Hanson & Hunt

151: New podcasting/social media data (w/Tom Webster), viral drones, internal comms challenges Mar 18, 2021

Our March 2021 episode includes:
The 2021 Infinite Dial Report (:50)
Guest: Tom Webster, Edison Research (8:00)
Spotlight: Viral drone video (24:50)
Gallagher's State of the Sector 2021 (28:50)
NFTs and marketing (33:05)
Listener question: Getting your audience to your blog (37:25)
LINKS
TALKING POINT
The Infinite Dial 2021
The state of podcast listening for 2021/Podcasting finds a way
The future of social audio: Startups, roadmap, business models and a forecast
Tom Webster, Edison Research
SPOTLIGHT
The viral Bryant Lake Bowl drone video
Motorcycle ride inside Rosedale Center
QUICK NEWS & QUICK TAKES
State of the Sector 2021
The brands are at it again, Taco Bell is hopping on the NFT train
What's an NFT? And why are people paying millions to buy them?
Why the NFT craze is a bubble waiting to pop
MORE INFORMATION
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Brandpoint

150: Reframing influencer marketing (w/Jason Falls), Clubhouse, content marketing trends Feb 18, 2021

Our February 2021 episode includes:
The state of influencer marketing (1:05)
Guest: Jason Falls, "Winfluence" (9:10)
Spotlight: New Zealand tells tourists to stop copying other people's photos (30:15)
What marketers need to know about Clubhouse (33:00)
Pandemic changes for B2C content marketers (37:20)
Listener question: Social media and executives (40:10)
LINKS
TALKING POINT
10 influencer marketing stats for 2021
What marketers need to know about influencer marketing in 2021
Jason Falls, "Winfluence"
Does "Fake Famous" miss the boat on influencers?
SPOTLIGHT
New Zealand tells tourists to stop copying other people's travel photos
QUICK NEWS & QUICK TAKES
Clubhouse app for business, what marketers need to know
B2C content marketers, get ready for more responsibility in 2021
MORE INFORMATION
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Brandpoint

149: The PESO Model (w/Gini Dietrich), DQ employee's viral TikTok, social posts in trying times Jan 14, 2021

Our January 2021 episode includes:
The PESO Model (1:25)
Guest: Gini Dietrich, Spin Sucks (7:40)
Spotlight: Dairy Queen employee on TikTok (19:15)
How employee comms can help fight change fatigue (22:05)
Digital marketing trends for 2021 (24:25)
Listener question: How should brands approach social media during breaking/developing news? (26:40)
LINKS
TALKING POINT
Why communicators must (finally) embrace the PESO Model
12 Days of Christmas: Eight communications podcasts
Spin Sucks
SPONSOR EVENTS
"Bringing the Civil Back Into Civil Discourse: What PR Professionals Need to Know and Do"
PR North - Winter Edition
SPOTLIGHT
Ancaster teen gains TikTok fame with viral Dairy Queen videos
QUICK NEWS & QUICK TAKES
Why change fatigue from 2020 threatens the business changes needed to survive 2021
7 digital marketing trends of focus for 2021
CLOSING
Do older PR pros ignore influencer marketing?
9 social media trends every marketer must know for 2021: A conversation with Arik Hanson
MORE INFORMATION
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Brandpoint
Minnesota PRSA

148: Brand journalism, KFC gets sexy, hated interview questions Dec 17, 2020

In our December 2020 episode, we discuss:
Pinterest's "soon-to-be trending" report (4:00)
Short-form content (6:50)
Comms predictions for 2021 (7:30)
Spotlight: KFC's sexy Colonel Sanders movie (10:10)
The state of brand journalism (14:20)
PRWeek and Cision's Comms Report (30:05)
The interview questions job candidates hate (39:50)
INTRO SEGMENT
12 Days of Christmas: Eight communications podcasts
QUICK NEWS & QUICK TAKES
Pinterest predicts: The soon-to-be trending report for 2021
Consumers are obsessed with feel-good short-form content right now
9 comms predictions for 2021
SPOTLIGHT
Why KFC is pushing a sexy Colonel Sanders movie
Full movie
TALKING POINTS
Why and how companies are turning to brand journalism
PRWeek and Cision's fourth annual Comms Report
Facebook is dead (It just doesn’t know it yet)
These are the interview questions candidates hate the most
5 new questions hiring managers are asking in interviews now
MORE INFORMATION
HansonandHunt.com
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Spotify page
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SPONSORS
Brandpoint
Minnesota PRSA

147: Bonus/Blois Olson, fluence media Dec 07, 2020

Arik and Kevin interview Blois Olson of fluence media. He shares his insights on the political landscape, social media, the impact of COVID-19 on communications, 2021 planning, local media and PR, the benefits of email newsletters and more.
LINKS
Blois Olson (LinkedIn and Twitter)
fluence media
fluence media email newsletters
UPCOMING EVENT
Social Media Trends to Watch in 2021: A Conversation with Arik Hanson
MORE INFORMATION
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Brandpoint

146: Career path for social media, COVID's impact on 2021 comms, sports and Twitter Nov 19, 2020

In our November 2020 episode, we discuss:
The 2021 Relevance Report from the USC Center for Public Relations (4:00)
The latest IGTV research (7:50)
How brands are using sports Twitter to connect with fans (9:50)
Spotlight: The Cheetos holiday cookbook (13:55)
Social Media Trends 2021 Global Report (16:20)
The career path of social media managers (22:10)
Generational differences about the return to the office (33:10)
QUICK NEWS & QUICK TAKES
2021 Relevance Report from the USC Center for Public Relations
The latest research into 2020 IGTV stats
How brands are using sports Twitter to connect with NFL, NBA and MLB fans
SPONSOR NEWS
Marsha Pitts-Phillips receives national diversity and inclusion honor from PRSA
SPOTLIGHT
Cheetos' holiday cookbook reflects evolving home-cooking needs amid new coronavirus wave
TALKING POINTS
Social Media Trends 2021 Global Report
Social media managers lack clear path to senior leadership roles
Office life in 2020 sparks debate across generations
MORE INFORMATION
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Brandpoint
Minnesota PRSA

145: Bonus/Voicing your opinion on politics Oct 26, 2020

Plenty of communicators are posting their thoughts on politics on their social media accounts. Should you? Arik discusses that and shares some advice for how to do it.
MORE INFORMATION
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Brandpoint

144: Advice when between jobs, always-on employee comms, social hot takes Oct 15, 2020

In our October 2020 episode, we discuss:
Social media marketing on Reddit, Twitch and Quora (2:20)
New blogging statistics (4:05)
LinkedIn Stories (5:20)
Spotlight: Ocean Spray and TikTok (8:40)
Spotlight: Monster Cereal Sweepstakes (10:45)
Social media hot takes (13:45)
Refining your approach to employee comms (24:45)
Advice if you're in-between jobs (31:25)
QUICK NEWS & QUICK TAKES
Social media marketing on Reddit, Twitch and Quora
Blogging still works, especially for the 10% of bloggers who do things very differently
8 initial reactions to LinkedIn Stories for users (and brands, eventually)
SPONSOR EVENT
Oktoberfest with IABC, PRSA & MIMA
SPOTLIGHT
Ocean Spray finally reacts to viral skateboarding TikTok
Ocean Spray surprises Tik Tok star with a new cranberry-colored truck after his Fleetwood Mac video went viral
Instagram/Monster Cereal Sweepstakes
A Monster of a sweepstakes
TALKING POINTS
What's your biggest social hot take that will cause a stir with other social media pros?
Four digital strategies for “Always-On” employee communications
What they don’t tell you about life in-between
MORE INFORMATION
TheTalkingPointsPodcast.com
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Brandpoint
Minnesota PRSA

143: Bonus/Laura King, CorTalent Sep 27, 2020

Arik interviews Laura King, a director at CorTalent - who manages the company's recruiting and business development - and a co-founder of Marketers' Community.
She offers advice for your job search, the importance of LinkedIn, ways to stand out, networking tips and more.
LINKS
Laura King
CorTalent
Marketers' Community
MORE INFORMATION
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Brandpoint

142: Networking in a pandemic, comms planning, PR ethics Sep 15, 2020

In our September 2020 episode, we discuss:
Email makes a comeback in internal comms (3:20)
Facebook sets limits on ads (5:20)
Microsoft's deepfake detector (6:30)
Spotlight: Red Wing Shoes and #LaborDayOn (9:00)
Communications planning advice (11:45)
PR ethics (24:35)
Networking in a pandemic (33:00 )
QUICK NEWS & QUICK TAKES
Email is the most-used channel for employee messaging in pandemic
Facebook to impose limits on number of ads
Microsoft launches a deepfake detector tool ahead of US election
SPONSOR EVENT
"The Intersection of Ethics and Diversity and Inclusion"
SPOTLIGHT
Red Wing Shoes is doing something cool for Labor Day
TALKING POINTS
Some emerging themes to guide 2021 digital marketing plans
Code of PR ethics? The gray area of communicating a point of view
MORE INFORMATION
TheTalkingPointsPodcast.com
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SPONSORS
Brandpoint
Minnesota PRSA

141: Bonus/Brands taking a stand Aug 31, 2020

Arik examines the complex topic of companies and brands making the decision to take a public stand on politics and key societal issues.
LINKS
Most Loved Brands 2020
Survey reaffirms consumers are serious about brands taking stands
Best Buy says 30% of 1,000 new tech hires will be people of color or women
MORE INFORMATION
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Brandpoint

140: How to brag, our "hills to die on," mixternal comms Aug 13, 2020

In our August 2020 episode, we discuss:
Instagram Reels (3:00)
Cision’s State of the Press Release (5:50)
Employee perspectives on COVID-19 (9:05)
Spotlight: Country Time's bailout relief fund (13:25)
Our "hills to die on" (15:10)
The benefits of mixternal collaboration (28:55)
How to brag better (35:45)
QUICK NEWS & QUICK TAKES
Facebook launches its new TikTok clone, Instagram Reels
Let’s be Reels! Can Instagram’s newest feature take on TikTok?
We tested Instagram Reels, the TikTok clone. What a dud.
Cision’s State of the Press Release
Employee perspectives vary on COVID-19 as companies chart the next normal
SPONSOR EVENT
Career Coffee: Creating and Energizing a Personal Advocacy Network
SPOTLIGHT
Country Time launches littlest bailout relief fund for kids’ lemonade stands
TALKING POINTS
Hot takes wanted: What's a marketing/advertising hill you're willing to die on?
11 benefits of mixternal collaboration
“Brag Better” by Meredith Fineman
Brag Better: Master the art of fearless self-promotion.
Brag Better x INGO: How to brag better from home and online
MORE INFORMATION
TheTalkingPointsPodcast.com
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Brandpoint
Minnesota PRSA

139: The burnout is real, Facebook backlash, what consumers want from brands Jul 23, 2020

In our July 2020 episode, we discuss:
Edelman's Trust Barometer Special Report: Brand Trust in 2020 (3:40)
What Black Lives Matter supporters want brands to do (4:45)
What companies and employees are posting on LinkedIn (5:55)
COVID-19’s impact on marketing (7:00)
Spotlight: Arby’s audio tweets (9:05)
The impact of the Facebook boycott (11:15)
Andy Krall of Brandpoint (18:00)
Reuters Institute Digital News Report 2020 (20:30)
Preventing comms burnout (28:45)
OPENING
CONVERGENCE Summit 2020
QUICK NEWS & QUICK TAKES
Trust Barometer Special Report: Brand Trust in 2020
What Black Lives Matter supporters want brands to do
Companies continue to speak up as the conversation on LinkedIn shifts to injustice
Four points about COVID-19’s impact on marketing
MINNESOTA PRSA EVENT
The Power of Language: Understanding Complexities when Communicating with Diverse Audiences
SPOTLIGHT
Arby’s audio tweets
TALKING POINTS
Facebook's future keeps getting murkier
Facebook has a PR problem, not a long-term revenue problem
Walmart, McDonalds, and Geico are the latest companies to reportedly pull advertising from Facebook amid a growing boycott
Facebook and Instagram to study racial bias against African Americans, Hispanics on their platforms
Reuters Institute Digital News Report 2020
You can’t do everything so slow yourself down
Microsoft analyzed data on its newly remote workforce
I Started a New Job in a Pandemic
MORE INFORMATION
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Brandpoint
Minnesota PRSA

