The About Perception Podcast

Welcome to the Perception Podcast, this is Tom Garrity.  We've had a lot going on here at The Garrity Group, but I wanted to share with you something that is off the beaten path … literally and figuratively.  Some of you know I am training to run the Black Hills Ultra Marathon 50 mile race with Team World Vision.  It is in South Dakota at the end of June.  As a part of the training and encouragement I had a chance to speak with World Record Holder and ultra marathoner Michael Wardian. Full TranscriptTom Garrity, The Garrity Group [00:00:01] It's. Welcome to the Perception podcast. This is Tom Garrity. We have a lot going on here at the guarantee that I wanted to share with you something that is off the beaten path, literally and figuratively. Some of you know, I'm training to run the Black Hills ultra 50-mile race for Team World Vision. It's in South Dakota at the end of June. And as a part of the training and encouragement, I had a chance to speak with world record holder. An ultra-marathoner, Michael Motian was gracious enough to share some insights that I think are also applicable in the world of public relations. And we'll tell you how at the end of the interview. Right now, picking up on Michael Wardian, talking about his background in running Michael Wardian, Ultramarathon Runner [00:00:50] qualified, ran the Boston Marathon, got hooked with running and then fell into Ultra shortly thereafter. I did my first 50-mile race in nineteen ninety-seven, so quite a few years ago. Then I've progressed through things. All ranked runners to international runners eventually earn my way through teams and been a pro athlete now for going on 20 some years. So, it's been it's been quite a journey from not even knowing how many laps are in a 400 to running for multiple days running across countries and representing Team USA along the way. So I've been really fortunate to have had the chance to, you know, take up a sport that I'm so into and passionate about and excited about. And I think the greatest thing, too, is just the chance to meet people along the way and do some good. And so I think that's what we're doing here. Tom Garrity, The Garrity Group [00:01:59] Outstanding team World Vision. How did you first get become aware of team World Vision? Michael Wardian, Ultramarathon Runner [00:02:07] And I'd say. I was probably I'd seen the logos and the shirts at some events. I feel like I may have seen team World Vision at Comrade's one year in South Africa. And then I was in twenty seventeen. I won the World Marathon Challenge, where you run seven marathons in seven days on seven continents and one of the prizes for winning that was you won fifteen thousand dollars. I think it was actually fifteen thousand euro donation to any charity of your choice. And in my professional life outside of running I'm an international broker. And so we work with like a bunch of private voluntary relief organizations, including World Vision ship, like bulk wheat and stuff to places all around the world. And then I'd seen the team, World Vision people, and I met some of them. And I thought, well, that would be a great charity. It'd be a two for one. Like, they do stuff up and running and they do stuff and in humanitarian food aid. So I was able to donate that check to World Vision and I kind of got introduced to Brian and Josh along the way. And then I was asked to be a part of the hood to coast relay. So that was that was really cool. And then I did some of the six ks for water locally. So definitely, definitely been, you know, a lengthy kind of journey with World Vision. I haven't got a chance to go to any of the mission sites yet. So that was something I was hoping to do when I ran comrade's. And it just hasn't happened yet. But hopefully that'll be coming up in the future. Tom Garrity, The Garrity Group [00:04:04] Outstanding. Outstan

The Farm and Ranching industry is one of the most favored industries and institutions in New Mexico.  According to the 2020 Garrity Perception Survey (GPS), 77% of New Mexico residents favor the industry with 46% of that group giving it a “very favorable” rating on a five-point scale. Among the 17 industries surveyed, the Farm and Ranching Industry is the second most favorable slightly behind Small Business. The scientific survey among New Mexico residents was conducted in late January 2020.This episode features New Mexico Cabinet Secretary of Agriculture Jeff Witte.

