The PR Breakdown with Molly McPherson

Latest Episodes:

244: Lessons Learned: Promoting Pride Events and Merchandise – Insights from Target, Bud Light, Adidas, and the L.A. Dodgers Jun 06, 2023

Show notes

What does it take for a brand to successfully navigate the delicate waters of LGBTQ+ marketing during Pride Month? Join us as we explore the challenges and rewards of inclusive marketing and branding, sharing various experiences from companies like Bud Light (messy) and Adidas (did anyone notice?) in their 2023 campaigns, we discuss the importance of having values and initiatives in place - and crisis communication plans - to avoid costly PR crises and the potential backlash from embracing this conversation.
We dive into the corporate responses to LGBTQ+ backlash and the resulting decline in sales, threats of violence, and boycotts. We debunk the false narrative that trans people are preying on children and ask whether companies are truly willing to stand up for their beliefs in today's national conversation. Don't miss this insightful episode as we uncover lessons in successful LGBTQ+ marketing through the power of authenticity, open dialogue, and a commitment to inclusivity.

243: Unfiltered Inbox: Your Questions, My Replies May 30, 2023

Show notes

The current level of discourse on social media has created a pretty strained environment for users (and that’s putting it mildly). Even a simple analysis can trigger intense responses from viewers, creating an inordinate amount of stress for creators. This week’s podcast examines the current level of pushback on social media and how it is affecting the online landscape. Hear about the latest headlines concerning Prince Harry and Meghan Markle and why posts about the couple always seem to elicit an excessive amount of critical feedback. Also covered is a first-hand account of the Indestructible PR® inbox, including audience questions, feedback, and insights into why certain stories get analyzed and others don’t. You’ll learn more about the process behind choosing topics for Indestructible PR® posts before hearing a series of actionable tips on how to go about searching for entry-level PR jobs, along with an update on an exciting Indestructible PR® Podcast milestone! Tune in for an unfiltered look at the Indestructible PR® inbox, listener insights, and thoughts on the current social media landscape.
Key Topics

The topic that generates the most critical feedback on Molly’s social media: Prince Harry and Meghan Markle.
A closer look at the intense level of pushback on social media.
How this type of pushback is resulting in an increasingly strained online environment.
Why the current social media landscape feels like Cancel Culture 3.0.
An overview of the media story around Harry and Meghan’s ‘near catastrophic’ car chase.
Molly’s take on this story and the media strategy that was used.
A rundown of Molly’s posts on this topic and their exceptionally high view counts.
Edward Bernays’ incisive quote on media manipulation and how it applies to this story.
Insight into what it is like to talk about Harry and Meghan in the world of social media.
Examples of the types of messages Molly has received in response to her posts.
Molly shares questions from her inbox and discusses her answers.
The story of Jamie Foxx’s alleged stroke and Molly’s thoughts on it.
Why Molly prefers not to analyze stories concerning Taylor Swift.
Jimmy Allen’s public statement and why it is an example of an excellent apology.
The controversy surrounding F-Factor and how it could impact social media legislation.
An overview of Molly’s Instagram messages and feedback.
Molly shares her advice for entry-level PR job searchers.
The exciting news of 100,000 downloads of the Indestructible PR® Podcast on BuzzSprout!

242: Home Run for a Press Statement: LA Dodgers Welcome Back LGBTQ+ Group for Pride Night May 23, 2023

Show notes

On this episode of Indestructible PR Podcast with Molly McPherson, the focus is on the challenge of regaining a lost reputation after a crisis. Molly discusses the importance of acknowledging mistakes and taking steps to prevent recurrence, highlighting the recent statement by the Los Angeles Dodgers as an example of a strong PR crisis response. The discussion centers around the importance of reconciling with groups affected by the crisis, offering sincere apologies, engaging in dialogue, and showing a commitment to healing relationships and rebuilding trust. Molly also examines the impact of exclusion on different communities and the importance of considering diverse perspectives in decision-making. Ultimately, the episode offers a valuable perspective on the rebuilding of a damaged reputation and the importance of reconciliation and accountability.
Mentioned in this Episode
- The importance of reconciling with a group before reconciling with the greater community, their supporters, and all stakeholders.

- The Los Angeles Dodgers recent statement where they reversed a decision regarding the Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence.

- The need to acknowledge feedback, offer sincere apologies, engage in dialogue, and show a commitment to healing relationships and rebuilding trust.

- The negative impact of exclusion and how it could have been avoided.

- The strong reactions people have towards various topics including narcissism, race, and discrimination.

- The emphasis on reconciliation, penance, and the need for apologies to be extended not only to the LGBTQ+ community but also to their friends and family.

- Pressure from the extreme segment of the Catholic Church, the Catholic League.

- The conflict between traditional baseball fans and the need to court younger generations and female fans.

- Feedback from diverse communities on the Dodgers' decision.

- The importance of being honest and making the effort to have sincere conversations.

