The PR Breakdown with Molly McPherson

Ever wondered how celebrities handle allegations of infidelity and the intricate dance of public perception? This episode might just quench your curiosity. We journey through the scandalous world of celebrity affairs, from the rumored affair of Ariana Grande and Ethan Slater to infamous cases like Tiger Woods, Brad Pitt, and former New York Governor Eliot Spitzer (with an unexpected e connection to a popular social media influencer you may know from TikTok.) Discover how these celebrities, with the help of their PR teams, maneuver through these crises, attempt to salvage their reputations, and sometimes even utilize these incidents for personal gain.Throughout this episode, we'll also examine the historical context of celebrity affairs as we step back to that monumental and controversial relationship between Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie. Remember when they met on the set of "Mr. and Mrs. Smith" while Brad was still married to Jennifer Aniston? Based on a controversal interview, Pitt likely  would prefer you didn't. As we wrap up this episode, we leave you with a thought-provoking perspective on the world of celebrity affairs. Unmask the truth behind these scandals, understand the role of power, fame, reputation, and money in relationships, and consider the importance of public apology and atonement. Navigate the messy world of celebrity affairs with us and get a unique insight into the strategies employed to manage public perception. Remember, this episode is not an endorsement of infidelity, but an exploration of its PR spin in the celebrity world. The media tool I use to track stories, monitor coverage, and help clients get their message in the right hands. Click here to learn more. Want More Behind the Breakdown? Follow The PR Breakdown with Molly McPherson on Substack for early access to podcast episodes, exclusive member chats, weekly lives, and monthly workshops that go deeper than the mic. It's the insider’s hub for communicators who want strategy with spine—and a little side-eye where it counts.Follow Molly → @MollyMcPherson Subscribe to PR Breakdown on Substack → prbreakdown.media Need a Keynote Speaker? Drawing from real-world PR battles, Molly delivers the same engaging stories and hard-won crisis insights from the podcast to your live audience. Click here to book Molly for your next meeting. This podcast is supported by Muck Rack, the PR management platform I use to monitor media coverage, track journalist activity, and inform high-stakes strategy with real-time data. Click here to try Muck Rack for yourself. Follow & Connect with Molly: https://www.youtube.com/mollymcpherson https://www.tiktok.com/@mollybmcpherson ...

Picture this: A quarter of our population and forty percent of American families are affected by disability, yet its representation in media and advertising is a mere 1%. As we navigate the complex world of disability rights and inclusion, we are joined by a special guest who gives us a first-hand perspective. Meet Kelsey Lindell, a physically disabled woman who’s educating a million people about disability rights and ableism, while challenging misconceptions and stereotypes.Disability isn't just about Paralympic champions. In our enlightening conversation with Kelsey, we dissect the common tendency to portray disabled people as inspiration for the non-disabled, while overlooking the reality of their everyday lives. We examine the commendable paradigm shift in brands like Nike featuring everyday disabled people in their ads, and the potential of disabled micro-influencers in creating a more inclusive narrative. We also delve into the powerful role influencers can play in advocating for disability inclusion and the shocking realities they can bring to light.Lastly, we focus on the importance of celebrating diversity in all its forms, especially during events like Pride Month, and the role of influencers and brands in making it happen. The journey to inclusion is fraught with challenges, but the first step begins with awareness and understanding. So, join us as we unravel the true meaning of disability inclusion, and challenge ourselves to make a positive difference in the world. Because, as Kelsey says, there’s much more to disability than meets the eye. Addtional Resources:Let Misfit Media help you plan a Disability Pride Plan. Crafting Inclusive Social Media Posts: A Guide to Promoting Disability Awareness and InclusionThe media tool I use to track stories, monitor coverage, and help clients get their message in the right hands. Click here to learn more. Want More Behind the Breakdown? Follow The PR Breakdown with Molly McPherson on Substack for early access to podcast episodes, exclusive member chats, weekly lives, and monthly workshops that go deeper than the mic. It's the insider’s hub for communicators who want strategy with spine—and a little side-eye where it counts.Follow Molly → @MollyMcPherson Subscribe to PR Breakdown on Substack → prbreakdown.media Need a Keynote Speaker? Drawing from real-world PR battles, Molly delivers the same engaging stories and hard-won crisis insights from the podcast to your live audience. Click here to book Molly for your next meeting. This podcast is supported by Muck Rack, the PR management platform I use to monitor media coverage, track journalist activity, and inform high-stakes strategy with real-time data. Click here to try Muck Rack for yourself. Follow & Connect with Molly: https://www.youtube.com/mollymcpherson https://www.tiktok.com/@mollybmcpherson ...

