Shows
The Crux of the Story#125: PR Hall-of-Famer Gary Sheffer on the State and Future of Corporate CommunicationsAs he prepares for his induction into the Arthur W. Page Society Hall of Fame, GE’s former chief communications officer reflects on an amazing career as a journalist, a political press secretary, and working with GE execs Jack Welch and Jeff Immelt through some complex and dynamic business issues and global challenges. He also provides advice on how companies should think about social issues and a politically polarized world.
2024-09-2338 min
2024-03-2443 min
The Crux of the StoryMentoring in Communications with Tom Martin and Gary GratesIn this episode of “The Crux of the Story,” highly respected communicators Tom Martin and Gary Grates cover all things mentoring. From the role of technology, to “official” mentoring programs, to building informal relationships, Tom and Gary discuss how potential mentees can maximize their networking opportunities. Tom and Gary's mentorship experiences stem from their extensive careers as practitioners, consultants, educators, and thought leaders in communications. Plus, check out Tom's new podcast, “Mindful Mentoring with Tom Martin.”
2024-02-0447 minThe Crux of the StoryNYU Stern Professor Alison Taylor on What it Means to be an Ethical BusinessNYU Stern Professor Alison Taylor on What it Means to be an Ethical Business by Gary Sheffer and Mike Fernandez
2023-11-2054 minThe Crux of the StoryThe Ocean Outlaw Project’s Ian Urbina on Non-Profit Journalism on the Open OceanThe Ocean Outlaw Project’s Ian Urbina on Non-Profit Journalism on the Open Ocean by Gary Sheffer and Mike Fernandez
2023-11-1354 minThe Crux of the StoryWeber Shandwick’s Don Spetner on the field of Public Relations Transition to Radical TransparencyDon Spetner, senior corporate advisor at Weber Shandwick, talks about the evolution of the Chief Communications Officer role. Where the core of public relations was once media relations, now the internet has allowed everyone to have their own “bullhorn”. Gary, Mike and Don break down two of the most controversial PR flops such as the BP oil spill live cam, as well as the newest Bud Light Campaign. Additionally, Don Spetner warns professional communicators to stop “showing their superman logo” and handling everything themselves. Tune in for more.
2023-10-2242 min
The Crux of the StoryEpisode 95: Southwest's Linda Rutherford Discusses Facing A Crisis with Compassion and Action“We are not going to let one week in December define us.” Southwest Airlines’ chief administration and communications officer, Linda Rutherford, gives Mike and Gary a “behind the scenes” perspective on the challenges faced and on the ground strategies implemented during Southwest Airlines’ winter storm disruption. Decision-making “in the fog of battle” is tough, and Rutherford offers clear advice for communicators looking to manage a crisis through uncertainty with compassion and action.
2023-02-1341 min
The Crux of the Story'Double materiality': 4 ESG impact levers for businesses with Nick Andreou and Marya BesharovHow do we define impact? What role does leadership play in ESG impact investing? How should small and large businesses approach ESG issues?
In this episode, we welcome Nick Andreou and Marya Besharov to discuss their MIT Sloan Management Review article titled ”Rethinking How We Measure Companies on Social and Environmental Impact.” Marya Besharov is a professor of organizations and impact and academic director at the University of Oxford’s Skoll Center for Social Entrepreneurship at Saed Business School. Nick is the founder of Impact Edge Consulting and a visiting fellow at the center.
Tune in to hear about the Skoll...
2022-11-2149 minThe Crux of the StoryReassessing purpose to navigate volatile social issues with Peppercomm Steve CodyWhat are the key findings in Peppercomm/Ragan Corporate Character Barometer? Why don’t communicators have a handbook for navigating social or political issues? Why does humor play such an important role in business settings?
In this episode, we welcome Peppercom CEO Steve Cody. Steve is also the current chairman of the Institute for Public Relations, a longtime member of the Arthur W. Page Society, a member of the advisory councils of the College of Charleston and the University of Florida, and was named one of Northeastern University’s 100 most successful alumni. But most importantly, he is a lifelong comedian, clim...
2022-11-0937 minThe Crux of the StorySmart Brevity: Fast food for the eyes with Axios Nick JohnstonWhat is Smart Brevity? Where did the idea come from? Why is it so difficult to achieve for most of us?
In this episode, we welcome Axios founding editor-in-chief, Nick Johnston. Before Axios, Nick was the managing editor at Bloomberg, covering the White House, Capitol Hill, and the 2008 presidential campaign.
Tune in to hear about Cox Enterprises' acquisition of Axios, how technology inspired the creation of Smart Brevity, and the difference in emoji usage between generations.
2022-10-3138 minThe Crux of the StoryDemystifying working in tech with Microsoft CCO Frank ShawWhat does it mean to be a communication leader in a large enterprise like Microsoft? How has the increase in shareholder activism affected the role of a communicator? What is "productivity paranoia"?
In this episode, we are joined by Microsoft Vice President of Communications, Frank Shaw. Frank has been at Microsoft since 2009 and today leads a team that defines and manages Microsoft communications strategies worldwide.
Tune in to hear about the future of Microsoft Teams in the workplace, Microsoft’s M&A with Activision Blizzard, and find out what his LinkedIn’s #CommsConversations series is all about.