138: Bonus/Marsha Pitts-Phillips, Minnesota PRSA Jun 25, 2020

Arik interviews Marsha Pitts-Phillips, the Diversity and Inclusion Officer for the Minnesota chapter of the Public Relations Society of America, and the president and founder of MRPP & Associates Communications.
They discuss a variety of topics relevant to the communications landscape right now, including what companies are saying during this period of social unrest, the vulnerability of leaders, increasing diversity in PR and communications, and more.
LINKS
Town Hall (Video): Ethical Public Relations, Press Conferences, and Public Engagement During Crisis
Other Town Halls from the University of Minnesota's Hubbard School of Journalism and Mass Communications
Minnesota PRSA helps establish National Multicultural Endowment Scholarship Fund
Marsha Pitts-Phillips
MRPP & Associates Communications
MORE INFORMATION
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Brandpoint

137: The impact of George Floyd, politics and PR, virtual job interviews Jun 11, 2020

In our June 2020 episode, we discuss:

The aftermath of the death of George Floyd and the communications aspects (2:30)
Instagram's new payouts for influencers (12:00)
How podcasting has weathered the pandemic (14:00)
Muck Rack's "The State of Journalism 2020" (16:35)
Spotlight: 'Your job seems too boring' (20:05)
The impact of partisan politics on PR and comms (21:20)
The return of the video news release (31:10)
Preparing for virtual job interviews (37:40)

QUICK NEWS & QUICK TAKES
Instagram will (finally) pay influencers
Podcasting: Connection and Community During Quarantine
The State of Journalism 2020
SPOTLIGHT
'Your job seems too boring'
TALKING POINTS
Partisan politics complicates PR and comms for business
Amazon’s TV package about warehouse safety puts an old practice back in the spotlight
How to make a good impression in a virtual job interview
MORE INFORMATION
TheTalkingPointsPodcast.com
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SPONSORS
Brandpoint
Minnesota PRSA

136: Bonus/Casey Hall, Lumberjack Social May 22, 2020

Arik interviews Casey Hall of Lumberjack Social. They discuss several trends in social media to pay attention to during the COVID-19 pandemic: Executive use of social media, brand journalism, Instagram, TikTok, pandemic-related content from brands, and Twitch.
LINKS
Lumberjack Social
Key insights: Day one post COVID-19, the mobile app economy takes centre stage, the martech-scape and more
U.S. consumers are flocking to TikTok
MORE INFORMATION
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Brandpoint

135: "Disastertising," preparing now for normal, remote micromanagers May 07, 2020

In our May 2020 episode, we discuss:

Cision's 2020 Global State of the Media Report (3:50)
CEOs seeing record engagement on LinkedIn (5:20)
The role of social during COVID-19 (7:50)
Spotlight: Kaiser Permanente's TikTok win (10:10)
Disastertising (12:55)
Ideas to prepare for the pandemic rebound (24:50)
Bosses who micromanage remote workers (30:35)

QUICK NEWS & QUICK TAKES
Cision's 2020 Global State of the Media Report
CEOs see record engagement on LinkedIn during pandemic
CEO social profiles critical comms tools during COVID-19
Do The Right Thing: The role of social In COVID-19
SPOTLIGHT
How Kaiser Permanente owned TikTok with its #OwnTheCurve COVID-19 campaign
TALKING POINTS
How to advertise in a pandemic
Every COVID-19 commercial is exactly the same
Leading with action can reduce the risk of a COVIDwashing backlash
26 ways to get ready for the rebound: A playbook for what to do right now
How to deal with a boss who micromanages your work from home
MORE INFORMATION
TheTalkingPointsPodcast.com
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SPONSORS
Brandpoint
Minnesota PRSA

134: Bonus/GlobalWebIndex social media report Apr 28, 2020

GlobalWebIndex Social media flagship report: The latest social media trends to know for 2020
MORE INFORMATION
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133: The reality and future of comms, the PESO model, imposter syndrome Apr 07, 2020

Thank you for listening. We understandably devoted most of our time in this episode to discussing various aspects of COVID-19 communications.
Please take note of a Minnesota PRSA event you also may find helpful, that we mention toward the end of the show: "Communicating during COVID-19: A virtual town hall for communicators by communicators."
In our April 2020 episode, we discuss:

COVID-19: Observations (6:40)
COVID-19: Internal comms (8:25)
COVID-19: Brands and social media (14:25)
COVID-19: Scott Severson of Brandpoint (22:15)
COVID-19: The aftermath (24:45)
COVID-19: Job hunting (29:05)
COVID-19: Our last few weeks (34:10)
The updated PESO Model (42:55)
Imposter syndrome (47:15)
Minnesota PRSA event: Communicating during COVID-19 (57:30)
Spotlight: The Getty Museum's social media challenge (58:00)

TALKING POINTS
2020 Edelman Special Report on COVID-19
People want to hear from brands during the pandemic
When this is over: The comms community’s 10 hopes for the post COVID-19 world
PRSA resources for communicating in a time of COVID-19
COVID-19 resources - International Association of Business Communicators
COVID-19 resources for PR professionals - The Institute for Public Relations
The newly refreshed PESO Model graphic and process
Imposter syndrome or incompetence? How do you know the difference?
EVENT NOTE
MINNESOTA PRSA: Communicating during COVID-19: A virtual town hall for communicators by communicators
SPOTLIGHT
Getty Museum challenges quarantined people to recreate famous works of art, with hilarious results
Getty Museum - Twitter
CLOSING
Leading from home
MORE INFORMATION
TheTalkingPointsPodcast.com
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SPONSORS
Brandpoint
Minnesota PRSA

132: Bonus/Brands and COVID-19 Mar 29, 2020

LINKS
How social networks are surging and changing during the COVID-19 outbreak
Content marketing that is truly making a difference during the COVID-19 outbreak
Blue Cross joins Allina to launch skilled volunteer effort to create masks for hospitals and clinics
LinkedIn: Life Time Inc.
How to take your next conference call from your "tent"
Brands are creating Zoom backgrounds to class up your quarantine
MORE INFORMATION
TheTalkingPointsPodcast.com
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Brandpoint

131: Being social and working in social, COVID-19 comms, blog post dates dilemma Mar 12, 2020

Note: One of our discussion items this month is about the communications aspects of the coronavirus (COVID-19). This episode was recorded before March 11, before the most recent developments (the classification of the virus as a pandemic, the restrictions on U.S. travel related to Europe, the NBA's decision to suspend its season, etc...)
In our March 2020 episode, we discuss:

The impact of the coronavirus on communications (5:30)
New data from Shareablee on brand social engagement (7:40)
The "State of Writing 2020" report (8:55)
Spotlight: McDonald's teams up with Oreo (10:50)
The date-less blog post dilemma (12:50)
Jessica Smith's 2020 outlook for content strategy (19:15)
The connection between being personally active on social media and working in social media (28:10)

OPENING
Twitter: Mary Worley at UWEC
Greg Swan/WTF is Social Media in 2020? (Video)
QUICK NEWS & QUICK TAKES
Lead your business through the coronavirus crisis
A working guide to communicating about coronavirus
How to communicate COVID-19 information in your organisation
Are brands getting smarter about social?
State of Writing 2020
SPOTLIGHT
The Shamrock Shake is back at McDonald's along with a brand-new dessert
TALKING POINTS
The top arguments for and against including dates on blogs and content
Things to consider and remember in social + sport in 2020
Personal social media as a job requirement/Christian Lowery tweet
CLOSING
IABC Minnesota's Convergence Summit (March 19)
MORE INFORMATION
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Brandpoint
Minnesota PRSA

130: Bonus/Shahbaz Khan, Timberwolves/Lynx Feb 27, 2020

Arik interviews Shahbaz Khan, director of digital content for the Minnesota Timberwolves and Minnesota Lynx.
LINKS

Shahbaz Khan - Twitter
Timberwolves - Twitter

Timberwolves - Instagram
Timberwolves - Facebook
MORE INFORMATION
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David James Group
Brandpoint

129: The role of comms in trust, job-hopping, plus antisocial social media Feb 13, 2020

In our February 2020 episode, we discuss:

Is it time for brands to hold their tongues on hot topics? (2:05)
Poppulo's Employee Communications Report 2020 (3:55)
LinkedIn's growth (5:40)
Spotlight: An IG account mocking influencers (8:55)
Spotlight: Winona, Minnesota's response to Winona Ryder (10:40)
Are we in the era of antisocial social media? (16:25)
Lessons from the 2020 Edelman Trust Barometer (24:00)
Job-hopping in communications (31:00)

QUICK NEWS & QUICK TAKES
Time for brands to hold their tongues on (some) hot topics
Poppulo Employee Communications Report 2020
LinkedIn reaches 675 million members
SPOTLIGHT

Influencers in the Wild
This new Instagram account is dedicated to capturing the hilarious fourth wall of people taking photos for Instagram
BONUS SPOTLIGHT
Watch Winona Ryder's Super Bowl commercial, a love note to Winona, Minn.
Long-form version of Winona Ryder's video feature
Winona Ryder commercial (Super Bowl)
Winona Ryder commercial (Extended)
Welcome to Winona website
Winona, Minnesota's "Welcome to the rest of Winona" website
TALKING POINTS
The era of antisocial social media
2020 Edelman Trust Barometer
Competence is not enough
Earning trust
Millennials, Gen Z are ditching the job-hopper label
Misunderstood generations: what Millennials and Gen Z actually think about work
MORE INFORMATION
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Spotify page
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SPONSORS
David James Group
Brandpoint
Minnesota PRSA

128: Bonus/Social media trends for 2020 Jan 23, 2020

LINKS
In 2020, social media will be less social
13 top B2B social media marketing trends and predictions for 2020
12 social media trends to watch in 2020
MORE INFORMATION
TheTalkingPointsPodcast.com
Apple Podcasts page
Spotify page
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SPONSORS
David James Group
Brandpoint

127: Gen Z's impact on the social feed, skills communicators need plus 'content chaos' Jan 16, 2020

In our January 2020 episode, we discuss:

Facebook's ban on deepfakes (3:00)
A study that says comms directors are in “content chaos” (4:50)
How social media 'stumps' marketers (7:00)
Spotlight: Panera addresses angry tweets (9:45)
The differences between a heritage brand and an innovator brand (12:05)
Gen Z's impact on social media marketing (19:20)
The skills communicators need to succeed (26:50)

QUICK NEWS & QUICK TAKES

Facebook bans deepfakes
Study: Most comms directors are experiencing “content chaos”
Comms leaders reveal their ‘top 3’ content challenges for 2020
Social media 'stumps' marketers
SPOTLIGHT
Panera hires Phyllis from 'The Office' to address angry tweets
TALKING POINTS
Heritage brands are finally waking up
Gen Z is reinventing social media marketing
'Creativity' most in-demand soft skill for 2020
CLOSING
Arik's LinkedIn post about tough-to-spell names
MORE INFORMATION
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SPONSORS
David James Group
Brandpoint

126: Interview with Nick Westergaard of Brand Driven Digital Dec 18, 2019

We're closing out 2019 with this interview episode featuring Nick Westergaard, chief strategist and partner at Brand Driven Digital. Nick also teaches at the University of Iowa, speaks at numerous conferences, hosts the "On Brand" podcast, and has written two books: "Brand Now" and "Get Scrappy."
We talked with Nick in his office in Iowa City about his background, what organizations should consider if they're thinking about starting a podcast, the dangers of "checklist marketing," how brands can stand out in a crowded online world, what it means to be scrappy in your content production, the state of social media marketing heading into 2020, and more.
Nick Westergaard (LinkedIn)
NickWestergaard.com
Brand Driven Digital
MORE INFORMATION
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SPONSORS
David James Group
Brandpoint

125: South Dakota's anti-meth campaign, prioritizing earned media, plus Tom Snee Dec 12, 2019

In our December 2019 episode, we discuss:

The FTC's new advertising disclosures guidance for online influencers (2:30)
The Spoken Word Audio Report from NPR/Edison Research (3:55)
Content marketing planning for 2020 (4:55)
Spotlight: South Dakota is on meth (7:10)
Cision and PRWeek's 2019 Global Comms Report (15:20)
The 2020 Relevance Report from the USC Center for Public Relations (18:35)
Doug Kessler's view of the state of content marketing (25:25)
Tom Snee, University of Iowa (31:00)
Social Media Breakfast MSP's employer branding event (42:30)

