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

11/28/23 • 35 min

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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.

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

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Previous Episode

268: Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce: Dissecting the PR Relationship Rumors - My Definitive Take

Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce: Dissecting the PR Relationship Rumors explores the theory that their relationship might be a strategic PR move (or not) by comparing it with previous relationships Swift has had, and discusses the mutual benefits and implications for both their careers.
The episode also explores:
1. The fascinating nature of PR relationships and how they serve as strategic moves in the celebrity world. Ever wondered why certain celeb relationships seem to pop up out of nowhere? Now you'll have an idea.

2. The NFL's attempts to woo the female demographic. Can a high-profile romantic link-up between Taylor Swift and a football star actually make the sport more attractive to women? It's a big question and this episode has a unique perspective.
3. Finally, after all the questions, comments, and dragging - is Taylor's relationship with Travis Kelce genuine, timed for maximum publicity, or just a clever strategic move to further their brands and divert media attention?
In my PR Confidential Patreon page: BONUS: Decoding the PR Dynamics: Taylor Swift, Travis Kelce, and the Rio Tragedy.
Episodes mentioned:
267: Blind Gossip: PR Trick or Truth? With guest, TikTok's Kyle Marisa Roth
263: Celebrity Unplugged: Magazine Writer Vanessa Grigoriadis on Justin Bieber, Taylor Swift, & Justin Timberlake

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Next Episode

270: Thin Ice: When Personal Conduct Comes Into Play - Navigating Crisis and Rumors in the Chicago Blackhawks Organization

The Chicago Blackhawks are in the process of terminating Corey Perry's contract due to unacceptable conduct, as part of addressing broader questions about the organization's culture. This episode examines their approach to managing rumors and controversies, particularly those related to personal conduct. It highlights the importance of developing clear, timely, and empathetic communication strategies to uphold an organization's reputation. The episode analyzes Corey Perry's specific case to illustrate effective crisis management and consistent messaging, emphasizing the need for accountability and empathy. The focus is on balancing transparency with privacy and dignity in professional settings, offering insights into handling such sensitive situations in the field of crisis communication.
Mentioned in the episode: Become a member of the PR Confidential community on Patreon to access exclusive content, including a downloadable guide and bonus podcast on How to Communicate Private News from Your Organization While Protecting Sensitive Information. This resource focuses on navigating the delicate balance between transparency and confidentiality in organizational communication.