2022-10-2445 minThe Crux of the StoryPrudential CCO Alan Sexton: How can ESG frameworks be used to evaluate future risks?What does the future of the ESG framework look like? How important is it to align ESG goals with capital returns? How does Prudential think about its public voice on social issues?
In this episode, we welcome Prudential CCO Alan Sexton to discuss the evolving importance of ESG for communicators. Prior to joining Prudential in 2018, Alan had spent more than 20 years working for several public relations firms – including Ogilvy and Burson-Marsteller – counseling them through business transformations and public policy issues.
Tune in to this episode to learn about Prudential’s communication framework for navigating social issues and advice on how to han...
2022-10-171h 06The Crux of the StoryLead with the truth: What is business's role in advancing Indigenous reconciliation?What is National Truth and Reconciliation day in Canada? What are land acknowledgments? What is Orange Shirt Society?
In this episode, we welcome Creative Fire CEO Leanne Hall. Prior to joining Creative Fire in 2019, Leanne was the National Leader of the Deloitte Indigenous practice, serving over 275 Indigenous communities across Canada. She has served as a director for the Canadian Council for Aboriginal Business, a member of the Board of Governors for Wilfrid Laurier University, and a WXN Top 100 Most Powerful Women in Canada Award Winner.
Tune in to learn about Enbridge's reconciliation action plan, residential schools, and what American businesses...
2022-10-1043 minThe Crux of the StoryBattling misinformation using satellite imagery with Maxar VP of Communications Fernando VivancoHow is satellite imagery combating misinformation in the Russia-Ukraine war? What was it like to grow up in a Hispanic family? Have you ever wondered what kinds of careers a satellite company offers?
In this episode, Fernando Vivanco, vice president of communications at Maxar, joins us to discuss the various projects for which Maxar provides satellite imagery. Fernando has been a senior-level communicator for a number of blue-chip technology-driven companies, including Boeing, Honeywell, Medtronic, and TE Connectivity.
Tune in to hear about the amazing work at Maxar, from monitoring illegal mining in the Amazon to helping build the foundation of...
2022-09-2639 minThe Crux of the StoryThe Executive Compensation Conundrum with Peter Eavis: How Elon Musk helped redefine CEO payHow did Elon Musk’s 2018 pay package elevate CEO pay? How can we objectively measure and report annual CEO salaries? Since 2017, has the SEC reporting requirement led to any real change in compensation policies?
In this episode, we are joined by New York Times business reporter Peter Eavis. Peter joins us to discuss executive compensation and corporate profits. Prior to the Times, Peter was with the Wall Street Journal, Fortune, and TheStreet.com in which he won a Loeb Award for his work.
Tune in to hear Peter’s insights for communicators on how to provide a persuasive rationale for CEO...
2022-09-1939 minThe Crux of the StoryThe Executive Compensation Conundrum with Peter Eavis: How Elon Musk helped redefine CEO payHow did Elon Musk’s 2018 pay package elevate CEO pay? How can we objectively measure and report annual CEO salaries? Since 2017, has the SEC reporting requirement led to any real change in compensation policies?
In this episode, we are joined by New York Times business reporter Peter Eavis. Peter joins us to discuss executive compensation and corporate profits. Prior to the Times, Peter was with the Wall Street Journal, Fortune, and TheStreet.com in which he won a Loeb Award for his work.
Tune in to hear Peter’s insights for communicators on how to provide a persuasive rationale for CEO...
2022-09-1239 minThe Crux of the StoryHow media coverage adds to the “crescendo of conspiracy theories” with Amanda CrawfordHow are the Sandy Hook shooting and the Jan. 6 insurrection linked? What is the basis of a conspiracy theory? And how do we combat conspiracy hoaxers? University of Connecticut journalism professor Amanda J. Crawford argues for being transparent and being open.
Amanda is a veteran political journalist and academic researcher who focuses on journalism ethics, media law, misinformation, and the role of journalists in a democracy. Amanda is writing a book about the fight for the truth after Sandy Hook, "Truth for the Dead."
Tune in to this episode to hear about the linkage between social media and gun violence...
2022-09-0652 minThe Crux of the StoryHow to effectively execute a coaching transition with Duke University’s Mike SchoenfeldWhat was the plan for Coach K’s retirement announcement? What is a media and politics class at Duke University like? And what did Mike do at the Voice of America? Tune in to hear insights from Duke University’s VP for Public Affairs and Government Relations and Chief Communications Officer Mike Schoenfeld. In this episode, Mike discusses how universities’ communications leadership needs to get involved in athletics. He also reflects on his experience with sports communications and shares valuable tips on how to best work with coaches and teams.
2022-05-2740 minThe Crux of the StoryHow to effectively execute a coaching transition with Duke University’s Mike SchoenfeldWhat was the plan for Coach K’s retirement announcement? What is a media and politics class at Duke University like? And what did Mike do at the Voice of America? Tune in to hear insights from Duke University’s VP for Public Affairs and Government Relations and Chief Communications Officer Mike Schoenfeld. In this episode, Mike discusses how universities’ communications leadership needs to get involved in athletics. He also reflects on his experience with sports communications and shares valuable tips on how to best work with coaches and teams.
2022-05-1348 minThe Crux of the StoryEdelman’s Jim O’ Leary: How communicators can push for greater fundingWhat is a Chief Impact Officer? Why do business transformations fail? How are companies assessing the value of communicators?