Quick News & Quick Takes
FTC demystifies influencer disclosure with new resources
The Spoken Word Audio Report from NPR and Edison Research
4 major content marketing trends for 2020: How to prepare for next year
Talking Points Spotlight
‘Meth. We’re on it,’ South Dakota says in ridiculed ad campaign that cost $449,000
Behind the scenes of the “Meth. We’re on it.” campaign and how it got approved
"Meth. We're On It." is a new antidrug campaign in South Dakota. Seriously.
The cold, hard truth: The PR and ad industries are still hooked on “vanity metrics”
Talking Points
3 surprising stats from PRWeek/Cision’s Global PR Report
Cision and PRWeek release 2019 Global Comms Report: The Path To Progress, Demonstrating The Rise Of Earned Media
2020 Relevance Report from the USC Center for Public Relations
Something happened
Five years of Crap content: an anniversary of sorts
Talking Points Shoutout
Tom Snee, University of Iowa
Closing
Brands being social: How to build & nurture an effective employer brand
MORE INFORMATION
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Apple Podcasts page
Spotify page
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SPONSORS
David James Group
Brandpoint
Minnesota PRSA

124: Interview with Lisa Grimm Nov 27, 2019

Our interview episode for November features Lisa Grimm, former director of social media and influencer marketing at Whole Foods. She previously held marketing and communications at space150 and Mall of America, among others. She talks about how she's spending her time during her current sabbatical, shares some great takeaways and tips from her responsibilities and projects while navigating the evolution of social media at Whole Foods, offers a few marketing trends she's thinking about today, and more.
MORE INFORMATION
Show page and links
Facebook Group
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SPONSORS
David James Group
Brandpoint

123: Ideas for video series, blogging data, using paid social for PR, plus Joshua Carter Nov 07, 2019

In our November 2019 episode, we discuss:

Social Media Breakfast MSP's podcasting event (2:20)
PRWeek & Boston University's 2019 Bellwether Survey (3:10)
How to promote podcasts (4:20)
Results from a poll of B2B marketers (6:30)
Spotlight: An issue for Panera (10:00)
Ideas for a behind-the-scenes video series (12:45)
How blogging has changed (18:40)
Using paid social for PR (24:50)
Shoutout interview: Joshua Carter, Tunheim (30:50)

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Brandpoint
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122: Interview with Scott Severson of Brandpoint Oct 24, 2019

Our interview episode for October features Scott Severson, president of Brandpoint. He talks about the content marketing strategies and tactics involved in employer branding. And he offers ideas for getting started, measurement and how a positive employer brand supports an organization's recruiting and reputation.
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121: Employee advocacy's impact on personal brands, the role of the CCO, YouTube, plus Karen Freberg Oct 10, 2019

In our October 2019 episode, we discuss:

Social Media Breakfast MSP's podcasting event (2:05)
The Page Society's CCO report (3:40)
A PESO primer (6:15)
Why fewer people see brands as political (7:45)
Spotlight: P&G's TV show (10:40)
The impact of employee social advocacy programs on personal brands (12:30)
If YouTube should be getting more attention (20:30)
7 social media trends to be aware of before 2020 hits (25:35)
Shoutout interview: Karen Freberg, University of Louisville (30:00)

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David James Group
Brandpoint
Minnesota PRSA

120: Hot Topics/Podcasting Sep 26, 2019

Our latest “Hot Topics” edition focuses on podcasting for businesses and organizations.
We’re joined by Gary Jordan from NASA's "Houston We Have a Podcast," Marie McGehee from Verizon's "Up To Speed" and LouAnn Berglund Haaf from Cambria's "Beyond the Surface." Kevin also joins in as a guest, to talk about the "A Taste of General Mills" podcast that he oversees at General Mills.
In this discussion, we cover: why and how our guests started their podcasts, how they plan and maintain them, advice to get a podcast underway, and more.
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Brandpoint

119: Is AP style on the decline? Also, why your audiences are ghosting you, plus Rose McKinney of Pineapple RM Sep 12, 2019

In our September 2019 episode, we discuss:

The death of the click in Google searches (3:45)
Adobe's 2019 Brand Content Survey (5:35)
Facebook's move to remove Like counts (7:25)
Spotlight: A perhaps strategic Twitter war win for Popeye's (9:40)
The fading relevance of AP style (14:30)
Why you and your coworkers should be more active on LinkedIn (25:00)
What to do when your channel audiences "ghost" you (34:15)
Shoutout interview: Rose McKinney, Pineapple RM (39:05)

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*Get the links for Episode 119
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David James Group
Brandpoint
Minnesota PRSA

118: Interview with Drew Navolio and Dan Jasker of David James Group Aug 22, 2019

Our interview episode for August features Drew Navolio, vice president of Client Services; and Dan Jasker, director of Digital Services, at David James Group. They talk about their work with the Society of Women Engineers and the organization's blog: “All Together Now.” Plus, they discuss blog platforms, content strategy and blogging best practices.
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117: Should you start a Facebook group? Also, the benefits of 'brave' marketing, plus Ashley Voge of Smiths Medical Aug 08, 2019

In their August 2019 episode, Arik Hanson and Kevin Hunt discuss:

The "demetrication" trend in social media (2:00)
A lesson from news websites about how not to overwhelm your online readers (4:10)
Edelman's employee backlash (6:30)
Spotlight: REI's new magazine (9:25)
Arik's advice for your personal social media activity (10:50)
Does taking risks in a marketing campaign make it more effective? (17:25)
Facebook wants communicators to create groups, but should you? (23:30)
Shoutout interview: Ashley Voge, Smiths Medical (32:35)

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*Get the links for Episode 117

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Minnesota PRSA

116: Lessons from the Wayfair walkout, a business owner tweaks influencers, plus Ryan Pena of Be The Match Jul 18, 2019

Our 5th anniversary edition - Thanks for listening! The Quick News & Quick Takes segment this month includes Ogilvy's latest Global Media Influence Survey (4:00), why you're seeing posts from people you don't follow in your Instagram feed (5:40) and some mobile marketing data at the halfway point of 2019 (8:10).
The Talking Points Spotlight features an ice cream vendor who decided to do something about a deluge of influencers asking him for free ice cream (11:00).
And, the Talking Points in this episode feature discussions about some of the challenges of creating content for employees (15:00), the scary scenario presented by Wayfair's employee walkout (24:25) and how communicators can answer the question, what is PR? (34:45).
Plus, the Talking Points Shoutout for this month goes to Ryan Pena, social media strategist for Be The Match (40:00). He talks about his career, social media trends, and why we should be paying attention to TikTok.
For show notes, visit TheTalkingPointsPodcast.com. If you have feedback or a suggestion for an interview, article or topic, reach out to us on the show’s Facebook group. Or, find us on LinkedIn. Thanks for listening!
SPONSORS
David James Group
Brandpoint
Minnesota PRSA

115: Interview with Chris Iles of the Minnesota Twins Jun 27, 2019

Our interview episode for June features Chris Iles, senior director, Brand Experience and Innovation, with the Minnesota Twins. With the team having its best season in years, he's got a great gig. Iles talks with us about his career, role and his team with the Twins. Plus, how the Twins approach creative content and innovation for the experience fans have with the team both inside and outside Target Field in Minneapolis. He also offers some advice for anyone wanting to work in sports.
For show notes, visit TheTalkingPointsPodcast.com. If you have feedback or a suggestion for an interview, article or topic, join the show’s Facebook group. Or, find us on LinkedIn. Thanks for listening!
SPONSORS
David James Group
Brandpoint

114: The comeback of community in social media, the Pelosi “shallowfake” video, plus Stephanie Moncada of Ingersoll Rand Jun 13, 2019

The Quick News & Quick Takes segment this month includes the 2019 Social Media Marketing Industry Report from Social Media Examiner (3:20), a report on podcasting behavior and podcast advertising (6:10) and a revealing study that examines the state of social media teams (8:15).
The Talking Points Spotlight features the Wikipedia drama with The North Face (13:10).
And, the Talking Points in this episode feature discussions about the comeback of the community in social media marketing (16:50), Facebook’s handling of the Nancy Pelosi “shallowfake” video (27:15), and the argument for targeting “the smallest viable audience” and also using micro-influencers (34:45).
Plus, the Talking Points Shoutout for this month goes to Stephanie Moncada, communications lead at Ingersoll Rand. (42:05). She talks about her role, earning a 2019 Women in Business Award, her advice for women in communications, and the strategic communications approach at her company.
For show notes, visit TheTalkingPointsPodcast.com. If you have feedback or a suggestion for an interview, article or topic, reach out to us on the show’s Facebook group. Or, find us on LinkedIn. Thanks for listening!
SPONSORS
David James Group
Brandpoint
Minnesota PRSA

113: Interview with Maggie Habashy of the Minneapolis Final Four May 30, 2019

Our interview episode for May features Maggie Habashy, director of external operations for the 2019 Minneapolis Final Four Local Organizing Committee. She talks with us about her role on the committee, what it was like to be part of the Final Four, and the lessons learned by stepping out and experiencing a big event like that in her PR/communications career.
For show notes, visit TheTalkingPointsPodcast.com. If you have feedback or a suggestion for an interview, article or topic, join the show’s Facebook group. Or, find us on LinkedIn. Thanks for listening!
SPONSORS
David James Group
Brandpoint

112: Saying ‘No’ in PR/comms doesn’t have to be hard, why trust in influencers is fading, plus Tom Jollie of Padilla May 16, 2019

The Quick News & Quick Takes segment this month includes stories about Facebook’s redesign (3:05), Instagram tests hiding likes (4:45) and Cision's 2019 State of the Media report (6:55).
The Talking Points Spotlight features a milestone for Delta’s Sky magazine (9:40), plus a heads-up for our Minnesota listeners about an event the weekend of May 18-19 called “Doors Open Minneapolis” (12:05).
And, the Talking Points in this episode feature discussions about earned media’s potential for increasing sales through an owned media tactic like a blog (13:50), why there’s low trust in what influencers post in social (19:50) and advice for saying ‘No’ when a colleague or executive brings you something ‘for social’ or PR (26:20).
Plus, the Talking Points Shoutout for this month goes to Tom Jollie, senior vice president at Padilla (35:40). He talks about why it’s important for communicators to find organizations to volunteer with, the scope of his work, advice for PR grads looking for their first job, and more.
For show notes, visit TheTalkingPointsPodcast.com. If you have feedback or a suggestion for an interview, article or topic, reach out to us on the show’s Facebook group. Or, find us on LinkedIn. Thanks for listening!
SPONSORS
David James Group
Brandpoint
Minnesota PRSA

111: Hot Topics/Instagram Stories Apr 25, 2019

Our latest “Hot Topics” edition focuses on Instagram Stories. We’re joined by Michelle Voss, director of social media for the University of Minnesota Athletics Department; Caitlin Hannah, social media strategist at Explore Minnesota Tourism; and Carrie Wyman, director of marketing at Brandpoint.
In this discussion, we cover: how they are using Instagram Stories, how they’re creating them, their strategy, measurement, length of a Story, the use of links, advice for getting started using Stories, and more.
For show notes, visit TheTalkingPointsPodcast.com. If you have feedback or a suggestion for an interview, article or topic, reach out to us on the show’s Facebook group. Or, find us on LinkedIn. Thanks for listening!
SPONSOR
Brandpoint

110: The untapped influencer marketing opportunity for PR, Bud salutes Dwyane Wade, the CEO view of brand reputation, plus the mental health concerns facing communicators Apr 18, 2019

The Quick News & Quick Takes segment this month includes stories about “Gullennials” who trust people online more than their parents (3:25), a website making it more clear when articles are old (5:15), and an “unpopular” list of marketing trends for 2019 (6:50).
The Talking Points Spotlight features Budweiser’s tribute to NBA great Dwyane Wade (10:10).
And, the Talking Points in this episode feature discussions about the PR industry’s involvement with influencers, is PR missing the boat? (16:15). Also, what the annual Global Communications Report from USC Annenberg says about PR trends and the CEO’s view of PR (22:35), and there’s a renewed focus on mental health concerns facing the comms profession (31:40).
Plus, the Talking Points Shoutout for this month goes to Bianca Jones, associate manager in External Communications at Best Buy (39:55). She talks about her role there, and what she does with the Minnesota PRSA.
For show notes, visit TheTalkingPointsPodcast.com. If you have feedback or a suggestion for an interview, article or topic, reach out to us on the show’s Facebook group. Or, find us on LinkedIn. Thanks for listening!
SPONSORS
David James Group
Brandpoint
Minnesota PRSA