241: Promoting Racial Sensitivity, Demoting Weaponized Misinformation, and Reflecting on My Recent Mistake on TikTok May 21, 2023

Show notes

In this episode, discussing the growing importance of understanding racial insensitivity online. We discuss the recent car chase story involving Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, as well as the press accounts and possible long-play strategy behind their media statement. As well as how Meghan Markle's biracial identity impacts press coverage and public opinion, both positively and negatively. Additionally, the importance of taking responsibility for our words and content and to better understand the significance of educating ourselves and continually striving to be better allies and digital citizens. Finally, how weaponized misinformation on social media, coupled with the rise of social media vigilantes, presents a serious problem in today's digital landscape.

Topics covered in the podcast episode:

Prince Harry and Meghan Markle car chase
Positive and negative media coverage of Meghan Markle
The Royal family and their working relationship with the press
Examining the paparazzi's actions and intentions
Discussion about the polarizing effects of Meghan Markle's scrutiny
The impact of her biracial identity
Consequences of discussing certain topics, particularly related to race
Markle as a symbol of progress and also as a disruptor in the press
The issue of weaponized misinformation on social media and how it is being used to hurt people
Social media vigilantism
Agenda behind these attacks
The issue of being "canceled" on TikTok
Problematic situation on TikTok for the
Racism and racial insensitivity associated with the spread of misinformation
Negative consequences of spreading misinformation
Celebrating Juneteenth: Why organizations should have noted the day on social media
How to Talk About Race Without Sounding Like a Racist

240: Between Spin and Wag the Dog: Uncovering the Dark Arts of PR and Perception Management May 16, 2023

Show notes

In today's episode, we delve deep into the realm of public relations (PR) and perception management. Step behind the curtain with us as we uncover the hidden strategies and tactics that PR professionals and Hollywood publicists employ to shape narratives and mold public opinion.

Join your host, Molly McPherson, as she ventures into the realm of crisis management, where PR professionals truly showcase their mettle. From high-profile scandals to corporate disasters, we examine real-life case studies and unveil the perception management strategies used to regain control and salvage reputations.

Throughout the episode, we emphasize the profound impact perception has on shaping public opinion. Explore how the power of perception can shape our reality, often blurring the lines between fact and fiction. Through thought-provoking discussions, we aim to unravel the complexities and ethical dilemmas faced by those working in PR and perception management.

Whether you're a pop culture enthusiast, a curious observer of media manipulation, or simply interested in understanding the forces that shape our perceptions, this episode will captivate your attention and broaden your understanding of the fascinating world of PR.
Key Points From This Episode:

What is the definition of "Wagging the dog?"
Molly's TikTok about the PR spin surrounding Kevin Costner's divorce: Part 1
Molly's TikTok about the PR spin surrounding Kevin Costner's divorce: Part 2
Ben Affleck and Jennifer Lopez's relationship strife: what's the PR spin?
Describing the positive and negative aspects to PR spin.
PR spin used by former NYC Governor Andrew Cuomo during COVID-19 nursing home crisis.
Why PR spin is a slippery slope in a crisis.

239: Beating the Bullies: 5 Expert Tips for How Organizations Can Thwart Online Attacks May 09, 2023

Show notes

A digital intimidation campaign is only as effective as your fear of it. Franklin D. Roosevelt famously said that the only thing we have to fear is fear itself. How does that apply to Public Relations and strategic communications? Online attacks have become a pertinent problem for public relations clients but are not impossible to thwart. The best defense against an online attack is a strong offense, starting with your strong and trustworthy digital presence.
By monitoring online conversations, attacks can be prevented before they begin. Responding quickly and professionally goes a long way, and a loyal following holds the power to provide a meaningful line of defense. Along with crafting a strategic response, it can be appropriate to consider if there is any validity behind the reasons for the attack and to offer an authentic and transparent response. The only thing worth fearing in an intimidation attack is what might happen if you don’t respond at all. Consider these five strategies to guide your path.

Key Points From This Episode:

Why fear and intimidation are relevant concepts to the PR industry.
Where online attacks often stem from.
What a default approach to dealing with digital intimidation may consist of.
An alternative strategy to outflank and push back on negative feedback.
Examples of further reaching traction that might unfold if a campaign is successfully thwarted.
Why it is ill-advised to go against a well-meaning group that has a leg to stand on.
Who this advice is for: an organization under unfair attack.
The power of owning your own media, including social media.
How a strong online presence can help to establish credibility and a loyal following.
Monitoring online conversations to prevent an online attack.
Why it is important to respond quickly and professionally.
How influencers can help to defend companies against an attack.
Building transparency and authenticity.
Considering feedback.
Why telling the truth is the most powerful defense.
What is worthy of fear in an intimidation campaign: not responding at all!
Admitting fault to deflate bullies.
What happens to bullies when you start speaking the truth: they retreat!