In this episode, we are joined by U.S. Chief Operating Officer, Corporate Affairs Practice Chair, and Global Chair of Impact Jim O’ Leary. With nearly two decades of experience, Jim oversees a global network of corporate reputation, business marketing, and advisory services teams across more than 60 offices.
Tune in to hear Jim’s insights on Edelman’s fantastic research, such as the Trust Barometer, behavioural science collaborations with Harvard Business School, and the disinformation shield.
2022-05-0642 minThe Crux of the StoryShould PR agencies work with fossil fuel companies?What is Clean Creatives’ mission? What is the F-list? This week we were joined by Clean Creatives Director Duncan Meisel. With the looming climate crisis, Meisel argues that ad and PR agencies should “cut ties” with fossil fuel companies. Why is it so difficult to take climate action given the science?
Tune in to this episode to hear Meisel’s insights on climate communication, agency-client relationships, and the war for talent in the creative industries.
2022-04-2136 minThe Crux of the Story3 Boston University alums: Launching a PR career in an uncertain worldFor the Boston University College of Communication (BU COM) Class of 2020, what was it like to look for a job during a pandemic? In this episode, we welcome three alumni to hear about their unique and unprecedented journeys entering the workforce post-graduation. With the “Great Resignation,” what skills did they learn at BU that really helped them? How did they navigate all of those difficulties and still find a place with values that matched their own?
Tune in to hear from an honors graduate and winner of the 2020 COM Blue Chip Award, Nicole McPherson. Nicole is now an Account Executive at B...
2022-04-0448 minThe Crux of the StoryDorothy Lund on Corporate Political Spending: There’s “no sound business justification.”How is corporate political spending bad for business and democracy? How should companies navigate political giving when shareholders have diverse political views? Building on this issue, how should communicators work with the legal and public affairs team?
In this episode, we are joined by Associate Professor at the University of Southern California (USC) Gould School of Law Dorothy Lund. She recently co-authored an article in Harvard Business Review titled “Corporate Political Spending is Bad Business” with Leo Strine, Jr., a lawyer and former Chief Justice of the Delaware Supreme Court. Dorothy and Leo argue that political spending is “time-wasting and costly...
2022-03-2844 minThe Crux of the StoryProbing the past: How companies can address historical transgressions with Dr. Sarah FedermanWhy is it crucial every Fortune 500 company hire an historian? How does understanding the past contribute to today’s DEI efforts? Accept responsibility, understand the past, apologize proactively, and respond meaningfully. This is how every company should handle historical transgressions, according to Dr. Sarah Federman. Sarah is an Assistant Professor of Negotiation and Conflict Management at the University of Baltimore and a Fulbright Peace & Conflict Resolution Specialist. Previously, she had spent a decade as a senior advertising executive working with big brands. Join us on this episode to hear Sarah’s guidance on the need for every company to understand and...
2022-03-2146 minThe Crux of the StoryMichelle Giuda: On global issues, there is no “friction-less” pathGiven the ongoing Russian invasion of Ukraine, what should multinational companies be doing from a risk and reputation perspective? What is a hybrid war? What is a company’s role in national security? In this episode, we are joined by Weber Shandwick Executive Vice President of Geopolitical Strategy and Risk, Michelle Giuda. Before this position, Michelle served as Assistant Secretary of State, in which she led the State Department’s global communications strategy and operations. Tune in to hear Michelle’s insights on the importance of ‘home country’ as an emerging stakeholder and the modern multi-dimensional warfare that is taking place.
2022-03-0437 minThe Crux of the StoryJon Iwata on Data and Artificial Intelligence: The “profound phenomenon of prediction”How is data and AI driving corporate decision making? What should marketers and communicators be doing about AI and its implications? But most importantly, what does retirement look like for a Hall of Fame communicator? In this episode, we are joined by Founding Executive Director of the Data and Trust Alliance Jon Iwata. He is also currently an Executive Fellow at the Yale School of Management. Previously, for 35 years, Jon served as IBM inaugural chief brand officer where he spearheaded things like Smart Plan and Watson. Join us on this episode to hear Jon’s insights on the future of re...
2022-02-2748 minThe Crux of the StoryManeuvering a $69B M(icrosoft) & A(ctivision Blizzard) deal with CCO Helaine KlaskyThe biggest acquisition deal ever in the tech and gaming world between Microsoft and Activision Blizzard. How do comms professionals navigate big M&A deals? What cultural issues do you prepare for? And what is SoundExchange? On this 72nd episode of The Crux, we welcome Helaine Klasky, the CCO of Activision Blizzard, who has quite a model communicator’s resume. She has worked at the highest levels of government, business, entertainment, and education. Tune in to hear her insights on the topic and why didn’t Gary work for Helaine?
2022-02-2141 minThe Crux of the StoryDo Sports Sponsorships Pay Off?Have the Olympic Games become too controversial for corporate sponsors? Do Super Bowl ads pay off? And what is Karate Combat? On this 71st episode of The Crux we get answers to these questions from Michael Hargrave, president of Discover Sports & Entertainment, who has guided big brands such as Anheuser-Busch to Bank of America through sports sponsorships and events. Tune in to hear his insights on how brands navigate around the politicization of the Olympics, the rationalization behind Super Bowl ads, and the future of sports marketing.