New Mexico's national laboratories rank 5th among 17 industries and institutions included in the 2020 Garrity Perception SurveyNew Mexico's national laboratories, Los Alamos National Laboratory and Sandia National Laboratories have a high level of favorability among the state's residents. According to the 2020 Garrity Perception Survey, the national labs rank 5th among the 17 industries and institutions with a 67 percent favorability among New Mexico residents. The national laboratories in similar company with small business, farm and ranch, renewable energy and local banks in favorability.Today, Tom Garrity, President and CEO of The Garrity Group Public Relations speaks with Kathy Keith, Director of the Community Partnerships Office at Los Alamos National Laboratory. External Sources:Los Alamos Laboratory Contributes $3 Billion a Year to the State's Economy. An independent economic impact analysis has found that Los Alamos National Laboratory is responsible for creating 24,169 jobs in New Mexico while contributing $3.1 billion a year—much of it in out-of-state dollars—to the New Mexico economy (https://www.lanl.gov/community/economic/index.php). Sandia National Laboratory now has more than 14,000 employees in Albuquerque alone. According to the Albuquerque Journal, the Sandia Laboratory contributed than $3.7 billion dollars into New Mexico's economy, with $2.1 billion going straight to payroll (https://www.sandia.gov/working_with_sandia/economic_impact/).  

State Universities Fair Well Among Favorability of New Mexico Residents Universities boast 61% favorability, ranking 8th among 17 industries and institutions included in the 2020 Garrity Perception SurveyNew Mexico residents have a favorable opinion of state universities according to the 2020 Garrity Perception Survey (GPS). Among the 17 industries surveyed, the state universities are the eighth most favorable institution in the state. Based on the survey, 61 percent of New Mexico residents are favorable of state universities. The scientific survey among New Mexico residents was conducted in late January 2020.  Dr. Joseph Shepard, President of Western New Mexico University joins Tom Garrity, President and CEO of The Garrity Group Public Relations to discuss the findings.

New Mexico residents have unique perspectives about favorability and trust of public schools and educators. The 2020 Garrity Perception Survey reveals confidence in educators is strong, 69 percent of New Mexico residents trust teachers, ranking second out of fifteen professions. When the focus is on K-12 institutions, 41 percent of New Mexicans have a favorable impression of public schools; ranking fourteenth out of seventeen industries. The scientific survey of 408 residents has a 95 percent level of confidence.In this episode, Tom Garrity; President and CEO of The Garrity Group Public Relations speaks with Dr. Sue Cleveland, the superintendent and chief executive officer of the Rio Rancho Public Schools.GPS 2020_ Public Schools.mp4Tom Garrity [00:00:02] According to the 20 20 year perceptions survey, New Mexico residents have unique perspectives of education, competence and educators and strong. Sixty nine percent of New Mexico residents trust teachers. Forty one percent of the Mexicans have a favorable impression of public schools. This is Tom Garrity with the Garrity good public relations. Joining me today to talk about the 20 20 Garity Perception Survey is one of the most respected educators in the state, at least according to me. It is Dr. Sue Cleveland, the superintendent and chief executive officer of the Rio Rancho Public Schools. Welcome, Doctor Cleveland. It's good to see you. Dr. Sue Cleveland [00:00:38] It's good to see you as well. Thank you for having me today. Tom Garrity [00:00:42] You bet. So before we jump into the twenty 20 Perceptions survey findings, will you please just provide our viewers and listeners a little bit more insight about your leadership path and the Rio Rancho Public Schools? Dr. Sue Cleveland [00:00:56] Well, I am. I'm a native New Mexican. Dr. Sue Cleveland [00:01:00] I am a graduate of San Diego High School and went to you and them and then went to New Mexico State University, where my husband was getting an engineering degree. And then we left and went to Houston and were there for a good number of years. I was a teacher and administrator and one of the suburban districts in Houston. And then his work took us to the Carolinas. And I was an administrator and superintendent of a district outside of Charlotte. And I always wanted to come back homeless here. And my parents were here and we had a new baby. And so we made the trip back to New Mexico and this opportunity to work with the Rio Rancho School districts. It's just been a wonderful experience for me. I've just been so grateful to have had this opportunity. So that's kind of the pathway. I worked at all three levels. I worked at elementary, middle and high school. My primary background is, was high school, but. Can I have a pretty general background in education? Tom Garrity [00:02:08] Well, and you are the only superintendent that the Rio Rancho Public Schools has ever known. Dr. Sue Cleveland [00:02:15] I am the only one. I've been here quite a long time, and as I said, it's been a great experience. Tom Garrity [00:02:22] Well, the 2020 Perception Survey addresses trust of teachers and favorability of public schools. Let's talk about this, 69 percent of residents who have a very high level of trust in teachers. Your opinion, in your opinion, why are teachers the second most trusted profession in the state? Dr. Sue Cleveland [00:02:41] Well, I think number one was family and relatives. As I recall, and so it's it's wonderful to see teachers at the number two slot. The reason I think that occurs is that most parents make their children their number one priority. It's the most important thing in their lives. And so they pay a lot of attention to education and they want a good education for their children. Dr. Sue Cleveland [00:

