The PR Breakdown with Molly McPherson

www.mollymcpherson.com

Ever wonder what's really happening behind those viral headlines and celebrity PR disasters? Step into the war room with crisis communications expert Molly as she dissects the week's biggest reputation battles, media meltdowns, and brand controversies.
Each week, Molly peels back the curtain on headline-making moments to reveal the strategic chess moves that shape public perception. From corporate crises to celebrity comebacks, she breaks down what works, what fails, and what it means for the future of reputation management.
Whether you're a PR professional, business leader, or simply fascinated by the art of reputation management, join Molly every week for the conversation everyone in PR is talking about. Subscribe now to master the strategies shaping modern reputation—one breakdown at a time.

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Top 10 The PR Breakdown with Molly McPherson Episodes

Goodpods has curated a list of the 10 best The PR Breakdown with Molly McPherson episodes, ranked by the number of listens and likes each episode have garnered from our listeners. If you are listening to The PR Breakdown with Molly McPherson for the first time, there's no better place to start than with one of these standout episodes. If you are a fan of the show, vote for your favorite The PR Breakdown with Molly McPherson episode by adding your comments to the episode page.

247: Under Pressure: OceanGate's Titanic Struggles with Media and Public Perception

The PR Breakdown with Molly McPherson

06/27/23 • 35 min

The captivating story of the missing Titanic submersible and the PR crisis that ensued for OceanGate. We unravel the media coverage, public perception, and the different strategies employed by Ocean Gate, the US Coast Guard, and other agencies, as well as the roles of social media and notable figures like James Cameron in shaping the narrative. Learn how transparency, timely communication, and empathy were key components in managing this disaster.
We dive deep into the various media strategies used in crisis communication, analyzing how OceanGate and other organizations leveraged social media experts and the challenges they faced in releasing crucial information. We also discuss the involvement of brands like Boeing, University of Washington, Logitech, Blink 182, and The Simpsons in the story, and examine the impact of the press in the coverage. Plus, don't miss the incredible connection between the CEO's wife and the Titanic, her ancestors having been first-class passengers on the ill-fated ship!
Finally, we emphasize the importance of having an online platform dedicated to user-generated content, allowing communities to interact, ask questions, and engage with your audience. Listen in as we explore how such platforms serve viewers and listeners better, providing a unique opportunity for better engagement and insight. Join us for this insightful and gripping episode that not only explores the Titanic submersible disaster but also offers valuable lessons in public relations strategies and crisis management.
Topics covered in Episode 247 of Indestructible PR with Molly McPherson:

Referring to James Cameron's interview and Cameron's anger towards CEO Stockton Rush

Focus on money and wealth in ocean exploration

Tragic ending to submersible 'Titan' used to see Titanic shipwreck

Vessel had catastrophic implosion, killing all on board

Tragic consequences of recent billionaire space launch

Need for a crisis communication plan

Speaker's community platform called Five

Missing Titanic tourist immersible and PR crisis faced by OceanGate

Public relations crucial for crisis management

Coverage of the event and criticism of the media

Example of good and bad media strategies during a crisis

Purchase Molly's Secret PR Playbook: Ever catch yourself reacting to bad news with shaky hands and an even shakier plan? That ends now. Grab the same battle-tested system Molly has used since 2007 to help clients ditch panic and defend their reputation, no matter how intense the heat gets.

Need a Keynote Speaker? Drawing from real-world PR battles, Molly delivers the same engaging stories and hard-won crisis insights from the podcast to your live audience. Her high-energy keynotes blend edge-of-your-seat PR war stories with actionable communication strategies that resonate with leaders, communicators, and teams alike. Click here to book Molly for your next meeting.

Follow Molly for daily updates and more PR insights:

Substack: PRBreakdown.Media
YouTube: @mollymcpherson
TikTok: @mollybmcpherson
Connect with Molly: pillar.io/mollymcpherson

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Behind the Spin: Blake Lively, Justin Baldoni, and the High-Stakes PR Showdown

The PR Breakdown with Molly McPherson

01/08/25 • 45 min

Amid the glamorous yet ruthless world of Hollywood, Blake Lively and Justin Baldoni find themselves embroiled in a high-profile legal battle stemming from the adaptation of Colleen Hoover’s novel, “It Ends With Us.” The episode explores the tangled web of celebrity relations, PR strategies, and serious allegations of misconduct that threaten to overshadow their professional endeavors and alter the public's perception of both stars.
• Overview of the legal feud between Blake Lively and Justin Baldoni
• The role of social media in shaping public opinion
• Ryan Reynolds’ impactful presence in the narrative
• Analysis of the sexual harassment claims made by Lively
• Discussion on PR tactics and their ethical implications
• The fallout from the New York Times article detailing the smear campaign
• Exploring themes of power dynamics and accountability in Hollywood
• Reflection on whether lawsuits can salvage deteriorating reputations
Do you think lawsuits solve reputation problems? Will the reputation problems of Justin Baldoni and Blake Lively be solved by these lawsuits, or do they just pour gasoline on the fire?