This episode explores the unsettling world of gaslighting in media, culture, politics, and personal relationships. White House briefings and actor Jonah Hill's leaked texts illustrate how manipulation and control shape narratives. We discuss a recent press briefing, allegations and irresponsible reporting surrounding a controversial incident. Additionally, we discuss damaging texts leaked by Jonah Hill's ex-girlfriend, which led to a viral revenge plot on social media. The topic of gaslighting will also be covered in terms of popular songs and in the political sphere. You will learn how to recognize and combat gaslighting in your own life. Whether in personal or professional relationships, learn how to quell the desire to put someone on social media blast. Even though it is cathartic, it can also be very damaging to your reputation.Mentioned in this episode: - Molly's TikTok about Jonah Hill and Sarah Brady Part 1.- Molly's TikTok about Jonah Hill and Sarah Brady Part 2.  - Gaslighting as a manipulation tactic- Characteristics and motives of gaslighters- Introduction to the concept of gaslighting and its impact on victims- Addressing the controversy involving actor Jonah Hill's texts- Connection between Olivia Rodrigo's song "Vampire" and gaslighting- Messaging challenges related to cocaine in the White House- Examples of gaslighting and manipulation in relationships- Importance of not engaging in viral revenge- Gaslighting in personal and professional relationships- Social media discourse on the motives behind publicizing personal texts and warning others about abusive behavior.The media tool I use to track stories, monitor coverage, and help clients get their message in the right hands. Click here to learn more. Want More Behind the Breakdown? Follow The PR Breakdown with Molly McPherson on Substack for early access to podcast episodes, exclusive member chats, weekly lives, and monthly workshops that go deeper than the mic. It's the insider’s hub for communicators who want strategy with spine—and a little side-eye where it counts.Follow Molly → @MollyMcPherson Subscribe to PR Breakdown on Substack → prbreakdown.media Need a Keynote Speaker? Drawing from real-world PR battles, Molly delivers the same engaging stories and hard-won crisis insights from the podcast to your live audience. Click here to book Molly for your next meeting. This podcast is supported by Muck Rack, the PR management platform I use to monitor media coverage, track journalist activity, and inform high-stakes strategy with real-time data. Click here to try Muck Rack for yourself. Follow & Connect with Molly: https://www.youtube.com/mollymcpherson https://www.tiktok.com/@mollybmcpherson ...

What if the ticking time bomb of a public relations crisis was right under your nose and you didn't even recognize it? Our latest episode brings you face to face with the harsh realities of reputational damages and guides you through murky waters of irrecoverable PR disasters. This is a discussion on the subtle signs that hint at a PR crisis spiraling out of control, from public outcry going viral to your stakeholders making a quick exit. We dissect the challenging environment created by the #MeToo movement for those on the receiving end of accusations and shine a light on the red flags that mark the point of no return. We also examine real-life cases, including the legal challenges faced by individuals such as Colleen Ballinger, Ricky Martin, and Jonathan Majors.Prepare for a deep dive into the world of crisis management as we stress the need for a team that can tackle legal hurdles while expertly handling PR strategies. We spill the beans on hiring a 'fixer' and discuss the crucial difference between a legal and a PR fixer. But that's not all - we also are going to arm you with the 'Own It, Explain It, Promise It' formula, a proactive approach to managing your reputation. No more fumbling in the dark, this episode is all about being prepared, proactive and primed to handle any PR crisis that comes your way.Mentioned in This Episode:hi. YouTube Video apology by Colleen Ballinger Molly's TikTok about the clues to why Colleen Ballinger will likely not survive this PR crisis. Molly's TikTok about Jonathan Majors's Arrest and PR Strategy Molly's TikTok about Ricky Martin's video response to sexual allegations Want More Behind the Breakdown? Follow The PR Breakdown with Molly McPherson on Substack for early access to podcast episodes, exclusive member chats, weekly lives, and monthly workshops that go deeper than the mic. It's the insider’s hub for communicators who want strategy with spine—and a little side-eye where it counts.Follow Molly → @MollyMcPherson Subscribe to PR Breakdown on Substack → prbreakdown.media Need a Keynote Speaker? Drawing from real-world PR battles, Molly delivers the same engaging stories and hard-won crisis insights from the podcast to your live audience. Click here to book Molly for your next meeting. This podcast is supported by Muck Rack, the PR management platform I use to monitor media coverage, track journalist activity, and inform high-stakes strategy with real-time data. Click here to try Muck Rack for yourself. Follow & Connect with Molly: https://www.youtube.com/mollymcpherson https://www.tiktok.com/@mollybmcpherson ...

