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After seven years of research, Zora Artis and Wayne Asplandreveal why leadership teams leave strategy meetings with completely different understandings — and why comms is left to fix the fallout. This month we’re replaying an episode from Stories & Strategies, the official podcast partner of the IABC World Conference 2026. Tune in as host Doug Downs chats with Zora and Wayne tolearn what’s really driving the gap and what communicators can do about it. Get a preview of this global study ahead of their presentation at IABC World Conference 2026. Special thanks to Stories & Strategies for producing this episode, and their partnership with IABC. Follow them online,or via Spotify and Apple.

In this episode of PodCatalyst, we sit down with Axios reporter Eleanor Hawkins to talk about what’s really changing in the world of comms and what’s just noise. Eleanor shares how her background in politics and corporate communications shapes the way she covers the industry, and why more companies are getting serious about who they’re trying to reach instead of talking to everyone. She also walks through the rise of the CCO‑plus role, whycomms leaders are getting more visibility (and better compensation), and what that means for teams on the ground. Plus, Eleanor offers a candid take on AI: whereit’s actually helping teams and why 2026 will be about proving its value, not just experimenting with it. Eleanor Hawkins is a communications strategist and writerat Axios. She authors the weekly Axios Communicators newsletter and covers topics and trends that impact how leaders, brands and employers communicate. ++++++++++++++ LINKS Connect With IABC on Social Media X (Twitter) | LinkedIn | Facebook | YouTube | Instagram Visit IABC Online https://www.iabc.com/ https://www.iabc.com/catalyst

In this episode of PodCatalyst, Andrew Marshall, vice chairman of Cognito, joins IABC Executive Director Peter Finn tot discuss how the communications landscape is being reshaped by independent voices and evolving expectations for executives. Andrew shares how independent voices, from Substack commentators to niche influencers, are reshaping thought leadership. He offers practical advice for engaging with these platforms and why companies need fresh strategies to stay relevant. You’ll also hear insights on preparing executives for high-stakes interviews, mastering industry language to build credibility, and why media training matters more than ever. Plus, Andrew weighs in on AI’s growing role in PR, its limitations, and the skills professionals need to standout. ++++++++++++++ LINKS Connect With IABC on Social Media X (Twitter) | LinkedIn | Facebook | YouTube | Instagram Visit IABC Online https://www.iabc.com/ https://www.iabc.com/catalyst

In the latest episode of PodCatalyst, we sit down with TimJohnson, president of UPRAISE Marketing and Public Relations. Tune in as he joins IABC Executive Director Peter Finn to discuss how PR professionals are adapting to an AI-driven landscape, blurring the lines between internal and external comms, and the growing demand for creativestorytelling. Tim shares insights from his own journey — from his earlydays working on his college newspaper, to today as an agency leader — and reflects on how PR has become a vital strategic function in today’s tech-drivenbusiness world. Plus, get Tim’s thoughts on the growing value of authenticity as AI becomes more prevalent, ethical considerations when working with influencers, the need for data-driven content, and where he sees PR heading in the next 10 years. For more than 30 years, Tim Johnson has helped companiesranging from startups to the Fortune 500 in industries as diverse as agriculture, consumer electronics, financial services, many shades of tech, and more. Prior to starting UPRAISE, Johnson was the managingdirector of Golin, Inc.’s San Francisco office and director of its worldwide tech practice. Clients of the practice included giants such as Amazon, Cisco, HP, Oracle, Texas Instruments, and many more. The team included more than 200 professionals worldwide. Before Golin, Johnson was a senior vice president atRuder Finn’s Chicago office, where he helped expand the office from pure public relations to integrated communications, and for many organizations, wrote anddesigned their first websites. Prior, he was an account executive at Rubenstein, Wolfson& Co., in New York, serving financial services clients such as Barclay’s Bank, GE Financial, and Unum. ++++++++++++++ LINKS Mentioned In This Episode upraisepr.com  Connect With IABC on Social Media X (Twitter) | LinkedIn | Facebook | YouTube | Instagram Visit IABC Online https://www.iabc.com/ https://www.iabc.com/catalyst