Favorability of Financial Institutions Vary Based on Local versus National Banks  New Mexico Residents Favor Local Banks (67%) over National Banks (39%) in the 2020 Garrity Perception SurveyNew Mexico residents are more favorable towards local banks than they are national banks. According to the 2020 Garrity Perception Survey, Local Banks are viewed as the sixth most favorable of the 17 industries included in the research findings. National banks are the 15th most favorable institution. The scientific survey among New Mexico residents was conducted in late January 2020.“By their nature, local banks have a unique connection to the community; that affinity is clearly reflected in GPS findings,” said Tom Garrity; President and CEO of The Garrity Group Public Relations. “The changing world of community banks and credit unions have created some mergers of convenience. However, despite new names and expanded customer segments, local banks continue to be known for their community connections.”“National banks have a perception issue, but not because of the good work they do in our communities,” Garrity says. “The perception issues are likely due to issues at national banks in other parts of the country that get coverage on news networks or social media and review websites. Ever since the Great Recession of 2008, public perception of national banks has suffered. This is unfortunate because national banks help on their local communities, sometimes with greater financial impacts than local banks.” Jerry Walker, president and CEO of the Independent Community Bankers Association indicated in a 2020 Perception Broadcast that the number of local community banks in New Mexico has dwindled from 46 in 1991 to 33 this year. “NM is slow going into and slow going out of a recession,” says Mr. Walker. “With our regulatory environment, with the gross receipts tax system and corporate income taxes, which some bordering states do not have, we expect our business growth to be slower this year.”Local BanksNew Mexican's favorability of Local Banks is consistent. In 2011, 66 percent of residents were favorable of local banks. In 2020, 67 percent of residents are favorable of local banks. New Mexico residents who annually earn between $40,000 and $79,999, have earned a high school degree and have lived in the state for more than 20 years are more favorable of local banks than other demographics.Geographically, residents living in the Northwest region are more favorable of local banks than those who live in other parts of the state.  New Mexicans living in the North Central region and the Albuquerque area are also favorable of local banks than residents in other parts of New Mexico.National BanksNational banks have routinely ranked lower than most other industries on the Garrity Perception Survey. The highest score for the industry came in 2015 with 41 percent of those surveyed having a favorable view. The lowest level of favorability was a mere 30 percent, in 2017. Favorability increased in 2020.Geographically, residents living in the Eastern and Northwestern parts of New Mexico tend to have a higher level of favorability of national banks than residents living in Albuquerque or Las Cruces.

