SPIN is a Four Letter Word

From the campus to client calls! On this episode of The Brew, Maroon PR's newest account coordinators Eliana Rakhamimov and Sydnee Hart share what surprised them most when stepping from the classroom into fast-paced agency life. Tune in for real talk on deadlines, client communications, and why adaptability is key in your first PR job.

Design is one of our strengths and an area of constant adaptation and evolution. Sarah shares how empathy fuels her creative work and Amanda unpacks visual storytelling strategy.

Recent sports media missteps have made headlines, notably in basketball and golf. In this timely episode, John Maroon and Amanda Sarver break down the role of a Sports PR pro—what it is, and what it's not. They explore the importance of building relationships and trust between athletes, the front office, and media, and share firsthand […]

Navigating client relationships isn't always smooth sailing. In this episode of The Brew, John Maroon and Jen Renehan share insights on setting clear expectations and tackling tough conversations. From managing media coverage goals to refining social strategies, learn how they build trust and deliver results. Tune in for real talk on client communication!

Is Your Social Strategy Future-Proof? With TikTok's uncertain future and new platforms emerging, diversification is key. VP Social Strategy & Content Amanda Sarver and COO Jen Renehan dive into the power of owned media, the rise of influencers, and how brands can stay ahead of shifting trends. Plus, a look at AI's impact on content […]

Video has become a pivotal part of PR and Marketing strategies, but what actually makes for successful video content? In this episode of The Brew, we sit down with Maroon PR's videographer, Emma, to talk about how our video services have evolved, what makes content stand out, and why some brands totally miss the mark. […]

John Maroon, Account Director Nancy Yasharoff, and Account Coordinator Eliana Rakhamimov discuss MPR's media relations approach. With decades of experience, Nancy and John share insights, while Eliana offers a fresh perspective. From crafting compelling pitches to the power of a phone call and building journalist relationships, this episode delivers valuable tips for PR beginners and pros alike.

In this episode, Matt, Sophie, and Mike dive into goal setting and strategic planning for the year ahead. They explore why clear goals are essential, how they guide their work with clients, and the importance of staying flexible and proactive in reaching those goals. From crafting 90-day plans to leveraging earned, owned, and paid media, the team shares actionable insights for achieving success in 2025. Whether you're mapping out strategies for brand growth, driving engagement, or tackling key objectives, this episode outlines a roadmap for how we turn vision into results.

New year, new season! Maroon PR's "SPIN is a Four-Letter Word" podcast is back for its third season with a fresh focus. Welcome to The Brew, where we dive into hot topics in public relations and share smart, actionable strategies. Join the MPR team as we rotate hosts to share insider insights, revealing how we brew success and drive growth for our clients.

With dry January upon us, we've temporarily pulled the tap on our regular Let's Have a Beer With episodes and are turning our attention to the wild world of sports. From the Russell Wilson and the Denver Broncos situation to the drama surrounding college football bowl games, there is a lot to discuss when it comes to public relations. Listen along as we kick off 2024 with a lively discussion around some hot topics in sports PR.

In this episode of Let's Have a Beer, we are joined by Bill Hooper, the Vice President and General Manager of WMAR-TV in Baltimore. A Baltimore native, Hooper has worked exclusively in Baltimore media for 40 years. He joined WMAR in 2004 as general sales manager before taking the top leadership role in 2007. Listen along as we discuss Bill's journey as a media executive, the state of broadcast media and how he has been leading WMAR's approach to in-depth, community focused reporting in recent years.

In this episode of Let's Have a Beer, we are joined by Jamison Hensley, a Maryland native covering the Baltimore Ravens for ESPN. He joined ESPN in 2011, covering the AFC North before focusing exclusively on the Ravens beginning in 2013. Jamison won the National Sports Media Association Maryland Sportswriter of the Year award in 2018, and he authored a book titled: Flying High: Stories of the Baltimore Ravens. Grab a beer and listen along we as discuss Jamison's career and the intricacies of covering a team, the evolution of the media and current topics in Maryland sports.

In this episode, Terry Hasseltine, Executive Director of the Maryland Sports Commission, joins Jen and John to discuss the career path that lead him to the Maryland Sports Commission and the relationships he built along the way. The trio also discusses current happenings with the Commission and the purpose it serves in our state.