The following episode is a replay of Molly's live chat broadcast on YouTube on Thursday, June 29th at 12pm EDT.Join us for a special replay of Molly's live chat, where she delves into the captivating world of Colleen Ballinger, the performer behind the beloved character Miranda Sings. In this engaging episode, Molly takes us on a journey through Colleen's background, her significant following, and the recent PR crisis that unfolded.Starting with an introduction to Colleen Ballinger and her alter ego Miranda Sings, we explore her background as a trained performer and discuss the distinction between individuals who became famous on YouTube versus paid professionals. Our conversation then shifts to the magnitude of Colleen's following and the influence she holds over her young fan base, examining the attachment they have to her brand and the impact of having a large number of fans.We explore the individuals involved in her content creation process and discuss how non-professional team members can complicate the response during a crisis, shedding light on the challenges faced by influencers and their support systems.The episode takes a thought-provoking turn as we analyze the effects of fame on judgment and decision-making. We explore the concept of parasocial relationships, examining how they shape influencers' behavior and the impact they have on their audience. As we segue into the heart of the episode, we discuss the specific allegations against Colleen and the ensuing PR crisis. We delve into the association with grooming, explaining this predatory behavior and examining the media coverage and public response to the crisis.One of the most intriguing aspects of this story is Colleen's unique response—a ukulele protest song. We dissect the decision behind this unconventional choice and its implications for her reputation and public perception. Additionally, we explore the importance of media and PR strategies in preventing and managing a crisis, discussing the need for effective communication and decision-making during challenging times.Don't miss this engaging replay of The media tool I use to track stories, monitor coverage, and help clients get their message in the right hands. Click here to learn more. Want More Behind the Breakdown? Follow The PR Breakdown with Molly McPherson on Substack for early access to podcast episodes, exclusive member chats, weekly lives, and monthly workshops that go deeper than the mic. It's the insider’s hub for communicators who want strategy with spine—and a little side-eye where it counts.Follow Molly → @MollyMcPherson Subscribe to PR Breakdown on Substack → prbreakdown.media Need a Keynote Speaker? Drawing from real-world PR battles, Molly delivers the same engaging stories and hard-won crisis insights from the podcast to your live audience. Click here to book Molly for your next meeting. This podcast is supported by Muck Rack, the PR management platform I use to monitor media coverage, track journalist activity, and inform high-stakes strategy with real-time data. Click here to try Muck Rack for yourself. Follow & Connect with Molly: https://www.youtube.com/mollymcpherson https://www.tiktok.com/@mollybmcpherson ...

An episode that explores the Colleen Ballinger PR crisis before she released the ukulele apology song. In episode 248 of "Behind the Headlines," we delve into the gripping case of Colleen Ballinger, the renowned YouTube star known for her alter ego, Miranda Sings. As shocking grooming allegations against her surfaced, the response—or rather, lack thereof—by Colleen during her ongoing tour has left fans and the public intrigued.Recorded just hours before Colleen Ballinger's unexpected official response, we unravel the complexities surrounding her decision to remain silent amidst a storm of controversy. Join us as we navigate the timneline of this PR crisis, dissecting the implications of her choice and exploring the public's response.The media tool I use to track stories, monitor coverage, and help clients get their message in the right hands. Click here to learn more. Want More Behind the Breakdown? Follow The PR Breakdown with Molly McPherson on Substack for early access to podcast episodes, exclusive member chats, weekly lives, and monthly workshops that go deeper than the mic. It's the insider’s hub for communicators who want strategy with spine—and a little side-eye where it counts.Follow Molly → @MollyMcPherson Subscribe to PR Breakdown on Substack → prbreakdown.media Need a Keynote Speaker? Drawing from real-world PR battles, Molly delivers the same engaging stories and hard-won crisis insights from the podcast to your live audience. Click here to book Molly for your next meeting. This podcast is supported by Muck Rack, the PR management platform I use to monitor media coverage, track journalist activity, and inform high-stakes strategy with real-time data. Click here to try Muck Rack for yourself. Follow & Connect with Molly: https://www.youtube.com/mollymcpherson https://www.tiktok.com/@mollybmcpherson ...