Follow Molly for daily updates and more PR insights:

Substack: PRBreakdown.Media
YouTube: @mollymcpherson
TikTok: @mollybmcpherson
Connect with Molly: pillar.io/mollymcpherson

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243: Unfiltered Inbox: Your Questions, My Replies

The PR Breakdown with Molly McPherson

05/30/23 • 30 min

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 th

Follow Molly for daily updates and more PR insights:

Substack: PRBreakdown.Media
YouTube: @mollymcpherson
TikTok: @mollybmcpherson
Connect with Molly: pillar.io/mollymcpherson

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246: Breaking the Paywall: A Free Membership Offering in the Cancel Culture Era

The PR Breakdown with Molly McPherson

06/20/23 • 18 min

What if you could connect with your audience and experts like never before? Discover the incredible new platform called Five that's backed by big names like Mark Zuckerberg, Jeff Bezos, and Bill Gates. I'm your host, Molly McPherson, and I'm thrilled to share how this game-changing app allows me to engage with my audience and answer your burning questions about public relations, crisis management, popular culture, news, and more. Join me in the Five community and let's dive into some valuable discussions!
But wait! There's more!
We're also tackling the complex world of cancel culture and crisis management, using Jessica Mulroney's recent return to Good Morning America as a prime example. Who gets to decide when someone is truly "canceled?" Explore different types of crises, from predictable events to those that spiral out of control in the blink of an eye. Learn how intense scrutiny from the press, online communities, or even strangers can lead to a loss of control over a narrative, ultimately sparking a crisis. Listen in as we navigate these challenging topics and share invaluable insights to help you become indestructible in your PR endeavors.
[00:01:36] Community engagement through Patreon on industry changes.

[00:04:35] Free membership removes content paywall pressure.

[00:08:40] Favorite content shared on Patreon platform.

[00:10:36] Brands and celebrities face constant crises.

[00:15:06] Unexpected events impact businesses and individuals.

[00:16:50] Scrutiny escalates quickly, reporter digs deeper.

Follow Molly for daily updates and more PR insights:

Substack: PRBreakdown.Media
YouTube: @mollymcpherson
TikTok: @mollybmcpherson
Connect with Molly: pillar.io/mollymcpherson

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255: The Real Blind Side: The PR Battle Behind Michael Oher's Lawsuit Against the Tuohys

The PR Breakdown with Molly McPherson

08/22/23 • 44 min

This episode delves into a legal and PR showdown that's making headlines. The unfolding drama between NFL veteran Michael Oher and the two families famously depicted in the film "The Blind Side" takes center stage.
Episode Highlights:
The Blind Side Revisited
The episode begins by revisiting the heartwarming yet controversial film "The Blind Side" and its portrayal of the real-life story of Michael Oher. The core of the episode delves into the legal intricacies surrounding Michael Oher's lawsuit against the Tuohy family. The episode analyzes the claims, counterclaims, and potential consequences for both sides as they navigate this complex legal landscape.
Behind Closed Doors: PR Maneuvers and Media Strategies
A detailed exploration of the PR strategies employed by both parties emerges as they wage not only a legal battle but also a battle for public opinion. From crisis communication tactics to reputation management, the episode dissects each side's strategic moves to sway public sentiment in their favor.
Media and PR Lessons: From Crisis to Resilience
This segment draws parallels between the unfolding events and the broader realm of crisis communication. The episode raises questions about the PR lessons that can be gleaned from this case and how individuals and organizations can construct a reputation that withstands challenges in turbulent times.
Beyond the Headlines
As the episode concludes, reflections on the intricate legal battle and the interplay of PR strategies come to the forefront. Valuable insights are provided to empower listeners to confront their own PR challenges head-on and emerge stronger in the face of adversity.
Don't forget to subscribe to the "Indestructible PR Podcast with Molly McPherson" on your preferred podcast platform, and stay connected on social media for updates, insights, and more.

Follow Molly for daily updates and more PR insights:

Substack: PRBreakdown.Media
YouTube: @mollymcpherson
TikTok: @mollybmcpherson
Connect with Molly: pillar.io/mollymcpherson

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273: 2023's Unforgettable Celebrity Scandals: A Year in Review

The PR Breakdown with Molly McPherson

01/02/24 • 30 min

First episode for 2024!

