
258: Behind the Words: Unveiling the Spin and Subtext in the Jonas-Turner Divorce
09/12/23 • 45 min
1 Listener
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.
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:
- https://www.youtube.com/mollymcpherson
- https://www.tiktok.com/@mollybmcpherson
- https://www.instagram.com/molly.mcpherson/
- https://www.linkedin.com/in/mollymcpherson/
© 2025 The PR Breakdown with Molly McPherson
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.
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:
- https://www.youtube.com/mollymcpherson
- https://www.tiktok.com/@mollybmcpherson
- https://www.instagram.com/molly.mcpherson/
- https://www.linkedin.com/in/mollymcpherson/
© 2025 The PR Breakdown with Molly McPherson
Previous Episode

257: Web of Fury: The Hidden Forces Fueling Online Anger and Viral Vengeance
Why are social media platforms increasingly becoming the battleground for public apologies and brand backlashes? This episode sheds light on the psychology behind it all. Starting from the Bud Light fiasco in April to a TikTokker rant about a popular shoe brand from last week - discussing the reasons behind the rants.
Episode Highlights:
1. The Scandalous Shredding: Uncover the jaw-dropping story of a fashion label that sent millions of dollars worth of clothing to the shredder instead of donating it, leaving listeners questioning the motives behind this wasteful action.
2. Cancel Culture: Explore the phenomenon of cancel culture and its impact on both public figures and everyday individuals. An update on the reasons behind the backlash and providing actionable strategies to understand and navigate it if it happens to you.
3. Facing the Flames: Molly shares personal anecdotes and experiences about facing online criticism, offering valuable advice on effectively responding to trolls and engaging with individuals with genuine concerns or misunderstandings.
4. Cognitive Reframing and Apologies: Discover the importance of cognitive reframing in altering perceptions and reducing emotional attachment. Molly discusses the significance of issuing timely apologies and acknowledgment to prevent further retribution and build a safe and supportive community.
Beyond the Headlines: In this segment, Molly takes a deep dive into the behind-the-scenes world of PR and shares her recent experience with a TikTok firestorm. Gain valuable insights into the personalized algorithms of platforms like TikTok and learn how to address issues and minimize anger within your online community proactively.
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:
- https://www.youtube.com/mollymcpherson
- https://www.tiktok.com/@mollybmcpherson
- https://www.instagram.com/molly.mcpherson/
- https://www.linkedin.com/in/mollymcpherson/
© 2025 The PR Breakdown with Molly McPherson
Next Episode

259: In the Hot Seat: Analyzing Fallon and NBC's Reactions to Damaging Exposé
Delving into the aftermath of the damning Rolling Stone article that uncovered a hostile work environment at "The Tonight Show starring Jimmy Fallon." We analyze the responses of Fallon and NBC to this damaging exposure and navigate the intricate relationship between celebrity culture and workplace dynamics.
Unmasking the Toxicity: Molly explores the details of the Rolling Stone article, which paints a picture of a toxic work environment filled with bullying and intimidation. She examines the serious allegations made by past and present employees, shedding light on the distress and stress they experienced while working on the show.
Fallon and NBC's Responses: Molly dissects the responses from Fallon and the network, discussing how their reactions were perceived as disconnected from the seriousness of the issues raised. She examines the rumors surrounding Fallon and the struggles he may be facing, particularly in relation to substance abuse.
Impact on Brand and Trust: Molly delves into the consequences of such exposés on celebrities and media personalities. She discusses how the authenticity of public personas comes into question when their behavior behind the scenes is revealed. The erosion of viewer trust and the shattering of reputations are explored, highlighting the far-reaching impacts on careers and industries as a whole.
Beyond the Headlines: Concludes the episode by sharing her excitement about being at NBC for an interview and working on her podcast. She reflects on her visit to Access Hollywood, an NBC production, and the surreal experience of passing through The Tonight Show and interacting with its staff. Molly emphasizes the significance of building trust, even in the world of media and celebrity culture.
More on the Topic:
- In the Hot Seat: Jimmy Fallon And NBC’s ‘Tonight Show’ Crisis Response (Forbes, Molly McPherson, Sep 13, 2023)
- Chaos, Comedy, and 'Crying Rooms': Inside Jimmy Fallon's 'Tonight Show' (Rolling Stone, Krystie Lee Yandoli, Sep 7, 2023)
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:
- https://www.youtube.com/mollymcpherson
- https://www.tiktok.com/@mollybmcpherson
- https://www.instagram.com/molly.mcpherson/
- https://www.linkedin.com/in/mollymcpherson/
© 2025 The PR Breakdown with Molly McPherson
The PR Breakdown with Molly McPherson - 258: Behind the Words: Unveiling the Spin and Subtext in the Jonas-Turner Divorce
Transcript
In almost every celebrity scandal or PR crisis , every move , every statement carries weight , often telling a story that transcends the words we read or hear in the media . Last week , it seemed like everyone on social media was smarter than the team behind these PR moves . He's calling the paparazzi on himself , like yesterday there was a shot of him with the with the three-year-o
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