She's an award-winning journalist and host of WUSA's Great Day Washington. He's a long-time sports broadcaster and hosts a show on WBAL radio. And when their career paths collided years ago, they became partners in life. Join us for a beer as we have a special conversation with Kristen Berset-Harris and Brent Harris to discuss their careers and how they have evolved with the media landscape, managing their own relationship and how they approach relationships with PR professionals. Cheers!

At Maroon PR we like to say that we are the agency that clients want to have a beer with. In this season of SPIN is a Four Letter Word, we are doing just that: having a beer with business leaders as we discuss everything from hot topics in PR to how relationships drive growth. Join us for the journey - Cheers! Episode 6 of SPIN is a Four Letter Word, Season 2. Hollywood Casino Perryville entered the gaming landscape as Maryland's first casino in 2010 and was purchased by Penn Entertainment in 2021 just as Maryland's online sports betting was legalized. In this episode, we sit down with the Casino's GM, Amy Brennan to learn about her path through the Casino industry, and how relationships have played a role in her professional growth and continue to drive her leadership style. We also discuss how the gaming industry has evolved, and what's next for the Casino as they continue their transformation into a full entertainment venue.

At Maroon PR we like to say that we are the agency that clients want to have a beer with. In this season of SPIN is a Four Letter Word, we are doing just that: having a beer with business leaders as we discuss everything from hot topics in PR to how relationships drive growth. Join us for the journey - Cheers! Episode 5 of SPIN is a Four Letter Word, Season 2. The World Series. World Championship Fights. The Olympics, the NFL, the NBA, the NHL, wrestling: Whatever the sport, chances are, seasoned sports journalist Thom Loverro has covered it. In this episode, we have a beer with our friend Thom to discuss his journey as a journalist, how the profession has evolved over time, and hear some of his best stories including how he came to cover the great Muhammad Ali.

At Maroon PR we like to say that we are the agency that clients want to have a beer with. In this season of SPIN is a Four Letter Word, we are doing just that: having a beer with business leaders as we discuss everything from hot topics in PR to how relationships drive growth. Join us for the journey - Cheers! Episode 4 of SPIN is a Four Letter Word, Season 2. In Maryland, the ritual of eating steamed crabs has stood the test of time. This beloved Maryland tradition isn't just about eating, it's about sitting around the table to enjoy the company of others, build relationships and oftentimes celebrate life's great accomplishments or milestones. In this episode, we sit down over steamed crabs, and a beer, with Maryland native and former Major League Baseball player, Bill Ripken at Jimmy's Famous Seafood. Join us as we talk with Bill about this Maryland tradition, his journey in life and business post baseball career and how relationships and people have helped him along the way.

Episode 3 of SPIN is a Four Letter Word, Season 2. Women's sports is having its moment, finally. It's no secret women's sports teams – from soccer to golf and college and pro basketball – have been gaining popularity among the general sports fan in recent years. But why is that happening now and what are the driving factors? In this episode, we sit down over a beer with Rose DiPaula, who leads communications for the University of Maryland Women's Basketball team to discuss this recent surge in popularity. We discuss the impact of Name, Image Likeness (NIL), the transfer portal and its effect on recruiting, and the adjustments collegiate athletic departments must make to be competitive in the rapidly changing world of women's sports.

At Maroon PR we like to say that we are the agency that clients want to have a beer with. In this season of SPIN is a Four Letter Word, we are doing just that: having a beer with business leaders as we discuss everything from hot topics in PR to how relationships drive growth. Join us for the journey - Cheers! Episode 2 features Marshall Weston, the President and CEO of the Restaurant Association of Maryland.  There are over 10,000 restaurants in the state of Maryland, and RAM is responsible for each one having an advocacy voice and the information necessary to be successful. In this episode, we discuss the state of the restaurant industry, how it continues to evolve, and what it takes to succeed. Marshall discusses his belief in strong public relations efforts, the importance of relationships and partnerships, and his best advice for young professionals today. Join us as we go inside the restaurant industry to learn how the very act of having a beer or sharing a meal is the backbone of not just this industry, but all sectors of business. 

