In today's hyper-accelerated communications world, keeping up means juggling reputation, brand building, crisis management, storytelling, and more while adapting to new technologies like generative AI. The Trending Communicator, hosted by Dan Nestle, is your guide through this chaotic landscape. This podcast dives into the challenges of PR, communications, and marketing today, with experts sharing real stories and strategies for overcoming those challenges and more. It's the perfect resource for professionals looking to innovate, take risks, and stay ahead. Join us to make sense of today’s communications chaos, one insightful conversation at a time.
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Spectacular Communications Requires Audacious Communicators - with Mark Schaefer
Friday, August 23, 2024 • Duration 01:07:39
All of us know we're in an age of disruption. If you want to thrive and grow as a communicator or marketer, it's not AI you have to worry about. What should keep you up at night is the prospect of succumbing to the Dull. AI can do dull better than you can. You have to flee the dull and be bold. You have to be audacious.
In this episode of The Trending Communicator, host Dan Nestle finally, after countless name drops, references, and bold claims to be friends with a particular marketing legend, puts his money where his mouth is and welcomes to the show his mentor, confidant, friend, and arguably his man crush, the one and only Mark Schaefer.
After Dan perpetrates some gushing, he and Mark go straight into the chaotic "Now" and the need for a clear vision of the future. They talk about the impact of AI on communications and marketing, and Mark offers his sobering perspective: yes, AI can be terrifying for anyone creating content because it's "good enough" to generate boring, compliant corporate messaging. He says that AI will "unleash a pandemic of dull" - and if we want to succeed in the future, we'll need to be bold, crazy, and audacious. He goes on to say that the result could be spectacular work by those of us who can rise above the dull.
They also get into the significance of personal branding, both internally within companies and externally. Mark reinforces the idea that being Known and trusted, especially in an era where deepfakes and misinformation are rampant, is critical to future success.
Throughout the episode, Dan and Mark explore the challenges and opportunities presented by technological advancements, urging communicators to embrace bold, audacious strategies to stay relevant. The conversation concludes with remarks about Mark's upcoming book, tentatively titled "Audacious: A Rebel's Guide to Disruptive Marketing," set to release in January.
Listen in and hear about...
Mark's new book!
How marketing and communications are merging in today's chaotic landscape.
AI's transformative role in marketing and communication strategies.
The importance of authenticity and grit in content creation.
AI's impact on entry-level jobs and the future of onboarding new talent.
Why building a personal brand within organizations is crucial for career growth.
Challenges that large companies face in adapting to rapid cultural and technological changes.
The necessity of community and collaboration to stay updated with fast-paced industry trends.
Notable Quotes
On the Role of Marketing in Companies:
- "I think in this day and age, almost everybody's in marketing, everybody in your company that influences your conversation with your customer, your reputation with your customer." — Mark Schaefer [00:04:37 → 00:04:47]
On the Intersection of Marketing and Communications:
- " We're talking about reaching out to audiences and creating that market, creating a market either for your goods or for your ideas or for your message and all the above." — Dan Nestle [00:05:53 → 00:06:09]
On the Impact of AI on Jobs:
- "I think it will eliminate a lot of lower level jobs and it'll eliminate, you know, some entry level jobs." — Mark Schaefer [00:11:19 → 00:11:27]
On the Future of Content Creation:
- "In the next twelve months, you'll be able to make a full length motion picture on your laptop computer, including the script and the, you know, the dialogue and the score and the art and everything you would want." — Mark Schaefer [00:14:55 → 00:15:11]
On Authenticity in Marketing:
- "The key to creating a video that connects on an emotional level is to leave mistakes in. Maybe some of the video is a little blurry, maybe a little of the audio is a little scratchy, but it makes you feel like you're right there." — Mark Schaefer [00:17:28 → 00:17:40]
On the Pandemic of Dull:
- "AI is going to be very capable. That's also going to unleash this pandemic of dull. And every communicator out there is going to be fighting against this pandemic of dull." — Mark Schaefer [00:26:14 → 00:26:27]
On the Future of Corporate Content:
- "If you're writing content that's easily approved by legal, you're going to be gone. You've got to start reaching into more communications that can't be ignored, that cannot be commoditized." — Mark Schaefer [00:26:14 → 00:26:27]
On the Role of Personal Branding:
- "Anybody, any employee, any person anywhere should be building their own personal brand. And I think people are confused. They think, oh, that means I want to be solo and be on my own. Not necessarily, but if somebody is in a company and doesn't have the influence, they don't have a personal brand." — Dan Nestle [00:47:37 → 00:47:55]
On the Role of Community in Staying Relevant:
- "I cannot be relevant without a community behind me in our rise community. We have people from all around the world helping each other, nurturing each other, talking about, this works. This doesn't, I tried this, use this." — Mark Schaefer [01:04:41 → 01:05:00]
On the Importance of Grit and Authenticity:
- "Grit, a little crazy and a lot of audacity." — Mark Schaefer [01:06:51 → 01:06:54]
On the Importance of Community:
- "I can with 1000% certainty say that my understanding of AI and my joy of it is absolutely due to my involvement with the rise community and just that whole process of helping to build that community and being part of it." — Dan Nestle [01:05:00 → 01:05:15]
Timestamped key moments from this episode (as generated by Fireflies.ai)
🎙️ Introduction and Personal Brand (00:00 - 15:00)
Daniel Nestle introduces Mark Schaefer as a marketing expert and communicator
Mark emphasizes the importance of personal brand in the age of AI
Discussion on the blurring lines between marketing and communications
Mark highlights the need for authenticity and 'grit' in content creation
🤖 AI and Content Creation (15:00 - 30:00)
Exploration of AI's impact on lower-level jobs in marketing and communications
Mark discusses the need for human creativity and 'crazy' ideas to stand out
Emphasis on the importance of authenticity in a world of AI-generated content
Discussion on the future of corporate communication in the age of AI
🏢 Corporate Culture and Innovation (30:00 - 45:00)
Mark talks about the challenges of innovation in large corporations
Discussion on the importance of internal personal branding
Emphasis on the need for quick experimentation and 'pilots' in companies
Mark introduces his upcoming book 'Audacious' on disruptive marketing
🌐 Future of Marketing and Communications (45:00 - 60:00)
Discussion on the importance of community in staying relevant
Mark emphasizes the need for human touch in marketing strategies
Talk about the rise of AI tools and their impact on content verification
Mark's prediction: 'The most human company wins'
🎬 Wrap-up and Resources (60:00 - 01:07:06)
Daniel provides information on Mark's blog and podcast
Discussion on the RISE community and its benefits
Mark's final thoughts on the importance of humanity in business
(Notes co-created by Human Dan and a variety of AI helpers, including Fireflies.ai and Flowsend.ai)
How Communications Drives Organizational Health - with Ethan McCarty
Friday, August 9, 2024 • Duration 01:07:51
Is the Communications function, as many in our profession claim, an organization's nerve center? Where messages and stories are the electric impulses that cause synapses to fire, muscles to move, and hearts to beat? Or is this understating the case? Are we missing the bigger picture?
In this episode of The Trending Communicator, host Dan Nestle welcomes back thought leader, educator, and dear friend Ethan McCarty, the CEO of Integral. Known for his innovative approach to employee experience and communications technology, Ethan has been a guiding force in shaping how organizations communicate internally and externally. while devoting nearly as much time to giving back to the profession as he has spent building his successful agency.
Dan and Ethan have a wide-ranging conversation that touches on the essence of effective communication within organizations, and the critical impact of communications on corporate health. They explore Ethan's approach to viewing employees as public: By treating employees with the same strategic importance as external audiences, companies can foster a more engaged and productive workforce.
The discussion also delves into the impact of AI and CommsTech on the future of corporate communications. Ethan shares his thoughts on how technology can enhance communication strategies, streamline operations, and create a more dynamic corporate environment. He emphasizes the importance of ethical frameworks and the need for organizations to invest in listening and understanding their employees' needs and perspectives.
Ethan's insights are not just theoretical; they are grounded in practical experience and real-world applications. He discusses the challenges and opportunities that come with leading a communications agency and offers valuable advice for both seasoned professionals and those new to the field. From the importance of continuous learning and adaptation to the role of strategic intelligence in communications, this episode is packed with actionable takeaways.
Tune in to learn how you can elevate your communication efforts, embrace technological advancements, and create a more engaged and effective workforce.
"Thinking of employees as a public is... of great strategic value." — [00:07:07 → 00:07:10]
How to Fight Digital Threats and Build a Culture of Trust - with Lisa Kaplan
Friday, July 26, 2024 • Duration 59:05
Let's face it: it's getting worse out there.
Trust in institutions, brands, and even people seems to be spiraling ever downward. What can we, as communicators, do to break this cycle, protect our brands, and build a culture of trust?