109: Why social media lurkers are an important audience, Instagram is spreading hate, trends in corp comm and PR Mar 28, 2019

The Quick News & Quick Takes segment this month includes the latest data on podcast consumption, and a Facebook exodus too (2:50), how Instagram is being used to spread hate (4:50), and media trends highlighted at SXSW (7:55 ).
The Talking Points Spotlight features a timely basketball-themed event from Land O’Lakes (11:00).
And, the Talking Points in this episode feature discussions about how newsrooms are handling their metrics and what communicators can learn from their approach (13:00), the true value of social media engagement and the importance of “lurkers” (25:00), and a survey with some interesting trends in corporate communications and PR (35:55).
Plus, the Talking Points Shoutout for this month goes to Sue Serna, global director of social media at Cargill (42:30). She talks about her role guiding Cargill’s social social footprint and the challenges that work can offer at a large company, her involvement in industry networking and how she made the move from journalism to the corporate world.
For show notes, visit TheTalkingPointsPodcast.com. If you have feedback or a suggestion for an interview, article or topic, reach out to us on the show’s Facebook group. Or, find us on LinkedIn. Thanks for listening!
SPONSORS
David James Group
Brandpoint

Minnesota PRSA

108: Interview with Ron Zywicki of the David James Group Mar 21, 2019

Our interview episode for March features Ron Zywicki, managing director and partner at the David James Group. He talks with us about working with nonprofits on rebranding, what to take into account with those projects, and more.
For show notes, visit TheTalkingPointsPodcast.com. If you have feedback or a suggestion for an interview, article or topic, reach out to us on the show’s Facebook group. Or, find us on LinkedIn. Thanks for listening!
SPONSOR
David James Group

107: Data journalism for content marketing, why email could be the best answer for reaching external and internal audiences, and Edelman puts trust in employees Feb 28, 2019

The Quick News & Quick Takes segment this month includes discussions about the 2019 Edelman Trust Barometer’s emphasis on employees and their employers (4:40), a survey that suggests CEOs want to talk sales, not social issues (6:45) and a Facebook report on what Instagram users expect from brands (8:10).
The Talking Points Spotlight features a social media-friendly destination in Puerto Rico that Kevin recently saw firsthand (10:25).
And, the Talking Points in this episode feature takeaways from Buffer’s 2019 State of Social Report (12:55), why a data journalism approach should be considered by companies and brands in their content (18:00) and the “hot new channel for reaching real people,” for both internal and external comms purposes (27:15).
Plus, the Talking Points Shoutout for this month goes to Gretchen DeSutter, formerly in media relations at Thomson Reuters (36:00). She shares some great advice for cultivating and managing relationships with reporters.
For show notes, visit TheTalkingPointsPodcast.com. If you have feedback or a suggestion for an interview, article or topic, reach out to us on the show’s Facebook group. Or, find us on LinkedIn. Thanks for listening!
SPONSORS
David James Group
Brandpoint
Minnesota PRSA

106: Interview with John Lucas of the University of Wisconsin Feb 07, 2019

Our interview episode for February features John Lucas, assistant vice chancellor for Communications at the University of Wisconsin. He talks about his work managing internal and external projects, which focuses on helping UW tell its own story on a variety of channels. He also highlights his team and the content they produce, the university’s use of social media, his vision for guiding various communications efforts in the face of trends in digital and social, ongoing support for the UW chancellor’s communications, and more.
For show notes, visit TheTalkingPointsPodcast.com. If you have feedback or a suggestion for an interview, article or topic, reach out to us on the show’s Facebook group. Or, find us on LinkedIn. Thanks for listening!
SPONSORS
David James Group
Brandpoint

105: Fake sponsored content, why businesses should podcast, and LinkedIn’s benefits as a comms channel Jan 17, 2019

The Quick News and Quick Takes segment this month includes stories about research into the true pace of the spread of a technology platform or behavior online (4:55), a new AI tool for reporters at Forbes to provide thought-starters for their stories (6:20), and a survey of public attitudes about what the social media platforms serve up in their algorithms (7:45). The Talking Points Spotlight features one brand’s unique tiered-approach to influencer marketing (10:00). And, the Talking Points in this episode feature discussions about podcasting by businesses, brands or organizations (12:30), how fake sponsored content could cause problems for communicators (20:25), why we should be paying more attention to LinkedIn as a comms channel (29:00), and can Facebook right the ship by being more like Instagram? (33:15). Plus, the Talking Points Shoutout for this month goes to Bridget Jewell, social creative director at Periscope (37:00). She talks about her role and recent brand-related projects, as well as her previous work at Mall of America.
For show notes, visit TheTalkingPointsPodcast.com. If you have feedback or a suggestion for an interview, article or topic, reach out to us on the show’s Facebook group. Or, find us on LinkedIn. Thanks for listening!
SPONSORS
David James Group
Minnesota PRSA

104: Hot Topics/The Social CEO, with Tom Buchheim of American Family Insurance Jan 10, 2019

Here’s our first “Hot Topics” edition of 2019. The focus of this one is on executive use of social media. We’re joined by Tom Buchheim of American Family Insurance in Madison, Wisconsin, a company whose program with CEO Jack Salzwedel is recognized as one of the most dynamic and successful among Fortune 500 brands. Buchheim and Salzwedel’s work earned a 2017 PR Daily Award for Best Executive Visibility. In this interview, we cover: How Salzwedel became more active in social media, how Buchheim supports him and other executives at American Family, advice if you think social media isn’t the right fit for your CEO or executives, the opinion that some people have that executives shouldn’t be on social media, why a CEO using social media is not the norm and what prevents them from getting involved, how to plan and produce content for a CEO, choosing the right channels for a CEO and leadership team, the use of ghostwriting, lessons Buchheim has learned and advice for a first step to get an executive social media program up and running. For show notes, visit TheTalkingPointsPodcast.com. If you have feedback or a suggestion for an interview, article or topic, reach out to us on the show’s Facebook group. Or, find us on LinkedIn. Thanks for listening!

103: On the road again, talking about our careers, advice for getting started/promoted, and leadership Dec 31, 2018

This road trip episode from our recent visit to Madison, Wisconsin, gave us a chance to reflect on some lessons from the various stops on our career path. Also, we tackle a few career questions we’ve received recently: advice for the college student who feels like they’ve done a lot to prepare for a communications career but still can’t quite get their foot in the door, advice for experienced communicators seeking a promotion, and how can you become a better leader in your role. Our show page is TheTalkingPointsPodcast.com. If you have feedback or a suggestion for an interview, article or topic, reach out to us on the show’s Facebook group. Or, find us on LinkedIn. Thanks for listening!

102: A road trip edition, featuring our answers to a few questions from communicators Dec 20, 2018

Our first-ever road trip episode, recorded in the car on the way to Madison, Wisconsin. So It’s a much different format than you’re used to from us. We asked you for questions related to your work in communications, so we took them one by one as we made our way through the Badger state. Pardon the in-car road noise! Topics include: Email marketing, paid social, managing digital communications during a crisis, millennials as a misguided focus of advertisers, content measurement dashboards, hashtag use on Instagram, graphic design, internal company-wide email newsletters, slow change in transforming internal communications and structuring a corporate communications team. Plus, we have some fun with a few extra non-comms questions to help you get to know us better. We’ll post another road trip episode - from the ride back to Minnesota - on December 31, where we focused on career advice for communicators. Our show page is TheTalkingPointsPodcast.com. If you have feedback or a suggestion for an interview, article or topic, reach out to us on the show’s Facebook group. Or, find us on LinkedIn. Thanks for listening!

101: Things to look for in comms in 2019, Instagram Stories data and lessons from 100 episodes Dec 17, 2018

We recorded this episode at the University of Wisconsin. The Quick News and Quick Takes segment this month includes stories about Facebook’s business and PR troubles (4:10), data about Instagram Stories (7:10), and why the news consumption habits of high school students will require big changes for the news industry (9:25). The Talking Points Spotlight features a “Mythbusters” campaign at the University of Wisconsin (12:00). And, the three Talking Points in this episode feature discussions about the optimal posting frequency for organizations on Facebook (14:05), things to look for in 2019 in internal communications, PR, social media and marketing (21:45), and we share some lessons learned from producing 100 episodes of this podcast since 2014 (30:50). Plus, the Talking Points Shoutout for this month goes to Kyle Casey, a social marketing and multimedia intern with the University of Wisconsin (43:50). He talks about some of the projects he works on and shares some advice for students interested in being a part of social media and marketing in their undergraduate years. For show notes, visit TheTalkingPointsPodcast.com. If you have feedback or a suggestion for an interview, article or topic, reach out to us on the show’s Facebook group. Or, find us on LinkedIn. Thanks for listening, and Happy Holidays!

100: Interview with Natalie Bushaw of Life Time Nov 29, 2018

It’s our 100th show - thanks for listening! Here’s a bonus episode for November, as Arik talks with Natalie Bushaw, senior director of Public Relations and Internal Communications at Life Time. In this interview, she talks about her role in leading how Life Time communicates both externally and internally, her career (agency and corporate) and the importance of earned media, among other topics. For show notes, visit TheTalkingPointsPodcast.com. If you have feedback or a suggestion for an interview, article or topic, reach out to us on the show’s Facebook group. Or, find us on LinkedIn.

Talking Points #99 - 11/15/18 Nov 15, 2018

Thanks for listening! Here’s our November episode: The Quick News & Quick Takes segment this month includes a great resource for employee advocacy programs (2:30), blogging stats and trends from Orbit’s annual survey (6:15) and a writer’s idea on how to fix podcasting before it jumps the shark (8:20). The Talking Points Spotlight highlights a battle of the bands in Minnesota, to help raise money to fund scholarships designed to foster more diversity in the creative industry (12:00). And, the three Talking Points in this episode feature discussions about corporate storytelling and content strategy (13:35), the 2019 Relevance Report from USC Annenberg’s Center for Public Relations (25:05) and a survey of global communicators, including their challenges (33:15). Plus, the Talking Points Shoutout for this month goes to Cameron Potts of Deluxe Corporation (39:20). He talks about what could be one of the bigger content marketing campaigns ever built. For show notes and links to the stories we talked about, visit TheTalkingPointsPodcast.com. If you have feedback or a suggestion for an interview, article or topic, reach out to us on the show’s Facebook group. Or, find each of us on LinkedIn.

Talking Points #98 - 10/25/18 (Hot Topics: Influencer marketing) Oct 25, 2018

Thanks for listening! Here’s the latest edition of our “Hot Topics” series. The focus of this show is on influencer marketing. We’re joined by Chanel Schmidt from Sleep Number and Maggie LaMaack of Fast Horse. They bring their perspective, from working with influencers of all kinds, so we cover quite a bit in this conversation: How to identify and evaluate potential influencers, tools, metrics, risks, disclosure, structuring influencer marketing oversight in-house or within an agency, and some advice if you’re thinking about getting started with influencer marketing. For show notes, visit http://www.TheTalkingPointsPodcast.com/. If you have feedback or a suggestion for an interview, article or topic, reach out to us on the show’s Facebook group, just search for “Talking Points Podcast Group” there. Or, find each of us on LinkedIn.

Talking Points #97 - 10/11/18 Oct 11, 2018

Thanks for listening! Here’s our October episode: The Quick News & Quick Takes segment this month includes stories about the use of social media by the Fortune 500 and the popularity of the platforms (2:15), what people expect when they interact with a brand or company on social media (5:25) and an interesting survey of PR and social media salaries (7:30). The Talking Points Spotlight is on a unique art display that lit up Minneapolis (10:15). And, the three Talking Points in this episode feature discussions about the rise of dark social and the impact for companies trying to break through the noise online (13:30), the new Edelman report that says people want brands to take a stand (23:30), and are there ways to make organic social media succeed? (32:10). Plus, the Talking Points Shoutout for this month goes to Monica Wiant, a director of social media at U.S. Bank (36:55). She talks about her role, the challenges of working in social media today, and what makes an employee advocacy work best. For show notes and links to the stories we talked about, visit http://www.TheTalkingPointsPodcast.com/. If you have feedback or a suggestion for an interview, article or topic, reach out to us on the show’s Facebook group, just search for “Talking Points Podcast Group” there. Or, find each of us on LinkedIn.