2022-02-1444 minThe Crux of the StoryPeter Goodman's "Davos Men": Modern-Day PredatorsIn our seventieth episode of The Crux, we welcome Peter Goodman who is a New York Times' economics journalist and author of "Davos Man: How the Billionaires Devoured the World." Previously, he was an executive global news and business editor at the Huffington Post, as well as the Shanghai bureau chief for the Washington Post. Peter has covered some of the most momentous economic transformations and upheavals of our time.
2022-02-0742 minThe Crux of the StoryThe Crux - Maureen DavenportIn our sixty-ninth episode of The Crux, we welcome US chief communications officer for one of the world’s leading professional services firms KPMG, Maureen Davenport. Maureen joined KPMG herself in 2019 after an 8-year stint at Fannie Mae where she also served as CCO and helped drive its reputation and business performance. Within one year of joining KPMG, Maureen was tasked with the challenge of an executive transition as KPMG selected a new US Chair and CEO in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic.
2022-01-3139 minThe Crux of the StoryThe Crux - Mariette DiChristinaIn our sixty-eighth episode of The Crux, we welcome back the dean of Boston University’s College of Communication, Mariette DiChristina. Before coming to BU, she was editor-in-chief and executive vice president of the highly respected magazine, Scientific American, as well as executive vice president of magazine publisher, Springer Nature. Mariette was the first woman to lead Scientific American since its founding in 1845. Previously, as executive editor of Popular Science, she was named Editor of the Year by the magazine’s publisher, Times Mirror Magazine. Mariette is completing her second academic year as dean of COM, and it’s been a time...
2021-12-131h 18
The Crux of the StoryThe Crux - Aba BlanksonIn our sixty-seventh episode of The Crux, we welcome Aba Blankson, chief marketing and communications officer for the NAACP. Aba oversees and develops communications strategies, campaigns, and partnerships to elevate the NAACP brand’s products and services. She helped the NAACP launch “COVID Unmasked" virtual event series to raise awareness of pandemic impacts and the 2020 Davey Award-Winning campaigns #WEAREDONEDYING and Virtual March on Washington to bring attention to longstanding racial disparities. Prior to joining the NAACP, Blankson served as marketing and communications lead at the Common Application, a thought leader in higher education.
2021-12-051h 08The Crux of the StoryThe Crux - Russell WilkersonIn our sixty-sixth episode of The Crux, we welcome Russell Wilkerson, chief corporate affairs officer at Baker Hughes, one of the world’s leading oil and gas field services companies. Russell is one of the most respected voices in corporate communications. His remit at Baker Hughes is broad and includes global communications, external affairs, community relations, and brand marketing. Russell has 25 years of communication experience, including leading comms at two giant GE businesses – Energy and GE Capital – and led financial communications at GE. Russell has also worked in the U.S. Senate.
2021-11-211h 12
The Crux of the StoryThe Crux - Mark WeinerIn our sixty-fifth episode of The Crux, we welcome Mark Weiner, author of the new book, "Public Relations Technology, Data and Insights, Igniting a Positive Return on Your Communications Investment.” Mark is one of the leading and most respected experts in the world on public relations research, measurement, and evaluation. He has led research programs for scores of Fortune Global 1000 companies. He received the 2018 Jack Felton Medal for Lifetime Achievement from the Institute for Public Relations (IPR) for whom he serves as a board member, and he is a member of the Arthur W. Page Society.
2021-11-141h 10The Crux of the StoryThe Crux - Valerie DiMariaIn our sixty-fourth episode of The Crux, we welcome Valerie DiMaria, founder and principal of the10company. Valerie has held CMO & CCO roles at Fortune 100 companies and developed comprehensive brand and reputation building programs working closely with CEOs at GE Capital, Motorola, and Willis. She has been honored with PRSA’s John W. Hill Award for leadership in the practice of public relations, two PRSA Silver Anvils and two Big Apples. Valerie has been named one of the “10 Top Women in PR,” one of the “50 Most Powerful Women in PR” and a “tech industry key player” by PR Week.
2021-11-071h 00The Crux of the StoryThe Crux - Chris PerryIn our sixty-third episode of The Crux, we welcome Chris Perry, chief innovation officer at Weber Shandwick, who is at the center of the discussion around how technology, data, and media are presenting new opportunities and challenges for business and communicators. Chris has been at Weber Shandwick for 18 years and previously did stints at GM and Edelman. His weekly Weber Shandwick newsletter, Media Genius, is both necessary and entertaining.
2021-10-3159 minThe Crux of the StoryThe Crux - Robert BrownIn our sixty-second episode of The Crux, we welcome Robert Brown, president of Boston University. He became BU’s president in 2005 and quickly set out on defining the long-term future of BU, culminating in BU joining the Association of American Universities (AAU), a prestigious organization of 62 leading research universities in the United States and Canada.
2021-10-241h 16The Crux of the StoryThe Crux - Andrew WinstonIn our sixty-first episode of The Crux, we welcome Andrew Winston, one of the most respected writers and thinkers in the world on the issue of business and sustainability. Andrew is a strategic advisor to many large global companies, was named to Thinkers50 Radar Class of 2020 as a “thinker to watch,” and is the author of the bestsellers Green to Gold and The Big Pivot. His latest book, co-authored by Paul Polman, is Net Positive: How Courageous Companies Thrive by Giving More than They Take.