In this episode of The Trending Communicator, host Dan Nestle once again travels into the dark world of misinformation and disinformation, this time with Lisa Kaplan, founder and CEO of Alethea, to uncover the strategies and technologies that can help you identify and mitigate misinformation and disinformation.
Lisa, a recognized leader in PR and digital risk mitigation, shares her journey from Senate campaign staffer to founder of a company that recently secured $20 million in Series B funding. Her extensive experience in policy, communications, and national security provides a unique perspective on the challenges and solutions in combating online threats.
Dan and Lisa explore the critical role of early detection in managing online risks and the importance of proactive measures to safeguard brands and organizations. They discuss how Alethea's technology platform identifies emerging narratives, assesses their potential impact, and offers actionable insights to mitigate risks before they escalate. Lisa emphasizes the need for ethical practices in information dissemination and the role of AI in enhancing strategic communication efforts.
The conversation also touches on the broader implications of misinformation, including its impact on corporate culture and employee engagement. Lisa shares practical advice on how organizations can leverage their internal communications to build a resilient culture of trust, even in the face of digital threats. They also discuss the importance of staying true to core values and maintaining consistent messaging to preserve credibility and trust.
This episode is a must-listen for communicators, marketers, and anyone interested in the intersection of technology, security, and public relations. Gain valuable insights from Lisa Kaplan on effectively combating digital threats and fostering a culture of trust within your organization. Join us for a thought-provoking discussion that can help you be a champion of truth and trust for your organization.
Building and Leading the AI-Enabled Enterprise Comms Team - with Megan DiSciullo
Friday, July 12, 2024 • Duration 01:06:47
For years, we've been talking about upgrading the communications function - or at least modernizing it, bringing comms into parity with their Marketing colleagues. Embracing technology is the most visible part of this journey. But what good is technology - project management tools, social media management tools, intelligence and analytics software, email automation, and now Generative AI - without the people to drive it? You can't conquer the frontier of CommsTech without capable pioneers. In this episode of The Trending Communicator, host Dan Nestle reconnects with award-winning strategic communications leader and all-around CommsTech pioneer Megan DiSciullo, Senior Managing Director of US and Mexico Communications for PwC. Megan shares her extensive experience in communications, her journey from Edelman to PwC, and her insights on ethically integrating technology, particularly Generative AI, into corporate communications.
Join us as Megan shares her journey from the ground up in the world of strategic communications as she and Dan explore the transformative role of generative AI and CommsTech in today's corporate landscape. From her early days at Edelman to her ever-expanding remit at PwC, Megan has consistently been at the forefront of innovation, advocating for the ethical use of AI while enhancing strategic communications across the board.
This episode delves deep into how AI is reshaping the way we think about internal and external communications, the importance of ethical frameworks, and the potential of AI to streamline operations and create a more dynamic corporate environment. Megan's insights provide invaluable lessons on embracing change, leveraging technology for enhanced communication strategies, following an ethics-first approach, and AI's critical role in driving corporate narratives forward.
Whether you're a communications novice or a seasoned professional, this episode offers a treasure of knowledge and inspiration, showcasing how embracing technological advancements can significantly elevate your strategic communication efforts. Don't miss out on this insightful exploration of AI's impact on the future of corporate communications and how you can be part of this evolution in the industry.
Listen in and hear about...
AI, Bots, and Disinformation, Oh My - with Rafi Mendelsohn
Friday, June 28, 2024 • Duration 01:07:51
When your brand, company, country, or even you are the target of social media attacks, what if you can't even identify the source of the problem? What if the attackers aren't real people? What if the entire attack is a complete lie, disinformation spread by bad actors with thousands, or millions, of fake accounts at their disposal? How do you uncover the good, the bad, and the fake online? In this episode of The Trending Communicator, host Dan Nestle is joined by seasoned PR and marketing expert Rafi Mendelsohn, VP of Marketing at Cyabra, a premier media monitoring platform specializing in the detection, identification, and mitigation of malicious actors, bots, bot networks, and generative AI content. Together, they unravel the complexities of the trust crisis exacerbated by advanced technologies like AI and bot networks.
The conversation starts with a deep dive into the pervasive trust issues affecting our institutions and the role of technology in amplifying misinformation and disinformation. With his extensive background in agency and in-house roles across various markets, Rafi brings a unique perspective on how malicious actors use digital platforms to manipulate public discourse.
Dan and Rafi explore the implications of these practices for communicators and marketers. They discuss the challenges of distinguishing between genuine and artificial interactions online and the impact of these interactions on corporate reputation and brand trust.
Rafi shares insights into the mechanics of bot networks and how they are not just limited to political arenas but are pervasive across all sectors, influencing everything from consumer behavior to stock prices. He explains the sophisticated methods these networks use to appear legitimate and the difficulties this presents in identifying and combating them.
Their conversation also covers practical strategies for organizations to protect themselves, emphasizing the importance of advanced media monitoring and the need for a proactive rather than reactive approach to digital threats. Rafi advocates for a blend of technology and traditional communication strategies to effectively manage and mitigate the risks associated with digital misinformation, empowering listeners with actionable advice. Listeners will gain a comprehensive understanding of the landscape of digital misinformation, the tools available to tackle it, and how to strategically position their communications in an increasingly complex digital world. Whether you're a communications professional, a marketer, or simply interested in the impact of technology on public discourse, this episode offers valuable insights and actionable advice. "We're in the thick of an unprecedented trust crisis. Trust in our institutions, especially government, education, and media, is in freefall. Misinformation and disinformation are everywhere, and it's only getting worse." — Dan Nestle [00:01:00 → 00:01:20] "AI has enabled bad actors to disseminate bad information at scale through deepfakes, AI-enabled content farms, and bots. This is the world we're contending with." — Dan Nestle [00:01:20 → 00:01:30] "As communicators and marketers, we're often on the front lines of this information-driven trust crisis. We have to tell stories, protect our clients and companies, and ensure that the information we share is trustworthy." — Dan Nestle [00:04:00 → 00:04:20] "We don't know who we're talking to, and we don't know whether we're telling the right stories or if we have the right facts on our side. The whole thing has been corrupted over the last decade or so." — Dan Nestle [00:04:10 → 00:04:20] Rafi Mendelsohn "From our research, the average conversation across social media has around four to seven percent of fake accounts. When we start to see certain conversations, whether it's political, wartime, or around brands, and those numbers are significantly higher, that's when we need to take a pause and understand exactly what's going on." — Rafi Mendelsohn [00:19:01 → 00:19:20] "Brands can find themselves in hot water, not just because of something they've done, but purely by virtue of being in the wrong place at the wrong time. Fake accounts can escalate a situation to the point that it gains media attention and impacts the brand's reputation." — Rafi Mendelsohn [00:31:00 → 00:31:20] "We need to differentiate between the fake accounts and the real ones, understand the narratives being pushed by fake accounts, and assess their impact on the real conversation. This is crucial for brands to respond appropriately." — Rafi Mendelsohn [00:49:00 → 00:49:20] "GenAI can be a powerful tool for communicators. It can help us game out scenarios, prepare responses, and mitigate social media negativity. It's about using the technology to stay ahead of the challenges we face." — Dan Nestle [00:52:00 → 00:52:20] "GenAI is fantastic, but in the hands of malicious actors, it becomes a tool for creating very believable content. This makes it harder for us to distinguish between real and fake accounts, complicating the challenge of maintaining trust." — Rafi Mendelsohn [00:17:30 → 00:17:45] "The next six to twelve months are going to be really interesting from our industry perspective. We need to up our game and work through the challenges posed by new technologies and threats to guide our organizations effectively." — Rafi Mendelsohn [01:03:00 → 01:03:20]
AI Recipes, Critical Thinking, and the Imperfect Human - with Kami Huyse
Friday, June 14, 2024 • Duration 01:20:36
Is AI the greatest gift ever for lazy people? I've often said that if you want to find a better way to do something, ask a lazy person. Laziness, as it turns out, is a virtue. Lazy people want to find the most efficient way to get through a task. No wonder they're taking to AI like fish to water.
In this episode of The Trending Communicator, host Dan Nestle connects with Kami Huyse, CEO of Zoetica. A self-described "lazy entrepreneur," Kami has nonetheless blazed new trails in AI adoption and implementation and is a recognized PR industry thought leader, speaker, and author. Dan and Kami explore the transformative impact of AI on the PR and marketing industries, emphasizing the importance of ethical considerations and critical thinking.
Their discussion highlights the necessity of asking better questions, experimenting strategically, and maintaining a human-centric approach to AI. They also delve into AI's ethical challenges, stressing the need for transparency and responsible use.