The captivating story of the missing Titanic submersible and the PR crisis that ensued for OceanGate.  We unravel the media coverage, public perception, and the different strategies employed by Ocean Gate, the US Coast Guard, and other agencies, as well as the roles of social media and notable figures like James Cameron in shaping the narrative. Learn how transparency, timely communication, and empathy were key components in managing this disaster.We dive deep into the various media strategies used in crisis communication, analyzing how OceanGate and other organizations leveraged social media experts and the challenges they faced in releasing crucial information. We also discuss the involvement of brands like Boeing, University of Washington, Logitech, Blink 182, and The Simpsons in the story, and examine the impact of the press in the coverage. Plus, don't miss the incredible connection between the CEO's wife and the Titanic, her ancestors having been first-class passengers on the ill-fated ship!Finally, we emphasize the importance of having an online platform dedicated to user-generated content, allowing communities to interact, ask questions, and engage with your audience. Listen in as we explore how such platforms serve viewers and listeners better, providing a unique opportunity for better engagement and insight. Join us for this insightful and gripping episode that not only explores the Titanic submersible disaster but also offers valuable lessons in public relations strategies and crisis management.Topics covered in Episode 247 of Indestructible PR with Molly McPherson:- Referring to James Cameron's interview and Cameron's anger towards CEO Stockton Rush- Focus on money and wealth in ocean exploration- Tragic ending to submersible 'Titan' used to see Titanic shipwreck- Vessel had catastrophic implosion, killing all on board- Tragic consequences of recent billionaire space launch- Need for a crisis communication plan- Speaker's community platform called Five- Missing Titanic tourist immersible and PR crisis faced by OceanGate- Public relations crucial for crisis management- Coverage of the event and criticismThe media tool I use to track stories, monitor coverage, and help clients get their message in the right hands. Click here to learn more. Want More Behind the Breakdown? Follow The PR Breakdown with Molly McPherson on Substack for early access to podcast episodes, exclusive member chats, weekly lives, and monthly workshops that go deeper than the mic. It's the insider’s hub for communicators who want strategy with spine—and a little side-eye where it counts.Follow Molly → @MollyMcPherson Subscribe to PR Breakdown on Substack → prbreakdown.media Need a Keynote Speaker? Drawing from real-world PR battles, Molly delivers the same engaging stories and hard-won crisis insights from the podcast to your live audience. Click here to book Molly for your next meeting. This podcast is supported by Muck Rack, the PR management platform I use to monitor media coverage, track journalist activity, and inform high-stakes strategy with real-time data. Click here to try Muck Rack for yourself. Follow & Connect with Molly: https://www.youtube.com/mollymcpherson https://www.tiktok.com/@mollybmcpherson ...

What if you could connect with your audience and experts like never before? Discover the incredible new platform called Five that's backed by big names like Mark Zuckerberg, Jeff Bezos, and Bill Gates. I'm your host, Molly McPherson, and I'm thrilled to share how this game-changing app allows me to engage with my audience and answer your burning questions about public relations, crisis management, popular culture, news, and more. Join me in the Five community and let's dive into some valuable discussions!But wait! There's more!We're also tackling the complex world of cancel culture and crisis management, using Jessica Mulroney's recent return to Good Morning America as a prime example. Who gets to decide when someone is truly "canceled?" Explore different types of crises, from predictable events to those that spiral out of control in the blink of an eye. Learn how intense scrutiny from the press, online communities, or even strangers can lead to a loss of control over a narrative, ultimately sparking a crisis. Listen in as we navigate these challenging topics and share invaluable insights to help you become indestructible in your PR endeavors.[00:01:36] Community engagement through Patreon on industry changes.[00:04:35] Free membership removes content paywall pressure.[00:08:40] Favorite content shared on Patreon platform.[00:10:36] Brands and celebrities face constant crises.[00:15:06] Unexpected events impact businesses and individuals.[00:16:50] Scrutiny escalates quickly, reporter digs deeper.Want More Behind the Breakdown? Follow The PR Breakdown with Molly McPherson on Substack for early access to podcast episodes, exclusive member chats, weekly lives, and monthly workshops that go deeper than the mic. It's the insider’s hub for communicators who want strategy with spine—and a little side-eye where it counts.Follow Molly → @MollyMcPherson Subscribe to PR Breakdown on Substack → prbreakdown.media Need a Keynote Speaker? Drawing from real-world PR battles, Molly delivers the same engaging stories and hard-won crisis insights from the podcast to your live audience. Click here to book Molly for your next meeting. This podcast is supported by Muck Rack, the PR management platform I use to monitor media coverage, track journalist activity, and inform high-stakes strategy with real-time data. Click here to try Muck Rack for yourself. Follow & Connect with Molly: https://www.youtube.com/mollymcpherson https://www.tiktok.com/@mollybmcpherson ...

