Advertise on podcast: Copper State of Mind: public relations, media, and marketing in Arizona

Abbie Fink and Adrian McIntyre discuss the evolving role of communications and public relations professionals within organizational hierarchies. The conversation kicks off with Adrian highlighting the longstanding advocacy for including communications leaders at the strategic table. He suggests that this inclusion is no longer just a desire for prestige; it is now critical for organizational survival. Abbie echoes these sentiments, expressing that the ability of organizations to effectively communicate their strategies internally and externally is essential for success. As they discuss the traditional view of public relations as a secondary support function, Abbie emphasizes the importance of positioning communications teams as integral to strategy development. In an age where trust in institutions is dwindling, she advocates for a more authentic and transparent communication approach. She consider how often organizations may overlook the strategic insights that communications professionals can offer, instead relegating them to a role of mere implementation rather than active participation in shaping organizational direction. Adrian introduces an insightful perspective on branding, asserting that branding is constantly happening through every interaction and touchpoint. He urges corporate leaders to recognize the interplay between reputational risk and economic risk. Both he and Abbie agree that communication professionals should not wait to be invited to share their perspectives; rather, they should assert their expertise boldly and proactively. The conversation takes a turn towards examining the dynamics that often hamper effective client-agency interactions. Abbie describes the common scenario where decisions made by leadership may not fully consider the insights from communications experts, often seeking affirmation rather than genuine input. This environment, she argues, can stifle creativity and hinder the potential for robust strategic discussions. Adrian supports this point, highlighting the importance of clear, confident communication and the role that experience plays in establishing credibility. As the episode progresses, the duo tackles the complexities of billing practices within the PR sector. Abbie candidly discusses the challenge of articulating value to clients when it comes to pricing. Drawing from her extensive experience, she asserts that the focus should shift from hourly rates to the overall value and outcomes provided. By establishing a clear linkage between the expertise they offer and the tangible impacts on client success, she believes agencies can cultivate stronger relationships built on understanding and mutual respect. Adrian then challenges the audience to rethink their current measurement practices, emphasizing that relying solely on easily counted metrics can lead organizations astray. He posits that the most significant outcomes may be challenging to quantify but are nonetheless vital to understanding the true impact of communication efforts. Abbie concurs, citing the evolution of measurement practices that prioritize meaningful engagement over superficial metrics. She highlights the necessity of aligning KPIs with business objectives to ensure that public relations initiatives contribute to overall strategic goals. In conclusion, Abbie and Adrian share a vision for the future where communications professionals are seen as essential strategic partners rather than peripheral players. They advocate for a collaborative approach that encourages open dialogue and embraces diverse perspectives. Ultimately, they hope that organizations will recognize the invaluable contributions of communications teams in navigating an increasingly complex and trust-challenged world. Read the transcript and notes for this episode on our

Journalism's role as a trustworthy source of verified information is under siege. With unprecedented speed, modern crises now spur a phenomenal amount of real-time media content that challenges conventional journalistic practices. How does the rapid influx of information — and misinformation — impact communication professionals, journalists, and the public? Abbie and Adrian explore the dynamic interplay of ethics, truth-telling, and the role of technology in shaping public perception. Read the transcript and notes for this episode on our website. Key Takeaways The rapid proliferation of crises and media through advanced technology poses unique ethical challenges for journalists in reporting verified facts.Ethical journalism necessitates careful gatekeeping, especially when assessing user-generated content that could alter the authenticity of news stories. Adrian emphasizes that professional journalists, even when acting in good faith, face difficult editorial decisions driven by external and internal pressures.Abbie advocates for recognizing the complex decisions journalists must navigate to ethically and transparently communicate important narratives. We discuss historical precedents in media ethics, highlighting the importance of intention and good faith in journalism. Follow the podcast If you enjoyed this episode, please follow Copper State of Mind in Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or any other podcast app. We publish new episodes every other Friday. Just pick your preferred podcast player from this link, open the app, and click the button to “Follow” the show: https://copperstateofmind.show/listen Need to hire a PR firm? We demystify the process and give you some helpful advice in Episode 19: "How to Hire a Public Relations Agency in Arizona: Insider Tips for Executives and Marketing Directors." Credits Copper State of Mind, hosted by Abbie Fink and Dr. Adrian McIntyre, is brought to you by HMA Public Relations, a full-service public relations firm in Phoenix, AZ. The show is recorded and produced by the team at Speed of Story, a strategic communications consultancy for PR agencies and marketing firms, and distributed by PHX.fm, the leading independent B2B podcast network in Arizona. If you like this podcast, you might also enjoy PRGN Presents: PR News & Views from the Public Relations Global Network, featuring conversations about strategic communications, marketing, and PR from PRGN, "the world’s local public relations agency.”