Talking Points #96 - 9/27/18 (Interview: Felicia Johnson) Sep 27, 2018

Thanks for listening! Here’s a bonus episode for September, as Arik talks with Felicia Johnson, social media manager with the Minnesota Vikings. In this interview, she talks about her role on the front lines of the NFL. Cool job! Johnson also talks about the fact that women are behind many of the social media accounts for professional sports teams. And, she offers advice for anyone looking to break into a social media sports job. For show notes, visit http://www.TheTalkingPointsPodcast.com/. If you have feedback or a suggestion for an interview, article or topic, reach out to us on the show’s Facebook group, just search for “Talking Points Podcast Group” there. Or, find each of us on LinkedIn.

Talking Points #95 - 9/20/18 Sep 20, 2018

Thanks for listening! Here’s our September episode: The Quick News & Quick Takes segment this month includes stories about how people get their news in social media (5:45), a look at new data about social media advertising (7:45) and tools that aim to help increase employee engagement (9:15). The Talking Points Spotlight highlights how Land O’Lakes honored female farmers with a custom country song (11:55). And, the three Talking Points in this episode feature discussions about a unique study of the the best times to post in social media (15:00), how brands ‘surprise and delight’ fans (22:10) and the takeaways from two recent content marketing conferences (34:05). Plus, the Talking Points Shoutout for this month goes to Greg Zimprich of Medtronic (45:35). He talks about his role there in financial communications, his work with the Minnesota PRSA, and his connection to Wheaties during his time in PR at General Mills. For show notes and links to the stories we talked about, visit http://www.TheTalkingPointsPodcast.com/. If you have feedback or a suggestion for an interview, article or topic, reach out to us on the show’s Facebook group, just search for “Talking Points Podcast Group” there. Or, find each of us on LinkedIn.

Talking Points #94 - 8/23/18 (Interview: Chad Mitchell) Aug 23, 2018

Thanks for listening! Here’s a bonus episode for August, as Kevin talks with Chad Mitchell, former senior director of digital communications at Walmart, now with Perfect Sense as a VP, Corporate Practice. In this interview, he talks about his career at Walmart and the company’s approach to storytelling. He also discusses the challenges for corporate communications departments today when it comes to resources, strategy, digital assets management, and why some find it difficult to produce brand storytelling or brand journalism. For show notes, visit http://www.TheTalkingPointsPodcast.com/. If you have feedback or a suggestion for an interview, article or topic, reach out to us on the show’s Facebook group, just search for “Talking Points Podcast Group” there. Or, find each of us on LinkedIn.

Talking Points #93 - 8/16/18 Aug 16, 2018

Thanks for listening! Here’s our August episode: The Quick News & Quick Takes segment this month includes stories about declining engagement on Facebook (5:10), a study about executive decision-making: do they go with their gut or with data? (6:45) And, the smart audio report from NPR and Edison Research (8:30). The Talking Points Spotlight highlights a PR and marketing campaign from Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Minnesota about caregivers (11:15). And, the three Talking Points in this episode feature discussions about IGTV and how organizations can put it to use (13:20), the state of corporate media relations and a reporter;s column that got communicators talking (22:55), and the “2018 Edelman Trust Barometer Special Report: Brands and Social Media” (33:20). Plus, the Talking Points Shoutout for this month goes to Christina Milanowski, social media manager at Regis Corporation (40:20). She talks about her career, and how she’s prioritizing Instagram in her work. For show notes and links to the stories we talked about, visit http://www.TheTalkingPointsPodcast.com/. If you have feedback or a suggestion for an interview, article or topic, reach out to us on the show’s Facebook group, just search for “Talking Points Podcast Group” there. Or, find each of us on LinkedIn.

Talking Points #92 - 7/12/18 (Hot Topics: Gender differences and work-life balance) Jul 12, 2018

Thanks for listening! Here’s the second edition of our “Hot Topics” series. The focus of the discussion in this show is on gender differences in the practice of public relations, and work-life balance for women in PR roles. We’re joined by Amelia Reigstad, faculty member at the University of Minnesota Hubbard School of Journalism & Mass Communication. And, Amie Hoffner, vice president and director, Corporate Communications, at TCF Financial Corporation. Reigstad recently researched how gender and different communication styles and personality traits of men and women contribute to the culture of the PR workplace. And, how PR practitioners often “perform” in their roles. While Hoffner has done research on work-life balance and the reality of what that means today for women in PR. For show notes, visit http://www.TheTalkingPointsPodcast.com/. If you have feedback or a suggestion for an interview, article or topic, reach out to us on the show’s Facebook group, just search for “Talking Points Podcast Group” there. Or, find each of us on LinkedIn.

Talking Points #91 - 6/14/18 Jun 14, 2018

Thanks for listening! Here’s our June episode: The Quick News & Quick Takes segment this month includes stories about how Facebook is hiring people to help combat fake news (4:35), the huge increase in the creation and consumption of the story format, like Instagram Stories (5:20) and a study on journalists’ options of the press release (7:30). The Talking Points Spotlight highlights how Macy’s is using employees in a role usually reserved for third party influencers (9:05). And, the three Talking Points in this episode feature discussions about content workflows with some advice for creating and managing content (14:05), an article that seeks to explain why most social media manager jobs are filled by women (22:05) and the takeaways for communicators in Mary Meeker’s 2018 Internet Trends Report (36:55). Plus, the Talking Points Shoutout for this month goes to Martha McCarthy Krueger of The Social Lights. She talks about her agency and how it got started, and their future (43:10). For show notes and links to the stories we talked about, visit http://www.TheTalkingPointsPodcast.com/. If you have feedback or a suggestion for an interview, article or topic, reach out to us on the show’s Facebook group, just search for “Talking Points Podcast Group” there. Or, find each of us on LinkedIn.

Talking Points #90 - 6/8/18 (Interview: Brad Ruiter) Jun 08, 2018

Thanks for listening! Here’s a bonus episode for June, as Kevin and Arik talk with Brad Ruiter, vice president of communications for the Minnesota Timberwolves and Minnesota Lynx basketball teams. In this interview, he talks about his role and how his staff is structured, the day-to-day work for professional sports, and offers advice for anyone looking to get into sports PR, among other topics. For show notes, visit http://www.TheTalkingPointsPodcast.com/. If you have feedback or a suggestion for an interview, article or topic, reach out to us on the show’s Facebook group, just search for “Talking Points Podcast Group” there. Or, find each of us on LinkedIn.

Talking Points #89 - 5/17/18 May 17, 2018

Thanks for listening! Here’s our May episode: The Quick News & Quick Takes segment this month includes stories about the rise of Reddit (3:20), the 2018 USC Annenberg survey on Global Communications and PR (4:45), and the end of the Klout era (7:40). The Talking Points Spotlight highlights the conference calls that The New York Times is hosting for certain subscribers (9:45). And, the three Talking Points in this episode feature discussions about an article Arik wrote about why agency experience is so valuable (12:05), the 10 year anniversary of the book “Groundswell” and what it got right about social media and where we go from here (24:30) and why there’s an overemphasis on content tools over content creation and strategy (38:25). Plus, the Talking Points Shoutout for this month goes to George Fiddler of Olson Engage. He tells us about his work and career as a creative director (48:50). For show notes and links to the stories we talked about, visit http://www.TheTalkingPointsPodcast.com/. If you have feedback or a suggestion for an interview, article or topic, reach out to us on the show’s Facebook group, just search for “Talking Points Podcast Group” there. Or, find each of us on LinkedIn.

Talking Points #88 - 4/26/18 (Interview: Vineeta Sawkar) Apr 26, 2018

Thanks for listening! Here’s a bonus episode for April, as Kevin talks with Vineeta Sawkar, senior media relations manager for the University of St. Thomas. Vineeta spent the first part of her career in television news, as an award-winning reporter and anchor (she worked with Kevin at KSTP-TV in Minneapolis/St. Paul). In this interview, she talks about her work in TV, making the transition away from journalism to a corporate role and her latest position at St. Thomas. She also offers advice for PR pros and communicators for working with journalists. For show notes, visit http://www.TheTalkingPointsPodcast.com/. If you have feedback or a suggestion for an interview, article or topic, reach out to us on the show’s Facebook group, just search for “Talking Points Podcast Group” there. Or, find each of us on LinkedIn.

Talking Points #87 - 4/19/18 Apr 19, 2018

Thanks for listening! Here’s our April episode: The Quick News & Quick Takes segment this month includes stories about the response by companies and brands to Facebook’s controversy (2:45), LinkedIn’s decision to open up video uploads for companies (4:40) and why communicators everywhere need to pay attention to GDPR (7:00). The Talking Points Spotlight highlights how H&R Block handled “National Shred Day” (9:15). And, the three Talking Points in this episode feature discussions about a study that said employees would leave their company because of poor workplace communications (12:00), corporate storytelling (21:40) and alarming data about bots on Twitter (31:50). Plus, the Talking Points Shoutout for this month goes to Andy Jacobson, director of strategic communications at HealthFitness (37:55). For show notes and links to the stories we talked about, visit http://www.TheTalkingPointsPodcast.com/. If you have feedback or a suggestion for an interview, article or topic, reach out to us on the show’s Facebook group, just search for “Talking Points Podcast Group” there. Or, find each of us on LinkedIn.

Talking Points #86 - 3/22/18 (Hot Topics: "Fake news") Mar 22, 2018

Thanks for listening! Here’s a bonus episode for March, the first edition of our “Hot Topics” series. The focus of the discussion is the impact of “fake news” (or more appropriately, misinformation) being shared online. What can communicators and marketers do to make sure the truth about their companies, brands and organizations is not manipulated? We’re joined by Bruce Anderson and Susan Beatty. For show notes, visit http://www.TheTalkingPointsPodcast.com/. If you have feedback or a suggestion for an interview, article or topic, reach out to us on the show’s Facebook group, just search for “Talking Points Podcast Group” there. Or, find each of us on LinkedIn.

Talking Points #85 - 3/15/18 Mar 15, 2018

Thanks for listening! Here’s our March episode: The Quick News & Quick Takes segment this month includes stories about what YouTube creators really earn from their content (2:40), new data from the Pew Research Center about social media use (4:20) and the takeaways from the 2018 Infinite Dial study (5:25). The Talking Points Spotlight highlights an interesting podcast from McDonald’s (8:15). And, the three Talking Points in this episode feature discussions about the death watch for Facebook (12:45), a post that says companies and brands focus too much on their existing fans and customers (23:30) and why social sharing has continued to decline (30:05). Plus, the Talking Points Shoutout for this month goes to Kristin Zima, social media director at Optum. Arik talked with her about her role, what she looks for in hiring for her team, and more (36:30). For show notes and links to the stories we talked about, visit http://www.TheTalkingPointsPodcast.com/. If you have feedback or a suggestion for an interview, article or topic, reach out to us on the show’s Facebook group, just search for “Talking Points Podcast Group” there. Or, find each of us on LinkedIn.

Talking Points #84 - 2/28/18 (Interview: Heidi McGuire) Feb 28, 2018

Thanks for listening! Here’s a bonus episode for February, as Arik talks with Heidi McGuire, communications business partner for the Trane Commercial business, within Ingersoll Rand,. Their conversation covers her career path, the trends in communications that she’s paying attention to, how executives and employees have a stronger voice online, the Super Bowl activations in Minneapolis, and the challenge of engaging employees in internal communications. For show notes, visit http://www.TheTalkingPointsPodcast.com/. If you have feedback or a suggestion for an interview, article or topic, reach out to us on the show’s Facebook group, just search for “Talking Points Podcast Group” there. Or, find each of us on LinkedIn.

Talking Points #83 - 2/22/18 Feb 22, 2018

Thanks for listening! Here’s our February episode: The Quick News & Quick Takes segment this month includes stories about the social media activity of CEOs (2:00), Facebook’s declining user count (3:10) and the 2018 Edelman Trust Barometer (6:05). The Talking Points Spotlight highlights the marketing activity in Minneapolis for the Super Bowl (8:40). The Talking Points in this episode feature discussions about why it’s a good time to work in internal communications (12:45), a new criticism of brands aiming to be publishers (17:55), the investigation by The New York Times into fake social media followers (31:10) and a roundup of several articles exploring trends in influencer marketing (39:20). Plus, the Talking Points Shoutout for this month goes to Jen Bowring-McDonough of the Center for Victims of Torture. Kevin talked with her about what she does for CVT and the variety of experiences she’s had in her media relations career (51:10). For show notes and links to the stories we talked about, visit http://www.TheTalkingPointsPodcast.com/. If you have feedback or a suggestion for an interview, article or topic, reach out to us on the show’s Facebook group, just search for “Talking Points Podcast Group” there. Or, find each of us on LinkedIn.