It's anything but a lazy conversation - it's a must-listen for professionals looking to navigate the evolving landscape of AI in communications.
Listen in and hear about....
The importance of an entrepreneurial mindset while embracing AI
AI "recipes" that can help you advance from a "home cook" prompter to a true AI "chef"
How prompting skills may become obsolete as AI integration in software increases
The necessity of critical thinking, curiosity, and a strategic mindset for effective AI interaction
The importance of ethics and transparency when we use AI
How AI can assist in content creation while maintaining a brand's unique voice and style
Practical insights on leveraging AI for community building and social media strategy
Notable Quotes
On Being a Lazy Entrepreneur: - "I call myself a lazy entrepreneur in a sense, because what I've always done is I look at a problem that's in front of me, and I try to figure out a way to do it more efficiently and different." — Kami Huyse [00:03:33 → 00:03:45] - "I've always been a forward-leaning person, and we did some of the first social media campaigns for big, big brands that you would know. So we did those social media campaigns early because we look at solving problems with current technology. And to me, AI is just an extension of that." — Kami Huyse [00:05:00 → 00:05:20] - "We need to start to think about how to elevate those conversations. What do we need to, what questions do we need to be asking? We need to ask better questions. That's where the training comes in." — Kami Huyse [00:12:00 → 00:12:10] - "How do we have a pattern interrupt? I'll tell you how you throw in the imperfect human. That's how you tell imperfect stories. You talk about being a lazy entrepreneur. These are pattern interrupts that AI won't come up with on its own." — Kami Huyse [00:30:00 → 00:30:15]
Why You Need to Practice Forensic Listening in a Crisis - with Adele Gambardella and Chip Massey
Friday, May 31, 2024 • Duration 01:12:58
How do FBI hostage negotiation tactics link to public relations and corporate crisis management? And how can understanding both help you prove your value to your stakeholders and audiences?
Demonstrating value is a familiar hurdle for communicators, especially when navigating the turbulent waters of a crisis. Effective crisis communication provides a crucial lifeline that can make or break a company's reputation.
In this episode of The Trending Communicator, host Dan Nestle sits down with two incredible guests: PR agency CEO, crisis counselor, and advisor to at least one US president, Adele Gambardella, and retired FBI agent, hostage negotiator, and spy chaser, Chip Massey. Now, as co-founders of The Convincing Company, they help their clients navigate crises and provide the training they need to prepare for the challenges ahead. With Dan, they dive deep into the art and science of crisis communication and persuasion and how a methodical approach to analyzing conversations - Forensic Listening - may be the most powerful skill a communicator should have. You'll discover the power of forensic listening, the subtlety of non-verbal cues, and the strategic use of targeted validation to build trust and rapport and get to the core of hidden narratives that drive crisis response.
Adele and Chip also discuss groundbreaking topics like the role of AI in communication analysis, the persuasive power of predictive statements, and why companies need to take bold stances on controversial issues. Drawing from their book Convince Me, they highlight the importance of deep listening and emotional control in mastering effective communication and negotiation.
Don't miss out on these practical tips that are ready to be implemented, designed to enhance your crisis communication strategies and empower you to confidently demonstrate your value to stakeholders.
The Power of Discriminative AI for Precision in Communications - with Danny Gaynor
Friday, May 17, 2024 • Duration 01:07:20
Generative AI may be the first form of artificial intelligence that we can all interact with directly, with no skill needed apart from the ability to write or speak a set of instructions. And while it's arguably the hottest topic right now, other AI tools and applications can elevate capabilities and help communicators and marketers move up the value chain.
In this episode of The Trending Communicator, host Dan Nestle ventures once again into the transformative potential of AI in the communications field with guest Danny Gaynor, Head of Kelp (which he co-founded) at Signal AI. Danny's journey from a political strategist and corporate communications executive to an AI innovator offers a unique perspective on how technology can reshape the way we approach storytelling and reputation management.
Dan and Danny explore the critical role of AI in enhancing the precision and impact of communications strategies. They discuss the limitations of traditional methods like surveys and focus groups, which often provide outdated and narrow insights. Instead, Danny introduces the concept of discriminative AI, a powerful tool that uncovers the nuanced context of topics and entities - allowing communicators to identify their true areas of strength, optimize their narratives, and navigate potential risks with unprecedented accuracy. Danny shares practical examples of how this technology can validate intuition, offer reputational ROI, and act as a single source of truth across an organization.
They discuss how connecting discriminative and generative AI can be a powerful combination, helping communicators and their colleagues make data-driven decisions and demonstrate their impact. Looking ahead, they envision a future where AI-enabled communicators are not just content creators but strategic leaders who drive decision-making with data-backed insights, painting a compelling picture of the transformative potential of AI in the communications field.
Listen in and hear about...
How measurement in communications is being transformed by AI, enhancing capabilities significantly.
Danny Gaynor's transition from a political and corporate communications expert to co-founding an AI-powered corporate reputation platform.
Toward an AI-Enabled Communications Profession - with Anne Green
Friday, May 3, 2024 • Duration 01:08:35
Like it or not, Generative AI is becoming part of the communications toolkit. But unlike any technology that has preceded it, AI is able to perform tasks and produce results that have always been the domain of PR professionals - especially at the entry-level. And that's just today; AI is only going to get better. How can communicators and marketers adapt, adopt, and advance in this new, AI-enabled reality?
In this episode of The Trending Communicator, host Dan Nestle dives deep into the challenges and opportunities AI presents for communications professionals with Anne Green, CEO of G&S Business Communications. Anne, an award-winning communicator, thought leader, and advocate for ethics within the PR profession, is leading the charge toward AI enablement within her agency and for her clients. But she’s keenly aware of the technology's black-box nature and, in the episode, outlines an approach that ensures ethical adoption and enablement.
Anne and Dan delve into these ethical considerations and much more as they examine the evolving role of AI in marketing and communications. They discuss the importance of approaching AI with a critical and ethical lens, considering its impact on human interactions and the industry's hiring practices. At the same time, they explore how AI can enhance strategic thinking and help communications professionals deliver greater impact to their businesses. Anne also shares her concerns about online divisiveness and disinformation, emphasizing resilience and big-picture focus. The episode concludes with a positive outlook on human creativity and the importance of staying engaged in societal discussions.
Listen in and hear about...
Ethical dilemmas for marketers in the tech and AI revolution.
The critical role of ethics in AI-driven marketing.
AI's growing business role and the imperative of strategic adoption.
The need to find a personal advantage in new tech adoption.
Adapting to AI's impact on communication and thought.
The importance of bridging AI and organizational goals.
The rise of online disinformation and its societal impact.
How Data and AI Can Help You Choose the Right Conferences - with Melanie Samba
Friday, April 19, 2024 • Duration 01:09:08
Want to stop wasting time and money on conferences that don't impact your business growth? Imagine being able to select conferences that not only boost your brand's influence but also drive strategic partnerships and sales. Fortunately, there's a solution that will help you achieve this and more. Let's dive in and take your conference strategy to the next level.
In this episode of The Trending Communicator, host Dan Nestle is joined by guest Melanie Samba, the CEO of Sproxxy, a one-of-a-kind platform that helps corporate communication and marketing professionals make data-driven decisions for events and conferences.
Dan and Melanie delve deep into the ever-evolving role of technology in marketing and communications, especially as it relates to the traditionally Excel-driven world of conference and event planning. Melanie discusses the challenges of promoting communications technology (also known as commstech or commtech) to investors and emphasizes the importance of integrating technology into corporate strategies.
They discuss Sproxxy's State of Conferences report, highlighting the significance of conferences for business-building, industry influence, relationship-building, and networking, and how the use of data-driven tools like Sproxxy can help optimize conference strategies. Through their conversation, Melanie shares her experiences as a tech founder, the integration of AI in Sproxxy, and the platform's potential to predict industry trends and influence conferences. She highlights the use of AI to gauge audience engagement at events and the insights that can be derived from conference data. Melanie also reflects on the challenges and excitement of being a woman founder in tech, her journey with Sproxxy, and her vision for its future.
Listen in and hear…
Data-driven AI-powered approaches to measuring the impact of conferences
The significance of building relationships with conference organizers
Business impact of speaking engagements at conferences
Listen in and hear about...
The influence of key mentors and colleagues on professional growth.
The importance of employee experience in modern communications.
How AI and technology are reshaping content creation and workflows.
The role of internal communications in shaping organizational culture.
The impact of political and social issues on workplace dynamics.
Strategies for integrating employee feedback into business decisions.
The evolving expectations of employees in a personalized work environment.
