Navigating Health Information Overload

 Episode 367: Doug Simon, CEO of D S Simon Media, and Saramaya Penacho, Executive Vice President of Health at Edelman, discuss key findings from the 2026 Edelman Trust Barometer Special Report: Trust and Health. They discuss why 70% of respondents believe at least one divisive health claim. She shares how healthcare communicators can foster empathetic, two-way conversations that build trust. She also highlights the value of uniting audiences around shared health goals. >> Listen to the…

What Makes a Story Truly Newsworthy?

 Episode 366: Doug Simon, CEO of ⁠D S Simon Media⁠, talks to Loren Pomerantz, President of ⁠Combined Forces Public Relations⁠, about how to recognize what makes a story newsworthy. Loren shares why honest conversations with clients and strong relationships with journalists are essential to successful media relations. She also offers practical advice for streamlining the PR process. >> Listen to the episode on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and others. TRANSCRIPT:   DOUG: Lauren, you work with multiple…

Staying Competitive in an AI Landscape

 Episode 365: How can small agencies stay competitive in the age of AI? Megan Shroy, Founder and President of Approach Marketing, shares how her agency has built more than 80 custom AI agents for clients. Doug and Megan explore thoughtful approaches to AI adoption, including safety, compliance, and change management. Megan also explains why she built an agency designed to support working moms. >> Listen to the episode on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and others. TRANSCRIPT:   DOUG: Megan, let’s start off how small…

How Tech Brands Can Stand Out in AI Search

 Episode 364: Doug Simon, CEO of D S Simon Media, talks to Gerard LaFond, Managing Director of North America at The Hoffman Agency, about what it takes for tech brands to get noticed by large language models. They discuss why earned media is becoming increasingly important for building brand visibility. Gerard also shares how to turn technical capabilities into stories that connect with audiences. >> Listen to the episode on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and others. TRANSCRIPT:  …

The Updated Tech PR Playbook

 Episode 363: Doug Simon, CEO of D S Simon Media, and Bob Geller, President of Fusion PR, discuss how tech PR is evolving. Bob shares how communications teams can build credibility through thought leadership and strategic storytelling. He discusses how to uncover newsworthy angles that break through a crowded media landscape. He also emphasizes using AI strategically while keeping human creativity at the center. >> Listen to the episode on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and others. TRANSCRIPT:…

Turning Uncertainty into Opportunity

 Episode 362: Doug Simon, CEO of D S Simon Media, and Chris Foster, CEO of Omnicom Public Relations Group, discuss how strong leadership drives successful organizational transformation. Chris explains how leaders can recognize when it’s time to change their operating model. The conversation also explores the importance of earned media, reputation management, and the future of the industry. >> Listen to the episode on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and others. TRANSCRIPT:   DOUG: Chris, let’s jump right…