Abbie Fink and Adrian McIntyre look back at their Top 10 most popular podcast episodes of 2025 to identify the key themes, trends, and industry shifts that will impact public relations in 2026. They talk about how PR and media are undergoing rapid transformation due to technological advancements and societal changes. Issues such as authenticity, trust, and influence are recurring themes in the discussion, along with the manipulation of public opinion, the impact of AI on the profession, and the decline of traditional journalism. Read the transcript and notes for this episode on our website. Key Takeaways The media landscape is shifting with the decline of traditional journalism and the rise of niche digital platforms, requiring new strategies for engagement. Building genuine trust through authentic storytelling and transparent communications is crucial for brands in the current climate. Public relations strategies must adapt to focus on influence and relationship-building rather than traditional celebrity endorsements. AI is changing how media and communications are handled, presenting both challenges and opportunities for growth. Developing leadership skills and fostering a culture of trust within organizations can enhance both internal and external communications. Follow the podcast If you enjoyed this episode, please follow Copper State of Mind in Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or any other podcast app. We publish new episodes every other Friday. Just pick your preferred podcast player from this link, open the app, and click the button to “Follow” the show: https://copperstateofmind.show/listen Need to hire a PR firm? We demystify the process and give you some helpful advice in Episode 19: "How to Hire a Public Relations Agency in Arizona: Insider Tips for Executives and Marketing Directors." Credits Copper State of Mind, hosted by Abbie Fink and Dr. Adrian McIntyre, is brought to you by HMA Public Relations, a full-service public relations firm in Phoenix, AZ. The show is recorded and produced by the team at Speed of Story, a strategic communications consultancy for PR agencies and marketing firms, and distributed by PHX.fm, the leading independent B2B podcast network in Arizona. If you like this podcast, you might also enjoy PRGN Presents: PR News & Views from the Public Relations Global Network, featuring conversations about strategic communications, marketing, and PR from PRGN, "the world’s local public relations agency.”

The Copper State of Mind podcast has won a prestigious Copper Anvil Award, one of the highest honors in the PR industry. 🎉 Abbie and Adrian discuss the significance of such awards before moving on to the main topic of the episode: the evolving role of PR professionals amidst changes in media. As traditional media platforms continue to evolve, Abbie highlights the increasing importance of cultivating relationships with niche content providers, such as digital creators and influencers, to effectively reach targeted audiences. Read the transcript and notes for this episode on our website. Key Takeaways Winning awards, such as the Copper Anvil, acknowledges the excellence of PR strategies and provides recognition from industry peers. Preparing award entries is a beneficial process, helping firms articulate their strategies and evaluate the success of their campaigns. The shifting dynamics of the media industry require PR professionals to adapt by leveraging new platforms and building relationships with emerging content creators. The traditional concept of media relations is expanding to include engagement with digital and niche content providers to effectively share stories. Effective PR involves finding credible voices to engage with content producers, ensuring valuable messaging reaches the right audience. Follow the podcast If you enjoyed this episode, please follow Copper State of Mind in Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or any other podcast app. We publish new episodes every other Friday. Just pick your preferred podcast player from this link, open the app, and click the button to “Follow” the show: https://copperstateofmind.show/listen Need to hire a PR firm? We demystify the process and give you some helpful advice in Episode 19: "How to Hire a Public Relations Agency in Arizona: Insider Tips for Executives and Marketing Directors." Credits Copper State of Mind, hosted by Abbie Fink and Dr. Adrian McIntyre, is brought to you by HMA Public Relations, a full-service public relations firm in Phoenix, AZ. The show is recorded and produced by the team at Speed of Story, a strategic communications consultancy for PR agencies and marketing firms, and distributed by PHX.fm, the leading independent B2B podcast network in Arizona. If you like this podcast, you might also enjoy PRGN Presents: PR News & Views from the Public Relations Global Network, featuring conversations about strategic communications, marketing, and PR from PRGN, "the world’s local public relations agency.”