The renewable energy industry ranks 7th among 17 industries and institutions included in the 2020 Garrity Perception Survey. This episode of the Perception Podcast features an interview with Mr.  Fernando Martinez, the executive director of the New Mexico Renewable Energy Transmission Authority.New Mexico residents have a favorable opinion of the wind and solar industry according to the 2020 Garrity Perception Survey (GPS). Among the 17 industries surveyed, the renewable energy industry is the seventh most favorable industry in the state. The scientific survey among New Mexico residents was conducted in late January 2020. “The renewable energy industry is favorably positioning New Mexico to be a significant player in the generation and transmission of clean energy due in large part to New Mexico's great assets in plentiful and quality wind and sunshine.” said Tom Garrity, President and CEO of The Garrity Group Public Relations. “The move to renewables is also driven by the 2019 Energy Transition Act that establishes a pathway for a low-carbon energy transition away from coal.”According to the State of New Mexico, the Energy Transition Act sets a statewide renewable energy standard of 50 percent by 2030 for New Mexico investor-owned utilities and rural electric cooperatives and a goal of 80 percent by 2040, in addition to setting zero-carbon resources standards for investor-owned utilities by 2045 and rural electric cooperatives by 2050.New Mexico Renewable Energy Transmission Authority's Executive Director Fernando Martinez shared some insights about the increased favorability of the industry during a recent interview with Tom Garrity. “There are economic and environmental reasons for increased favorability of the industry.  Western energy policies have changed rapidly in the last few years. There are energy policies, meant to meet environmental benefits that are going to realized in NM and the surrounding states, but it is also great economics that are driving the wind and solar industry right now. Because wind and solar are now cheaper than new gas and new coal and that is even without the incentives of investment tax credits and production tax credits. We can say that wind and solar are now a large part of the new energy markets based solely on low cost.  And we expect by early 2030s that n w s will be cheaper than existing gas.”New Mexican's favorability of the renewable energy industry has been consistently favorable, hovering right around 60 percent since the GPS started in 2011. Residents who are likely to have a favorable impression of the renewable energy industry includes voters who are registered as a democrat, have a graduate degree, household income of $40,000-$79,99 each year and between 50-64 years of age. Geographically, residents in the North Central region are the most favorable of wind and solar industry.  New Mexicans living in Albuquerque and the Las Cruces area are also favorable of the industry.About the Garrity Perception Survey and P.A.C.E. The 2020 Garrity Perception Survey is a scientific survey of New Mexico residents conducted by Research & Polling Inc. The survey has a 95% level of confidence.  The Garrity Group first commissioned the survey in 2011 and makes its cross-tab data available to help its clients identify and understand their target audience. The PACE solution leverages the demographic and geographic insights as a way for our clients to be relevant before their New Mexico audience. Identifying how our clients are Perceived by their Audiences, we Create a way for them to Engage relevant advocates.  For more information visit GarrityPR.com.

This episode of the #GPS2020 Podcast features the Film and Motion Picture Industry and an interview with Amber Dodson, who is the director of the New Mexico Film Office. We ask her to discuss the industry, which has a strong 70% favorability among New Mexico residents.The film industry ties for 3rd most favorable among 17 industries included in the 2020 Garrity Perception SurveyAlbuquerque, NM. – New Mexico residents have a very favorable opinion of the Film and Motion Picture Industry according to the 2020 Garrity Perception Survey (GPS). Among the 17 industries surveyed, the film and motion picture industry is the third most favorable in the state, tied with New Mexico community colleges. The scientific survey among New Mexico residents was conducted in late January 2020. The Film and Motion Picture Industry ties with Community Colleges as the third most favorable industry in New Mexico. Small Business (79%) and the Farm & Ranch Industry (77%) are the most favorable industries.  The National Laboratories and Local Banks (both 67%) follow the Film Industry as the next most favorable industries.Breaking Bad, No Country for Old Men and The Avengers are all productions that feature New Mexico in their credits and is one reason why the industry has such a favorable opinion among New Mexicans,” said Tom Garrity; President and CEO of The Garrity Group Public Relations. “According to NMFilm.com the industry has generated in excess of $1.4 billion into the New Mexico economy since 2015. In addition to economic impact, it provides a sense of pride when we see the state's unique landscape featured on the big screen.”“It is not a mythical industry that happens somewhere else, it actually happens here on our streets, in our homes and employing our own local businesses in our state,” says Amber Dodson, Director of the New Mexico Film Office. “We are film friendly; this is an asset we have here when productions come to shoot here they are talking to, in general, to residents and business owners who have worked with the film industry and they think it is good for the economy, and it is. So many jobs are produced by the industry. Take for example, a feature film filmed here last year, Netflix's Army of the Dead. They did most of the photography and production in Albuquerque and employed 501 New Mexico crew members, these are high paying jobs, lifelong careers as well as 2,000 background actors. This is a film friendly state because so many residents are employed or benefit from it.”Residents who are likely to have a favorable impression of the film and motion picture industry include people who have been residents of the state for less than eight years, a college graduate and over the age of 65 years. Geographically, residents living in North Central New Mexico have the highest favorability of the film industry than those living in other parts of the state. New Mexicans living in Albuquerque and the northwest parts of the state are also very favorable of the industry. 