This episode of PodCatalyst is brought to you by IABC’spartners at the USC Annenberg Center for Public Relations at the University of Southern California. Provided by the PRFuture podcast, this episode features host Fred Cook in conversation with Matt Tidwell, member of the IABC International Executive Board, Barby Seagal and Victoria Hamilton from Zeno Group, and USC Fellow David Michaelson. Together, the group unpacks the findings of the 2025 GlobalCommunication Report: Mind the Gap, that USC developed in partnership with IABC and Zeno Group. The communicators discuss insights from more than 1,000 PR professionals across the globe and weighs in on how AI, hybrid work, generational shifts, influencer culture, and polarization are transforming the communications landscape. Thank you to Fred Cook and the USC Annenberg Center forPublic Relations for their partnership with this report and for providing this insightful conversation to the IABC audience. ++++++++++++++ LINKS Episode Mind the Gap: 2025 GlobalCommunication Report Generational Divides on AI, Media,and Polarization Are Shaping the Future of PR It’s Not Just You — GenerationalDivides Are Impacting PR and Comms ConnectWith IABC on Social Media X (Twitter) | LinkedIn | Facebook | YouTube | Instagram VisitIABC Online https://www.iabc.com/ https://www.iabc.com/catalyst

In this episode of PodCatalyst, we bring you another “InUnder 10” conversation from the ground at IABC World Conference 2025 in Vancouver. Sia Papageorgiou, managing partner at the Centre forStrategic Communication Excellence (CSCE), joins guest host Dawn De La Torre to talk about findings from the 2025CSCE Professional Development Survey. The research reveals a clear gap between how communicators rate their own skills and how their managers see their performance. Sia explains why this disconnect happens, what it means forteams, and how to close the gap with better feedback, clearer expectations, and more effective development opportunities. She also shares free resources andhighlights core skills communicators need to sharpen now, including planning, measurement, leadership, and change communication. +++++++++++++++ Sia Papageorgiou is one of the world’s leading voices instrategic communication excellence. A globally recognized educator, consultant, and communication strategist, she has earned more than 50 awards for excellencein communication and leadership and continues to shape the future of the profession with bold thinking and practical insight. Sia is a certified Strategic Communication Management Professional (SCMP), a Fellow of the RoyalSociety for the encouragement of Arts, Manufactures and Commerce, and past Chair of the Global Communication Certification Council. She has held leadership roles as President of IABC Victoria and as a Board Director for IABCAsia-Pacific. In 2021, she was named Communicator of the Year by IABC Asia-Pacific for her outstanding contribution to the profession. In 2022, she received the prestigious IABC Rae Hamlin Award for her exemplary service in championing the Global Standard and advancing the influence of strategiccommunication worldwide. Sia is committed to empowering communication professionals to lead with clarity, act strategically, and deliver impact, because your expertise deserves global recognition. +++++++++++++++ LINKS Mentioned in the Episode 2025 CSCE Professional DevelopmentSurvey: Research ResultsLearn More About CSCECertification Prep TrainingConnect With Sia on LinkedIn Connect With IABC on Social Media X (Twitter) | LinkedIn | Facebook | YouTube | Instagram Visit IABC Online https://www.iabc.com/ https://www.iabc.com/catalyst

