Breaking Out of the Workplace Cocoon with Philip Tate, APR, Fellow PRSA

In this episode of Chats with Champions, host Chris Ottaviano, a PR student at NC State, sits down with Philip Tate, APR, Fellow PRSA—an industry veteran who’s done it all, from sports PR to launching his own consultancy. Philip shares what it was like to shift gears after decades in agency life, and why stepping outside your comfort zone (or "workplace cocoon") can lead to your most rewarding work. With stories that span press boxes to boardrooms, he offers advice Gen Z communicators can actually use: be curious, build real relationships, and never stop learning.

Whether you’re starting your first internship or dreaming about launching your own brand one day, this episode will inspire you to think big, take risks, and stay grounded in what matters. Bonus: Philip reveals his dream walk-up song, the weirdest sporting event he’s ever worked, and why he’s passionate about mentoring the next generation through PRSSA.

Additional information: 

To connect with Philip Tate, APR, Fellow PRSA:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/philiptateaprfellowprsa/

To connect with Chris Ottaviano:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/christopher-ottaviano-931509224/

To connect with Alicia Caracciolo, International President of PRSSA 2025-2026:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/aliciamcaracciolo/

internationalpresident@prsa.org

To connect with PRSSA National:

https://www.linkedin.com/company/prssanational/

https://www.facebook.com/PRSSANational/

https://www.instagram.com/prssanational

https://twitter.com/PRSSANational

To connect with Madeline Emerick, VP of Brand Engagement 2025-2025:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/madeline-r-emerick/ 

vpbrandengagement@prsa.org