The Crux of the Story

Gary Sheffer and Mike Fernandez
  • 4.4 (12)
  • BUSINESS
  • UPDATED BIWEEKLY
The Crux of the Story

Two PR veterans who get to the heart of big stories in media and communications. Featuring guests such as the editor of the Wall Street Journal, and Oscar-winning producers.

  1. The Business of Integrated Marketing Communications and Diversity with Entrepreneur Kim Hunter

    MAR 2

    The Business of Integrated Marketing Communications and Diversity with Entrepreneur Kim Hunter

    Kim Hunter, a trailblazing entrepreneur with over four decades of making his mark in multicultural integrated marketing, makes the case that the business of diversity is business. His LAGRANT COMMUNICATIONS has produced innovative marketing solutions for some of America’s top brands from Verizon to Harley Davidson and the American Cancer Society. THE LAGRANT FOUNDATION, which he founded, has awarded more than $3 million in academic scholarships to aspiring young professionals in advertising, marketing, and public relations. And his executive search firm, KLH & ASSOCIATES, has helped place racially and ethnically diverse candidates in top-level communications roles at top companies and agencies. Join us as we delve into Kim's inspiring journey, his interesting – and maybe surprising – take on diversity, equity, and inclusion, and the impact of his work.

    49 min
  2. Unlocking the Power of Words with Obama Speechwriter Terry Szuplat

    FEB 23

    Unlocking the Power of Words with Obama Speechwriter Terry Szuplat

    A powerful speech can inspire, persuade, and move an audience to action. That said, crafting and delivering a speech can be daunting. In his new book, "Say It Well: Find Your Voice, Speak Your Mind, Inspire Any Audience," former White House speechwriter Terry Szuplat demystifies the art of public speaking and shares valuable pointers and lessons from his distinguished career. He also discusses favorite speeches and the role of social media and AI. Szuplat runs a speechwriting firm, Global Voice Communications, helping leaders in business, non-profits and politics.

    42 min
  3. Doug Pinkham: Transforming Public Affairs in Washington

    FEB 16

    Doug Pinkham: Transforming Public Affairs in Washington

    Doug Pinkham, a veteran of Washington, DC's political scene, served for 27 years as the president and CEO of the Public Affairs Council. Under his leadership, the Council became the leading public affairs membership organization, known for its annual Public Affairs Pulse Survey and its comprehensive State of Corporate Public Affairs Report. Doug discusses how political transitions, including the new Trump Administration’s, have and are changing public discourse and the public affairs profession. He also explores the vital importance of public affairs and government relations for corporations and non-profits, the impact of digital advocacy, and the growing significance of and need for transparency and smart stakeholder engagement.

    52 min
  4. Muck Rack CEO: How A.I. and Social are Transforming Journalism and PR

    FEB 9

    Muck Rack CEO: How A.I. and Social are Transforming Journalism and PR

    Greg Galant, co-founder and CEO, of Muck Rack discusses Muck Rack's unique market position serving the needs of journalists as well as PR professionals and newsmakers – connecting each to each other and offering services to both that enhance workflow and measure impact. Greg discusses his firm’s AI-enhanced services that enhance pitches and better connect professionals across digital platforms.  We also discuss The Shorty Awards, social and digital media trends, the state of journalism and PR, the influence of AI, and much more.

    45 min
  5. Page-Harris Poll Confidence in Business Index

    JAN 27

    Page-Harris Poll Confidence in Business Index

    This is our first show of 2025, and we’re kicking things off with two esteemed guests: Rob Jekielek, Managing Director of The Harris Poll, and Dr. Rochelle Ford, the new CEO of the Arthur W. Page Society. They are here to discuss the Page-Harris Poll Confidence in Business Index, their joint global opinion survey just introduced at the World Economic Forum in Davos. The research highlights several critical issues that businesses must address, according to respondents, to build and sustain public confidence.

    43 min
  6. Navigating Brands and Careers in Changing Environments

    12/07/2024

    Navigating Brands and Careers in Changing Environments

    Medtronic SVP & Chief Communications Officer Torod Neptune discusses how communicators can help their companies create value and provides insights on the expanding role of the CCO, the importance of making the business case for diversity and his career as a highly sought-after communications professional who has led teams at major agencies and companies – including Bank of America, Verizon, Lenovo and now Medtronic.

    38 min
  7. What Should Communicators Takeaway From the 2024 U.S. Elections?

    12/03/2024

    What Should Communicators Takeaway From the 2024 U.S. Elections?

    Kevin Lawlor and Katie Wright of DDC Public Affairs share with us their takeaways.  They share thoughts on what tactics and strategies used during the recent elections might find their way into the work of PR and marketing professionals – and into issues advocacy.  They also provide insights about navigating Washington with the Republicans controlling both houses of Congress and the White House.

    33 min
  8. Something to be Thankful For, Canada – Christopher Sands of The Wilson Center’s Canada Institute

    11/22/2024

    Something to be Thankful For, Canada – Christopher Sands of The Wilson Center’s Canada Institute

    The United States and Canada share more than the world’s longest border between two countries – as the head of The Wilson’s Canada Institute informs us our cultures, our economies, and our national security are inextricably intertwined. Christopher Sands explores what might change given recent events and 2024 election outcomes.

    42 min
See All (140)

Ratings & Reviews

4.4
out of 5
12 Ratings

About

Two PR veterans who get to the heart of big stories in media and communications. Featuring guests such as the editor of the Wall Street Journal, and Oscar-winning producers.

Information

  • Creator
    Gary Sheffer and Mike Fernandez
  • Years Active
    2019 - 2025
  • Episodes
    140
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © All rights reserved
  • Show Website
    The Crux of the Story

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