We discussed the #GPS2020 Closer Look: Newspapers with Mr. Sammy Lopez, Executive Director of the New Mexico Press Association. In 2011 that newspaper ranked as the second most accessed information source in New Mexico. Fast forward to 2020, it dropped to fourth out of six sources, behind internet news sites and radio.

In times of crisis, we lean heavier on the opinions of those people we trust.This podcast features an excerpt of The 2020 GPS overview of New Mexican's Trust of People and Professions. When it comes to who New Mexico residents trust, blood is thicker than water.We're not able to choose our family but we sure do trust them. Residents were asked to rate the trustworthiness of various people using a five-point scale where five is completely trustand one is completely distrust.  The large majority (76%) of New Mexicans view their family members or relatives as being trustworthy. Of this group, women were more likely to trust family members and relatives (81%) then men (61%).Teachers are trusted among 69 percent of New Mexico residents. Trust of teachers increases with the level of attained education. Among college graduates, 71 percent trust teachers, compared with 68% of high school graduates.Doctors are trusted by 66 percent of residents. In January, months before New Mexico's first reported COVID-19 case, doctors had the highest level of trust among residents living in the Northwest (84%) and North Central (72%) parts of the state. Northwest New Mexico was harder hit by COVID-19 than any other part of the state. Also, 75 percent of residents 65 years or older trust doctors, compared to 67 percent of residents 18-34 years old.Rounding out the most trusted New Mexicans, 61 percent of residents trust scientists, and 58 percent view police officersas being trustworthy. Just over half (52%) of the state's residents rate pastors, priests or other religious leaders as being trustworthy, which is a decline from 62 percent observed in 2017.On the flip side of the “red line,” a host of other people and professions have their work cut out. Those with trust below 50 percent often have to share one to two points defending their profession before proactively sharing something positive.Less than half of New Mexico residents view accountants (45%), judges (41%), the ordinary man or woman (40%), and business owners/executives (38%) as trustworthy. However, it should be noted that 26 percent view judges as untrustworthy, and 19 percent say the ordinary man or woman is untrustworthy. One in three residents view journalists as being trustworthy, while 33 percent distrust journalists and another 30 percent have mixed feelings. Residents living in New Mexico for more than 20 years have a higher level of trust (35%) for reporters than do residents who have been here for fewer than eight years (20%). More women (41%) than men (25%) trust journalists. Democrats (40%) and independent voters (30%) trust journalists more than Republicans (28%).When you look at trust by region, the numbers fluctuate. For example, in 2014 only 8 percent of residents living in the northwest region trusted journalists, compared to 57 percent who did not trust reporters and editors. In 2017, only 14 percent of residents on the east side of the state trusted journalists compared to 53 percent who distrusted the profession (read Closer Look: Newspapers on page 14).New Mexico residents are more likely to say they distrust the following people than they are to trust them: federal government officials (36% distrust, 29% trust); state government officials (35% distrust, 31% trust); lawyers (34% distrust, 29% trust); and advertising executives (40% distrust, 20% trust).For more information visit GarrityPR.com

Welcome to an overview of the 2020 Garrity Perception Survey, this is Tom Garrity.This segment addresses the 17 industries and institutions featured in the annual Garrity Perception Survey. It first started in 2011. The Garrity Group commissioned Research & Polling to conduct the survey.  It included a random sample of New Mexico adult residents, interviewed by telephone, between January 21st  and 30th , 2020.A total of 408 adult residents in New Mexico completed interviews providing a 95% confidence level.For more information about the Garrity Perception Survey, visit http://garritypr.com.

The Perception Podcast spends some time with Agnes Noonan who is the leader of WESST.  With locations in Albuquerque, Farmington, Las Cruces, Rio Rancho, Roswell and Santa Fe the organization is a statewide small business development and training organization committed to growing New Mexico's economy by cultivating entrepreneurship. Tom Garrity had the opportunity to serve on the WESST Board of Directors several years ago and has had the opportunity to remain connected to the organization through its clients like Comcast and organizations like Albuquerque Economic Forum.The conversation focused on her presentation to the Economic Forum which was an eye-opener on so many levels for Albuquerque's business leaders.  The PowerPoint presentation is attached to this presentation.Link to learn more about WESST and to view their presentation to the Economic Forum http://garritypr.com/wesst-presentation 