Hey there, PR pros and dedicated listeners! You won't want to miss this special episode where I dive deep into the year that left jaws on the floor with never-ending celebrity drama and crisis. Let's hit the rewind button and explore the twists and turns of 2023's scandalous celeb behavior that kept publicists on their toes and the rest of us following along closely.
Here are your top five most popular episodes of the year. (Thank you, listeners!)

Top Five Episodes:

Episode 1: This episode was a favorite of mine as well.
Episode 2: All aboard.
Episode 3: Dissecting the PR Relationship Rumors
Episode 4: Apologies, denials, and online disasters.
Episode 5: An end-of-year favorite with two of my favorite media guys.

Follow Molly for daily updates and more PR insights:

Substack: PRBreakdown.Media
YouTube: @mollymcpherson
TikTok: @mollybmcpherson
Connect with Molly: pillar.io/mollymcpherson

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278: Courting Public Favor: Jessica Biel & Justin Timberlake

The PR Breakdown with Molly McPherson

09/04/24 • 26 min

Courting Public Favor: Jessica Biel & Justin Timberlake

Summary:

In this episode of The PR Breakdown, analyzing the recent PR moves surrounding Jessica Biel and Justin Timberlake. Following Timberlake’s arrest for a DWI in June 2024, Biel made a rare public appearance with their son at the US Open. Was this just a family outing, or a carefully timed PR strategy to shift the public’s focus from Timberlake’s legal issues?

Looking into the key moments of their public image management, examining Biel's balancing act between family privacy and public visibility, Timberlake’s decision to address the DWI on stage during his tour, and the timing of these events. We'll connects the dots between these moves and offers key lessons on how timing and misdirection play crucial roles in public relations crises.

Learn why it’s important to own your narrative in times of crisis and how celebrities use strategic timing to manage public perception.

Key Takeaways:

The importance of timing in managing a PR crisis.
How public figures use personal moments to shift the narrative and regain control.
The intersection of transparency, timing, and audience connection in crisis communication.

Mentioned in This Episode:

Jessica Biel’s rare public outing with her son Silas.
Justin Timberlake’s June 2024 DWI arrest and his public response.
PR strategies like timing and misdirection that celebrities use to shape public perception.

If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with friends who love digging into the strategies behind the headlines.

New Episodes Every Wednesday!

Follow Molly for daily updates and more PR insights:

Substack: PRBreakdown.Media
YouTube: @mollymcpherson
TikTok: @mollybmcpherson
Connect with Molly: pillar.io/mollymcpherson

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261: Flipping the Script: How WGA Outmaneuvered Hollywood Studios in the Strike - A Conversation with Michael Jamin

The PR Breakdown with Molly McPherson

10/03/23 • 52 min

In this episode of the Indestructible PR Podcast with Molly McPherson, long-time TV writer and Writers' Guild of America (WGA) writer, Michael Jamin, takes us behind the scenes of the recent strike and shares insight that helped the WGA negotiate a new contract with Hollywood studios. Grab your headphones and get ready for some serious industry insider knowledge!

1. The Inside Story: Michael Jamin, a seasoned TV writer, shares fascinating insights about the challenges faced by newcomers in the business and reveals why sustaining a career is often more difficult than breaking into it. You'll discover the struggles aspiring writers face, including the difficulty of securing a second job after their initial gig. Get ready to gain a whole new perspective on the inner workings of Hollywood!

2. The Power of Social Media: Ever wonder how social media has changed the game for industries like entertainment? Jamin will shed light on how social media platforms can be used as effective tools for causes, as demonstrated by an unexpected group that caught the attention of an industry giant, the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers (AMPTP). Get ready to be inspired by the possibilities of social media storytelling!

3. The Tactics and Playbooks: Strikes can be intense, and Jamin doesn't hold back in discussing the playbook pulled out by the studios during negotiations. He'll dissect the recent strike, revealing how the studios tried to maintain the status quo while the Writers Guild pushed for much-needed changes. This insider knowledge will give you a fresh perspective on the strategies and tactics employed by both sides during high-stakes negotiations.

Behind the Headlines
The WGA strike was a game-changer that showcased the power of unity and effective communication. This episode unravels the complexities of the strike negotiations, dives into the world of social media activism, and presents an insider's perspective on sustaining a career in Hollywood.