2021-10-171h 12The Crux of the StoryThe Crux - Andrew Edgecliffe-JohnsonIn our sixtieth episode of The Crux, we welcome Andrew Edgecliffe-Johnson, U.S. business editor of the Financial Times. Andrew has been with the FT for 20 years and today is its U.S. business editor. He also writes and edits a twice-weekly newsletter, Moral Money. It features news and analysis about the socially responsible business, sustainable finance, ESG trends, and the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals.
2021-10-101h 14The Crux of the StoryThe Crux - Reeves WiedemanIn our fifty-ninth episode of The Crux, we welcome Reeves Wiedeman, a features writer for New York Magazine and author of “Billion Dollar Loser: The Epic Rise and Spectacular Fall of Adam Neumann and WeWork.” We’ll discuss Reeves’ coverage of WeWork over the years and get his perspective of the new era of larger-than-life – and sometimes “fake it until you make it” entrepreneurs.
2021-10-031h 03
The Crux of the StoryThe Crux - Carmella Glover And Denise HillIn our fifty-eighth episode of The Crux, we are honored to welcome the Chair of the Diversity Action Alliance, Professor Denise Hill of Elon University, and the President of the Diversity Action Alliance, Carmella Glover. The Diversity Action Alliance is a coalition of public relations and communications organizations that have joined forces to accelerate progress relative to diversity, equity and inclusion across the PR profession.
2021-05-091h 12The Crux of the StoryThe Crux - Marjorie Benzkofer & Cherry BayerIn our fifty-seventh episode of The Crux, we welcome Marjorie Benzkofer and Cherry Bayer. Marjorie is the Chief Strategy Officer of Fleishman Hillard and Cherry is the Director of Internal Communications at LabCorp. They are both members of Page Up. Marjorie and Cherry will talk with us about a report Page Up published last year, Resilience and Change in a Time of Change: Research Findings on the Transformed Role of Communications. It's an excellent summary of the dynamic forces that are transforming business communications almost on a day-to-day basis.
2021-05-021h 09The Crux of the StoryThe Crux - Eric DezenhallIn our fifty-sixth episode of The Crux, we welcome author and CEO of Dezenhall Resources, Eric Dezenhall. We discuss Eric's point of view on the role of business in society and crisis communications in an era of turmoil, acrimony, and collapsing trust in the media.
2021-04-2559 min
The Crux of the StoryThe Crux - Eric DezenhallIn our fifty-sixth episode of The Crux, we welcome author and CEO of Dezenhall Resources, Eric Dezenhall. We discuss Eric's point of view on the role of business in society and crisis communications in an era of turmoil, acrimony, and collapsing trust in the media.
2021-04-2559 minThe Crux of the StoryThe Crux - Kendra ButtersIn our fifty-fifth episode of The Crux, we welcome Kendra Butters, the communications director of the Boston Athletic Association. We discuss Kendra's role and responsibilities and how her team is handling the near-constant turmoil for the crises that were brought upon the association by the pandemic.
2021-04-1853 minThe Crux of the StoryThe Crux - Mark SchaeferIn our fifty-fourth episode of The Crux, we welcome Mark Schaefer, COO of B Squared Media. Mark is also a faculty member at Rutgers University and an author. We discuss with him his latest book, Cumulative Advantage: How to Build Momentum for your Ideas, Business and Life Against All Odds.
2021-04-161h 10
The Crux of the StoryThe Crux - Mark SchaeferIn our fifty-fourth episode of The Crux, we welcome Mark Schaefer, COO of B Squared Media. Mark is also a faculty member at Rutgers University and an author. We discuss with him his latest book, Cumulative Advantage: How to Build Momentum for your Ideas, Business and Life Against All Odds.
2021-04-111h 15The Crux of the StoryThe Crux - Jeff ImmeltIn our fifty-third episode of The Crux, we welcome Jeff Immelt, the former CEO of GE and today a venture partner at New Enterprise Associates and instructor at the Stanford Global School of Business. Jeff has a new book, HOT SEAT: What I Learned Leading a Great American Company. We discuss the role communications and culture played in Jeff's tenure at GE and how leaders should be thinking about those topics today.
2021-04-041h 12
The Crux of the StoryThe Crux - Jolie HuntIn our fifty-second episode of The Crux, we welcome Jolie Hunt, CEO and founder of Hunt and Gather. We discuss her lessons learnt from holding senior titles at a young age, how the move to digitized relationships has changed influencer ideologies, and how companies should adapt to social movements such as showing their support against racism.
2021-03-281h 02The Crux of the StoryThe Crux - David MurrayIn our fifty-first episode of The Crux, we welcome David Murray, author of An Effort To Understand: Hearing One Another (and Ourselves) in a Nation Cracked in Half. We discuss communicating more honestly with ourselves, how Americans can focus more on what we have in common, rather than our differences, the medias contribution to the polarization that we see today in the U.S., and David shares the meaning of "Words Hold People Together," one of the essays featured in the book.
2021-03-211h 02The Crux of the StoryThe Crux - Frank FigliuzziIn our fiftieth episode of The Crux, we welcome Frank Figliuzzi, author of The FBI Way: Inside the Bureau's Code of Excellence. We discuss what led Frank to write his book, the values of the FBI and how they can be applied to other organizations, the January 6th attack on the Capitol, and how the FBI can continue to be effective in the current environment.
2021-03-1455 minThe Crux of the StoryThe Crux - Eric HandlerIn our forty-ninth episode of The Crux, we welcome Eric Handler, Vice President of communications at the YES Network. We discuss what it is like to lead a communications team in the most competitive sports market in the world, how COVID changed his job over the last year, and how sports networks have handled the growing activism in nearly every aspect of life.
