What Hunter S. Thompson Taught Me About Public Relations

Strategic Communications

Early in my career, I had the opportunity to spend some time with Hunter S. Thompson. At the time, I was a cub reporter in Aspen and full of ideals and not very much experience — professional or otherwise. The Gonzo journalist was solidified as nationally known author...

Part 3: Adapting Your Pitches for Today’s Media

Public Relations, Strategic Communications

Even the best media relationships won’t save a bad pitch. You must be selective with your PR pitches. In this final part of our three-part series, Rockford Gray Managing Partner Jennifer Miller and Senior Advisor Alton Dillard II share how to pitch stories amid the...

Part 2: How to Build Media Relationships That Last

Public Relations, Strategic Communications

If you want reporters to think of you as a go-to source—and even more, if you want them to be willing to consider your story pitches —you need a deliberate, ongoing approach to relationships. In part two of this three-part series, Rockford Gray Managing Partner...

Crisis Communication: Ban the Spin Doctors, Focus on Actions

Crisis Communications, News

Why Actions Matter in Crisis Communications In a crisis, words matter, but actions matter more. While key messages help shape a reputation, they remain hollow without a foundation of tangible steps. To truly heal, organizations must prioritize victim care and...

Issues Management and the Infamous WKRP “Turkey Drop”

Crisis Communications

By Gil Rudawsky It wouldn’t be the holiday season without us recalling the “WKRP in Cincinnati” infamous turkey drop PR disaster. For those unfamiliar with the late 70s and early 80s sitcom or the hilarious episode, check out the clip below. The best line? “As god as...