Special Edition of the Perception Podcast focusing on the New Mexico First Forum: Sustainable Journalism: Preserving the Fourth EstateMeet the New Mexico First Spirit of Journalistic Excellence honoree Trip Jennings, Executive Director, New Mexico In DepthTom Garrity, President and CEO of the Garrity Group talks with Trip about his background in Journalism and thoughts on where the industry is headed.Trip Jennings, executive director. trip@nmindepth.comVia NMinDepth.comTrip started his career in Georgia at his hometown newspaper, The Augusta Chronicle. Since then he's worked at newspapers in California, Florida and Connecticut where he reported on many interesting stories, including the resignation and incarceration of Connecticut's then-governor, John Rowland, and gang warfare in California. Since 2005, Trip has covered politics and state government for the Albuquerque Journal, The New Mexico Independent and the Santa Fe New Mexican.  He holds a Master's of Divinity from Columbia Theological Seminary in Decatur, Ga. In 2012, he co-founded New Mexico In Depth.The interviews are a part of Tom's Perception Podcast through The Garrity Group.

The Perception Podcast today takes a bit of a darker turn as we focus on myth versus reality.  Breaking Bad vs Albuquerque,  The Wire vs. Baltimore Thank you for joining the perception podcast, this is Tom Garrity of The Garrity Group Public Relations. Based in Albuquerque where we help small businesses to be heard and large organizations to be understood in New Mexico.Joining me today on the Perception Podcast is Greg Abel of Abel Communications in Baltimore, Maryland.New Mexico is known for Green Chile and Baltimore is known for Crab Cakes. But if you watch mainstream television… those perceptions are so 1980's! Both cities are known as being the iconic backdrops for television shows with a cult-like following: Albuquerque, NM is known for Breaking Bad and Baltimore is known for The Wire.This episode of the Perception Podcast provides Albuquerque listeners a chance to learn more about Baltimore and The Wire as a way to remind us that we are not alone!  Greg Abel shares some great insights that will resonate with Albuquerque and New Mexico residents.

Bloomberg: Local News in America Is Dying. Charity Might Save ItSpecial Edition of the Perception Podcast focusing on the New Mexico First Forum: Sustainable Journalism: Preserving the Fourth EstateMeet our Panelists, Leaders in New Mexico JournalismRussell Contreras is a reporter with the Associated Press in Albuquerque. Previous work included the Boston Globe and Albuquerque Journal. Specialties include multi-media storytelling and enterprise writing. Listen to these podcasts to get a behind the scenes insights on the upcoming New Mexico First program, Sustainable Journalism: Preserving the Fourth Estate! Tom Garrity, President and CEO of the Garrity Group talks with our First Forum panelists, New Mexico journalists Gene Grant, Russell Contreras, Jessica Onsurez and Michelle Donaldson. Tom serves as a member of the New Mexico First Board of Directors and is chair of the upcoming First Forum Lecture Series—we thank him for contributing his time and talent. The interviews are a part of Tom's Perception Podcast through his firm.

Special Edition of the Perception Podcast focusing on the New Mexico First Forum: Sustainable Journalism: Preserving the Fourth EstateMeet our Panelists, Leaders in New Mexico JournalismGene Grant is the host of KNME's public affairs program, New Mexico In Focus. A journalist and columnist, previous work includes the Albuquerque Tribune, Albuquerque Journal, and Weekly Alibi.  Listen to these podcasts to get a behind the scenes insights on the upcoming New Mexico First program, Sustainable Journalism: Preserving the Fourth Estate! Tom Garrity, President and CEO of the Garrity Group talks with our First Forum panelists, New Mexico journalists Gene Grant, Russell Contreras, Jessica Onsurez and Michelle Donaldson. Tom serves as a member of the New Mexico First Board of Directors and is chair of the upcoming First Forum Lecture Series—we thank him for contributing his time and talent. The interviews are a part of Tom's Perception Podcast through his firm.