In this episode of PodCatalyst, our “In Under 10” seriesbrings you a behind-the-scenes conversation from IABC World Conference 2025 in Vancouver. Christal P. Austin, public affairs officer for the Government of Barbados, joins guest host Dawn De La Torre to unpack what it really takes to lead during a crisis. Drawing on firsthand examples from government communications, Christal shares how today’s communicators can respond to crises with clarity and credibility, especially when misinformation,disinformation, and social media chaos are in the mix. You’ll hear why some defensive strategies like denial canprotect your organization and when they absolutely shouldn’t. Plus, Christal introduces a lesser known but powerful tool: ingratiation. Done right, it’s more than damage control, it’s an opportunity to reconnect with your audience in a meaningful way. +++++++++++++++ Christal P. Austin is a strategic public relations advisorwith over 20 years of experience. She’s been an active IABC member since becoming the founding president of the Barbados chapter in 2008. In 2023, she presentedat IABC World Conference in Toronto and joined the Program Advisory Committee for the 2024 and 2025 World Conferences. Christal is also a United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) award-winning writer, a decorated Toastmaster, and a passionate lecturer in social media and crisis communication. She holds a post-graduate diploma in business administration from the University of Surrey, a certificate in integrated marketing communication from IE Business School, and a Google project management certificate. +++++++++++++++ LINKS Connect With IABC on Social Media X (Twitter) | LinkedIn | Facebook | YouTube | Instagram Visit IABC Online https://www.iabc.com/ https://www.iabc.com/catalyst

In this episode of PodCatalyst, we continue our “In Under 10” series with a powerful conversation recorded live at IABC World Conference 2025 in Vancouver. Juli Holloway, SCMP, IABC Fellow, and communications advisor at the Tulo Centre of Indigenous Economics, joins guest host Dawn De La Torre to discuss Indigenous-led communication methods and their role in building authentic, cross-cultural relationships. Juli shares how prioritizing empathy, community service, and meaningful engagement can transform the way communicators connect with diverse audiences. As Juli puts it, “We don't need saviors, we need supporters,” a powerful reminder that true allyship begins with listening, not leading. From integrating Indigenous voices early in the process to leading with humility over ego, Juli offers practical guidance for anyone looking to make their communication efforts more inclusive and impactful. Whether you’re working locally or globally, this episode is a must-listen for communicators striving to build trust and lasting relationships. +++++++++++++++ Juli Holloway is an Indigenous communications leaderspecializing in professional communication within Indigenous contexts. With a master’s in professional communication from Royal Roads University, heraward-winning research developed a model supporting Indigenous self-determination through strategic community engagement. As communications advisor at the Tulo Centre of Indigenous Economics, Juli advances Indigenouseconomic reconciliation and teaches a master’s program in professional communications at Royal Roads. Throughout her career, Juli has been fortunate to work with First Nations and Indigenous organizations across Canada to supporttransformative change for First Nation communities and people through strategic communications and community engagement. +++++++++++++++ LINKS Connect With IABC on Social Media X (Twitter) | LinkedIn | Facebook | YouTube | Instagram Visit IABC Online https://www.iabc.com/ https://www.iabc.com/catalyst

In this episode of PodCatalyst, Moody’s Chief Corporate Affairs Officer Christine Elliott joins IABC Executive Director Peter Finn to share her journey of transforming the company’s communications function. By integrating branding, government relations, and community impact into the work they do, Moody’s communicators have become invaluable players in the company’s strategy. Christine walks us through how she created Moody’s digital content team and its Story Lab, their source for premium content, including a Netflix-like docuseries that was shortlisted at Sundance. These efforts and more have had notably positive effects on Moody’s social engagement and brand sentiment. As a former journalist for ABC News, Christine reflects on her career path to the C-suite, offering practical advice and insights for communicators aiming to advance their careers and make a meaningful impact in their organizations. +++++++++++++++ Christine Elliott is chief corporate affairs officer at Moody’s. She leads Moody’s dialogue with key stakeholders, including employees, policymakers, government officials, and media to deepen understanding of the company's mission to be the definitive source of relevant insights on exponential risk. Christine has more than 25 years in senior level corporate communications roles. Prior to joining Moody’s in 2021, she was executive vice president – worldwide communications at Mastercard and chief communications officer at S&P Global. She previously held a variety of communications positions at American Express and was a journalist for ABC News, where she earned an Emmy award. Christine has a bachelor’s degree in communications and political science from the University of Michigan. +++++++++++++++ LINKS Connect With IABC on Social Media X (Twitter) | LinkedIn | Facebook | YouTube | Instagram Visit IABC Online https://www.iabc.com/ https://www.iabc.com/catalyst