238: The Art of Manufactured Outrage: How Celebrities and Brands Court Controversy for Buzz and Profit May 02, 2023

Show notes

As seen on NBC News, exploring the phenomenon of manufactured outrage and how it is used by celebrities and brands to generate buzz and profit. Molly discusses her contribution to the broadcast news story about the business implications of this practice, as well as its impact on politics and culture.

We take a look at the intersection of celebrity, marketing, and social issues. We're back to Dylan Mulvaney and Bud Light, as well as a discussion on Meghan Trainor (rightfully) being lectured by teachers.

Key Points From This Episode:

Bud Light fallout intensifies over trans partnership (NBC News, April 26, 2023)
Meghan Trainor Apologizes After Criticizing Teachers (TikTok, April 23, 2023)

237: The Fallout: MillerKnoll and Clearlink's Pitiful Employee Town Halls Apr 25, 2023

Show notes

Employee well-being should be at the forefront of every CEO’s mind, not only because it is the right thing to do from a humanistic perspective, but also because your reputation as a leader and the longevity of your company depends on it. Since the pandemic, employees are no longer willing to put up with being treated disrespectfully, and many customers are no longer willing to buy from companies who treat their employees in such a manner.
In this episode, you’ll hear about the tirades that the CEOs of MillerKnoll and Clearlink went on during their virtual town hall meetings, how these meetings turned into viral videos, and the damage they have done. A rallying cry and a demeaning rant are two completely different things, and as a leader in today’s incredibly interconnected world, it is imperative that you are mindful of how you speak to your team.

Key Points From This Episode:

What the role of a CEO entails.
Why some customers are boycotting MillerKnoll.
How the COVID-19 pandemic has changed the working world.
The question that sparked Andi Owen’s tirade during a company town hall meeting.
Problems with the way Andi Owen responded to the backlash against the video of her town hall meeting that went viral.
Why prioritizing employee wellbeing is essential to a company’s success.
Advice for holding a virtual town hall meeting.
The rant made by Clearlink’s CEO during their virtual town hall meeting.
Today’s Indestructible PR® tip: be mindful of what you say and how you treat your team!

Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:

Replying to @mollyschief #greenscreen MillerKnoll’s Andi Owen had spoken. Sort of. The official response to the “pity city” viral employee town hall

Out of Touch CEO RIDICULES Employees Who Asked About Bonuses

The World’s Worst CEO BLASTS Nearly Everyone In His Company

236: The Dalai Lama Responds: Analyzing the Intent Behind the PR Statement Apr 18, 2023

Show notes

It’s not often that one of the world’s most admired spiritual leaders who describes himself as an advocate for warm-heartedness, compassion, forgiveness, tolerance, and self-discipline finds himself in the midst of a PR crisis.
A video filmed in February 2023 of the Dalai Lama asking a young boy to ‘suck’ his tongue went viral in April. Although some people have argued that there has been a cultural misunderstanding, the overwhelming majority of responses have been vehemently critical. In this episode, you will hear a line-by-line dissection of the very problematic public apology that the Dalai Lama made in the wake of the negative responses to the video.

Key Points From This Episode:

The video that led the Dalai Lama to receive a lot of negative attention in the media.
Who the Dalai Lama is and the values that he advocates for.
Controversial statements that the Dalai Lama has made in the past.
The argument in defense of the Dalai Lama’s actions in the video.
The overwhelming response that the video received.
How the Dalai Lama publicly responded to the outcry about the video.
Problems with the Dalai Lama’s public apology.
Unpacking the DARVO strategy.
Tactics that should always be avoided in public responses.
Advice on what to do if you are involved in an incident that goes viral.

Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:

Dalai Lama apologizes after video asking boy to ‘suck my tongue’

Dalai Lama apologizes after video show him asking boy to ‘suck my tongue’

Dalai Lama apologizes after video asking child to ‘suck’ his tongue sparks outcry

Statement | The 14th Dalai Lama

Analysis of the Dalai Lama apology on TikTok

Molly McPherson

Listen and Subscribe on Apple Podcasts

235: Turning Scandal into Opportunity: How Celebrities Can Leverage Their Time in the Spotlight Apr 11, 2023

Show notes

In this episode, discussing how celebrities can turn scandal into opportunity and leverage their time in the spotlight to create positive change. We will explore different ways in which celebrities have used their platform to redeem themselves and make a positive impact on society.
Key Points From This Episode: The Anatomy of a Scandal

What are the different types of scandals that celebrities may find themselves in and how these scandals can affect their public image.
We will also explore how scandals can be a double-edged sword and how they can be turned into opportunities for growth and redemption.
Examples of celebrities who have turned scandal into opportunity
Discussed examples of celebrities who have successfully turned their scandals into opportunities for positive change: Gwyneth Paltrow, Meghan Markle, Prince Harry, and Ricky Martin.
Exploring how these celebrities were able to use their platform to redeem themselves and create a positive impact on society.

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