Special Edition of the Perception Podcast focusing on the New Mexico First Forum: Sustainable Journalism: Preserving the Fourth EstateMeet our Panelists, Leaders in New Mexico JournalismMichelle Donaldson is vice president and general manager at KOB-4 TV news. She also worked as KRQE's news director and brings television as well as radio experience from the Phoenix and Detroit markets.  Listen to these podcasts to get a behind the scenes insights on the upcoming New Mexico First program, Sustainable Journalism: Preserving the Fourth Estate! Tom Garrity, President and CEO of the Garrity Group talks with our First Forum panelists, New Mexico journalists Gene Grant, Russell Contreras, Jessica Onsurez and Michelle Donaldson. Tom serves as a member of the New Mexico First Board of Directors and is chair of the upcoming First Forum Lecture Series—we thank him for contributing his time and talent. The interviews are a part of Tom's Perception Podcast through his firm.

Special Edition of the Perception Podcast focusing on the New Mexico First Forum: Sustainable Journalism: Preserving the Fourth EstateMeet our Panelists, Leaders in New Mexico JournalismJessica Onsurez is the News Director for the USA Today network properties in southeast New Mexico: Carlsbad Current-Argus, Alamogordo Daily News and Ruidoso News. Her experience spans across education, government and data reporting.  Listen to these podcasts to get a behind the scenes insights on the upcoming New Mexico First program, Sustainable Journalism: Preserving the Fourth Estate! Tom Garrity, President and CEO of the Garrity Grouptalks with our First Forum panelists, New Mexico journalists Gene Grant, Russell Contreras, Jessica Onsurez and Michelle Donaldson. Tom serves as a member of the New Mexico First Board of Directors and is chair of the upcoming First Forum Lecture Series—we thank him for contributing his time and talent. The interviews are a part of Tom's Perception Podcastthrough his firm.

This is the introduction for the 2018 Garrity Perception Survey.  For more information please visit www.aboutperception.com In 1997, The Garrity Group embarked on its a journey to be a firm that shares its trusted public relation skills and unique New Mexico insights generously with its clients.In 2011, the firm stepped up its offering pursuing thought leadership through our annual Garrity Perception Survey.Over the past seven years' the firm has commissioned Albuquerque-based Research & Polling to conduct the annual survey.Each year, survey participants are interviewed by telephone (both landlines and cell phones) in the February/March timeframe. The scientific, statewide survey usesthecurrent United States Census as its guide, to ensure there is no “over” or “under representation” of geographic or demographic populations. Each year, the survey features responses of approximately 405 New Mexico residents, consistently providing a 95 percent level of confidence. 

Since 2011, the Garrity Perception Survey has tracked how New Mexico residents get their news and information.In one corner, there is traditional media – this includes television, newspaper, and radio. Of the group, television has been, and remains, the most popular of the three news sources.Newspaper trends toward more of an older audience.  Newspaper's strongest readers are located in the North Central and Northwest parts of New Mexico.Radio is favorable among demographics with lower annual incomes. Also, radio is strongest among the 35-49 and 50-64 age demographics.In the other corner, there is digital media – this includes internet news sites, social media and blogs.  Of the group, internet news sites are the most popular online source for information.Social media, which has come on strong in recent years, is accessed quite a bit for news and informationBlogs, very popular among subject matter groups, have yet to catch on like internet news sites and social media, as a place to get news and information.Geographically, digital media news sources are most popular in Albuquerque and in areas that are a part of other media markets.  This includes Farmington, Las Cruces, and Clovis markets their residents get news from the respective Durango, El Paso and Amarillo markets.To be successful in getting your personal or company news and information consumed by New Mexico residents,  we suggest developing strategies that can get your message in front of a variety of audiences.For topics relating to grand openings and pop culture, or to reach the largest number of people as quickly as possible, television and social media are solid resources.  Stories that are a bit wonky in nature (like those that are political in nature or issue oriented) should focus on newspaper and blogs. Radio is a great way to generate traffic to a brick and mortar site as well as a great vehicle to explain complex issues or promote topics that are conversational in nature.The challenge for both traditional and digital media sources is trust and relevancy.  Traditional media is more trusted than digital media.  Digital media is more relevant because of the “now”, but it lacks trust.One of the most underutilized aspects of getting the word out is something the industry refers to “atomizing content.”  This is making use of every possible aspect to share the story.  For example, when developing the news release, record the CEO's comments on video using a mobile phone.  This information can be posted to a corporate website or used to populate digital media. The finished news release can be transformed into a blog post and turned into a week's worth of social media content. The coverage of the news release can be shared on social media and the coverage links added to the news release page on the corporate website.More information and analysis of this information is available online at www.garrityperceptionsurvey.com.