2021-03-0755 minThe Crux of the StoryThe Crux - Dean AcostaIn our forty-eighth episode of The Crux, we welcome Dean Acosta, senior vice president and CCO of Lockheed Martin. We discuss NASA's Perseverance rover, which Lockheed Martin had a hand in, how being a journalist helped Dean both at NASA and with his role today, the digital-first approach, change management, and Dean's journey to becoming CCO of Lockheed Martin.
2021-02-2159 minThe Crux of the StoryThe Crux - Judy SamuelsonIn our forty-seventh episode of The Crux, we welcome Judy Samuelson, the executive director and founder of the Aspen Institute Business and Society Program. We discuss Judy's new book, The Six New Rules of Business: Creating Real Value in a Changing World, the changing role of business in society, and why CEOs should be paid less.
2021-02-151h 02The Crux of the StoryThe Crux - Jennifer Prosek And Mark KollarIn our forty-sixth episode of The Crux, we welcome Jen Prosek and Mark Kollar from Prosek Partners, one of the world's leading financial communications and strategic advisory firms. We discuss the role of purpose, ESG efforts, and areas of growth for the company. As we close out 2020, our team also names our own communicators of the year.
2020-12-2054 minThe Crux of the StoryThe Crux - Alan MurrayIn our forty-fifth episode of The Crux, Gary and Mike speak with Alan Murray, the president and CEO of Fortune Media Group. We discuss the ways the 90-year-old media business has reinvented itself, trends in CEO activism, what business leaders can expect from the Biden Administration, and the future of journalism.
2020-12-1343 minThe Crux of the StoryThe Crux - Stefanie JohnsonIn our forty-forth episode of The Crux, we welcome Stefanie Johnson, professor of organizational leadership at the University of Colorado-Boulder and author of a new book, Inclusify. We discuss research-backed ways to create authentic diversity and inclusion, trends in unconscious biases and related training, and findings on women's tasks and trajectory in the workplace.
TW: This episode discusses sexual harassment in the workplace, starting around the 50:00 mark.
2020-12-061h 09The Crux of the StoryThe Crux - Vivian SchillerIn our forty-third episode of The Crux, Gary and Mike interview Vivian Schiller, executive director of the Aspen Institute and former president and CEO of NPR. Vivian emphasizes using evidence-based reality to guide media literacy and shutting down false, harmful information, especially amid the ongoing "infodemic."
2020-11-2740 minThe Crux of the StoryThe Crux - Jeff DeMarraisIn our forty-second episode of The Crux, Mike and Gary welcome Jeff DeMarrais, CCO of Cognizant, one of the world's leading professional service firms. We discuss using the "moneyball" methodology of communications, recruiting talent for the future, and telling your story looking beyond the traditional PESO model.
2020-11-1459 min
The Crux of the StoryThe Crux - Tony FrattoIn our forty-first episode, Gary and Mike are joined by Tony Fratto, managing partner of Hamilton Place Strategies and former deputy press secretary in the George W. Bush White House. In the wake of a historic election, we discuss the evolution of news, polling, internal communications, and the notion of Trumpism.
2020-11-0848 minThe Crux of the StoryThe Crux - Jacqueline AdamsIn our fortieth episode, Gary and Mike welcome Jacqueline Adams, co-author of A Blessing: Women of Color Teaming Up to Lead, Empower and Thrive. Jacqueline shares anecdotes from her career as an Emmy Award-winning CBS correspondent and explains the book's fresh, bold analysis of African American female leadership.
2020-10-2548 minThe Crux of the StoryThe Crux - Marta NewhartIn our thirty-ninth episode, Marta Newhart, Chief Communications Officer at Westinghouse Electric Company, joins Gary and Mike. After sharing compelling experiences relating to her Mexican-American background, Marta discusses how we can build upon diversity to create inclusion, as well as how companies should best communicate nuclear energy, science, and technology in a world that often distrusts and doubts it.
2020-10-1859 min
The Crux of the StoryThe Crux - 2020 Bellwether SurveyIn our thirty-eighth episode, Gary and Mike welcome the team that created the third annual PRWeek Bellwether Survey in partnernship with Boston University. Steve Barrett, editor in chief at PRWeek, Arunima Krishna, assistant professor at Boston University, Ray Kotcher, professor of the practice at BU, and Don Wright, the Harold Burson professor of public relations and chair for the department of mass communication, advertising and PR at BU, discuss agility and its effects on organizational outcomes.
2020-10-0848 minThe Crux of the StoryThe Crux - Maya Malekian and Geneve LauIn our thirty-seventh episode, Gary and Mike are joined by Maya Malekian, a recent Boston University graduate, and Geneve Lau, a BU senior, to discuss their virtual pro bono public relations agency, Empath Worldwide. The two professionals share how and why they globally link young talent with nonprofits and small businesses to create purpose-driven work in a COVID-19 environment.
2020-10-0446 minThe Crux of the StoryThe Crux - Oscar SurisIn our thirty-sixth episode, Oscar Suris, executive managing director of C-Suite Strategy and Crisis at Zeno Group, joins Gary and Mike to discuss diversity and inclusion, the convergence of societal issues with business operations, and the evolving nature of crisis management.