Talking Points #82 - 1/18/18 Jan 18, 2018

Thanks for listening! We kick off 2018 with a jam-packed show: The Quick News & Quick Takes segment this month includes stories about a new study of consumer opinions about brands taking a stand (5:30), the newest features and user stats about Instagram (8:00) and there’s new data about the decline of TV news viewership so we ponder if PR pros should even pitch local TV stations anymore (10:40). The Talking Points Spotlight shines on Explore Minnesota’s latest use of its #OnlyInMN hashtag (12:45). And, the three Talking Points in this episode feature discussions about Arik’s eight realistic social media trends for 2018 (13:55), what the data says about the sustainability of content marketing and “Content Shock” and why you may want to adjust your distribution strategy (20:55) and we share our thoughts on the impact of Facebook’s announcement that it will favor posts from your friends and family instead of from news outlets and companies/brands (29:20). Plus, the Talking Points Shoutout for this month goes to Danny Olson of Weber Shandwick. He tells us about his work on Super Bowl 52’s Digital Marketing Committee, for the Host Committee (38:30). In the close of the show, we share details about the next event in Arik’s “sparked” digital and social media training series (46:10). For show notes and links to the stories we talked about, visit http://www.TheTalkingPointsPodcast.com/. If you have feedback or a suggestion for an interview, article or topic, reach out to us on the show’s Facebook group, just search for “Talking Points Podcast Group.” Or, find each of us on LinkedIn.

Talking Points #81 - 12/14/17 Dec 14, 2017

The Quick News & Quick Takes segment this month includes stories about the rise of the “headline browser” (3:30), influencer campaigns and the use of trackable URLs (5:40), and why your podcast’s success might depend on the “super-listener” (7:50). The Talking Points Spotlight highlights Patagonia and the POTUS (10:20). And, the three Talking Points in this episode feature discussions about a presentation on the future of media that with some eye-opening stats (12:50), the not-so-secret way some brands get into Forbes, Fast Company and the Huffington Post (19:15), and the key insights in an annual study of corporate social media use by the Fortune 500 (26:10). Plus, the Talking Points Shoutout for this month goes to Jamie Plesser (31:40). And in the Talking Points “2 Cents” segment, Arik highlights a Vanity Fair article that suggests we’re all ready for the end of the social media era (33:15) and Kevin offers the three things Warren Buffett looks for in a person (40:45). For show notes, visit http://www.TheTalkingPointsPodcast.com/. If you have feedback or a suggestion for an article or topic for the show, reach out to Arik or Kevin on LinkedIn. Thanks for listening. Join us again in 2018!

Talking Points #80 - 12/11/17 (Interview: Mykl Roventine) Dec 11, 2017

A bonus episode for December, as Arik talks with Mykl Roventine of Orange Jackalope Creative in Minneapolis, Social Media Breakfast - Minneapolis-St Paul (SMBMSP), and Get Social Events. Their conversation primarily covers the history and evolution of SMBMSP (believed to be the longest running chapter in the U.S.), as well as where social media is headed in 2018. (Apologies for some audio difficulties in the first few minutes). For show notes, visit http://www.TheTalkingPointsPodcast.com/.

Talking Points #79 - 11/16/17 Nov 16, 2017

The Quick News & Quick Takes segment this month includes stories about what influencers are looking for from companies, brands and organizations (5:45), a report on employee attitudes about the workplace and what’s costing them time (7:55), and an annual survey of bloggers about their frequency, writing time and more (11:40). The Talking Points Spotlight highlights Walmart’s podcast (15:00). And, the three Talking Points in this episode feature discussions about the supposed death of organic content (17:20), the evolution of social media - 10 years after the first Social Media Breakfast-Minneapolis/St. Paul event (27:40), and an extensive report about the use and adoption of internal social media platforms (38:10). Plus, the Talking Points Shoutout for this month goes to Perry Cowen of Graco (49:30). And in the Talking Points “2 Cents” segment, Kevin highlights why many millennials are apparently very open to sharing their salary information (50:10) and Arik shares a story that seeks to explain why incompetent men make their way up the management ladder (56:00). For show notes, visit http://www.TheTalkingPointsPodcast.com/.

Talking Points #78 - 10/19/17 Oct 19, 2017

The Quick News & Quick Takes segment this month includes stories about Walmart using Facebook’s Workplace (5:15), the type of content that people are reading on LinkedIn (6:25), and the frequency of social posts by brands (8:30). The Talking Points Spotlight highlights the Mayo Clinic and Amazon’s Alexa (9:55). And, the three Talking Points in this episode feature discussions about content strategy and what’s changed about companies acting like publishers (12:00), Edelman’s new survey about brands speaking up on politics and social issues (18:35), and how communicators can prepare for the fake news peddlers who are ready to pounce (26:45). Plus, the Talking Points Shoutout for this month goes to Paul Maccabee (34:50). And in the Talking Points “2 Cents” segment, Arik highlights a story about the emphasis on year-round training for youth and high school athletes (36:00), and Kevin found an article that can help you answer the question most people ask the first time they meet you (48:40). For show notes, visit http://www.TheTalkingPointsPodcast.com/.

Talking Points #77 - 9/21/17 Sep 21, 2017

The Quick News & Quick Takes segment includes stories about how people are getting their news (31:50), an employee advocacy survey (33:50) and the latest numbers about teen use of Snapchat, Instagram and Facebook (38:10). The Talking Points Spotlight highlights an unsung hero of Hurricane Harvey (40:10). And, the three Talking Points in this episode feature discussions about the difference between commenting and conversation (42:15), why companies and brands are still having trouble staying quiet online in the middle of major news (48:30) and what reporters wish PR pros would do and not do (56:45). Plus, the Talking Points Shoutout for this month goes to Rob Koch (1:02:50), a former TV news meteorologist turned content marketer. The episode also features a conversation with Sarah Grap, senior PR manager at Mall of America (4:30). And in the Talking Points “2 Cents” segment, Kevin highlights a study that says today’s high school students are getting more A’s but doing worse on college entrance tests (1:04:30) and Arik explains the difference between an amateur and a professional (1:10:50). For show notes, visit http://www.TheTalkingPointsPodcast.com/.

Talking Points #76 - 8/24/17 (Interview: Cydney Strommen) Aug 24, 2017

Arik talks with Cydney Strommen of Fast Horse in Minneapolis. The conversation covers the state of influencer marketing. Strommen talks about the role of influencers today, how companies/brands can evaluate and monitor influencers, what most companies/brands don’t do right and more. For show notes, visit http://www.TheTalkingPointsPodcast.com/.

Talking Points #75 - 8/17/17 Aug 17, 2017

Arik and Kevin recorded this month’s show after the Minnesota PRSA’s first-ever Digital Skills Workshop in Minneapolis. The Quick News & Quick Takes segment includes stories about brand use of messaging apps (16:15), a study about the technology used by communicators in their organizations (17:45) and the popularity of live-streaming (19:40). The Talking Points Spotlight highlights Cambria (20:45). And, the three Talking Points in this episode feature discussions about the current risk environment for corporations around digital/social (23:00), Arik’s disdain for popular blog post headlines (28:35) and why PR pros need to be in the room with execs and others who do media interviews (34:35). Plus, the Talking Points Shoutout for this month goes to Heather Cmiel, president of the Minnesota PRSA (39:30). The episode also features a conversation with Kristen Pechacek, senior manager of digital marketing at Self Esteem Brands (4:45). For show notes, visit http://www.TheTalkingPointsPodcast.com/.

Talking Points #74 - 6/15/17 Jun 15, 2017

The Quick News & Quick Takes segment this month includes stories about the popularity of interactive content (1:55), new data on smartphone use (3:45) and Instagram’s big advantage when it comes to engagement (5:10). The Talking Points Spotlight highlights the Star Tribune’s 150th anniversary in Minneapolis (6:30). And, the three Talking Points in this episode feature discussions about Mary Meeker’s 2017 Internet Trends Report (7:50), the collaboration and approval process in content production (14:10), and the death of organic social media posting (22:30). The Talking Points Shoutout goes to Brian Bellmont of Bellmont Partners PR (30:15). Plus, in the Talking Points 2 Cents segment at the end of the show, Arik and Kevin talk about the NBA Finals (31:30), the best advice from some recent commencement speeches (37:30), teenagers and summer jobs (41:15) and the potential of voice technology (46:15). For show notes, visit http://www.TheTalkingPointsPodcast.com/.

Talking Points #73 - 5/25/17 May 25, 2017

The Quick News & Quick Takes segment includes stories about the FTC’s recent reachout to influencers and marketers (2:35), a lack of recognition for CEOs among their employees (3:30) and new data on podcast awareness and listening (5:10). The Talking Points Spotlight highlights Mall of America (6:45). And, the three Talking Points in this episode feature discussions about the supposed demise of corporate storytelling (8:50), the effectiveness of snark by brands in social media (26:45), and the most in-demand marketing skills in 2017 (32:10). The Talking Points Shoutout goes to Zach Spanton (35:30). Plus, in the Talking Points 2 Cents segment at the end of the show, Arik and Kevin weigh in on LaVar Ball’s ongoing antics (36:45), the NBA Playoffs (39:50), “Imposter Syndrome” (43:05) and the workplace obsession with “hustle” (48:10). For show notes, visit http://www.TheTalkingPointsPodcast.com/.

Talking Points #72 - 4/27/17 (UW-Eau Claire) Apr 27, 2017

Arik and Kevin went on-location again, this time from the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire. The episode features a conversation with UWEC Chancellor Jim Schmidt about his use of social media, blogging and thoughts on leadership communication (27:00). The Quick News & Quick Takes segment includes stories about the online engagement of CEOs (3:00), a Google survey about the brands that Gen Z thinks are "cool" (5:00) and the increasing use of brand stickers (6:45). The Talking Points Spotlight highlights the UWEC Instagram account (9:00). And the three Talking Points in this episode feature articles about career advice for the young public relations pro (10:45), the USC Annenberg study that predicts a convergence of PR and marketing (15:00), and why the web is still full of sites that are poorly designed for the user experience (22:55). For show notes, visit http://www.TheTalkingPointsPodcast.com/.

Talking Points #71 - 3/10/17 Mar 10, 2017

Is there a “truther” movement underway in marketing? Arik and Kevin discuss a post that said more people in the industry think “this internet stuff is a bunch of hooey.” Also, clients of PR pros are often confused about what PR really is or does, the importance of having differentiated content and serving a niche audience, YouTube picks up viewers and announces its own live TV service, and more. Plus, in the Talking Points “2 Cents” segment, news about an “Adulting School.” Yes, really. And, it’s March Madness time so of course there is some college hoops talk. For show notes, visit http://thetalkingpointspodcast.com.

Talking Points #70 - 2/9/17 Feb 09, 2017

Communicators are talking about the 2017 Edelman Trust Barometer, so Arik and Kevin tee that up this month and discuss what it means for PR and corporate communications. Also, a new approach to influencer marketing and who should “own” it, revisiting the concept of “content shock,” the use of emojis in business communication, and more. Plus, in the Talking Points “2 Cents” segment, commentary about Gen Z (the “Pivotals”), working from home and the Super Bowl game/commercials. For show notes, visit http://thetalkingpointspodcast.com.

Talking Points #69 - 1/12/17 Jan 12, 2017

The first episode of 2017 kicks off the new year with discussions about Help a Reporter Out (HARO), the PR implications of voice technology, and Richard Edelman’s PR predictions for 2017. Plus, in Quick News & Quick Takes: Facebook’s new live audio feature, a survey of social media use by executives, and the most-shared video brand of 2016. Also, in the Talking Points “2 Cents” segment, Arik and Kevin put on their talk radio hats and discuss Minnesota sports (the collapse of the Vikings’ season, the Gopher football’s team’s new rah-rah head coach and the strong start by the Gopher men’s basketball team), plus a New York Times story that looked at the unwritten rules kids apply to using social media with their friends. For show notes, visit http://thetalkingpointspodcast.com.

Talking Points #68 - 12/15/16 Dec 15, 2016

The alarming rise and influence of fake news tops the discussion by Arik and Kevin in this month’s episode. They explore what it means for PR pros in companies and brands. Also, bloggers are apparently spending more time writing fewer posts, and that’s a good thing. Plus, IBM launches an internal radio station, a push for “programming” to replace the infatuation with different kinds of “content,” mobile solutions for employee communications and more. Also, a new segment to close the show: the Talking Points “2 Cents.” It will be a chance for Arik and Kevin to sound off on some non-communications topics at the end of every episode (of course, the current Minnesota sports landscape dominates their discussion in the inaugural edition).