In the latest episode of PodCatalyst, Peter Finn sits down with friend of the podcast Chris Lee from Gallagher Communication. Chris helps us unpack this year’s Gallagher State of the Sector 2025, looking at different profiles of communicators: thrivers, strivers, and survivors. He walks us through how to address change fatigue, smart ways to use AI with the human touch in mind, and more. As an added bonus, Chris shares his fascination with quantum computing breakthroughs and the future of work. +++++++++++++++ Chris Lee is vice president, employee experience and internal communication practice at Gallagher Communication. In this role he helps employers rediscover the magic that people can bring to the table when they’re properly engaged and motivated. Chris has over 25 years of experience in marketing, brand, and communications. He is also the president of the Board of Directors for IABC Toronto and has served on other various boards and committees. Chris hosts a successful podcast called Why Does It Feel So Wrong to be Human at Work?, which looks at the nature of the modern workplace and possibilities for innovation to better reflect people’s needs and their true potential. Chris has been featured as a speaker at numerous conferences and events, featured in a host of publications, including Fortune magazine, and has been a guest on various podcasts. +++++++++++++++ LINKS Mentioned in This Episode Gallagher State of the Sector 2025 ConnectWith IABC on Social Media X (Twitter) | LinkedIn | Facebook | YouTube | Instagram VisitIABC Online https://www.iabc.com/ https://www.iabc.com/catalyst

In the latest episode of PodCatalyst, we speak with MergeGupta-Sunderji, a highly respected leadership expert. We dig into common misconceptions across generations, research that busts certain generalizations, ways to tap into certain strengths, advice to help bridge the gap without compromising quality, and more. Merge is a speaker at IABC World Conference, takingplace in Vancouver, 8-11 June. Tune in to this conversation to get a better idea of what you can expect from her session, “Generations Exposed: Unexpected Insights Into the People You Work With.” _________________________________ Merge Gupta-Sunderji turns managers into leaders. Ahighly respected leadership expert and columnist, Merge gives people specific and practical tools to achieve leadership and communication success. Over 94,000 managers in 29 countries have attended her fun, content-rich keynotes and facilitated workshops. A leader at one of Canada’s premier oil and gas companies and a board leader at a Credit Union for a combined total of over 17 years, Merge offers a unique blend of realism and humor that consistently engages and entertains her audiences. She is called upon frequently to individually mentor high-potential leaders in a variety of organizations. Previously, she was the well-known voice behind the national CBC radio column The Softer Side of Business. She’s an award-winning published author, writing for many well-known organizations and publications, including the very popular Merge’s Monthly Mega Minute, and a regular monthly column in The Globe & Mail, Canada’s most respected and widely-circulated national newspaper. Her first book titled "Why Does the Lobster Cast OffIts Shell?" is now in its third edition, and her last book"Generations Exposed – Unexpected Insights Into the People You Work With" is in its second printing. +++++++++++++++ LINKS Mentioned in This Episode IABC World Conference Connect With IABC on Social Media X (Twitter) | LinkedIn | Facebook | YouTube | Instagram Visit IABC Online https://www.iabc.com/ https://www.iabc.com/catalyst