2020-09-2646 minThe Crux of the StoryThe Crux - Matt Fox and Don TheaIn our thirty-fifth episode, Gary and Mike speak with Dr. Matthew Fox and Dr. Don Thea from the Boston University School of Public Health. We discuss the challenges researchers and PR practitioners often face in communicating science, especially amid the ongoing pandemic, as well as best practices in sharing these topics more effectively.
2020-09-2055 minThe Crux of the StoryThe Crux - Andy PharoahIn our thirty-fourth episode, Gary and Mike welcome Andy Pharoah, vice president of corporate affairs and sustainability at Mars. We discuss lessons learned from the pandemic and purpose-driven communications.
2020-05-1155 minThe Crux of the StoryThe Crux - Catherine Hernandez-BladesIn our thirty-third episode of The Crux, Catherine Hernandez-Blades, senior vice president and chief ESG and communications officer at Aflac, joins Gary and Mike to weigh in on coronavirus-related challenges, values-based communications, and diversity and inclusion.
2020-05-0448 minThe Crux of the StoryThe Crux - Steve SchmidtIn our thirty-second episode of The Crux, Steve Schmidt, political strategist and principal at SES Strategies, join Gary and Mike. They discuss on the current state of the Republican Party, The Lincoln Project and the upcoming election.
2020-04-2657 minThe Crux of the StoryThe Crux - Mariette DiChristinaIn our thirty-first episode of The Crux, Dean Mariette DiChristina, the dean of the College of Communication at Boston University joins us to discuss virtual learning, the future of education and the impact of the coronavirus on the Boston University community.
2020-04-2053 minThe Crux of the StoryThe Crux - Dave SamsonIn our thirtieth episode of The Crux, Mike and Gary welcome Dave Samson, general manager of public affairs at Chevron Corporation and future global vice chair of corporate affairs at Edelman. They discuss public trust, internal communications and marketing.
2020-03-0959 minThe Crux of the StoryThe Crux - Charlene WheelessIn our twenty-ninth episode of The Crux, we welcome Charlene Wheeless, former principal vice president of global corporate affairs of Bechtel Corporation. We discuss the Arthur Page Society’s 2020 agenda, an organization's purpose and prioritizing health.
2020-02-1750 minThe Crux of the StoryThe Crux - Leslie Gaines-RossIn our twenty-eighth episode, Gary and Mike welcome Leslie Gaines-Ross, chief reputation strategist at Weber Shandwick, to discuss trends of managing, maintaining and improving corporate reputation.
2020-02-1050 min
The Crux of the StoryThe Crux - Tobe BerkovitzIn our twenty-seventh episode, Gary and Mike interview Boston University professor and political media consultant Dr. Tobe Berkovitz. They discuss political communications strategies in the 2020 presidential primaries and look ahead to the 2020 general election.
2020-01-311h 00
The Crux of the StoryThe Crux - Mike O'NeillIn our twenty-sixth episode, Gary and Mike interview their good friend Mike O’Neill, chief corporate affairs officer at American Express. At the time this episode airs, Mike is set to retire in a few weeks, so they talked about his favorite memories working at AMEX and Small Business Saturday.
2019-12-151h 00
The Crux of the StoryThe Crux - Sarah Sheffer and Will FernandezIn our twenty-fifth episode, Gary and Mike have the special honor of interviewing their adult children, Sarah Sheffer and Will Fernandez, two Millennials who care about change and purpose in communications. Sarah is the senior communications officer at Refugees International, and Will is a WPP Fellow at Wunderman Thompson.
2019-11-2458 min
The Crux of the StoryThe Crux - Pete SouzaIn our twenty-fourth episode, Gary and Mike interview Boston University alum and former chief official White House photographer Pete Souza. They talk about Pete’s two books, Shade: A Tale of Two Presidents and Obama: An Intimate Portrait, as well as how we became the White House photographer for two U.S. presidents.
2019-11-1552 min
The Crux of the StoryThe Crux - PRWeek Bellwether SurveyIn our twenty-third episode, Gary and Mike are joined by Ray Kotcher, professor of practice at Boston University, Arunima Krishna, assistant professor at Boston University, and Steve Barrett, VP, editorial director PRWeek. They discuss the 2019 PRWeek Bellwether survey done in partnership with Boston University.
2019-11-091h 00
The Crux of the StoryThe Crux - Tammy VigilIn our twenty-second episode, Gary and Mike interview Associate Professor at Boston University College of Communication, Tammy Vigil. They discuss the two books she published this year, Moms in Chief: The Rhetoric of Republican Motherhood and the Spouses of Presidential Nominees, 1992-2016 and Melania and Michelle: First Ladies in a New Era.
2019-10-311h 07
The Crux of the StoryThe Crux - Ethan McCartyIn our twenty-first episode, Gary and Mike interview Ethan McCarty, CEO of Integral Communications Group, to discuss the importance of internal communications.
2019-10-251h 11
The Crux of the StoryThe Crux - Alex DimitriefThis week, Gary and Mike interview Alex Dimitrief to talk about value and purpose. Alex is the former General Electric CEO outside of the United States. Today, he is a lecturer at Harvard Law.
2019-10-181h 18
The Crux of the StoryThe Crux - Jackie Gingrich CushmanIn our nineteenth episode, Mike and Gary interview Jackie Gingrich Cushman, the author of the new book, Our Broken America: Why Both Sides Need to Stop Ranting and Start Listening.
