in comms? Well it's your lucky day. This week, the Katies welcome Brooke Kruger, founder of KC Partners, to discuss the current hiring landscape in the communications field through the eyes of one of the industry's best comms recruiters. The conversation covers a broad range of job hunting, hiring, and interview tips including the importance of skills and education, career advice for newcomers in communications, preparing for interviews, and the impact of AI on hiring. They also explore common mistakes made by companies during the hiring process, the dynamics of returning to the office, and advice for international candidates looking to work in the U.S. Key TopicsAn overview of the 'go direct' approach in communications and its impact on roles.How AI is increasingly used in the hiring process.How to build a network that can help you break into the industry.How to prepare specific examples of their work for interviews.Company hiring best practices that can fix a broke recruitment process.The return to office trend and where employers should consider flexibility in order to attract top talent.Tips for international candidates to get jobs that take them overseas.You can get in touch with KC Partners via their website here: https://kc-partners.com/Time Stamps:05:07 - Current Hiring Landscape in Communications08:29 - The Importance of Education in PR10:29 - Skills and Trends in Junior to Mid-Level Roles12:53 - Transferable Skills Across Industries14:27 - The Interview Process and AI's Role17:16 - Advice for Newcomers in Communications19:02 - Preparing for Interviews20:46 - Navigating the Hiring Process24:11 - The Ghosting Dilemma in Recruitment27:54 - Return to Office: Balancing Flexibility and Structure30:21 - International Candidates: Pathways to the U.S.Connect with us on: Instagram TikTok Web Have a topic or a guest idea? Email us at hello@smartinpublicpod.com