Notable Quotes
Ethan McCarty
"If you can optimize that set of relations at work for strategic value and for positive experiences for the humans involved, that feels like a lot of good outcomes." — Ethan McCarty [00:07:39 → 00:07:50]
"Employees have much more agency and voice and ability to affect reputation and the ability to affect customer outcomes." — Ethan McCarty [00:10:43 → 00:10:50]
"The way you communicate constitutes the entity." — Ethan McCarty [00:15:06 → 00:15:10]
"Comms is like the nerve center of a company, and I think it is. But now it sounds, from what you're saying, it's more like the circulatory system." — Dan Nestle [00:29:31 → 00:29:39]
"The sophistication of what's available is light years ahead of where we were five years ago." — Ethan McCarty [00:31:18 → 00:31:24]
"Make your friends before you need your friends, my friends." — Ethan McCarty [01:02:28 → 01:02:32]
"If you do not respect my rights and I'm a high performing employee in an environment where there is 4% unemployment, what do you think I'm gonna do? I'll probably get a raise." — Ethan McCarty [01:05:00 → 01:05:10]
Timestamped key moments from this episode (as generated by Fireflies.ai)
🎙️ Introduction and Background (00:00 - 06:32)
Daniel Nestle introduces Ethan McCarty as a leading voice in communications
Ethan is CEO of Integral, an employee experience agency
Discussion on the influence of mentors and colleagues in professional development
🏢 Integral and Employee Experience (06:32 - 16:51)
Ethan explains Integral's focus on employees as a public
Emphasis on managing relationships with employees intentionally
Discussion on the importance of culture in organizational change
Exploration of Conway's law and constitutive theory of communications
🔄 Organizational Communication Design (16:54 - 29:31)
Analysis of how communication configuration affects company identity and products
Importance of redesigning internal communications teams for better employee experience
Discussion on the need for more robust sensing and listening in organizations
💡 Intelligence and Strategy in Communications (29:32 - 36:39)
Importance of communications teams as sources of business intelligence
Need for upskilling and technology adoption in communication roles
Challenges in transforming communication teams into business intelligence units
👥 Value of Communication Professionals (37:34 - 45:06)
Discussion on the evolving role of communication professionals
Importance of being a strategic advisor and intelligence gatherer
Value of relationship-building and understanding in communication roles
🚀 Future of Communications and Junior Staff (45:27 - 58:54)
Debate on the future need for junior staff in communications
Emphasis on self-enabled, experimental, and entrepreneurial employees
Discussion on the changing skill sets required in the communications industry
🗳️ Political Issues in the Workplace (58:54 - 01:07:12)
Upcoming global elections and their impact on workplace communications
Challenges of managing political discussions in the workplace
Importance of creating guidelines for discussing social issues at work
(Notes co-created by Humans and a variety of AI helpers, including Fireflies.ai and Flowsend.ai)
Listen in and hear about...
The escalating trust crisis in media and its impact on public relations and brand defense strategies
Roles of PR professionals in combating misinformation and disinformation to protect brands and clients
The founding and mission of Alethea, a company specializing in online risk mitigation and its approach to managing digital threats
How recent political and social events influence corporate brand management and the necessity for proactive digital defense strategies
Why the evolution of communication strategies from traditional methods to digital platforms requires rapid and informed responses to misinformation
The importance of early detection in managing online risks and the benefits of technology in identifying potential threats before they escalate
Effective strategies for leveraging employee communications and internal culture to reinforce brand integrity and manage crisis communication
Notable Quotes
On the Reality of Digital Threats:
"The reality is, and what I tell everybody is like, listen, if you're not at the table, you're on the menu. And so, welcome to our digital environment."
— Lisa Kaplan [00:04:06 → 00:04:16]
On the Importance of Early Detection:
"Our role is to be able to identify these risks and threats early and be able to give you those insights and great recommendations for what you can actually do about it, so that you're finding stuff out when it's a level one, not a level ten."
Lisa Kaplan [00:05:07 → 00:05:22]
On the Evolution of Influence Operations:
"What started as a government tactic is now anybody can do it situation. So we do see more than just state actors. We see these criminal groups, we see these lone individual operators."
Lisa Kaplan [00:15:59 → 00:16:13]
On the Role of Fact-Checking:
"A fact check alone doesn't work. Oftentimes you have to... It worked in that specific instance because it was a narrative caught early that was new, and because they were able to leverage fact checkers who had a very high following to get that information out early, that the narrative was false altogether."
Lisa Kaplan [00:17:13 → 00:17:34]
On the Challenge of Disinformation:
"Disinformation targets our fear, our anxieties, our uncertainties... And so, because I was scared, because there was an information vacuum, which is the consistent area where disinformation really thrives... I fell for it."
— Lisa Kaplan [00:23:33 → 00:23:54]
On the Role of Employees in Communication:
"You want your employees being the one saying, yes, this is a great place to work. You don't want to be the one coming out saying, I promise this is great. Like, people aren't going to trust management on that."
— Lisa Kaplan [00:28:01 → 00:28:15]
On the Importance of Consistency:
"My advice is always, don't flip flop. Know where you stand. If it's core to your business to say something, say something."
— Lisa Kaplan [00:30:35 → 00:30:45]
On the Role of Technology in Communication:
"Embrace technology and know how it works... It's automating the grunt work of our jobs. It's automating. It's being able to rapidly deploy counter messaging."
— Lisa Kaplan [00:46:41 → 00:46:55]
On the Ethical Use of AI:
"It is perfectly appropriate to use AI or an LLM to potentially play around with drafting a response. Make it the first draft. It's way faster. That's totally fine. What you also have to know, though, is that you are assuming the responsibility of whatever goes out the door."
— Lisa Kaplan [00:55:29 → 00:55:49]
On Building Trust:
"The best thing you can do is invest in trust. It's a lot easier to protect a strong amount of trust than to try to build trust when no one trusts you."
— Lisa Kaplan [00:52:14 → 00:52:24]
On the Power of Conversation:
"Conversation is the communicator's superpower."
— Dan Nestle [00:48:33 → 00:48:56]
On the Importance of LinkedIn:
- "LinkedIn is a major center for especially B2B, but certainly for person-to-person contact. And in my humble opinion, it is the most solid of all business platforms and the most real, like the most authentic for business people."
Timestamped key moments from this episode (as generated by Fireflies.ai)
🎙️ Introduction and Trust Crisis (00:00 - 11:25)
Dan Nestle introduces the podcast and discusses the ongoing trust crisis
Lisa Kaplan, founder and CEO of Alethea, is introduced as the guest
Alethea is an online risk mitigation technology company
Lisa's background includes working with US legislators, think tanks, and National Laboratories
Alethea detects and mitigates instances of online risks for organizations
🔍 Online Risk Detection and Mitigation (11:53 - 18:52)
Alethea's platform uses boolean logic and machine learning models
The platform identifies coordinated behavior rather than focusing on content
Early detection of threats is crucial for effective risk management
Fact-checking alone is not sufficient in combating misinformation
Peer-to-peer communication is more effective in deradicalization efforts
🌐 Disinformation and Corporate Strategy (20:05 - 27:08)
Companies need to consider their stance on emotionally charged issues
Internal communication is crucial, but every internal communication is potentially external
Companies should stay true to their core values and messaging
Employees can be valuable assets in combating misinformation
Companies should invest in culture to foster positive employee communication
📊 Predictive Analysis and Communication Skills (28:23 - 42:59)
Early detection of potential risks is crucial for effective crisis management
Communicators need to understand technology and embrace new tools
Communication is now interactive and conversation-based
Every interaction is an opportunity for person-to-person communication
Deepfakes and other technological risks are emerging challenges
💬 Building Trust and Leveraging Social Media (43:32 - 52:09)
Conversation is a key skill for communicators
LinkedIn is a valuable platform for business communication
Executives should actively engage in social media conversations
Building trust is easier than trying to regain it during a crisis
Authentic communication from executives is more effective than outsourced content
🤖 AI in Communication and Ethical Considerations (52:14 - 58:39)
AI can be used ethically to draft responses and automate workflows
Human expertise is crucial in the AI loop
AI should not be used to create bot networks or engage in unethical practices
Communicators should use AI as a tool to enhance their work, not replace human judgment
(Notes co-created by Humans and a variety of AI helpers, including Fireflies.ai and Flowsend.ai)
The evolving role of communicators in shaping internal culture and driving organizational change
Strategies for integrating AI into corporate communications and the importance of secure, enterprise-specific tools
How ethical considerations and policy development are important in AI deployment to maintain trust and data security
AI's impact on productivity and efficiency, freeing up communicators to focus on higher-level strategic activities
The necessity for ongoing learning and adaptation within the communications field to leverage new technologies like AI
The collaborative approach required to implement AI across various organizational functions effectively
The potential of AI to democratize learning and innovation within organizations, fostering an environment of continuous improvement and engagement
Notable Quotes
On the Value of Kindness in Business:
"One of my mentors told me early on, Megan, always be direct, so people know where you stand and there's no misinterpretation. But always be kind, because you never know when you will need people or just, this is a business of teaming. And so, you know, people want to work with people who are kind."