Let's dive into the irresistible world of Hollywood!
Watch the episode on YouTube

Follow Molly for daily updates and more PR insights:

Substack: PRBreakdown.Media
YouTube: @mollymcpherson
TikTok: @mollybmcpherson
Connect with Molly: pillar.io/mollymcpherson

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245: Crisis Control: Unraveling Breaking News Stories for Tips on Mastering Public Relations Blowback

The PR Breakdown with Molly McPherson

06/13/23 • 23 min

Last week was a big week for breaking news. From the departure of CEO Chris Licht to wildfires, last week was an example of the dynamic nature of breaking news. With technology and social media, headline news can now spread at unprecedented rates on a global scale. There is a spillover effect resulting from breaking news that companies and brands can utilize to identify threats regarding reputation during a public relation crisis.
Using the events that unfolded last week, gain insight into how breaking news creates views on social media and how this can potentially place a company’s reputation at risk. Learn about the three crucial threats to all companies and organizations and how to successfully navigate a PR crisis.
Throughout the episode, real-world examples of companies that have successfully managed public relations blowback are discussed, sharing valuable insights into their crisis management techniques and highlighting key learnings that can be applied to businesses of all sizes. Also covered is the interconnectedness between social media and breaking news, how to leverage social media to enhance a brand's reputation, the role of algorithms, and much more. Tune in and discover how to prepare for the next PR and social media crisis.

Key Points From This Episode:

The array of challenges to managing a company’s reputation.
How news impacts what is trending on social media.
Benefits and risks to a company that is leveraging social media.
What we can learn from CNN's recent public relations fiasco.
Differences between the reach of national and local news.
Ways in which social media influences news headlines.
Navigating the amplification of echo chambers.
Making sure your message is strong and can mitigate misinformation.
Preparing for the blowback from a business decision.
Discover how social media algorithms can impact a brand.
Today’s Indestructible PR® tip: prepare for your next PR and social media crisis.

Follow Molly for daily updates and more PR insights:

Substack: PRBreakdown.Media
YouTube: @mollymcpherson
TikTok: @mollybmcpherson
Connect with Molly: pillar.io/mollymcpherson

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264: How to Get Your Story Right from the Start: Jada Pinkett Smith and the Cost of Inconsistent Storytelling

The PR Breakdown with Molly McPherson

10/24/23 • 32 min

In this episode of the Indestructible PR Podcast, we delve into two critical aspects of public communication that often trip up those in the spotlight.
First, we explore the case of Jada Pinkett Smith and her "Today" show interviews. Her inconsistent narrative about her marriage serves as a striking example of the potential repercussions of failing to align public statements with the truth. The episode offers a comprehensive look at the complexities of managing both a personal life and a public persona. It draws invaluable lessons on the importance of factual, consistent storytelling, particularly when under public scrutiny.
Building on that, the episode also features an in-depth discussion with an industry insider who recently spoke to The Wrap, a renowned Hollywood publication. This segment uncovers the weighty moral and ethical responsibilities celebrities carry when they comment on complex geopolitical matters. Through a personal experience involving the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, our guest reveals the dangers and pitfalls of speaking on topics one may not be entirely educated on. The conversation serves as a cautionary tale emphasizing the importance of due diligence before taking any public stances, especially on polarizing issues.
Together, these discussions provide actionable strategies and penetrating analyses that are useful not just for celebrities, but also for politicians, social media influencers, and business leaders. As all of these groups must navigate the perilous tightrope of public expectations while maintaining personal integrity, this episode serves as an essential guide for anyone interested in mastering the art of public communication.

Jada Pinkett Smith Interviews: The Cost Of Inconsistent Storytelling Molly McPherson, (2023, October 18) Forbes.

Follow Molly for daily updates and more PR insights:

Substack: PRBreakdown.Media
YouTube: @mollymcpherson
TikTok: @mollybmcpherson
Connect with Molly: pillar.io/mollymcpherson

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FAQ

How many episodes does The PR Breakdown with Molly McPherson have?

The PR Breakdown with Molly McPherson currently has 407 episodes available.

What topics does The PR Breakdown with Molly McPherson cover?

The podcast is about News, Tiktok, Society & Culture, Media, Leadership, Public Relations, Podcasts, Ceo, Business and Communications.

What is the most popular episode on The PR Breakdown with Molly McPherson?

The episode title '245: Crisis Control: Unraveling Breaking News Stories for Tips on Mastering Public Relations Blowback' is the most popular.

What is the average episode length on The PR Breakdown with Molly McPherson?

The average episode length on The PR Breakdown with Molly McPherson is 29 minutes.

How often are episodes of The PR Breakdown with Molly McPherson released?

Episodes of The PR Breakdown with Molly McPherson are typically released every 7 days.

When was the first episode of The PR Breakdown with Molly McPherson?

The first episode of The PR Breakdown with Molly McPherson was released on Nov 13, 2018.

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The PR Breakdown with Molly McPherson

www.mollymcpherson.com

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How many episodes does The PR Breakdown with Molly McPherson have?

What topics does The PR Breakdown with Molly McPherson cover?

What is the most popular episode on The PR Breakdown with Molly McPherson?

What is the average episode length on The PR Breakdown with Molly McPherson?

How often are episodes of The PR Breakdown with Molly McPherson released?

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