Read the transcript and notes for this episode on our website. Follow the podcast If you enjoyed this episode, please follow Copper State of Mind in Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or any other podcast app. We publish new episodes every other Friday. Just pick your preferred podcast player from this link, open the app, and click the button to “Follow” the show: https://copperstateofmind.show/listen Need to hire a PR firm? We demystify the process and give you some helpful advice in Episode 19: "How to Hire a Public Relations Agency in Arizona: Insider Tips for Executives and Marketing Directors." Credits Copper State of Mind, hosted by Abbie Fink and Dr. Adrian McIntyre, is brought to you by HMA Public Relations, a full-service public relations firm in Phoenix, AZ. The show is recorded and produced by the team at Speed of Story, a strategic communications consultancy for PR agencies and marketing firms, and distributed by PHX.fm, the leading independent B2B podcast network in Arizona. If you like this podcast, you might also enjoy PRGN Presents: PR News & Views from the Public Relations Global Network, featuring conversations about strategic communications, marketing, and PR from PRGN, "the world’s local public relations agency.”

Abbie Fink and Adrian McIntyre reflect on their recent visit to Nairobi, Kenya, for the Public Relations Global Network (PRGN) conference, a gathering that brought together PR and communications professionals from across the globe. They share stories of connection and discovery, from the warmth and hospitality of the Kenyan people to the vibrant cultural pride that infused every interaction. What stood out most wasn’t just the professional insights, but the personal connections that made the experience unforgettable. The conversations in Nairobi underscored how universal many of today’s challenges are. Topics like the rise of AI, shifting trade dynamics, and the persistence of misinformation affect communicators everywhere, regardless of geography. Hearing from African business leaders and international executives alike offered fresh, nuanced perspectives on how different regions are adapting to change while staying rooted in shared values of transparency and trust. The episode also explores how emerging tools like AI and podcasting are reshaping the future of global PR. As Adrian and Abbie note, these technologies open new doors for storytelling, connection, and creativity, but they also demand continuous learning and adaptability. Ultimately, the trip to Nairobi was a reminder that global collaboration is as much about people as it is about progress, and that meaningful growth happens through shared experiences, empathy, and genuine human connection. Read the transcript and notes for this episode on our website. Key Takeaways PR professionals around the world are grappling with similar challenges, from misinformation to the rapid evolution of AI and global trade shifts. The PRGN conference in Nairobi demonstrated how authentic human connection and cultural exchange can strengthen global collaboration. Insights from African business leaders and international peers revealed fresh approaches to common industry challenges. Discussions focused on how emerging technologies like AI and podcasting are transforming the way communicators tell stories and engage audiences. Genuine relationships and shared experiences remain at the heart of effective communication and lifelong professional growth. Follow the podcast If you enjoyed this episode, please follow Copper State of Mind in Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or any other podcast app. We publish new episodes every other Friday. Just pick your preferred podcast player from this link, open the app, and click the button to “Follow” the show: https://copperstateofmind.show/listen Need to hire a PR firm? We demystify the process and give you some helpful advice in Episode 19: "How to Hire a Public Relations Agency in Arizona: Insider Tips for Executives and Marketing Directors." Credits Copper State of Mind, hosted by Abbie Fink and Dr. Adrian McIntyre, is brought to you by HMA Public Relations, a full-service public relations firm in Phoenix, AZ. The show is recorded and produced by the team at Speed of Story, a strategic communications consultancy for PR agencies...

