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.

#1 in the Top 100 public relations Monthly chart

...more

2 Listeners

All episodes

Best episodes

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.

269: The Fine Line Between Apology and Denial: A Case Study of Colleen Ballinger and Matt Rife

The PR Breakdown with Molly McPherson

11/28/23 • 35 min

Apologies, denials, and online disasters. Molly is breaking down the Matt Rife and Colleen Ballinger PR crisis.

This episode is all about perception management. As soon as the backlash starts, every subsequent step needs to be calculated. Often, this fine line between apology and denial can alter reputations and determine careers' trajectory in a blink.
These three key takeaways:
1. Exploring the anatomy of an apology, and what happens when it's done wrong, using Colleen Ballinger as our case study. Molly discusses how her previous behavior led to a backlash, how she responded to it, and how effective (or not) her response was.
2. Looking at "Bro humor" with Matt Rife. Molly dissects how he handled the backlash towards a controversial joke he threw out there and the marketing tactics he's using to survive it.
3. Understanding the differences in their responses - from Ballinger's rebranding strategy to Rife's doubling down. Who’s approach will work in the long run? There are predictions to be made and lessons to be learned.

Want More Behind the Breakdown?
Follow The PR Breakdown with Molly McPherson on Substack for early access to podcast episodes, exclusive member chats, weekly lives, and monthly workshops that go deeper than the mic. It's the insider’s hub for communicators who want strategy with spine—and a little side-eye where it counts.
Follow Molly → @MollyMcPherson
Subscribe to PR Breakdown on Substack → prbreakdown.media

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. Click here to book Molly for your next meeting.

Follow & Connect with Molly:

1 Listener

265: Setting the Record Straight: How Media Can Help You Move On From The Past

The PR Breakdown with Molly McPherson

10/31/23 • 32 min

In today's episode, Molly delves into the nuanced process of reclaiming your personal narrative in the aftermath of betrayal, without resorting to revenge tactics. Utilizing Britney Spears' memoir as a case study, Molly emphasizes how harnessing the power of social media platforms can be a double-edged sword. Done correctly, it allows you to share your perspective and control the story surrounding you, but improper use can perpetuate misunderstandings and escalate tensions.

Molly provides actionable steps and strategic advice on how to own your narrative responsibly. By understanding the implications and reach of different platforms, you can better craft your message to effectively communicate your truth. Molly’s insights make it clear that it is not just about what you say, but how and where you say it, that makes all the difference in how your story is understood and received.

Follow & Connect with Molly:

1 Listener

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 & Connect with Molly:

1 Listener

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 & Connect with Molly:

1 Listener

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 excitin

Follow & Connect with Molly:

1 Listener

258: Behind the Words: Unveiling the Spin and Subtext in the Jonas-Turner Divorce

The PR Breakdown with Molly McPherson

09/12/23 • 45 min

Join Molly in the PR Confidential community on Five: Don’t miss out on joining in the chats where we dissect this episode’s topic further and engage in intriguing discussions on various subjects of spin, aiming to uncover the truth behind the spin and subtext. Ask your questions - Molly will answer.
In this episode of the Indestructible PR Podcast with Molly McPherson, we venture "Behind the Words" to demystify the spin and subtext surrounding the recent Jonas-Turner divorce. The separation of Sophie Turner and Joe Jonas has captivated the public, with narratives weaving in different directions. Our deep dive takes a closer look at the language used in the initial statements, exploring potential discrepancies that may be influencing public perception. Join us as we analyze the crafted narratives, meticulously chosen words, and how the portrayal of events can sometimes overshadow the reality.
Episode Highlights:
Analyzing the Initial Statement: Understanding the implications and hidden messages behind the use of the phrase “and/or” in the statement that spurred the divorce.
Friday News Dump: A glimpse into the strategic maneuvers employed over weekends to prevent negative stories from gaining traction.
Dissecting Jonas' Narrative: A deep analysis of the language and narrative style adopted by Jonas' side, with a special focus on the portrayal of living “separate lives.”
Children "in the picture": Highlighting the critical considerations regarding the couple's children, privacy, and photo opportunities.
Spotting Orchestrated PR Moves: Peeling back the layers to uncover the real motivations behind each orchestrated PR move that shaped the current narrative.
Indestructible PR Tip: Stay tuned to receive an invaluable tip on building a robust reputation amid conflict and gossip.
Behind the Headlines:
Understanding Spin and Subtext: Delve deeper into the world of PR as we unravel the subtext, planted stories, and carefully crafted statements that form the complex narrative surrounding high-profile incidents like the Jonas-Turner divorce.

Follow & Connect with Molly:

1 Listener

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 & Connect with Molly:

1 Listener

1 Comment

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 & Connect with Molly:

1 Listener

256: Meghan Markle: Decoding Recent Moves & PR Decisions

The PR Breakdown with Molly McPherson

08/29/23 • 18 min

In this episode of the Indestructible PR Podcast, host Molly McPherson delves into the recent moves and PR decisions of Meghan Markle. Molly shares her insights and analysis on the infamous Duchess, discussing her journey, challenges, and the lessons we can learn from her.

Highlights:

1. International Interview: Molly begins the episode by recounting her recent appearance on Australia's longest-running morning breakfast news program, the National Today Show. She talks about the nerves and tech issues that come with live interviews and shares her positive experience interacting with the hosts.

2. PR Missteps: The interview focused on Meghan Markle's PR decisions and perceived missteps. Molly addresses the notion that Meghan has made one bad PR decision after another and highlights the importance of maintaining a relatable and approachable narrative for public figures. She mentions incidents like the security incident and the end of Meghan and Harry's Spotify deal, which have contributed to the perception of inconsistency and vulnerability.

3. Power Move: Molly discusses Meghan Markle's recent move to talent agency WME and the significance of being connected to high-profile talent manager Ari Emanuel. She explains how this move can raise Meghan's profile and potentially pave the way for strategic opportunities. Molly also touches on Meghan's podcast endeavors and the challenges she faced in securing high-profile guests, making a case for why a different approach might suit her better.

Beyond the Headlines: One of the key takeaways from this episode is the impact of media scrutiny and social media judgment on public figures like Meghan Markle. Molly emphasizes the need for a coordinated PR strategy to counter these challenges and navigate the ever-evolving landscape of public perception.

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 & Connect with Molly:

1 Listener

271: 2023's Biggest Public Relations Fiascos: A Year in Review

The PR Breakdown with Molly McPherson

12/12/23 • 50 min

Prepare to step back in time to revisit the top PR fiascos of 2023. Diving into the recent and semi-recent mishaps of the year and their enduring impacts. Joining Molly this week to breakdown the top crises of the year are two seasoned media and PR pros - John Perenack and Warren Weeks. This episode covers everything from significant advertising blunders to historical corporate crises. It's a mix of the obvious stories you'd expect on this list as well as some surprises. We're discussing what went down, who got hit the hardest, and what it all means for their reputation and bottom line. This episode really digs into the nitty-gritty of PR and crisis management.

Follow & Connect with Molly:

1 Listener

1 Comment

Show more best episodes

Featured in these lists

The best podcasts for different approaches to podcasting - PR, speaking, confidence, leadership and all aspects of work

Curated by Nola Simon

FAQ

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

The PR Breakdown with Molly McPherson currently has 420 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.

Show more FAQ

The PR Breakdown with Molly McPherson

www.mollymcpherson.com

Top 10 The PR Breakdown with Molly McPherson Episodes

Featured in these lists

FAQ

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?

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

Comments