The Crux of the Story

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

Hosted by one of the world's top communicators, currently SVP & Chief Communications Officer at Enbridge, the show tackles relevant and controversial topics in the field of communications that are shaping business, politics, and our lives. Prominent guests from PR, journalism, business, and academia discuss how communications can inspire, persuade, deepen one’s understanding, or move an audience - or even a nation - to action.

  1. #147: Navigating Organizational Change: Insights from United Minds CEO Kate Bullinger

    MAY 12

    #147: Navigating Organizational Change: Insights from United Minds CEO Kate Bullinger

    With over 25 years of expertise in organizational transformation, leadership development, and employee engagement, Kate Bullinger, CEO of United Minds (Weber Shandwick’s global management consultancy) discusses how businesses can navigate uncertainty, foster purpose-driven cultures, and lead effectively through change. We also explore the evolving role of communications executives, the workplace of the future given A.I. and technology. In this conversation we take deep dives into the strategies shaping the success of organizations today.

    43 min
  2. #146: The Heart Work of Leadership with David Grossman

    MAY 5

    #146: The Heart Work of Leadership with David Grossman

    David Grossman is the founder and CEO of The Grossman Group, a leading communications consultancy focused on leadership, change management and internal communications. We spoke with him about his 25th year in business and career journey, the evolution of leadership communication, and key insights from his upcoming book, The Heart Work of Modern Leadership: Six Differentiators of Exceptional Leaders. We discuss how authentic and courageous leadership drives transformation; common communication challenges organizations face; and how leaders can foster employee engagement and cultural change. David also shares recent research on employee engagement in the public relations industry.

    36 min
  3. #145: The Next Generation of Broadcast Journalists

    APR 28

    #145: The Next Generation of Broadcast Journalists

    What are on the minds of future journalists from technology to storytelling to trust? We speak to three top students from the University of South Carolina's School of Journalism and Mass Communications with different broadcast disciplines and unique work experiences as interns and fellows to give us some insight: Sarah Craft (international news/ WIS-TV, WYFF-TV and WMBF-TV), Chloe Castain (sports/NASCAR), Kiki Gushue (news and broadcast production/The Crux of the Story).

    50 min
  4. #144: Exploring the Legacy and Future of Public Relations w/ Shelley Spector & Dick Martin

    APR 14

    #144: Exploring the Legacy and Future of Public Relations w/ Shelley Spector & Dick Martin

    Shelley Spector, founder and CEO of the Museum of Public Relations, and Dick Martin, Chair of the museum’s board and former AT&T communications executive shed light on the rich history of the PR profession, the importance of preserving its legacy, and how the Museum of Public Relations is shaping the future of the profession. Shelley and Dick share their insights on tackling contemporary challenges like disinformation and technological advancements – based in large measure by better understanding our past. Tune in for an enlightening conversation with two PR powerhouses!

    45 min
  5. #143: April is Disinformation Awareness Month: Insights from IPR’s Dr. Tina McCorkindale

    APR 5

    #143: April is Disinformation Awareness Month: Insights from IPR’s Dr. Tina McCorkindale

    Dr. Tina McCorkindale, President and CEO of the Institute for Public Relations (IPR), discusses IPR's declaration of April as Disinformation Awareness Month and sheds light on combating disinformation, trends in public relations and the media. We delve into groundbreaking research reports about the changing media landscape and employee engagement in the communications industry. We also explore strategies for raising awareness, improving trust, and addressing challenges faced by PR and media professionals. Tune in for a thought-provoking conversation packed with actionable insights and reflections on the future of public relations.

    37 min
  6. #142: The Misuse of Science Communication with Professor Damion Waymer

    MAR 29

    #142: The Misuse of Science Communication with Professor Damion Waymer

    Professor Damion Waymer, Director of the University of South Carolina’s School of Journalism and Mass Communications, discusses the misuse of scientific information and corporate misinformation. We explore the challenges faced by vulnerable publics, the role of social media, and the impact of political polarization on science communication. Professor Waymer also shares insights on improving public scientific literacy and his current research interests. Tune in for an enlightening discussion at the intersection of communication, culture, and power.

    40 min
  7. #141: The Business of Integrated Marketing Communications and Diversity w/ Entrepreneur Kim Hunter

    MAR 1

    #141: The Business of Integrated Marketing Communications and Diversity w/ 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
  8. #140: Unlocking the Power of Words with Obama Speechwriter Terry Szuplat

    FEB 22

    #140: 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
See All (147)

Ratings & Reviews

4.4
out of 5
12 Ratings

About

Hosted by one of the world's top communicators, currently SVP & Chief Communications Officer at Enbridge, the show tackles relevant and controversial topics in the field of communications that are shaping business, politics, and our lives. Prominent guests from PR, journalism, business, and academia discuss how communications can inspire, persuade, deepen one’s understanding, or move an audience - or even a nation - to action.

Information

  • Creator
    Gary Sheffer and Mike Fernandez
  • Years Active
    2019 - 2025
  • Episodes
    147
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © All rights reserved
  • Show Website
    The Crux of the Story

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