Dishonesty and deceit have become the defining features of much communication today, in politics and business alike. What are public relations professionals to do? Samantha Villegas joins Abbie Fink and Adrian McIntyre to talk about PR ethics in a post-truth era. She talks about the importance of ethical standards, the impact of misinformation, and strategies for discerning truth. And perhaps most importantly, Sam touches on the importance of courage in standing up against dishonest practices and the necessity of critical thinking to combat disinformation. Read the transcript and notes for this episode on our website. Key Takeaways The normalization of lying creates a challenging environment for PR professionals committed to honesty. Ethical communication is fundamental to the integrity of public relations and should prioritize the public good. PR professionals must develop a keen awareness of red flags indicating dishonest communication. Effective communication strategies must involve critical analysis and an unwavering commitment to ethical standards. Courage is essential when standing up for truth in professional settings, even when it means dissenting from the official narrative. About the Guest Samantha Villegas is an award-winning communications and outreach executive, with over 30 years of experience in public communication and participation. Sam is a member of Raftelis’ Strategic Communications Practice, helping utilities and local governments develop relationships and engage equitably with their stakeholders around critical topics like affordability, public health, and environmental protection. She counsels executives through programmatic changes, strategic planning, and reputational crises, and she designs and implements strategic communication and stakeholder engagement programs that bring diverse interest together in support of efforts that benefit communities' triple bottom line. Prior to Raftelis, Sam led communications programs at American Water, Loudoun Water, and for EPA’s Office of Water. Sam also owned her own communications agency for seven years, serving clients in the water sector, including AWWA, WRF, ASDWA and several utilities. Sam is actively involved in AWWA, WEF, NACWA, and PRSA (the Public Relations Society of America). She holds a master’s degree in environmental policy from Johns Hopkins University, she is accredited in public relations from PRSA and a member of its College of Fellows, and she holds certificates in public participation from the International Association of Public Participation. Follow the podcast If you enjoyed this episode, please follow Copper State of Mind in Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or any other podcast app. We publish new episodes every other Friday. Just pick your preferred podcast player from this link, open the app, and click the button to “Follow” the show: https://copperstateofmind.show/listen Need to hire a PR firm? We demystify the process and give you some helpful advice in Episode 19: "How to Hire a Public Relations Agency in Arizona: Insider Tips for Executives and Marketing Directors." Credits Copper State of Mind, hosted by a href="https://hmapr.com/team/abbie-s-fink/" rel="noopener...

The core principle of journalism is to "seek the truth and report it," a mission that is constantly challenged by those who don't want the truth to be told. The First Amendment protects journalism in the United States, yet there is a growing concern about governmental restrictions on press freedoms. Journalists are facing unprecedented attempts to silence them through lawsuits and intimidation, raising alarms about the future of the free press. Can the truth survive an assault by the US Department of War? Read the transcript and notes for this episode on our website. Key Takeaways The First Amendment guarantees freedom of press and speech, but these rights are increasingly under attack by new government restrictions and litigation. Journalism is crucial for democracy as it holds power to account, yet current trends threaten to stifle investigative reporting and free expression. The lines between news, opinion, and entertainment are blurring, demanding that audiences become more critical of their media consumption. Young journalists may become discouraged from pursuing hard-hitting stories, leading to a prominent decline in investigative journalism. Advocacy and support for journalistic freedom are vital in preserving a healthy, informed democracy and counteracting misinformation. Follow the podcast If you enjoyed this episode, please follow Copper State of Mind in Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or any other podcast app. We publish new episodes every other Friday. Just pick your preferred podcast player from this link, open the app, and click the button to “Follow” the show: https://copperstateofmind.show/listen Need to hire a PR firm? We demystify the process and give you some helpful advice in Episode 19: "How to Hire a Public Relations Agency in Arizona: Insider Tips for Executives and Marketing Directors." Credits Copper State of Mind, hosted by Abbie Fink and Dr. Adrian McIntyre, is brought to you by HMA Public Relations, a full-service public relations firm in Phoenix, AZ. The show is recorded and produced by the team at Speed of Story, a strategic communications consultancy for PR agencies and marketing firms, and distributed by PHX.fm, the leading independent B2B podcast network in Arizona. If you like this podcast, you might also enjoy PRGN Presents: PR News & Views from the Public Relations Global Network, featuring conversations about strategic communications, marketing, and PR from PRGN, "the world’s local public relations agency.”