At Maroon PR we like to say that we are the agency that clients want to have a beer with. In this season of SPIN is a Four Letter Word, we are doing just that: having a beer with guests as we discuss everything from hot topics in PR to how relationships drive growth. Join us for the journey - Cheers! Episode 1 features the Godfather of Baltimore beer, Hugh Sission, Founder and CEO of Heavy Seas Beer. It was 1982, when the idea first crossed Hugh Sisson's mind. At the time, he was running the only craft beer bar in Baltimore with his father. He couldn't help but wonder if he could make his own beer, or if it was even possible. It was the question that would alter his life forever. In 2003, Clipper City introduced the Heavy Seas line of beers. They were bold beers meant to challenge the average beer drinker-- high alcohol with incredible flavor. In 2010, the great success of the Heavy Seas line of beers was the deciding factor in adopting the name Heavy Seas for the brewery. The rest, as they say, is history. In this episode we discuss Hugh's keys to success, about taking risks, and his approach to business.

On this episode, John and Matt talk with Kevin Sullivan, owner of Kevin Sullivan Communications. They dive into his longstanding PR career ranging from sports to network television and his time as the White House Communications Director. Kevin stresses the importance of maintaining relationships as you grow your business. Be prepared to hear real-world examples of his message training methods for NBA players, coaches, and executives. The future of media training is an endless topic and Kevin brings new insights that are valuable to all PR professionals. Listen in!

On this episode, John and Matt talk with Kevin Sullivan, owner of Kevin Sullivan Communications. They dive into his longstanding PR career ranging from sports to network television and his time as the White House Communications Director. Kevin stresses the importance of maintaining relationships as you grow your business. Be prepared to hear real-world examples of his message training methods for NBA players, coaches, and executives. The future of media training is an endless topic and Kevin brings new insights that are valuable to all PR professionals. Listen in!

On this episode, John and Matt talk with Julia Ziegler the Director of News and Programming at WTOP. Julia emphasizes the importance journalism plays in today’s media landscape. In this new world of news sharing, WTOP has maintained their mission driven work of providing breaking news that has the potential to save lives and benefit the local community. Despite the shifts in how audiences consume media WTOP has continued being a local leader in presenting unbiased news. Listen in!

On this episode, John and Matt talk with Julia Ziegler the Director of News and Programming at WTOP. Julia emphasizes the importance journalism plays in today's media landscape. In this new world of news sharing, WTOP has maintained their mission driven work of providing breaking news that has the potential to save lives and benefit the local community. Despite the shifts in how audiences consume media WTOP has continued being a local leader in presenting unbiased news. Listen in!

On this episode, John and Matt talk with Julia Ziegler the Director of News and Programming at WTOP. Julia emphasizes the importance journalism plays in today’s media landscape. In this new world of news sharing, WTOP has maintained their mission driven work of providing breaking news that has the potential to save lives and benefit the local community. Despite the shifts in how audiences consume media WTOP has continued being a local leader in presenting unbiased news. Listen in!

On this episode, John and Matt talk with Executive Director of Baltimore's Classic Five golf courses, Tom Pierce, about the model that turned the city's golf courses around to become more accessible and beneficial to the community. The guys drive into the history of Baltimore's municipal courses and the increase of popularity and diversity surrounding the golf game over the past few years. Tom Pierce discusses challenges, improvements, and the exciting introduction of Toptracer technology to Pine Ridge Golf Course—how it is improving the game and the experience on the range.  What can Baltimore Classic Five and Municipal golf FOREsee in the future? Listen in!

On this episode, John and Matt talk with Executive Director of Baltimore’s Classic Five golf courses, Tom Pierce, about the model that turned the city’s golf courses around to become more accessible and beneficial to the community. The guys drive into the history of Baltimore’s municipal courses and the increase of popularity and diversity surrounding the golf game over the past few years. Tom Pierce discusses challenges, improvements, and the exciting introduction of Toptracer technology to Pine Ridge Golf Course—how it is improving the game and the experience on the range. What can Baltimore Classic Five and Municipal golf FOREsee in the future? Listen in!