Last week was a big week for breaking news. From the departure of CEO Chris Licht to wildfires, last week was an example of the dynamic nature of breaking news. With technology and social media, headline news can now spread at unprecedented rates on a global scale. There is a spillover effect resulting from breaking news that companies and brands can utilize to identify threats regarding reputation during a public relation crisis. Using the events that unfolded last week, gain insight into how breaking news creates views on social media and how this can potentially place a company’s reputation at risk. Learn about the three crucial threats to all companies and organizations and how to successfully navigate a PR crisis. Throughout the episode, real-world examples of companies that have successfully managed public relations blowback are discussed, sharing valuable insights into their crisis management techniques and highlighting key learnings that can be applied to businesses of all sizes. Also covered is the interconnectedness between social media and breaking news, how to leverage social media to enhance a brand's reputation, the role of algorithms, and much more. Tune in and discover how to prepare for the next PR and social media crisis.Key Points From This Episode:The array of challenges to managing a company’s reputation.How news impacts what is trending on social media.Benefits and risks to a company that is leveraging social media.What we can learn from CNN's recent public relations fiasco.Differences between the reach of national and local news.Ways in which social media influences news headlines.Navigating the amplification of echo chambers.Making sure your message is strong and can mitigate misinformation.Preparing for the blowback from a business decision.Discover how social media algorithms can impact a brand.Today’s Indestructible PR® tip: prepare for your next PR and social media crisis.The media tool I use to track stories, monitor coverage, and help clients get their message in the right hands. Click here to learn more. Want More Behind the Breakdown? Follow The PR Breakdown with Molly McPherson on Substack for early access to podcast episodes, exclusive member chats, weekly lives, and monthly workshops that go deeper than the mic. It's the insider’s hub for communicators who want strategy with spine—and a little side-eye where it counts.Follow Molly → @MollyMcPherson Subscribe to PR Breakdown on Substack → prbreakdown.media Need a Keynote Speaker? Drawing from real-world PR battles, Molly delivers the same engaging stories and hard-won crisis insights from the podcast to your live audience. Click here to book Molly for your next meeting. This podcast is supported by Muck Rack, the PR management platform I use to monitor media coverage, track journalist activity, and inform high-stakes strategy with real-time data. Click here to try Muck Rack for yourself. Follow & Connect with Molly: https://www.youtube.com/mollymcpherson https://www.tiktok.com/@mollybmcpherson ...

What does it take for a brand to successfully navigate the delicate waters of LGBTQ+ marketing during Pride Month? Join us as we explore the challenges and rewards of inclusive marketing and branding, sharing various experiences from companies like Bud Light (messy) and Adidas (did anyone notice?) in their 2023 campaigns, we discuss the importance of having values and initiatives in place - and crisis communication plans - to avoid costly PR crises and the potential backlash from embracing this conversation.We dive into the corporate responses to LGBTQ+ backlash and the resulting decline in sales, threats of violence, and boycotts. We debunk the false narrative that trans people are preying on children and ask whether companies are truly willing to stand up for their beliefs in today's national conversation. Don't miss this insightful episode as we uncover lessons in successful LGBTQ+ marketing through the power of authenticity, open dialogue, and a commitment to inclusivity.The media tool I use to track stories, monitor coverage, and help clients get their message in the right hands. Click here to learn more. Want More Behind the Breakdown? Follow The PR Breakdown with Molly McPherson on Substack for early access to podcast episodes, exclusive member chats, weekly lives, and monthly workshops that go deeper than the mic. It's the insider’s hub for communicators who want strategy with spine—and a little side-eye where it counts.Follow Molly → @MollyMcPherson Subscribe to PR Breakdown on Substack → prbreakdown.media Need a Keynote Speaker? Drawing from real-world PR battles, Molly delivers the same engaging stories and hard-won crisis insights from the podcast to your live audience. Click here to book Molly for your next meeting. This podcast is supported by Muck Rack, the PR management platform I use to monitor media coverage, track journalist activity, and inform high-stakes strategy with real-time data. Click here to try Muck Rack for yourself. Follow & Connect with Molly: https://www.youtube.com/mollymcpherson https://www.tiktok.com/@mollybmcpherson ...