— Megan DiSciullo [00:08:43 → 00:09:05]
On the Role of Data in Communications:
"Data is the ultimate neutralizer. Whether the data is coming from the comms team, the marketing team, or from our client insights team. The data is telling us key insights about our audience that we need to know."
— Megan DiSciullo [00:27:19 → 00:27:35]
On the Importance of Change Management:
"It makes for sometimes an uphill battle. And that's where change management culture change really needs to happen. And there's no amount of money, I think, that you can put down on the value of pilots and tests and stuff to kind of use that data and sort of show examples and gain permission and gain buy in over time."
— Dan Nestle [00:31:15 → 00:31:35]
On the Importance of Change Management:
"If you put out, even if it's a tech product that's in the 1.0 version and it's not a good experience, you've lost people. So it doesn't matter how many times you communicate about it if the experience isn't great, especially in today's world where people have little appetite and little patience."
— Megan DiSciullo [00:35:22 → 00:35:42]
On the Role of AI in Enhancing Productivity:
"Once you understand, okay, all prompting, and this is what it is, and this is what it means. That's that kind of first initial wall to get through with the user with the AI partner. And once they get through that wall, then it's about, oh, my goodness, I'm going to save all this time."
— Dan Nestle [00:45:39 → 00:46:00]
On the Future of AI in Communications:
"I see Gen AI, at least in its current function and form, to be a productivity and efficiency tool. There is still a need for really great counsel, really great crisis management skills, really great relationship building skills, really great dot connecting skills."
— Megan DiSciullo [00:48:39 → 00:48:55]
On the Future of Communications:
"AI is an enabler with that, of course, because a lot of the fundamental tasks that people associate with typical traditional comms can be essentially handed over to, at least at the first level, to these brilliant, co creative, co intelligent platforms, and then brought back to the human to make sure that it's all good to go, but it saves a lot of time, much more productive."
— Dan Nestle [01:02:13 → 01:02:35]
On the Evolution of the Communications Profession:
"I started faxing press releases. I am so far from a fax machine and loving it. But I'm now learning the next skill, and in ten years, I'm going to learn something that we haven't even started to think about. And that is the beauty of this profession."
Timestamped summary for this episode (as generated by ChatGPT)
The trust crisis (00:00:00)
Discussion about the unprecedented decline in trust in institutions, the prevalence of misinformation, and the impact of technology and AI.
Introduction of Rafi Mendelsohn (00:01:12)
Dan introduces Rafi Mendelsohn, VP of Marketing at Cyabra, and discusses his background in PR and marketing.
AI's role in communication (00:02:09)
Exploration of the evolving role of AI in communication and the challenges faced by communicators and marketers.
Rafi's background (00:04:01)
Rafi's career journey from working in PR agencies to leading marketing at Cyabra, and his passion for data storytelling.
Cyabra's focus and mission (00:07:54)
Rafi discusses Cyabra's role in uncovering and mitigating misinformation and disinformation online, particularly in the context of social media.
Defining misinformation and disinformation (00:10:23)
Clearing the distinction between misinformation and disinformation, and the impact of these on societal narratives and trust.
Challenges of identifying bots (00:18:04)
The prevalence of bots in online conversations, the difficulty in identifying them, and the potential impact on public discourse.
Extent of bot presence (00:19:13)
Insights into the average percentage of fake accounts in online conversations and the significance of higher numbers in certain discussions.
Elon Musk's Twitter Acquisition (00:20:29)
Discussion about analyzing data for Elon Musk's potential acquisition of Twitter.
Impact of Fake Accounts (00:21:29)
Exploring the impact and dominance of fake accounts in online conversations and their influence on narratives.
Bot Activity on Various Platforms (00:22:39)
Observations of bot and malicious activity on different social media platforms, including Twitter, Instagram, TikTok, and LinkedIn.
Geopolitical and Brand Disinformation (00:27:11)
Examination of how fake accounts drive conversations around geopolitical and brand-related issues, impacting public perception and creating crises.
Influence of Fake Accounts on Brands (00:29:14)
Analysis of how fake accounts can negatively impact brands, including examples of orchestrated campaigns targeting companies.
Challenges for Communicators (00:32:20)
Discussion on the challenges faced by communicators in defending brand reputation against bot-driven disinformation and crisis management.
Defensive Communications and Brand Disinformation (00:37:23)
Exploring the gap in defensive mindset between security and communications teams, and the need for tools to address bot attacks and disinformation.
Global Origins of Malicious Actors (00:39:32)
Understanding the diverse origins and motivations of malicious actors behind bot networks and disinformation campaigns.
Malicious Actors and Their Motivations (00:39:56)
Discussion on the motivations of malicious actors, including power, influence, and money, and their use of fake accounts to influence opinions.
Understanding the Different Actors and Risks (00:40:47)
Exploration of the various types of criminals and actors involved in cyber attacks, and the low barrier to entry for conducting such activities.
Dealing with Disinformation and Crisis Communications (00:41:46)
Addressing the challenges of combating disinformation, crisis communications strategies, and the impact of shadow banning on disseminating good information.
Social Media as One Channel for Communicators (00:44:10)
Emphasizing the importance of understanding the conversation and the individuals involved, and the need to differentiate between fake and real accounts.
Addressing Fake Accounts and Negative Activity (00:45:16)
Strategies for addressing fake accounts, including identifying and addressing "superspreaders" of negativity, and amplifying positive voices.
Vigilance and Defensive Measures (00:48:09)
The importance of vigilance, proactive defensive measures, and the need for companies to have systems in place to differentiate and respond to attacks.
Proactive Monitoring and Ignoring Certain Threats (00:52:09)
The significance of proactive monitoring, the need to respond selectively, and the empowerment of ignoring non-threatening issues
Using AI for Scenario Planning and Mitigation Tactics (00:53:17)
Exploring the potential use of AI for scenario planning and mitigation tactics, and the importance of early detection and preparation.
Impact of Bunker Mentality and Brand Exposure (00:54:52)
Discussion on the impact of brands adopting a bunker mentality and the need to address the increasing weaponization of social media by malicious actors.
Opportunity for Marketers and Communicators to Lead (00:58:40)
The opportunity for marketers and communicators to lead in understanding and addressing the impact of cyber threats and disinformation on society.
Profile Building and Concerns (01:00:00)
Discussion on the generation of profiles and the concerns regarding identifying real people.
Future Challenges for Communicators (01:00:59)
Predictions and concerns about the evolving role of communicators in dealing with new technology and threats.
Impact of Technology on Roles (01:03:46)
Discussion on the potential realignment of roles and responsibilities due to the influence of AI and technology.
Gratitude and Contact Information (01:05:56)
Expressing gratitude to the guest and providing contact information for further engagement.
Conclusion and Call to Action (01:07:24)
Closing remarks, encouraging subscription, sharing, and participation in future episodes.
(Notes prepared by humans with the assistance of a variety of AI tools, including ChatGPT and Flowsend.ai)
On the Evolution of Social Media and AI:
On the Importance of Asking Better Questions:
On the Role of Imperfection in Human Creativity:
On the Future of AI and Human Interaction: - "We need to think about what can we bring to the table that is like a spice of human while understanding fully the AI and using it fully. So not throwing the baby out the bathwater, as we always said, but using the AI for what it's good for and throwing in your own spice." — Kami Huyse [00:30:30 → 00:30:50]
On the Ethical Use of AI: - "AI isn't inherently evil, but the people who wield it are maybe so there's people that wield the AI. Here's the problem with AI in general. It's just like our society. Like, we talk about, you know, racism and bias and, you know, sexism and terrible things. Here's what AI does. It takes all of the knowledge of the world, and it boils it down and it repeats it back to you." — Kami Huyse [00:59:41 → 01:00:10]
On the Role of Communicators in Ethical AI: - "We as PR communicators should be the ombudsman for our organizations. We should bring our point of view to protect the people that we represent as PR people. And the people we represent are our audience, are our customers, our stakeholders." — Kami Huyse [01:06:25 → 01:06:45]
Timestamped summary for this episode (as generated by ChatGPT)
The origin of ideas (00:00:00)
Dan discusses his excitement for new ideas and tech, including the concept of creating custom GPT.
The traits of successful idea execution (00:01:02)
Dan outlines the traits and qualities required for successful idea execution, such as discipline, focus, and support.
Introduction of Kami Huyse (00:02:01)
Dan introduces Kami Huyse, highlighting her background and expertise in PR, marketing, and AI integration.
Kami's problem-solving approach (00:03:46)
Kami discusses her approach to solving problems efficiently and her focus on community building and AI integration.