2019-10-131h 07
The Crux of the StoryThe Crux - Anne Marie SqueoThis week, Gary and Mike interview Anne Marie Squeo, SVP and Chief Communications and Brand Officer of Xerox, to discuss Xerox's transition from digital to physical
2019-10-0454 min
The Crux of the StoryThe Crux - Marc CloostermanMarc Cloosterman, CEO of VIM Group, stops by The Crux to talk about branding with Gary and Mike.
2019-09-2558 min
The Crux of the StoryThe Crux - Tsai-Ni Ku and Katie ChifferPRLab at Boston University is the oldest running student public relations in the agency. This week, Gary and Mike speak with PRLab's presidents Tsai-Ni Ku and Katie Chiffer about the student-run agency.
2019-09-2029 min
The Crux of the StoryThe Crux - Roger BoltonIn our fifteenth episode, Mike and Gary interview Roger Bolton, the president of the Arthur W. Page Society and former senior vice president of communications at Aetna, to talk about the Page Report, titled, The CCO as Pacesetter: What It Means, Why It Matters, How to Get There.
2019-09-1245 min
The Crux of the StoryThe Crux- Eric SchnureIn our fourteenth episode, Mike and Gary interview Eric Schnure, a former speech writer for Vice President Al Gore and one of Washington’s most sought-after political humor writers.
2019-09-071h 00
The Crux of the StoryThe Crux- Karen DoyneIn our thirteenth episode, Mike and Gary interview Karen Doyne, a crisis PR expert who has handled situations like America's first Ebola diagnosis.
2019-08-301h 00
The Crux of the StoryThe Crux- Mitchell ZuckoffIn our twelfth episode, Mike and Gary sit down with Mitchell Zuckoff, BU journalism professor and critically acclaimed author, to talk about his latest book, Fall and Rise: The Story of 9/11, which was recently picked up by ABC for a limited-TV series.
2019-08-231h 02
The Crux of the StoryThe Crux- Joe NoceraIn our eleventh episode, Mike and Gary talk about the role of politics in business, and interview Joe Nocera, acclaimed American business journalist and author and columnist for Bloomberg Opinion.
2019-08-161h 01
The Crux of the StoryThe Crux- Chris GravesThis week on The Crux, Gary and Mike discuss hate speech and media coverage of mass shooting events, fake news, and no news. They also sit down with Chris Graves, the Founder of the Ogilvy Center for Behavioral Science, to talk about all things persuasion. On behalf of The Crux, our deepest condolences go out to the family members and loved ones of the victims of El Paso, Texas, and Dayton, Ohio. Our thoughts are with you all.
2019-08-091h 02
The Crux of the StoryThe Crux- Craig BuchholzThe Crux- Craig Buchholz by Gary Sheffer and Mike Fernandez
2019-07-2545 min
The Crux of the StoryThe Crux- Tina McCorkindaleIn the eighth episode of The Crux, Mike and Gary talk about the 250-page Apollo 11 press kit, Wayfair protests, and pay equity, and interview Tina McCorkindale, President and CEO of the Institute for Public Relations.
2019-07-1246 min
The Crux of the StoryThe Crux- Kyle DroppIn the seventh episode of The Crux, Mike and Gary discuss the Nudge Theory, behavioral science, and all things persuasion. Mike also sits down with Kyle Dropp, Co-Founder and Chief Research Officer of Morning Consult, to talk about the current state of survey research and disinformation.
2019-06-2854 min
The Crux of the StoryThe Crux- Karen RaskopfIn episode six of The Crux, Gary and Mike bring you a caffeine-fueled interview with Karen Raskopf, the chief communications officer at Dunkin’ Brands. From branding and name changes to Enron and social blurps, one thing’s for sure-- The Crux runs on Dunkin'.
2019-06-2046 min
The Crux of the StoryThe Crux- Alex GibneyIn the fifth episode of The Crux, Mike and Gary talk about some of their favorite documentaries and what makes a truly riveting story. They also sit down with Oscar-winning documentarian Alex Gibney who shares with us what animates his own storytelling, including his latest work, The Inventor (now on HBO).
2019-06-1440 min
The Crux of the StoryThe Crux- Matt Murray pt. 2In the fourth episode of The Crux, Gary and Mike discuss capitalism, press secretary roles, and give their answer to the much-debated communication question— to be the President’s press secretary, or not to be. Plus, this episode features the second part of the interview with Matt Murray, editor of the Wall Street Journal.
2019-06-0736 min
The Crux of the StoryThe Crux- Matt Murray pt. 1In a special two-part interview series, episode 3 of The Crux takes you behind the scenes of the journalism world with Matt Murray, editor of the Wall Street Journal. Gary and Mike also discuss some litigation results against major companies, Major League Baseball, and consumer goods.
2019-06-0447 min
The Crux of the StoryThe Crux- Tom FiedlerIn our first episode, Gary and Mike reflect on their first year as college professors, and interview Tom Fiedler, Pulitzer-Prize winner and Dean of BU’s College of Communication.
2019-05-1741 min
The Crux of the StoryThe Crux- Becky EdwardsIn this episode, Gary and Mike discuss the 2019 college admissions bribery scandal, Boeing's 737 Max crisis, Facebook's shift to privacy, and interview Becky Edwards, CCO at Schneider Electric.
2019-05-1339 min