The typical RFP process for hiring PR and communications firms produces sub-optimal outcomes for all parties. (That's the polite way of saying it's really bad.) We believe it can be done better, but it will take increased transparency and trust between organizations and agencies. In this episode, Abbie and Adrian discuss how the traditional RFP has become a barrier that stifles creativity. They provide insights to reshape the way RFPs are perceived and executed, advocating for a more collaborative and open process that benefits both parties. Abbie shares her firsthand experiences with various proposals, noting the importance of well-structured RFPs that allow for meaningful comparisons. Adrian emphasizes that organizations should be clear about their needs and budget to foster a productive dialogue, ultimately leading to better outcomes for all involved. Read the transcript and notes for this episode on our website. Key Takeaways The RFP process is a common yet often unsatisfactory method for hiring PR firms, as it can limit creativity and effectiveness. Organizations must clearly outline their needs in an RFP, as unclear requests lead to poor responses and miscommunication. Trust is essential in the RFP process; both clients and agencies should be transparent about their expectations and capabilities. Budget parameters should be discussed upfront to ensure agencies can provide realistic and feasible proposals that meet client needs. Pre-RFP conversations can enhance the quality of the proposals received by allowing agencies to ask clarifying questions. Agencies should not be asked to provide free ideas, strategies, or plans during the RFP process; this is unethical and counterproductive. Follow the podcast If you enjoyed this episode, please follow Copper State of Mind in Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or any other podcast app. We publish new episodes every other Friday. Just pick your preferred podcast player from this link, open the app, and click the button to “Follow” the show: https://copperstateofmind.show/listen Need to hire a PR firm? We demystify the process and give you some helpful advice in Episode 19: "How to Hire a Public Relations Agency in Arizona: Insider Tips for Executives and Marketing Directors." Credits Copper State of Mind, hosted by Abbie Fink and Dr. Adrian McIntyre, is brought to you by HMA Public Relations, a full-service public relations firm in Phoenix, AZ. The show is recorded and produced by the team at Speed of Story, a strategic communications consultancy for PR agencies and marketing firms, and distributed by PHX.fm, the leading independent B2B podcast network in Arizona. If you like this podcast, you might also enjoy PRGN Presents: PR News & Views from the Public Relations Global Network, featuring conversations about strategic communications, marketing, and PR from PRGN, "the world’s local public relations...

Abbie and Adrian take a break from the very serious topics we've discussed on recent episodes to share our hot and Coldplay takes on a few of the stories that have been dominating the news lately. From the kiss cam to Cracker Barrel—with rambling detours and digressions on Marilyn Monroe and Taylor Swift—there's something in this episode to interest or annoy almost anyone. (We also say a few smart things about brands and community engagement, the societal impact of celebrity culture, and the balance between pop culture and private life. It's not all fun and games, you know!) Read the transcript and notes for this episode on our website. Follow the podcast If you enjoyed this episode, please follow Copper State of Mind in Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or any other podcast app. We publish new episodes every other Friday. Just pick your preferred podcast player from this link, open the app, and click the button to “Follow” the show: https://copperstateofmind.show/listen Need to hire a PR firm? We demystify the process and give you some helpful advice in Episode 19: "How to Hire a Public Relations Agency in Arizona: Insider Tips for Executives and Marketing Directors." Credits Copper State of Mind, hosted by Abbie Fink and Dr. Adrian McIntyre, is brought to you by HMA Public Relations, a full-service public relations firm in Phoenix, AZ. The show is recorded and produced by the team at Speed of Story, a strategic communications consultancy for PR agencies and marketing firms, and distributed by PHX.fm, the leading independent B2B podcast network in Arizona. If you like this podcast, you might also enjoy PRGN Presents: PR News & Views from the Public Relations Global Network, featuring conversations about strategic communications, marketing, and PR from PRGN, "the world’s local public relations agency.”

Sandra Fink is a physical education teacher in Glendale, California, where she has taught for 36 years. For the past 10 years she has been the coordinator of a leadership program called WEB (Where Everyone Belongs) at Wilson Middle School. The WEB leadership program is designed to help sixth graders transition to middle school with support from eighth graders. Sandra explains that leadership isn't just about authority; it’s also about kindness, mentoring, and creating an environment where everyone can develop their potential to lead. Read the transcript and notes for this episode on our website. Follow the podcast If you enjoyed this episode, please follow Copper State of Mind in Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or any other podcast app. We publish new episodes every other Friday. Just pick your preferred podcast player from this link, open the app, and click the button to “Follow” the show: https://copperstateofmind.show/listen Need to hire a PR firm? We demystify the process and give you some helpful advice in Episode 19: "How to Hire a Public Relations Agency in Arizona: Insider Tips for Executives and Marketing Directors." Credits Copper State of Mind, hosted by Abbie Fink and Dr. Adrian McIntyre, is brought to you by HMA Public Relations, a full-service public relations firm in Phoenix, AZ. The show is recorded and produced by the team at Speed of Story, a strategic communications consultancy for PR agencies and marketing firms, and distributed by PHX.fm, the leading independent B2B podcast network in Arizona. If you like this podcast, you might also enjoy PRGN Presents: PR News & Views from the Public Relations Global Network, featuring conversations about strategic communications, marketing, and PR from PRGN, "the world’s local public relations agency.”