In the latest episode of PodCatalyst, IABC ExecutiveDirector Peter Finn returns as host, sitting down with Shane Hatton to talk all things company culture. From the critical role communicators play in shaping the language of the organization, to understanding Gen Z’s expectations, what this year’s Edelman Trust Barometer means for leaders, and more, this conversation covers some of the more pressing issues today’s workforce faces.   Shane is a speaker at this year’s World Conference, takingplace in Vancouver, 8-11 June. Tune in to this conversation to get a better idea of what you can expect from his Master Class, “Culture Is Your Unseen Competitive Advantage — Is Yours by Choice or by Chance?” and session, “Gen Z Uncensored.” +++++++++++++++ Shane Hatton is a global expert in leadership and teamculture with over a decade of experience developing remarkable leaders, teams and cultures. Blending business experience with psychology, Shane’s passion lies in empowering leaders to communicate, connect, and collaborate more effectively. He thrives on helping leaders have the conversations they need to build the team they want. His perspectives and expertise have been shared in notable publications such as the Harvard Business Review, Forbes, The Australian, HRD, CEO World, Smart Company, Kochies Business Builders, The Herald Sun, Foundr, Company Director, and more. Clients consistently value Shane’s skill for introducing clarity to their thought processes and distilling complex ideas into pragmatic strategies. Shane is the author of two books: "Lead The Room —Communicate a Message That Counts in Moments That Matter," and the bestselling "Let’s Talk Culture — The Conversations You Need to Create the Team You Want." He is also the host of the insightful podcast Phone Calls With Clever People, which delves into a diverse range of leadership topics. With a prolific career as a speaker, executive coach andfacilitator, Shane has collaborated with businesses spanning a range of industries across the public, private, and not-for-profit sectors. Currently, Shane is elevating the conversation about culture across Australia, New Zealand, the U.K. and the U.S., upholding his reputation as a global thought leader in leadership and culture. +++++++++++++++ LINKS Mentioned in This Episode IABC World Conference EdelmanTrust Barometer Connect With IABC on Social Media X (Twitter) | LinkedIn | Facebook | YouTube | Instagram Visit IABC Online https://www.iabc.com/ https://www.iabc.com/catalyst

Founded in 1973, the Commission on Public Relations Education (CPRE) provides recommendations on public relations education for universities and professional associations around the world. CPRE’s latest signature report, “Navigating Change: Recommendations for Advancing Undergraduate PR Education,” offers an in-depth look into what’s needed and expected of educators and practitioners when it comes to guiding the next generation of PR professionals. The report is based on a survey of nearly 200 educators and just over 460 practitioners, including members from IABC.  Matt Tidwell, IABC board member, sits down with Drs. Elizabeth Toth and Pamela Bourland-Davis, lead editors of the report, to understand the research and its findings. Tune in as they discuss key findings of the report, from the role of ethics to DEI, data/analytics, the future of the workplace and more. This episode originally aired in March 2024. ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ Matt Tidwell, PhD, APR, is on the faculty of the William Allen White School of Journalism and Mass Communications at the University of Kansas and directs KU’s master’s degree in digital and integrated marketing communications. Tidwell is a member of IABC’s International Executive Board. Pamela Bourland-Davis, PhD, is professor of public relations and professional communication and leadership at Georgia Southern University, where she also served as department chair. She was co-editor of the Commission on Public Relations Education’s signature 2023 report, “Navigating Change.” She was the Journal of Public Relations Education’s editor from 2021-2023, SSCA’s past president, and she served in a variety of roles within AEJMC and its PR Division. Elizabeth L. Toth, PhD, is professor emerita of the Department of Communication at the University of Maryland, College Park. She has produced 10 books and more than 90 refereed journal articles, book chapters, monographs and conference papers on public relations. She has won numerous awards for her research and service. She co-edited the CPRE 2023 Report on Undergraduate Public Relations Education, “Navigating Change.” +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ LINKS Mentioned in This Episode Commission on Public Relations Education website Navigating Change: Recommendations for Advancing Undergraduate PR Education Connect With IABC on social media https://twitter.com/iabc https://www.linkedin.com/company/iabc/ https://www.facebook.com/IABCWorld  https://www.youtube.com/user/IABClive https://www.instagram.com/iabcgram/ Visit IABC Online https://www.iabc.com/ https://catalyst.iabc.com/ https://wc.iabc.com/

