6 Communications Podcasts You Should Be Following

In the fast-paced world of digital media, everyone is always trying to stay on top of the latest trends and news - especially those working in public relations (PR) and communications. While there is no denying the upsides to digital media, it is presented to us in such a large volume that it becomes difficult to know where to look to find key information, and things can quickly get messy with the amount of “fake news” that spreads online.

Thanks to the widespread popularity of podcasts, this issue has been minimized as PR professionals can conveniently catch up on recent industry news distilled by the experts, alongside provocative discourse about what this means for communications professionals and the brands they serve. Podcasts provide an excellent alternative to traditional media, and their popularity indicates they are not going anywhere anytime soon. 

Here are the top 6 communications podcasts you should be listening to: 

1. #FuturePRoof
   
   Hosted by PR expert and experienced consultant, Sarah Waddington #FuturePRoof began as an informative tool for industry insiders, reminding listeners just how crucial PR is in driving business growth. The podcast, which serves as an extension of Waddington’s #FuturePRoof book series, dives into current events within the world of marketing, social media, PR, and advertising, with unique commentary on each. Some of her most recent topics include what PR would look like in a post-pandemic world; the right and wrong way to deal with crisis management; and the future of social media and influencer marketing. Uploading nearly one episode a week, #FuturePRoof is an engaging and convenient way for industry insiders and lovers of PR to get their weekly dose of the most ground-breaking and relevant news relative to the world of PR. 
   
   

2. People by People 
   
   In this podcast, host Laura Sutherland takes a more laid-back approach as she chats with different PR professionals each episode about the various challenges they experience in their roles. While PR is an industry filled with exciting creative projects and valuable connections, it’s not always sunshine and rainbows – and Sutherland does not shy away from showcasing this. As a newer podcast (launched in early 2021), People by People has dived into many pressing issues affecting PR professionals, including managing a work-life balance, dealing with media analytics and the struggles of navigating through different platforms to leverage user growth. Not only does People by People bring awareness to certain industry hurdles, but it also provides advice on how to tackle them, giving PR professionals the tools to make their lives a little easier. 
   
   

3. For Immediate Release
   
   Covering all aspects of communication, For Immediate Release is for anyone interested in communicating in the digital world. In each nearly hour-long episode, Hosts Neville Hobson and Shel Holtz provide in-depth discussions about a wide selection of industry news and topics -- perfect for those long commutes to the office. Showing an interest in new technology, Hobson and Holtz discuss the ways new digital platforms impact communication professionals. They also provide industry tips and advice on building a successful career in marketing, PR, and communications. 

4. The Spin Sucks Podcast with Gini Dietrich
   
   Aiming to create a fresh approach to PR, The Spin Sucks Podcast, led by Gini Dietrich, is recognized as one of the most informative and beneficial sources for professional development in marketing and PR. With a following of nearly 50 thousand listeners and a wide audience for the release of her new book, Spin Sucks, Dietrich has become established as an expert in communications. Her short but insightful videos lay it all on the line as they cover pressing issues such as protecting your intellectual property, how to deal with waffling and fighting cognitive biases. Overall, the podcast has all the advice needed to help boost any PR or marketing professional’s career. 
   
   

5. The Daily
   
   Issued by the New York Times, The Daily is a podcast that provides an accessible run-down of trending news occurring across the world. In each episode, a new journalist is given the opportunity to share their expertise on a story catching the public eye. Running five days a week with approximately 20-minute-long episodes, news is broken down into a simplified and convenient fashion -- ideal for any PR professional wanting to get a scoop of all the latest headlines. 
   
   

6. PR Resolution Podcast
   
   The PR Resolution Podcast is another laid-back conversational podcast with host Stella Bayles bringing new guests every week to discuss emerging PR topics. With the help of her expert guest, Bayles aims to debunk any PR myths and simplify various PR concerns. These include diversity in PR, storytelling with data, and how PR should work with paid media. Although these topics may seem heavy, Bayles presents them in a digestible way that's almost like having a relaxed conversation with a friend.
   
   Author Marianne Semaan, Intern