Dean Battinto Batts and Professor Julia Wallace from Arizona State University join us to talk about the recent launch of the Knight Center for the Future of News at ASU's Walter Cronkite School of Journalism and Mass Communication. The Knight Center for the Future of News focuses on creating sustainable models and innovative practices for the journalism industry through three core initiatives: the Journalism, Community & Democracy Lab; the Sustainability Lab; and the Innovation in Reporting & Storytelling Lab. Dean Batts and Prof. Wallace emphasize the importance of adapting to the changing dynamics of news consumption and audience engagement, recognizing that while the industry faces significant challenges, there is still a strong demand for credible information. With the support of a $10.5 million grant from Knight Foundation, The Knight Center for the Future of News will foster innovation, research, and collaboration to ensure a sustainable future for journalism. The center will function as a dynamic environment akin to a teaching hospital, where real-world applications and student mentorship converge to test new journalism concepts. Students will actively participate in hands-on projects, working with professionals to innovate in journalism. Batts and Wallace express optimism about the role of education and new initiatives in reshaping the field, urging a shift in mindset to view disruption as an opportunity rather than a setback. Read the transcript and notes for this episode on our website. Key Takeaways The transformation of journalism education at ASU reflects the evolving state of the industry. In the past, news was seen as objective reporting on issues that directly impacted people's lives. Today’s news environment is characterized by outrage, polarization, and a decline in trust. Arizona State University's Cronkite School has a longstanding partnership with the Knight Foundation, which supports various initiatives aimed at revolutionizing journalism education and practice. Central to the Knight Center's mission is the engagement and understanding of audiences, vital for fostering trust and ensuring the relevance of news media. The episode highlights the importance of an entrepreneurial mindset in the journalism industry to drive innovation amid continuous disruption. About the Guests Dr. Battinto L. Batts Jr. is Dean and Professor at The Walter Cronkite School of Journalism and Mass Communication at Arizona State University. An award-winning journalist and educator with deep experience in philanthropy and nonprofit administration, Dr. Batts previously served as director of journalism strategies for the Scripps Howard Foundation in Cincinnati, Ohio. Batts holds a doctorate in higher education management from Hampton University, a master’s degree in media management from Norfolk State University and a bachelor’s degree in mass communications from Virginia Commonwealth University. Julia Wallace is a professor of practice and the Frank Russell Chair in the Business of Journalism at the Walter Cronkite School of Journalism and Mass Communication, where she teaches ethics, the business of journalism and gender in the media

Abbie Fink and Adrian McIntyre talk about the crucial role that public relations professionals have a within a well-integrated communications team. They discuss how PR has evolved in response to technological advances in AI and automation, highlighting its importance as a strategic component in modern business. Abbie shares her journey from journalism to PR and reflects on the historical focus on press releases, while Adrian underscores the need for strategic communications that align with organizational goals. They also point out that effective communication involves collaboration among various departments, including marketing, internal comms, and customer service. Ultimately, they stress that a truly integrated communications team is vital for addressing challenges and achieving business objectives. Read the transcript and notes for this episode on our website. Key Takeaways Public relations has evolved from a tactical exercise of distributing press releases to a strategic discipline crucial for organizational communication. Strategic communication requires integration between various functions like marketing and internal communications to effectively align with executive goals. PR is pivotal in addressing diverse business issues, from crisis management to branding and employee engagement, necessitating its presence at the executive table. Effective communication strategies involve advising and collaborating across disciplines to ensure cohesive messaging and brand alignment. Executives should view PR professionals as trusted advisors who can help to guide organizations through complex communication challenges. Follow the podcast If you enjoyed this episode, please follow Copper State of Mind in Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or any other podcast app. We publish new episodes every other Friday. Just pick your preferred podcast player from this link, open the app, and click the button to “Follow” the show: https://copperstateofmind.show/listen Need to hire a PR firm? We demystify the process and give you some helpful advice in Episode 19: "How to Hire a Public Relations Agency in Arizona: Insider Tips for Executives and Marketing Directors." Credits Copper State of Mind, hosted by Abbie Fink and Dr. Adrian McIntyre, is brought to you by HMA Public Relations, a full-service public relations firm in Phoenix, AZ. The show is recorded and produced by the team at Speed of Story, a strategic communications consultancy for PR agencies and marketing firms, and distributed by PHX.fm, the leading independent B2B podcast network in Arizona. If you like this podcast, you might also enjoy PRGN Presents: PR News & Views from the Public Relations Global Network, featuring conversations about strategic communications, marketing, and PR from PRGN, "the world’s local public relations agency.”