Talking Points #67 - 11/10/16 (Winona State) Nov 10, 2016

Arik and Kevin took the show on the road, to PR students at Winona State University. This episode features interviews with two WSU students, plus a Q&A segment that shows what’s on the minds of soon-to-be PR pros. Before that, the topics up for discussion include a silly but thought-provoking piece by 60 Minutes about the rise of social media influencers, new data on the corporate use of social media and a report that said no one is paying attention to press releases, or are they?

Talking Points #66 - 10/13/16 Oct 13, 2016

Arik and Kevin talk about improving the PR agency/client relationship, and a desire by some companies and brands to move from producing more content to working with influencers to be more relevant to culture. Plus, what global chief communications officers view as their top priority, what’s keeping businesses from podcasting, and more.

Talking Points #65 - 9/22/16 (Interview: Jeff O'Keefe) Sep 22, 2016

Interview edition - Jeff O’Keefe, the manager of digital and social media at Richard Childress Racing, joins Kevin to talk about his role, RCR’s approach to social media and content creation, and his view on the evolution of social media in NASCAR and the sports world.

Talking Points #64 - 9/15/16 Sep 15, 2016

Should the brand exodus from Twitter begin? That’s one of the topics up for discussion by Arik and Kevin in this episode. Also, in Quick News & Quick Takes, what are reporters looking for in the subject line of your pitch? Plus, Walmart steals a page from James Corden. Is it the job of internal communications to monitor what employees are saying on your internal platforms? And, the PR strategy that only the NFL seems to be able to get away with.

Talking Points #63 - 8/18/16 Aug 18, 2016

Companies and brands often ask, ‘Is our audience there?’ before deciding to try a new social media platform. Is that the right question? Arik and Kevin discuss that in this episode. Also, a new segment (“Quick News & Quick Takes”) debuts to highlight a few news items in the communications world since the last show, including LinkedIn’s new 30-second videos from LinkedIn Influencers. Other links discussed deal with “snackable” versus long-form content on the web, and why Pinterest is better than Snapchat for visual content in the months ahead.

Talking Points #62 - 7/21/16 (Interview: Tom Forsythe) Jul 21, 2016

Interview edition - Tom Forsythe, who is about to retire as vice president and chief communications officer at General Mills after 25 years with the company, joins Arik and Kevin to reflect on his career, and the evolution of corporate communications and PR.

Talking Points #61 - 6/30/16 Jun 30, 2016

Influencer marketing is the hot topic in 2016. Arik and Kevin take it on in this episode, and the cost and value of an influencer. Also, what Microsoft’s acquisition of LinkedIn means for corporate communications. Plus, a Pew study on what employees are doing on social media reignites concerns about employee productivity and why some companies block social media.

Talking Points #60 - 6/16/16 Jun 16, 2016

Guest co-host Martha Krueger - co-founder and CEO of The Social Lights - joins Kevin. They discuss a survey of brand social media activity about the most popular platforms, content types and the frequency of posts. Also, does the word “social” apply to all social media? Plus, why your next job might come your way because of your personal blog.

Talking Points #59 - 6/2/16 (Interview: Mike Pilarz) Jun 02, 2016

Interview edition - Mike Pilarz, content marketing evangelist at LinkedIn, joins Arik and Kevin to discuss his work, trends in content marketing and some advice for individuals and businesses looking to make better use of LinkedIn.

Talking Points #58 - 5/19/16 May 19, 2016

Guest co-host Becca Bijoch - senior publicist at Lola Red PR - joins Arik and Kevin. They discuss the rise of private messaging platforms and the implications for PR and marketing. Also, should brand and company social media leaders still spend some time on the tactical side, "in the trenches"? Plus, the key trends facing PR agencies, including billing and a push toward paid media.

Talking Points #57 - 5/5/16 May 05, 2016

Are the days of being slave to the page view coming to an end? Wishful thinking? Arik and Kevin discuss a story about the philosophical struggle that news websites - and companies for that matter - face when creating content. Also, it’s job hunting season for would-be marketers and PR pros. What digital skills are in demand? And, are we still looking for generalists or specialists? Plus, more momentum for corporate and brand publishers to adopt a more refined content strategy for all their channels, beyond their blogs, and to not necessarily obsess about driving traffic back to your site.

Talking Points #56 - 4/21/16 Apr 21, 2016

Arik and Kevin kick off their discussion in this episode with the marketing lessons from a hip hop mixtape from Hamburger Helper. Also, an article that was passed around in the tech community recently questioned whether there’s still confusion over traditional vs. digital marketing. Plus, should a business do its own PR? Arik has a fun take on that one. And, the current state of the corporate website newsroom.

Talking Points #55 - 4/7/16 (Interview: Steve Lubetkin) Apr 07, 2016

Interview edition - Steve Lubetkin, managing partner of The Lubetkin Media Companies, joins Kevin to discuss podcasting. Lubetkin co-authored “The Business of Podcasting” with Donna Papacosta. The conversation address why a business, brand or organization should podcast, how to produce and host a show, and trends in podcast listening. And given his experience in PR and corporate communications, he also shares his perspective on how companies should structure their PR and comms teams for storytelling and content production.

Talking Points #54 - 3/17/16 Mar 17, 2016

Guest co-host Susan Beatty - vice president of External Brand Communications at U.S. Bank - joins Arik and Kevin. They discuss a comprehensive new report on employee advocacy out this week from Altimeter Group. Also, just how prevalent is podcasting? Results from the latest Infinite Dial study should spark some ideas for communicators. Plus, a not too often thought about side effect of the increase in content from companies and brands.

Talking Points #53 - 3/3/16 Mar 03, 2016

As the assumed reach and influence of the major social platforms continues to be called into question, where should companies and brands invest their social time and resources? In this episode, Arik and Kevin consider the shift to messaging apps as one solution. Part of that discussion also involves the continued consumer distrust of anything that looks like advertising, so is the solution “Trust Content”? Also on the trust angle, a post that wonders if there are benefits to creating unbranded content or websites? Plus, the Mayo Clinic’s use of Periscope makes the Talking Points Spotlight.

Talking Points #52 - 2/18/16 Feb 18, 2016

Arik and Kevin discuss a content idea used by some mainstream media outlets, on their social channels, that should be copied by more companies and brands. Also, AVEs are soundly criticized by the PR industry, but what about impressions? And a study of content marketing output and engagement isn’t surprising - we should think about producing less content, right? - however customer service could be the answer.

Talking Points #51 - 2/4/16 Feb 04, 2016

Companies and brands might be assuming that their employees have a significant level of social media skills. Arik and Kevin talk about why social media training should be prioritized in 2016. A recent post ripped the notion of ’brands as publishers,’ saying the success of content should be judged on views, links and shares. Plus, the declining sales of newspapers and what it means for earned media and media relations.

Talking Points #50 - 1/21/16 Jan 21, 2016

Many companies and brands are thinking about, or already are, producing podcasts. Arik and Kevin recap an event they participated in on the topic, and talk about the opportunities and challenges of business podcasting. Also, does PR now have a stronger place in the marketing mix? Plus, a communications or PR degree provides a solid foundation for a PR career, but is it necessary?

Talking Points #49 - 1/7/16 Jan 07, 2016

Arik and Kevin discuss a new report on the state of corporate social media (and employee social media advocacy), how PR pros can and should interact with journalists, a decline in traffic for some of the web’s biggest publishers, and what companies/brands can learn from the mainstream media for promoting their content in social media.

Talking Points #48 - 12/17/15 Dec 17, 2015

Arik and Kevin close out 2015 with some thoughts on social sharing, video marketing, corporate spokespeople in social media, user experience on websites and why we all might need to put the phone down a little bit more, get offline, and take in our surroundings.

Talking Points #47 - 12/3/15 Dec 03, 2015

The Fortune 500 is cooling on corporate blogging according to new data on social media usage by big companies. Arik and Kevin discuss that finding, plus the other platforms the F500 is active on. Also, breakfast emojis take over our Spotlight in this show. The blog comment might be on its way out on business blogs. And what journalists are looking for from PR and corporate communications.

Talking Points #46 - 11/12/15 (Interview: Jen Swanson) Nov 12, 2015

Interview edition - Jen Swanson, Director of Digital Marketing at Children's Hospitals and Clinics of Minnesota, joins Arik and Kevin to talk about her role with the launch of a new marketing campaign and website, her career, and her personal blogging.

Talking Points #45 - 10/29/15 Oct 29, 2015

Are you considering messaging apps for your PR or marketing programs? Arik and Kevin share some interesting data from a new survey of the tech and media landscape, with a big focus on messaging's future. Also, Target gets creepy for Halloween, how creating behind-the-scenes content can work for or against you, plus it's time to take a look at your social referral traffic.

Talking Points #44 - 10/15/15 Oct 15, 2015

So what do journalists want from a PR pro? Arik and Kevin share their thoughts. Also, why your company or brand - and your leaders - should express an opinion on a blog or in social media. Plus, the challenges of being both a content creator and a content consumer.

Talking Points #43 - 10/1/15 Oct 01, 2015

Guest co-host Bryan Vincent - director, Digital Communications and Social Media at UnitedHealth Group - joins Arik and Kevin. They discuss why some companies are not taking advantage of LinkedIn, a new content partnership between Mayo Clinic and the Minneapolis Star Tribune, the real reason companies should be active in social media, plus blog posts as Op-Eds.

Talking Points #42 - 9/10/15 Sep 10, 2015

Communicators have a tough job, trying to restore or grow trust in their company CEO. Arik and Kevin look at a report on CEO trust and have some advice. Also, making the most of an internship from the standpoint of the student and the company. Plus, troubling times for disclosure of social sponsorships.

Talking Points #41 - 8/27/15 Aug 27, 2015

Let's burn down our social media programs and just start over. Right? Arik and Kevin consider two thoughtful posts that take on the true impact of social. Also, the latest demographics for the most popular platforms (and what it means for LinkedIn), we also spotlight an influencer event that proves you don't always need to invite the A-listers. Plus, the trends in PR that you may not be paying attention to but should.

Talking Points #40 - 8/13/15 Aug 13, 2015

Real-time marketing: what is it, really, and has it jumped the shark? Arik and Kevin share their thoughts. Also, an interesting campaign that has the tech industry talking, Facebook's video views are under scrutiny, and why the best corporate blogs name their authors.

Talking Points #39 - 7/30/15 Jul 30, 2015

Guest co-host Heather Rist - director, Social Media and Content at Deluxe Corp. - joins Arik and Kevin. They discuss the increasing use of emojis by brands and companies. Also, the true impact of a corporate blog, and why many companies are bringing marketing back inhouse. Plus, they spotlight a cool drone project from GE.

Talking Points #38 - 7/16/15 Jul 16, 2015

Brands and companies are so focused on creating content, are they missing a content curation opportunity? Arik and Kevin mull that over. Also, PR pros sitting in on interviews with their company's subject matter experts, corporate writing that needs some help, and the content that could make you look lame.

Talking Points #37 - 7/2/15 (Interview: Jason Keath) Jul 02, 2015

Interview edition - Jason Keath, CEO of Social Fresh, joins Kevin to talk about a variety of social media topics, including podcasting, blogging, the social platforms and his Social Fresh Conference.

Talking Points #36 - 6/18/15 Jun 18, 2015

Podcasting is easy, right? Arik and Kevin reflect on one year of producing shows, the lessons they've learned and the overall state of podcasting today. Also, how Coca-Cola made the most of a Mad Men finale connection, a surprising study about customer service on social media, a new way for Facebook to serve up more of the content you like to read, and a word of warning for brands flocking to Instagram.

Talking Points #35 - 6/4/15 Jun 04, 2015

Everybody's talking about Mary Meeker's latest Internet Trends Report, so Arik and Kevin are too - they share a few highlights and the takeaways. Also, KFC's Colonel heads to Twitter, journalists still think PR pros lie for a living, what gives? Plus, native advertising comes to TV newscasts, and the importance of crisis planning in a real-time and mobile world.