On this episdoe, John and Matt talk with Principal at Team Services LLC, E.J. Narcise, about the new era of name, image and likeness (NIL) in the collegiate sports world. NIL has changed the landscape of college athletics by creating opportunnities for all types of athletes to obtain deals and learn how to market themselves to create or represent a brand. The guys discuss how NIL is effecting athletic budgets across the nation, creating a separation of bigger and smaller market schools and how the transfer portal has majorly impacted athletic programs. Also, how will NIL evolve in the next few years, who will benefit the most, and what will companies, both locally and nationally, need to do to attract athletes.

On this episdoe, John and Matt talk with Principal at Team Services LLC, E.J. Narcise, about the new era of name, image and likeness (NIL) in the collegiate sports world. NIL has changed the landscape of college athletics by creating opportunnities for all types of athletes to obtain deals and learn how to market themselves to create or represent a brand. The guys discuss how NIL is effecting athletic budgets across the nation, creating a separation of bigger and smaller market schools and how the transfer portal has majorly impacted athletic programs. Also, how will NIL evolve in the next few years, who will benefit the most, and what will companies, both locally and nationally, need to do to attract athletes.

On this episdoe, John and Matt talk with Principal at Team Services LLC, E.J. Narcise, about the new era of name, image and likeness (NIL) in the collegiate sports world. NIL has changed the landscape of college athletics by creating opportunnities for all types of athletes to obtain deals and learn how to market themselves to create or represent a brand. The guys discuss how NIL is effecting athletic budgets across the nation, creating a separation of bigger and smaller market schools and how the transfer portal has majorly impacted athletic programs. Also, how will NIL evolve in the next few years, who will benefit the most, and what will companies, both locally and nationally, need to do to attract athletes.

On this episode John and Matt welcome best-selling author, Michael Ortman. Maroon PR has worked with Michael to promote his recently published book, "Opening Day: 50-For-50" which highlights his experiences of attending 50 consecutive years of baseball opening days. A well-researched work of love, the book represents a half-century of great stories and historical context linked to each of those 50 days. For more information, visit Mike's website www.openingday5050.com

On this episode John and Matt welcome best-selling author, Michael Ortman. Maroon PR has worked with Michael to promote his recently published book, "Opening Day: 50-For-50" which highlights his experiences of attending 50 consecutive years of baseball opening days. A well-researched work of love, the book represents a half-century of great stories and historical context linked to each of those 50 days. For more information, visit Mike's website www.openingday5050.com

With the impacts from the COVID-19 pandemic still being felt globally, we invite John Lazarou, Media Relations Manager of our long time client, Greater Baltimore Medical Center (GBMC), to weigh in on how the pandemic has changed the medical and media landscape. With so many unknowns surrounding the pandemic, GBMC was forced to adapt quickly to maintain the safety of their staff and patients, implementing programs to support their clinical professionals and recognizing educational opportunities through media interviews to inform the public and colleagues about their research and expertise regarding the pandemic. Lazarou discusses media relation strategies, the importance of accuracy and timeliness, influence of social media, and expresses great appreciation for healthcare workers and staff.

With the impacts from the COVID-19 pandemic still being felt globally, we invite John Lazarou, Media Relations Manager of our long time client, Greater Baltimore Medical Center (GBMC), to weigh in on how the pandemic has changed the medical and media landscape. With so many unknowns surrounding the pandemic, GBMC was forced to adapt quickly to maintain the safety of their staff and patients, implementing programs to support their clinical professionals and recognizing educational opportunities through media interviews to inform the public and colleagues about their research and expertise regarding the pandemic. Lazarou discusses media relation strategies, the importance of accuracy and timeliness, influence of social media, and expresses great appreciation for healthcare workers and staff.

We opened the doors on April 3rd, 2006 to a building that didn't have furniture or wifi, and here we are, 16 years later, helping our clients grow and still doing what we do best... just with a little more technology! Enjoy this special Anniversary episode as John and Jen reflect on the journey of Maroon PR with 16 moments! What have been the top moments for John as a business owner? What challenges come from being an entrepreneur? How has the business and industry changed over time? Why should your business hire an agency to take care of all your PR and creative needs?

