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Summary: Brittany Punaro, co-founder of Steer PR and former director of public affairs at the CIA, shares insights into the world of strategic communications and public affairs. She discusses her background in politics and government, highlighting the differences in communication strategies between campaigns, Capitol Hill, and the corporate world. Brittany emphasizes the transferable skills from the intelligence community to strategic communications and offers advice for breaking into the field. She also discusses her involvement in the rebranding efforts of the CIA's external website and the launch of the Langley Files podcast. The conversation covers topics such as meeting audiences where they are, starting a PR firm, and choosing clients based on values.

Takeaways:

• Strategic communications and public affairs involve driving concise messages, both proactively and reactively, to shape public perception and advance organizational goals.
• The skills gained in the intelligence community, such as critical thinking, objectivity, and the ability to analyze complex information, are highly transferable to strategic communications.
• Breaking into strategic communications can be achieved through volunteering, internships, and rotational programs to gain hands-on experience and determine if the field aligns with your interests and skills.
• Political campaigns offer valuable experience in strategic communications, but they can be demanding and require flexibility and a willingness to travel.
• Rebranding efforts in communications involve reflecting the organization's mission, values, and unique culture to effectively communicate with target audiences. It is important to meet audiences where they are, especially when trying to recruit the next generation.
• Starting a PR firm requires careful consideration and finding the right business partner.
• Choosing clients based on personal values and mission alignment can lead to a more fulfilling career.

Timestamps

0:00 Introduction to Brittany Punaro and her background

03:13 Demystifying public affairs and strategic communications

04:20 A typical day in strategic communications

11:33 Transitioning from government to starting a PR firm

13:52 Breaking into strategic communications

22:25 Why understanding geopolitics is a key skill

29:05 Getting involved in political campaigns

36:15 Brittany's involvement in the CIA's rebranding efforts

44:10 Starting Steer PR

47:50 Choosing Clients Based on Values

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In this episode, we discuss our top industry job recommendations for government and national security professionals looking to make the jump to the private sector, highlight job roles, essential skills, salary insights, and potential drawbacks. We dive deep on the generalist's career path, and conclude with honorable mentions and a reminder of the diverse opportunities available.

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On this episode we talk with Ashley P. and learn more about hustling, believing in yourself, and finding your tribe.
(0:00) Intro and Background
(3:23) How to understand when its time to leave
(5:14) Learning about Organizational psychology and getting the courage to leave the IC
(11:15) Decision on whether to pursue a PhD program
(15:40) Should you get your PhD?
(21:02) Dealing with imposter syndrome
(25:00) Building a personal brand, or lack thereof
(32:00) Breaking into consulting
(36:30) Important things to highlight in interviews
(40: 58) Salary negotiations
(44:50) Feeding the Wolf: Should you start your own LLC?

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In our first interview, we talk with Ryan G. about his transition from special forces to Big 4 consulting.
(0:00) Intro
(1:12) Background & Origin Story: Going through Special Forces selection and the Q-course
(10:48) How developing business skills actually helped during SF selection
(18:20) Why did the business sector look so appealing
(22:14) What strategies and tools did Ryan use to network
(23:41) How do you build business acumen while still in government
(27:00) How do you decide on the right consulting firm
(28:17) How did you navigate the salary conversations
(33:00) Why federal consulting is an easy transition
(38:50) What skills government personnel should consider developing while still in government
(40:50) Lighting round questions

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In this episode Meghan H. teaches us that not every private sector jump will work out, but that the private sector desperately needs more servant-leadership and public service oriented professionals.
Time Stamps:
(0:00) Intro/Background
(5:00) Transitioning into Big Tech
(8:12) Utilizing DoD Transition Programs
(13:25) Bringing a leadership mindset into Meta
(24:50) Interviewing with Meta
(31:52) Dealing with being laid off
(39:38) Landing on your feet
(52:10) Big Tech’s Internal Productivity Tools

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