Evolution of media and technology (00:09:53)
Dan and Kami reflect on the digital transformation and the importance of hands-on experiences in the marketing profession.
The importance of AI training and mindset (00:11:55)
Kami emphasizes the significance of training and developing an entrepreneurial mindset for effectively integrating AI in communication and marketing.
Ethan Mollick's principles of AI interaction (00:17:07)
Dan discusses Ethan Mollick's principles for interacting with AI, including inviting AI to the table, being the human in the loop, treating AI like a person, and acknowledging AI's continuous improvement.
The importance of asking better questions (00:18:56)
Kami discusses the importance of asking better questions to guide AI in achieving desired tasks and outcomes.
The analogy of home cook and chef (00:19:37)
Kami compares the difference between a home cook and a chef to illustrate the importance of understanding and utilizing AI tools effectively.
The need for strategic training in AI tools (00:21:40)
Kami emphasizes the significance of strategic training for the next generation to effectively use AI tools and adapt to the evolving marketplace.
The integration of AI in software applications (00:22:54)
The discussion revolves around the increasing integration of AI capabilities in various software applications and its impact on prompting and human interaction.
The evolving role of prompting in AI usage (00:24:01)
The conversation delves into the evolving role of prompting in AI usage, the impact of contextual understanding, and the distinction between chefs and home cooks in utilizing AI.
The significance of asking power questions (00:25:04)
The importance of asking power questions and the role of strategic prompting in utilizing AI effectively is highlighted.
The importance of being relentlessly curious (00:27:07)
Kami emphasizes the significance of being relentlessly curious and training the brain to notice and understand AI interactions.
The concept of almost homemade solutions (00:29:01)
Kami discusses the concept of almost homemade solutions, encouraging individuals to add their own unique touch to AI tools for personalized outcomes.
The value of the imperfect human in AI interaction (00:30:01)
The significance of embracing imperfection and adding human elements to AI interactions for unique and effective outcomes is emphasized.
The need for critical thinking and curiosity in AI interaction (00:32:02)
The importance of critical thinking, curiosity, and asking questions to drive effective interaction with AI tools is discussed.
The importance of adding personal touch to AI tools (00:33:56)
The significance of adding a personal touch and unique spice to AI tools for tailored and effective utilization is highlighted.
The significance of being a critical thinker and inquisitive communicator (00:37:05)
The importance of critical thinking, curiosity, and being an inquisitive communicator in adapting to AI tools and driving effective outcomes is emphasized.
Critical thinking (00:38:20)
Emphasizing the importance of critical thinking skills in evaluating information and avoiding deception.
Asking better questions (00:39:12)
Highlighting the significance of asking great questions to avoid monolithic content and promoting individuality.
Life experiences and personal touch (00:40:10)
Discussing the value of bringing personal experiences and unique elements to content creation to avoid generic outcomes.
Human element in AI (00:41:49)
Emphasizing the need for human input and caution when relying solely on AI, acknowledging occasional breakdowns and the importance of adding personal touch.
Ethics and AI technology (00:42:43)
Exploring the ethical implications of AI technology, including power consumption and the need for continuous input of new information.
Reading and vocabulary (00:48:27)
Stressing the importance of reading to enhance vocabulary and improve communication with AI.
Writing and editing (00:50:20)
Emphasizing the significance of being a good writer and engaging in editing to effectively communicate with AI.
Community involvement (00:52:52)
Advocating joining communities to learn from peers and stay informed about emerging technologies.
Curiosity and diverse learning (00:54:51)
Encouraging continuous curiosity, diverse learning, and open-mindedness to expand knowledge and perspectives.
Neuroscience and AI (00:57:08)
Discussion on the neuroscience behind AI interaction and the concept of neural networks.
Ethical Considerations (00:58:22)
Exploration of the societal, political, and civilizational changes brought by powerful digital entities and the focus on ethical AI usage.
Bias in AI (01:00:04)
Insight into the biases present in AI and the need for training to reduce biases, with examples of biased prompts and diversity representation.
AI Governance and Ethics (01:05:44)
Discussion on the need for external oversight in AI governance and the role of communicators as ethical safeguards.
Transparency and Ethics (01:08:24)
Importance of transparency in AI usage and the alignment of AI ethics with general ethical principles and governance.
Ethical Decision-Making (01:13:25)
Emphasis on the responsibility of individuals to inject morality and ethics into AI, and the ongoing discussion and importance of ethical considerations.
Backbone and Ethics (01:15:08)
The need for courage and backbone in ethical decision-making, with a focus on the role of communicators in promoting ethical practices.
Difficult decisions (01:16:14)
Discussion on the challenge of expressing contravening opinions and the weight of decision-making in today's society.
Tools and resources (01:17:14)
Mention of plans to discuss tools and resources, and a recommendation to connect with Kami for valuable resources.
Connect with Kami (01:18:00)
Information on how to connect with Kami Huyse on social media and her company, Kamchatka, and a mention of her live streams and AI show.
Closing remarks (01:19:52)
Gratitude for Kami's participation and an invitation to subscribe, share, and provide feedback for the podcast.
(Notes prepared by humans with the assistance of a variety of AI tools, including ChatGPT and Flowsend.ai)
Listen in and hear about...
The evolving role of crisis communication in handling modern threats like misinformation and AI misuse.
The formation and impact of the Convincing Company, which integrates PR strategies and crisis negotiation.
The concept of forensic listening and its application in understanding and addressing communication nuances.
The importance of adapting communication strategies to handle high-stress situations effectively.
Strategies for corporate communicators to prepare for and respond to contentious societal issues, especially in politically charged climates.
The distinction between convincing and negotiating, emphasizing the importance of aligning values and visions for effective communication outcomes.
Notable Quotes
On the Importance of Crisis Communication: "When there's trouble, communicators roll up their sleeves and get to work. We turn trouble around and send it away. Nobody questions our value then." — Dan Nestle [00:01:30 → 00:01:40]
On the Value of Forensic Listening: "Forensic listening is the art and science of analyzing a conversation after it's happened. Words leave clues." — Chip Massey [00:16:30 → 00:16:40]
On the Importance of Crisis Training: "Crisis management is a muscle. It's one of those things that, like, I love it because I think really fast and on my feet... It's a muscle, though." — Adele Gambardella [00:52:44 → 00:53:00]
On Convincing vs. Negotiating: "As a hostage negotiator, I never negotiated with anybody. I was actually convincing that person to value what I valued." — Chip Massey [01:06:00 → 01:06:10]
On the Importance of Not Starting with Your Strongest Point: "Never start with your strongest point first, because if you do that, all you do is make everybody in the room dig their heels in." — Adele Gambardella [01:10:45 → 01:11:00]
On Deep Listening: "Deep listening... our own stress improves when we're really listening and trying to help somebody else and we can come up with better solutions." — Chip Massey [01:11:45 → 01:12:00]
Timestamped summary for this episode (as generated by ChatGPT)
Introduction of Guests (00:01:07)
Introduction of Adele Gambardella and Chip Massey, their backgrounds, and their collaboration in crisis communications.
Formation of The Convincing Company (00:02:11)
Adele and Chip explain how they met, their complementary skill sets, and the formation of The Convincing Company.
Adele's Burnout and Meeting Chip (00:09:28)
Adele's experience with burnout, meeting Chip, and the realization of their complementary expertise.
Forensic Listening (00:16:40)
Chip explains the concept of forensic listening and its importance in understanding emotions and themes in conversations for effective communication.
Understanding the Meeting (00:21:37)
Interpreting underlying messages in a meeting, identifying emotions, and linking them with the topic.
Body Positioning (00:22:33)
Understanding the significance of body positioning in communication, its impact on energy and value.
Voice Analysis (00:23:42)
Analyzing pitch, tone, and cadence in communication, and its importance in understanding emotions and messages.
Forensic Listening Story (00:27:13)
A real-life example illustrating the importance of observing body positioning and non-verbal cues in communication.
Applying Forensic Listening (00:35:50)
Understanding the application of forensic listening in different scenarios, including crisis situations and meetings.
Validation and Trust (00:39:19)
The importance of validation in corporate communication, building trust, and influencing positive outcomes.
The fortune teller's impact (00:41:38)
Discussion on the convincing nature of fortune tellers and a personal experience with a fortune teller in a high school class.
Predictive statements in convincing (00:43:28)
Exploration of how predictive statements are used to convince and manipulate, with an example of a statement made to the host.
The power of open questions (00:45:00)
The effectiveness of open questions in conversations and negotiations, and the different responses they can elicit.
Predictive statements in interviews (00:46:52)
The use of predictive statements in hostage negotiations and interviews to encourage conversation and elicit information.