We opened the doors on April 3rd, 2006 to a building that didn't have furniture or wifi, and here we are, 16 years later, helping our clients grow and still doing what we do best... just with a little more technology! Enjoy this special Anniversary episode as John and Jen reflect on the journey of Maroon PR with 16 moments! What have been the top moments for John as a business owner? What challenges come from being an entrepreneur? How has the business and industry changed over time? Why should your business hire an agency to take care of all your PR and creative needs?

As we celebrate Women's History Month, Jen Renehan is joined by Tracy Brandys and Gina Crash of Audacy. Each professional brings their own unique perspectives and experiences to the conversation on women in media and PR. Tracy is the SVP, Market Manager at Audacy. She is an experienced leader and innovator with over 20+ years of experience in the media industry and works closely with Maroon PR to build authentic, creative and results-driven campaigns for clients. Gina Crash brings 25+ years in broadcast and is currently the morning show host on Today's 101.9. Listen along as the dynamic trio discusses women's growth in the media and PR industries, challenges and opportunities for women, and advice for anyone looking to succeed in business.

As we celebrate Women's History Month, Jen Renehan is joined by Tracy Brandys and Gina Crash of Audacy. Each professional brings their own unique perspectives and experiences to the conversation on women in media and PR. Tracy is the SVP, Market Manager at Audacy. She is an experienced leader and innovator with over 20+ years of experience in the media industry and works closely with Maroon PR to build authentic, creative and results-driven campaigns for clients. Gina Crash brings 25+ years in broadcast and is currently the morning show host on Today’s 101.9. Listen along as the dynamic trio discusses women's growth in the media and PR industries, challenges and opportunities for women, and advice for anyone looking to succeed in business.

Emergency pod! It would be hard for us to ignore the current public relations fiascos and storylines in sports today and as PR pros, we like to talk through scenarios and solutions! Luckily, we have John and Matt to provide perspective to it all. In this episode, the team covers a myriad of topics from the professional to collegiate sports scene. How has the controversy of the PGA Tour and Saudi golf league impacted the careers and reputations of some of the worlds' golfing greats? Should Michigan Men's Basketball Head Coach, Juwan Howard, be facing tougher penalties for his actions after their loss to Wisconsin? Will the handshake line after games be removed and did Michigan properly handle the PR situation? How is the work stoppage affecting the MLB and its players? So many questions, listen in for the answers!

Emergency pod! It would be hard for us to ignore the current public relations fiascos and storylines in sports today and as PR pros, we like to talk through scenarios and solutions! Luckily, we have John and Matt to provide perspective to it all. In this episode, the team covers a myriad of topics from the professional to collegiate sports scene. How has the controversy of the PGA Tour and Saudi golf league impacted the careers and reputations of some of the worlds' golfing greats? Should Michigan Men's Basketball Head Coach, Juwan Howard, be facing tougher penalties for his actions after their loss to Wisconsin? Will the handshake line after games be removed and did Michigan properly handle the PR situation? How is the work stoppage affecting the MLB and its players? So many questions, listen in for the answers!

There's no doubt the NFL season has been filled with excitement and drama, and on this episode John and Matt dive into it all with National Reporter for ESPN's NFL Nation, Kevin Seifert. The guys touch on how the reporting was handled regarding the breaking news of Tom Brady's retirement, the Brian Flores class-action lawsuit and the impact of the Rooney Rule, as well as the most recent allegations from Hue Jackson and how the Brown's PR team were quick to respond. Seifert discusses balancing the dynamics of reporting with the evolution of team reporters while maintaining relationships with independent reporters and what it's like working with a large network. For all the latest NFL news, check out Kevin's twitter @SeifertESPN.

There’s no doubt the NFL season has been filled with excitement and drama, and on this episode John and Matt dive into it all with National Reporter for ESPN’s NFL Nation, Kevin Seifert. The guys touch on how the reporting was handled regarding the breaking news of Tom Brady’s retirement, the Brian Flores class-action lawsuit and the impact of the Rooney Rule, as well as the most recent allegations from Hue Jackson and how the Brown’s PR team were quick to respond. Seifert discusses balancing the dynamics of reporting with the evolution of team reporters while maintaining relationships with independent reporters and what it’s like working with a large network. For all the latest NFL news, check out Kevin’s twitter @SeifertESPN.