Talking Points #34 - 5/21/15 May 21, 2015

Guest co-host Jamie Plesser - director, Interactive Marketing Strategy and Execution at Allianz Life - joins Arik and Kevin. The topics they discuss include Facebook's Instant Articles, the state of search marketing and why the social media manager might need to step up. Plus, Adobe takes the Talking Points spotlight with an innovative use of audio, and Arik talks about having to fire a client.

Talking Points #33 - 5/7/15 May 07, 2015

It's graduation season, so Arik and Kevin offer up some advice for PR and journalism majors out there. Also, Tide tried tying into the NFL draft - did it work? Plus, Buzzfeed solves a big part of the social media sharing puzzle, why some journalists struggle in making the move to a content creator role on the brand or agency side, and the words in press releases that should just plain go away.

Talking Points #32 - 4/23/15 Apr 23, 2015

It's one thing to create good content, but how do you get more eyeballs on it online? You may need an "alpha audience." Arik and Kevin discuss that concept. Plus, Target had a big PR and social media win, despite some challenges around keeping products in stock. Also, blogging styles then and now, the continued presence of BS in online writing, and how PR pros should approach personal branding.

Talking Points #31 - 4/9/15 Apr 09, 2015

Is social media now nothing more than advertising? Arik and Kevin discuss a provocative post. Also, consumer trust of the PR industry, the quality of corporate writing, and trends for 2015 in branded content. Plus, the new "Poltergeist" had a scary - personalized - promotional push online.

Talking Points #30 - 3/19/15 Mar 19, 2015

A new report looked into the habits and attitudes toward news consumption in social media by millennials. Also in this episode, Arik and Kevin chat about Meerkat and the potential of social video streaming for companies and brands. Plus, are the best days for bloggers behind us, in terms of relationships with brands? And, three content formats some say will be big in 2015.

Talking Points #29 - 3/5/15 (Interview: Shel Holtz) Mar 05, 2015

Interview edition - Shel Holtz, of Holtz Communications + Technology, and the co-host of the long-running "For Immediate Release" podcast. Arik and Kevin talked with Holtz about podcasting, internal communications and the importance of the employee audience, the disconnect between digital/social skills and senior PR leaders, a new approach for employee advocacy, and the demise of Google+.

Talking Points #28 - 2/19/15 Feb 19, 2015

The real social media strength of Twitter isn't its potential to drive traffic to your company or brand's website or blog. Arik and Kevin discuss a reporter's recent post that expressed surprise at his Twitter stats related to the links he's shared. Also, an "Ad Contrarian" post that bashes brands stressing online engagement and conversation, the role news organizations play in spreading hoaxes and lies on the web, and more fallout from the ugly Justine Sacco saga. Plus, Buick goes to the dogs, in the Talking Points spotlight.

Talking Points #27 - 2/5/15 Feb 05, 2015

If your company or brand is ever fortunate to have a commercial in the Super Bowl, will you recommend the PR boost for an early release online? Arik and Kevin crunch the numbers on the ads that aired Sunday night. Also, social media "war rooms" are a common sight on the big game's big night - are they necessary? Plus, when a PR pro should consider firing a client, the reality of content strategy in large organizations, and Snapchat allows media outlets to make a new play in mobile with their new "Discover" feature.

Talking Points #26 - 1/22/15 Jan 22, 2015

Awareness isn't everything in PR, marketing and social media. Instead, there's a growing call for making stronger connections with consumers. Arik and Kevin talk about that. Also, PR and paid media, the modern journalist's view of their day-to-day work, and some of the disruptive forces that marketers and communicators need to pay attention to in the new year.

Talking Points #25 - 1/8/15 Jan 08, 2015

Evil trolls on the Internet have the potential to make life miserable for business and brands. Arik and Kevin discuss how to handle the hate. Also, Allstate's "Mayhem Sale," the use of "social" in job titles and the potential burnout of social media pros, the importance of customer experience over content, and the future of "above the fold" layouts on the web.

Talking Points #24 - 12/18/14 Dec 18, 2014

Forget about predictions for 2015 - in PR, marketing and social media - instead, Arik and Kevin focus their year-end episode on actual trends to pay attention to: 1) The increase in branded apps, 2) Analytics for PR, 3) Visual design and photography, and 4) An "ignition strategy" for content.

Talking Points #23 - 12/11/14 (Interview: Chad Mitchell) Dec 11, 2014

Interview edition - Chad Mitchell, senior director of digital communications at Walmart, talks about how his team is structured, their work and responsibilities, a Black Friday tactic on Twitter involving a store employee, the company's overall approach to Twitter and the mission of the Walmart blog.

Talking Points #22 - 12/4/14 Dec 04, 2014

The story about Black Friday and Cyber Monday wasn't just the deals and what was sold. They also were notable for a big increase in social chatter around them and how brands engaged with consumers. Also this week, Facebook's crackdown on promotional posts from companies and brands, the Girl Scouts are finally setup to sell cookies online, the differences between brand journalism and content marketing, and the biggest PR win of 2014.

Talking Points #21 - 11/20/14 (Interview: David Jungers and Erin Vande Steeg) Nov 20, 2014

Interview edition - David Jungers and Erin Vande Steeg, senior social media strategists at Mall of America, talk about their roles, how they manage social media content creation and engagement, their emphasis on the customer experience and how they work with Mall of America's 520 tenants.

Talking Points #20 - 11/13/14 Nov 13, 2014

Target found out what can happen when grown men tweet as if they are high school girls. Really. We talk about #AlexFromTarget. There's another great hashtag worth chatting about: #TechnologyandStuff. Chevy had some fun with that one. Also this week, Verizon jumps into brand journalism, IHOP tweets at "the kids" and a post that suggested the "old" tactics of PR are outdated.

Talking Points #19 - 11/6/14 (Interview: Andy Sernovitz and Natanya Anderson) Nov 06, 2014

Interview edition - Andy Sernovitz, CEO of SocialMedia.org, provides his perspective on social media use in big brands, along with three rules every social media leader should keep in mind. And, Natanya Anderson, director of social media and digital marketing for Whole Foods Market, explains her role and team - and how they prioritize listening and storytelling.

Talking Points #18 - 10/30/14 Oct 30, 2014

Guest co-host Greg Swan - SVP of consumer and digital marketing, emerging media innovation and strategic partnerships at Weber Shandwick Minneapolis - helps run through several topics, including wearable tech and augmented reality, animated gifs, Ello, Snapchat ads and trends in advertising overall.

Talking Points #17 - 10/23/14 Oct 23, 2014

Is it time to rethink social media marketing campaign tactics, especially after the campaign runs its course? Shoutlet's Greg Gerik shares his thoughts. Also, Target tried something unique with Instagram for Halloween. A new report looks at the social media activity of Fortune 500 CEOs. Plus, Edelman's comprehensive study of the relationship between consumers and brands, and McDonald's is criticized for taking consumers behind the scenes.

Talking Points #16 - 10/16/14 (Interview: Jay Baer and Hannah Godfrey) Oct 16, 2014

Interview edition - Jay Baer, president, Convince & Convert, discusses why content is important to PR pros and marketers, the "farming principle" when it comes to the success of your content efforts and what he is excited about when working with his clients today. And, Hannah Godfrey, North American Food and Beverage Lead for Brandwatch, talks about the importance of social listening and content creation, what to consider in your content planning process, and the role of sentiment analysis.

Talking Points #15 - 10/9/14 Oct 09, 2014

LinkedIn has opened up its publishing platform to all U.S. users. So, is it for everyone? We also look at a unique way to promote tourism in Minnesota. Plus, the relationship between PR pros and reporters, the definition of a "corporate" blog and Derek Jeter jumps into the content business with some of the biggest names in sports.

Talking Points #14 - 10/2/14 Oct 02, 2014

Ello is everywhere, so Arik and Kevin consider the immediate reaction and what its launch means to the social space. Also, should someone tasked to lead social business within a company also have a strong online presence? Millennials seem to be the focus of every marketer and campaign. Plus, a PR plan for messaging the earnings gap between a company's CEO and employees.

Talking Points #13 - 9/25/14 (Interview: Scott Monty) Sep 25, 2014

Interview edition - Scott Monty, the executive vice president of strategy at SHIFT Communications, discusses moving from Ford to the agency side, his view of real-time marketing, how to mobilize employees for advocacy and more. Plus, he even offers some advice for parents related to social media and kids.

Talking Points #12 - 9/18/14 (Interview: Chris Boudreaux and Susan Emerick) Sep 18, 2014

Interview edition - Chris Boudreaux and Susan Emerick, co-authors of "The Most Powerful Brand on Earth," talk about the state of employee advocacy programs in companies, what they offer employees, businesses and what you should think about if you're looking to get a program started.

Talking Points #11 - 9/11/14 Sep 11, 2014

Lawyers are crucial to the success of a company or brand's social media program - so how can communicators and marketers make sure the Law department doesn't slow things down? Arik and Kevin have some ideas. Also this week, a study points out the inefficiency of the average marketer's workday. Plus, finding the right perspective on social media engagement and the push to become a true social business.

Talking Points #10 - 9/4/14 Sep 04, 2014

Is Barbie's Showcase page on LinkedIn evidence of a successful brand digital marketing campaign? Arik and Kevin also discuss the lure of real-time marketing, PR's potential use in lead generation, early adoption by brands of new platforms and tools (Instagram's Hyperlapse app) and Arik reveals why he left the corporate world behind and set out to build a solo PR career.

Talking Points #9 - 8/28/14 Aug 28, 2014

The Fortune 500 is increasing its use of social media - except in the area of blogging. What else does a new study say? We talk about it with the Umass Dartmouth researcher behind the interesting data. Also, what is "click flu"? Does your business have it? Plus, measuring engaged time on your content and websites, Twitter changes up its timeline, and Kevin shares some of the challenges he's facing in corporate blogging.

Talking Points #8 - 8/21/14 Aug 21, 2014

Guest co-host Lee Odden of TopRank Online Marketing, and author of "Optimize," offers his perspective on how companies and brands should build a content strategy. Also, should publishers - and companies - repost and reuse their online content? A new report on the challenges that journalists face and their content needs from companies. Plus, the PR and marketing lessons of the Ice Bucket Challenge.

Talking Points #7 - 8/14/14 Aug 14, 2014

How are companies and brands managing influencer relations? It's a broad topic and Arik and Kevin discuss several aspects of it, including working with bloggers. Also this week, why are there so many women working in PR? Plus, Red Bull's content machine and Facebook's decision to end like-baiting.

Talking Points #6 - 8/7/14 (Interview: Holly Spaeth) Aug 07, 2014

Interview edition - Holly Spaeth, supervisor of marketing communications/social at Polaris, tells Arik and Kevin about her team's role in several recent motorcycle launches for the company. She also discusses her team's structure, the changes in the approach to social media at Polaris over the last few years and her unique approach to hiring.

Talking Points #5 - 7/31/14 Jul 31, 2014

Guest co-host Lionel Menchaca of W2O Group talks about his role there, his pioneering work in social media at Dell and why he sought a new direction for his career. In the weekly news recap, Lionel chats with Arik and Kevin about a blog post that suggests company blogs should be judged by the number of comments they receive. Also, they discuss a post by Jay Baer that could get companies and brands to flip their thinking on content and engagement across their social channels.

Talking Points #4 - 7/24/14 Jul 24, 2014

Digital transformation is underway at companies of all sizes - but how is it going? Arik and Kevin discuss a report tracking the benefits and challenges of the effort. Also this week, some trends in the evolution of social media - have you heard of the rise of "dark social"? Microsoft announced layoffs in a clumsy way, brand journalism has matured, press releases need some help to stand out, and a mayor gets kudos for heading to Reddit.

Talking Points #3 - 7/17/14 Jul 17, 2014

What's the secret to making memorable videos for YouTube? What are big brands thinking about in terms of their approach to global social media and paid media? Arik and Kevin kick off this week's show with those topics. They also talk about employee advocacy, ghostwriting, sponsored content (do consumers trust it?), Twitter's new analytics and a project in Minneapolis that got some buzz during the MLB All Star Game.

Talking Points #2 - 7/10/14 Jul 10, 2014

Arik and Kevin discuss some projections for spending on digital among CMOs, a new take on the "Every Company is a Media Company" mantra, suggestions for future job titles in social media and marketing, Taylor Swift's thoughts on building an audience, and more.

Talking Points #1 - 7/3/14 Jul 03, 2014

Arik and Kevin discuss a survey of PR pros about paid media, blogging habits and best practices, GE's new "Pressing" site and Facebook's controversial A/B testing in the news feed.

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