Nikki Little of Franco, a Detroit-based PR agency, joins us to talk about the importance of internal communications during times of crisis or rapid change—in other words, times like these. Join Franco’s 5-Day Challenge and learn how to navigate uncertainty with strategic communication that builds trust, engagement and resilience. Nikki shares tactical insights on building a culture where listening is prioritized alongside speaking, ensuring that every employee feels heard and valued. She highlights the importance of two-way communication channels and building trust to foster a collaborative workplace. By integrating communication strategies at all times and not just during crises, organizations can enhance their internal relationships and navigate challenging times more effectively. Read the transcript and notes for this episode on our website. Key Takeaways Internal communications are crucial for maintaining employee trust within any organization, especially during uncertain times. Regular communication helps avoid a sense of surprise during crises, ensuring all employees are aligned with the company's mission and vision. Building a culture of listening and creating two-way communication channels enhances organizational transparency and trust. Encouraging feedback, acknowledging it, and acting on it where possible instills trust and shows employees that their input is valued. In-house communicators and their agency counterparts must empower leadership to facilitate open communication and promote a consistent and transparent organizational culture. About the Guest Nikki Little is a co-owner/co-shareholder and the chief marketing officer at Franco. She supports the agency’s strategic vision and growth strategy with a specific focus on new business and marketing alignment. Nikki also serves in a strategic advisor role for several client programs and supports future and current talent development. Since 2012, Nikki has published The MichComms Report, a bi-weekly e-newsletter for Michigan communications professionals. She’s also an Impact100 Oakland County member. Follow the podcast If you enjoyed this episode, please follow Copper State of Mind in Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or any other podcast app. We publish new episodes every other Friday. Just pick your preferred podcast player from this link, open the app, and click the button to “Follow” the show: https://copperstateofmind.show/listen Need to hire a PR firm? We demystify the process and give you some helpful advice in Episode 19: "How to Hire a Public Relations Agency in Arizona: Insider Tips for Executives and Marketing Directors." Credits Copper State of Mind, hosted by Abbie Fink and Dr. Adrian McIntyre, is brought to you by HMA Public Relations, a...

There is an urgent threat facing public media in the United States: a proposed federal budget cut that would not only threaten its future, but also "claw back" funding that's already been awarded to public television and radio stations across the country. Read the transcript and notes for this episode on our website. Adrian McIntyre opens with a personal anecdote about the impact of public media on his family, setting the stage for a critical discussion on the ramifications of potential funding cuts. Alice Ferris and Abbie Fink discuss the wide-ranging implications for communities that rely on the rich tapestry of content and services provided by public media. Defunding the Corporation for Public Broadcasting will have far-reaching negative effects. Alice explains how public media also provides educational resources for classroom teachers and the national emergency alert system. She highlights the importance of localized storytelling and the unique programming offered by regional stations in rural and tribal areas. Contrary to the Trump Administration's claims, research shows that public media outlets like PBS and NPR are highly trusted and respected by the majority of Americans. Alice urges us all to reflect on our personal connections to public media and the pivotal role it plays in community and cultural education, and then to take action to voice our support. Here's what you can do RIGHT NOW: go to Protect My Public Media or the American Coalition for Public Radio, where you'll find fast, simple ways to contact your congressional representatives and urge them to save your public media stations. Key Takeaways Public media faces a significant threat due to proposed federal funding cuts that aim to reclaim previously allocated budgets. Public media is a vital national resource, offering educational tools and content to enrich classroom learning experiences, as well as the emergency alert system. Local public media stations, particularly in rural and underserved areas, would be severely impacted, risking the loss of crucial community-based programming and services. The defunding proposal is part of a larger attack on fact-based news reporting by the current administration, which perceives NPR and PBS as biased against the President--despite recent scientific studies proving their trustworthiness and value. YOU can take action TODAY to help save public media, and we encourage you to contact your congressional representatives via ProtectMyPublicMedia.org About the Guest Alice L. Ferris, MBA, CFRE, ACFRE, is founding partner of GoalBusters Consulting with over 30 years of fundraising experience, specializing in strategic planning, campaign development, and public media support. She got her start at PBS Wisconsin, blowing bubbles during Lawrence Welk Show pledge breaks, and now appears on-air for Arizona PBS and national PBS fundraising programs, including Masterpiece. Alice teaches at the University of Denver and is an Associate Member of Rogare, the international fundraising think tank. She also hosts epic Chinese New Year parties, is a slow runner, and is a retired competition ballroom dancer. Follow the podcast If...