This episode spins things around a bit as John is joined by Account Director, Eric Hammond to welcome Founder and President of One Eight Oh PR, Candice Brown-McElyea. Eric and Candice once started their career paths together almost 25 years ago at WMDT-TV in Salisbury, MD and now both have made the jump from journalism to public relations. With vast experience and knowledge, Candice delivers thought-provoking conversation surrounding the effectiveness of in-house video production, the evolution of social media and how to identify realistic goals for your clients, tips for client media training, and public relations in the commercial real estate world. We also do a little prediction of where the future of the industry is going and discuss key qualities public relations experts look for in newcomers who are looking to find their place in the industry. Check out Candice's company at wedogreatpr.com - and yes, she has the best URL on the planet!

This episode spins things around a bit as John is joined by Account Director, Eric Hammond to welcome Founder and President of One Eight Oh PR, Candice Brown-McElyea. Eric and Candice once started their career paths together almost 25 years ago at WMDT-TV in Salisbury, MD and now both have made the jump from journalism to public relations. With vast experience and knowledge, Candice delivers thought-provoking conversation surrounding the effectiveness of in-house video production, the evolution of social media and how to identify realistic goals for your clients, tips for client media training, and public relations in the commercial real estate world. We also do a little prediction of where the future of the industry is going and discuss key qualities public relations experts look for in newcomers who are looking to find their place in the industry. Check out Candice’s company at wedogreatpr.com - and yes, she has the best URL on the planet!

Truly an episode you won't want to miss as John and Matt welcome Washington, D.C based journalism and PR pro, Julie Parker! Julie worked as a reporter with WJLA-TV for almost 9 years before venturing down a new path as the Director of the Media Relations Division for the Prince George's County Police Department. Excelling at her position, Julie transformed the department by using their social media platforms in an innovative way, becoming more transparent with department information and building relationships to connect with the community. Listen to how Julie has handled crisis situations, media relationships, and is now building her own company, Julie Parker Communications. Give her a follow on Twitter @JulieParkerComm and visit julieparkercommunications.com.

Truly an episode you won't want to miss as John and Matt welcome Washington, D.C based journalism and PR pro, Julie Parker! Julie worked as a reporter with WJLA-TV for almost 9 years before venturing down a new path as the Director of the Media Relations Division for the Prince George's County Police Department. Excelling at her position, Julie transformed the department by using their social media platforms in an innovative way, becoming more transparent with department information and building relationships to connect with the community. Listen to how Julie has handled crisis situations, media relationships, and is now building her own company, Julie Parker Communications. Give her a follow on Twitter @JulieParkerComm and visit julieparkercommunications.com.

For our last SPIN is a Four Letter Word episode of 2021, we talk with longtime friend and journalist, Roch Kubatko. A 35-year veteran of sports journalism, Roch has seen the transformation of sports reporting through the rise of digital and social media. His story of becoming MASN's first “blogger” and his decision to take social media by the horns to grow his brand should resonate with all PR and media professionals. We talk with Roch about his current role with MASN Sports and the highs and lows of being a beat reporter in the digital age.  

For our last SPIN is a Four Letter Word episode of 2021, we talk with longtime friend and journalist, Roch Kubatko. A 35-year veteran of sports journalism, Roch has seen the transformation of sports reporting through the rise of digital and social media. His story of becoming MASN’s first “blogger” and his decision to take social media by the horns to grow his brand should resonate with all PR and media professionals. We talk with Roch about his current role with MASN Sports and the highs and lows of being a beat reporter in the digital age.

As public relations professionals, we value our relationships with journalists, especially the ones we have formed and held onto over our 15 years in business. In this episode, we catch up with Joanna Sullivan, Editor-in-Chief at the Baltimore Business Journal. Over the last 22 years, Sullivan has seen major industry evolutions, most notably the transformation from a weekly newspaper to a daily operation with multimedia all the while dealing with a shrinking newsroom. Sullivan emphasizes the importance of accuracy over immediacy and how social media has impacted that concept. Sullivan also shares her thoughts on the integration of niche publications, business trends in the Baltimore area, advice for PR pros and students and a healthy reminder that print journalism isn't going anywhere, even in this digital world!