Emotion in crisis response (00:49:51)
The role of emotion in crisis response and the importance of managing fear as a motivator in difficult situations.
Crisis management as a skill (00:53:24)
The discussion of crisis management as a skill that needs to be continuously practiced and developed, with a workshop example.
Challenges in crisis communication (00:55:15)
The challenges faced in crisis communication, including conflicting advice from legal and the importance of countering instincts.
Understanding unstated narratives (00:57:17)
The significance of understanding unstated narratives and how it can provide an advantage in communication and negotiation.
Future of crisis communication (01:00:02)
Anticipation of companies taking stances on controversial issues and the need for communicators to identify core issues and boundaries.
The duty to respond (01:03:20)
Discussion about the duty of companies to respond to relevant issues that align with their core values.
Training for emotional control (01:04:07)
Importance of training for emotional control and scenario planning in heightened and polarizing times.
High-level convincing (01:06:40)
Exploration of convincing as a higher level negotiation strategy, focusing on future and motivation.
Social media presence (01:10:02)
Mention of the convincing company's social media presence and content strategy.
Effective communication strategy (01:10:44)
Insight on the importance of not starting with the strongest point first in communication strategies.
Deep listening (01:11:46)
The benefits of deep listening for stress reduction and creativity.
(Notes prepared by humans with the assistance of a variety of AI tools, including ChatGPT and Flowsend.ai)
Distinguishing between generative AI and discriminative AI, and their unique roles in enhancing communication strategies.
Identifying and leveraging unique proof points to create differentiated corporate narratives.
AI's role in helping communicators validate their intuition, provide reputational ROI, and unify information across organizational functions.
Why communicators need to experiment with AI, train their own AI models, and showcase the impact of data-driven strategies.
Shifts in the role of communicators within organizations, moving from reliance on intuition to becoming strategic, data-driven influencers.
Notable Quotes
[06:05] "As a communications professional, I think we're all vexed by the exact same question: Am I throwing the right spaghetti at the wall?" - Danny Gaynor
[07:18] "A goal without a deadline is just a dream." - Danny Gaynor
[40:13] "I very much see the folks embracing AI in communications as being even more influential leaders at their companies, as opposed to being out of a job." - Danny Gaynor
[41:18] "If you're stuck with 'Oh well, if AI takes this away, what am I going to do?' then frankly, you probably deserve not to do anything once AI takes your job away." - Dan Nestle
[57:50] "You can make AI your own, you can make the ingredients your own, and you can make the outputs your own in a way that is more accessible than ever before." - Danny Gaynor
[59:52] "It's a very rare moment in the history of capitalism where we can develop something that will be industry standard and that will be reputational ROI, that will be quantifying the impact of communications." -DannyGaynor
Timestamped summary for this episode (generated by ChatGPT)
[00:01:09] Daniel's career journey
Daniel Gaynor shares his career trajectory from politics to communications and his focus on measurement and AI.
[00:05:35] Understanding discriminative AI
Daniel Gaynor explores the concept of discriminative AI and its role in communication and measurement.
[00:09:29] The need for data-driven insights
The discussion turns to the limitations of traditional research methods and the potential of technology to provide better audience research and insights.
[00:15:53] Leveraging AI for communication
The benefits of using AI to analyze big data and craft communication strategies based on authentic proof points are explored.
[00:19:44] Discriminative AI vs. generative AI
The conversation contrasts discriminative AI with generative AI and highlights its role as a complement tool in communication and creativity.
[00:20:42] Generative and Discriminative AI
An explanation of generative and discriminative AI and their potential synergy for content evaluation and categorization is provided.
[00:21:56] Limitations of Boolean Searches
The limitations of using keywords and the need for discriminative AI to evaluate accuracy and create reputational ROI are discussed.
[00:22:25] Identifying Areas of Strength
How discriminative AI can help communicators identify narrative strengths and weaknesses in competitive landscapes is discussed.
[00:25:17] Challenges in Identifying Strengths
The difficulties communicators face in identifying narrative strengths and the importance of foundational theory and horizon scanning are discussed.
[00:27:26] Training AI Topics
The process of training topics in discriminative AI to ensure accuracy and relevance in content categorization is explained.
[00:28:35] Tweaking Topic Definitions
The process of refining individual topic definitions until reaching high accuracy and the benefits of a broad horizon scan are discussed.
[00:29:33] Narrative Validation
The need for narrative validation and specificity in corporate narratives to ensure credibility and relevance is emphasized.
[00:30:41] Analyzing Message Effectiveness
Understanding where messages are falling flat and the importance of focusing on fewer, deeper storylines is discussed.
[00:31:50] Risk Avoidance and Reputation Threats
Using discriminative AI to determine material threats to reputation and focus attention on critical issues is discussed.
[00:33:01] Data Insights and Strategic Reports
The importance of providing data insights through dashboards and strategic reports to make data digestible for communicators is highlighted.
[00:36:29] Generative AI and Product Development
The potential for communicators to become product developers by leveraging generative AI and retooling the power of discriminative AI is discussed.
[00:40:13] AI as a Convening Force
The role of AI in communications as a single source of truth that provides quantitative rationale and reputational ROI is discussed.
[00:41:18] Abundance Mentality with AI
The speaker encourages embracing AI as an additive element and to have an abundance mentality towards change and upskilling.
[00:42:17] Embracing AI in Communication
The potential of AI tools and the need to experiment and gain expertise in AI are discussed.
[00:44:23] Strategic Shift in Communication
The evolving role of communicators from writing press releases to being strategic advisors and decision-makers is discussed.
[00:46:40] Professional Advancement and Recognition
The need for the communication profession to be recognized for AI expertise and strategic input within the organization is emphasized.
[00:47:10] Training AI and Socializing Data
The importance of training AI, socializing data-driven messaging, and demonstrating data-driven impact is discussed.
[00:50:09] Utilizing AI for Analysis
Ways to use AI for benchmark analysis and deep dive analysis to demonstrate the capacity of AI and big data are explored.
[00:54:53] Corporate Environment and AI Ownership
The need for AI ownership shared across different teams and the importance of recognizing AI's potential are discussed.
[00:57:50] Humanizing Messaging with AI
AI's role in humanizing messaging and making communications more relatable, digestible, and emotionally resonant is discussed.
[00:59:22] Hopeful Future of AI
Predictions about the future impact of AI and the development of industry-standard reputational ROI metrics are made.
[01:02:48] Adapting AI to Unforeseen Avenues
The speaker encourages embracing disruptive innovation and adapting AI to new and unforeseen applications.
[01:03:48] Reputational shifts in less sexy industries
Experimentation with AI in non-household name industries to manage reputational shifts is encouraged.
[01:04:42] Connecting with Daniel Gaynor
Information on how to find and connect with Daniel Gaynor on LinkedIn and Signal AI is provided.
[01:05:53] Future mini-series and show and tell
Discussions on making a mini-series within the Trending Communicator ecosystem and a potential show and tell video demonstration are mentioned.
[01:06:44] Closing remarks and call to action
The speaker expresses appreciation, salutation, and a call to action for subscribing, sharing, and leaving reviews for the podcast.
(Notes prepared by humans with the assistance of a variety of AI tools, including ChatGPT and Flowsend.ai)
Optimism in the human capacity for innovation.
Notable Quotes
[05:50] "I want to see writing that's electric, that leaps off the page, even if it's a marketing pitch or something." - Anne Green
[20:13] "There's a lot of misperceptions about what this industry is about, but like anything in human life, there are the angels and the bad actors." - Anne Green
[29:01] "I want to invite people to think about big picture questions like what will it mean to be human? What does authorship mean? What does it mean to have co-intelligence or augmented intellect?" - Anne Green
[41:08] "In the case of generative AI, you need to approach it as if you are about to have an interaction." - Dan Nestle
[01:05:01] "I am kept up with the proliferation of divisiveness and fake stuff online, and very much engineered disinformation, which is upsetting to me." - Anne Green
Timestamped summary for this episode (generated by ChatGPT)
[00:01:15] Anne Green's career path
Anne Green discusses her career path, from an internship to becoming CEO, highlighting the accidental nature of her journey.
[00:06:10] Reflecting on past experiences
Dan Nestle and Anne Green reminisce about their past experiences, specifically their connection through Cooper Katz and the impact of their mentors.
[00:10:56] The enduring importance of writing
Dan Nestle emphasizes the timeless importance of writing and critical thinking in the PR profession, despite technological advancements.
[00:13:14] Adapting to changes in communications
Anne Green reflects on the changes in communication, from the advent of social media to the impact of technology on writing and critical thinking.
[00:16:14] The role of PR in upholding quality
Dan Nestle discusses the frustration of spin in PR and the need for the profession to uphold quality, truth, and critical thinking.