This episode of PodCatalyst features guest host Kamyar Naficy, chair of the IABC International Executive Board, and Jessamyn Katz, CEO of Heyman Associates, a leading executive search firm focused on communications, corporate affairs, marketing, and investor relations. Jessamyn has been with Heyman Associates for nearly two decades. Since 2019, she’s led the firm’s strategy and day-to-day operations. In January 2024, she stepped into the role of CEO. Tune in as Jessamyn touches on the trends she’s seeing in national and global executive searches. As the role of the communicator evolves, the function only grows more important. Learn about the shifts she’s seeing in strategy, managing communications through political cycles, the emergence of comms “plus” roles, skills gaps and the evolution of AI, and more. +++++++++++++++ As CEO of Heyman Associates, Jessamyn sets high standards for client work. She manages the overall success of the firm while also leading major national and global searches. After nearly a decade in New York, she built the firm’s West Coast presence and has developed close relationships across varying industries coast-to-coast and is a sought-after advisor. Jessamyn’s intellectual curiosity and passion for getting to know people allow her to lead searches to fill myriad executive-level roles in strategic communications, investor relations, marketing, and other specialties within those functions. She advises clients across sectors, with an emphasis on technology, health care, financial services, nonprofits, and higher education. She is also an active member of the Arthur W. Page Society, is on the board of the Public Affairs Council, and was named one of PRWeek’s 2020 Women to Watch.  Jessamyn developed a taste for public relations while still in college through internships at Abernathy MacGregor and Burson-Marsteller and knew she wanted to spend her career around people who build brands and protect their reputations. With two decades of experience in the function of communications, she’s a credible counselor to clients and candidates who keeps a close watch on where these functions are heading. Jessamyn is a cum laude graduate of Bucknell University with a bachelor’s degree in psychology and education. Having lived in Texas, Switzerland, New York, and California, she approaches work and life with a broad worldview. These days, she and her husband Nick, and the newest addition to their family – their daughter Grace – call California wine country home base. Her Papillons, Olivia and Marlowe, are very much enjoying life with a growing family. Kamyar Naficy is managing director of Alberin, a strategic communications consultancy for finance, technology and sustainability. With over 20 years of experience, Kamyar advises clients in the US, Europe and the Middle East on all aspects of corporate, financial and marketing communications. Prior to working at Alberin, Kamyar held senior communications positions at JP Morgan, London Stock Exchange Group and UniCredit. Earlier in his career, he worked in investment banking and management consulting. He holds a BA from the London School of Economics and a MPhil in Management Studies from Cambridge University. View Kamyar’s LinkedIn profile.  +++++++++++++++ LINKS Mentioned in this episode Heyman Associates: https://www.heymanassociates.com/ Research on the function: https://www.heymanassociates.com/_files/ugd/442ad7_1694e1ef3f1345a8940db9a8232f4e93.pdf Connect With IABC on social media https://twitter.com/iabc https://www.linkedin.com/company/iabc/ https://www.facebook.com/IABCWorld  https://www.youtube.com/user/IABClive https://www.instagram.com/iabcgram/ Visit IABC Online https://www.iabc.com/ https://www.iabc.com/catalyst

With 64 countries around the world hosting elections, representing nearly 50% of the global population eligible to vote, many have dubbed 2024 as the year of elections. How do communicators navigate this landscape, especially as things continue to feel more polarized each year? We spoke with David Imber, political communications expert and principal of David Imber Advisory, on what has been one of the hottest topics this year. Tune in as we discuss what communicators can learn from the political sphere (whether or not you think you’re into politics), how to decide when to speak out on topical issues, navigating polarization in the workplace, what makes communicators uniquely poised to tackle this space and more. +++++++++++++++ David Imber is principal of David Imber Advisory, practicing in public affairs, crisis and issues management, advocacy and strategic communications. He is retained by a diverse range of clients, from pension funds to not for profits. This multi-sectoral practice allows him to advise from varying perspectives — including on politics and communicating in conflict — to help his clients achieve their business objectives in a complex geopolitical environment. Imber is immediate past president of IABC Victoria. He is also a director of the Victorian Pride Centre and of the Holmesglen Institute of TAFE (a vocational community college). +++++++++++++++ LINKS Connect With IABC on social media https://twitter.com/iabc https://www.linkedin.com/company/iabc/ https://www.facebook.com/IABCWorld  https://www.youtube.com/user/IABClive https://www.instagram.com/iabcgram/ Visit IABC Online https://www.iabc.com/ https://www.iabc.com/catalyst