[00:19:22] Challenges in content quality
Dan Nestle and Anne Green acknowledge the prevalence of low-quality content and the need for PR to play a role in promoting good writing and ethical standards.
[00:19:31] Ethical Awareness in the Industry
Discussion about ethical awareness in the communications field and the responsibility to maintain integrity.
[00:21:15] Adoption of New Technology
Exploring the industry's capability to use new technology tools and the need to bring an ethical lens to their usage.
[00:24:46] Impact of AI on the Profession
Discussion on the changing landscape of the communications profession due to the rise of artificial intelligence and the need for professionals to adapt.
[00:35:17] The Personal Relationship with Technology
Exploring the personal impact of technology and the process of finding "killer apps" that create a personal connection with technology.
[00:38:23] Projection into the Future
Contemplation on the profound changes brought about by new technology and the challenges of projecting forward in a rapidly changing industry.
[00:39:16] The complexity of AI
Discussion about the evolving security measures and the need to adapt to changing technological threats.
[00:40:04] Understanding the "black box" of AI
Exploring the mystery and complexity of AI's decision-making processes and the work being done to uncover its inner workings.
[00:41:04] Learning a new way of speaking to AI
Adapting communication styles to interact effectively with AI, emphasizing the need for a different approach compared to traditional search engines.
[00:42:07] Refining questions for AI interaction
Emphasizing the need for iterative and refined questioning when engaging with AI to extract the desired information.
[00:44:14] Adapting to conversational AI
Drawing parallels between the evolution of search engines and the need to adapt to conversational AI, highlighting the shift in interaction styles.
[00:45:55] Challenges and opportunities with AI adoption
Discussing the learning curve, mindset shift, and the potential for leveraging AI to work smarter and add value.
[00:53:19] AI's impact on communication professionals
Exploring the unique skill set of communication professionals and their potential to excel in leveraging AI for business and client needs.
[00:55:42] Evolving roles and skill sets in the AI era
Emphasizing the elite nature of communication profession and the need to recognize, practice, and adapt to the skill sets required in the AI era.
[00:59:02] The role of a communicator
Understanding the depth of knowledge needed about a business and its stakeholders.
[01:01:00] Enhancing communication through AI
Using AI to enhance communication by connecting dots and providing additional insights.
[01:05:01] Challenges and hopes for the future
Concerns about disinformation and divisiveness, along with hopes for a better future and the role of AI.
[01:06:55] Looking ahead with optimism
Expressing hope for positive changes through human creativity and invention, and the potential of AI.
The integration of technology into marketing and communication strategies
Skepticism surrounding commstech and conveying its value to investors
Inevitability of technology's role in shaping the future of all companies
Efforts of communications professionals to advocate for the integration of technology
Insights from Melanie's experiences as a tech founder
Timestamped summary for this episode (generated by Capsho, my AI assistant)
00:00:00 - Introduction to the Importance of Conferences Dan Nestle highlights the significance of conferences for learning, reputation building, and business development in the field of communication and marketing. He also acknowledges the anxiety and challenges associated with choosing the right conferences due to budget constraints.
00:01:39 - Leveraging Data-Driven Approach for Conference Selection Melanie Samba, the CEO of Sproxxy, discusses the need for a data-driven, AI-powered approach to choosing conferences and measuring their impact on an organization. She emphasizes the importance of making informed decisions rather than relying on past experiences or emotions.
00:05:03 - Challenges of Managing Conferences Melanie shares her experience in managing conferences for a pharmaceutical company, highlighting the complexities involved in coordinating over 400 employees' participation, ensuring regulatory compliance, and maintaining consistent messaging across the organization.
00:07:25 - The Underappreciated Role of Conferences in Corporate Communications The conversation delves into the underappreciation of conferences in corporate communications, with Dan and Melanie discussing the budget allocation challenges and the perception of conferences as a nice-to-have rather than a strategic necessity for thought leadership and brand positioning.
00:14:39 - Evolution of Sproxxy from Idea to Product Melanie shares the journey of transforming her initial idea of Sproxxy into a tangible product. She reflects on the pivotal moment when the pandemic led to the realization of the increased demand for events, prompting her to productize Sproxxy and pursue her entrepreneurial venture.
00:16:39 - The Rise of Virtual Events Melanie discusses the explosion of virtual events during the pandemic, highlighting the shift in focus and the doubling of industry events to 1.8 million. She also shares her insights into how conference organizers adapted to the new landscape.
00:19:31 - Building Relationships in the Conference Space Melanie talks about the importance of building relationships with conference organizers, similar to how relationships are built with the media. She explains how she developed these connections over time through her role in pitching executives and contributing to event programs.
00:22:44 - Importance of Community in Conferences The discussion delves into the significance of being part of a community at conferences, with Melanie sharing her personal experience of meeting her corporate comms head at a conference in Portugal. The community aspect is highlighted as a key motivator for attending conferences.
00:25:57 - Engaging with Media at Conferences Melanie sheds light on the presence of journalists at conferences and the opportunities they present for engaging with the media. She emphasizes the value of leveraging conferences as a platform for securing media coverage and building relationships with journalists.
00:33:07 - The State of Conferences Report Melanie introduces the State of Conferences report, emphasizing its focus on the brand's perspective and the value it brings to understanding conference strategies. The report aims to provide insights into the current trends and perceptions surrounding conferences for marketers and agencies.
00:33:59 - Peer-to-Peer Insights on Conferences Melanie discusses the importance of peer-to-peer insights for branding, marketing, and communications professionals in understanding what their peers are doing in the conference space. The report highlighted common issues such as managing conferences using Excel spreadsheets and the need for audience reach metrics.
00:36:56 - Differentiating Conferences and Trade Shows Melanie differentiates conferences from trade shows, emphasizing the focus on thought leadership, branding, and strategic partnerships. She highlights the importance of audience reach as the number one metric for measuring success at conferences, as revealed in the report.
00:40:06 - Impact of Speaking Engagements The report uncovered the increasing value of speaking engagements for executives and the business impact they have. Melanie discusses the importance of understanding the rationale for attending conferences and shares how Sproxxy provides insights on competitor activity at conferences.
00:44:01 - Refining Product Based on Customer Feedback Melanie shares how the state of conferences report was used to refine the Sproxxy product, aligning it with the needs and challenges faced by marketing and communications professionals. She emphasizes the importance of developing a data-informed approach for attending conferences and measuring success.
00:49:40 - The Evolution of Comstech and Sproxxy Melanie discusses the challenges of selling Comstech to investors and emphasizes the need for technology in every company. She reflects on her transition from corporate comms to developing Sproxxy and highlights the role of Comstech in enabling communicators to
00:50:59 - The Importance of Digital Communications and Marketing Integration Melanie and Dan discuss the necessity for companies to integrate digital communication and marketing strategies. Melanie emphasizes the importance of being equipped with the right tools to remain relevant in the future.
00:52:52 - The Origins of Sproxxy and its Purpose Melanie shares her journey of developing Sproxxy and its original purpose to prove the value of her work as a corporate comms professional. She highlights the need to have a data-informed approach and the role of AI in providing insights.
00:55:56 - AI Integration in Sproxxy and its Impact on the Industry Melanie discusses the integration of AI in Sproxxy and its potential to predict conference topics, influence industry evolution, and gather insights on audience demographics. She emphasizes the power of AI to accelerate innovation and change the trajectory of an industry.
01:00:27 - Leveraging Sproxxy for Thought Leadership and Industry Influence Melanie explores the potential of Sproxxy to predict conference topics, tailor thought leadership platforms, and influence the industry based on gathered data and insights. She highlights the role of communicators in shaping industry trends and influencing audiences.
01:02:28 - The Challenges and Excitement of Being a Woman Founder and the Future of Sproxxy Melanie reflects on the excitement and challenges of being a woman founder and the unexpected growth of Sproxxy. She emphasizes the need for more solutions in corporate comms and marketing and encourages others to step up and provide the necessary help for the industry.
01:06:56 - Exciting Future for Listeners Melanie expresses her excitement for the future of the listeners, emphasizing the potential for growth and success in their businesses.
01:07:22 - Where to Find Melanie Dan and Melanie discuss where listeners can find Melanie online, including her website, LinkedIn, and Instagram.
01:07:54 - The Cutting Edge of Conferences Melanie highlights the innovative functions and capabilities of Sproxxy.com, emphasizing its ability to help individuals understand and navigate complex conferences.
01:08:21 - Making Speakers Shine The conversation focuses on the importance of helping speakers shine and exerting influence at conferences, positioning the podcast as a platform for discussing impactful communication strategies.
01:08:40 - Closing Remarks Dan wraps up the episode, encouraging listeners to subscribe, share, and leave reviews, while also inviting potential future guests to reach out and be part of the show.
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