New Mexico's legal system is ripe with opportunity to gauge public opinion when compared to community conversations.The Garrity Perception Survey measures four areas related to the New Mexico legal and justice system.  It includes favorability of the courts and justice system as well as measures trust of judges, lawyers and law enforcement officers.Favorability of the courts and trust of lawyers do well to hover in the lower quarter of favorability.  Based on a seven-year statewide average, the courts system averages 26 percent favorability and lawyers average 21 percent favorability. Geographically, the two areas are hard pressed to find any pockets of significant support in any part of the state. It is safe to say that despite some very good people and qualified professionals, favorability of the court and trust of attorneys is difficult to increase given awareness of high crime rates, drunk drivers and repeat offenders.Interestingly, while New Mexico residents are not favorable of the courts they are trusting of its officers, the judges.  An 18 percent gap exists between trust of judges and favorability of the courts.  Geographically, judges have higher trust among residents living in the Eastern and South/Southwestern parts of the state.Police officers and law enforcement officers are the most trusted when compared with their two counterparts, judges and lawyers. However, New Mexico residents didn't always have this level of trust (a 49 percent average) of police officers.In 2013 and 2014, a series of high profile incidents captured local, statewide and national attention.In 2013, the New Mexico State Police pulled over a van carrying the suspect and her five children.  After the second time the driver tried to speed away, officers fired three shots at the van's tires. The police dash-cam video captured the exchange which made national coverage.  The officers were cleared of the shooting as a judge said they were justified to shoot at the tires.Also, in 2013, the Deming Police Department and the Hidalgo County Sheriff's Office conducted a full cavity search on a person who was pulled over for allegedly for not coming to a full stop at a stop sign in a Walmart parking lot.In 2014, the Albuquerque Police Department was involved in the fatal shooting of a homeless man who also suffered from mental disorders. After the shooting, the suspect was found to have knives in each hand.  The incident was one of several officer involved shootings faced by the department in as many months.The APD shootings captured the media attention and attracted attention of the United States Justice Department.  Police Chief Gordon Eden, an experienced law man and relatively new to his role as police chief, led changes to the force.  With the help of the Mayor and Albuquerque City Council, the Civilian Police Oversight Agency was established.These actions helped to rebuild trust among Albuquerque residents which in turn increased trust of police offices statewide.More information and analysis of this information is available online at www.garrityperceptionsurvey.com.

From 2011-2017, perceptions of healthcare in New Mexico have been impacted at a variety of levels.Consider these milestones at the Federal and State level.2010 inaugurated the Affordable Care Act (or ACA), also known as Obamacare.In 2013, the New Mexico Human Services Department halted funding to 15 behavioral health providers in response to allegations of Medicaid fraud this resulted in coverage interruptions for 30,000 of the state's most vulnerable residents.Also in 2013, the New Mexico Healthcare Exchange was created by state law to help residents get affordable health care coverage.In 2014 the Veterans Health Administration was embroiled in a scandal where allegations of negligence were reported in the treatment of United States military veterans.As if 2013 didn't have enough activity, New Mexico Governor Susanna Martinez expanded healthcare coverage, through the ACA, to include recipients of Medicaid. The expansion provided coverage for residents with household incomes up to 138 percent of the Federal poverty level.And according to US Census data, the uninsured rate in New Mexico fell from 18.6 percent in 2013 to 9.2 percent in 2016 — a drop of more than 50 percent, versus the national average drop of a little more than 40 percent.A 2015 report issued by the University of New Mexico Health Sciences Center shows that New Mexico only has “nineteen hundred” primary care physicians. When compared to the State's population, at the time, that equaled one primary care physician for every “thousand ninety-nine” New Mexicans in the state.Politically, in 2016, a unique political showdown developed between the legislature, Attorney General, State Auditor and Office of the Superintendent of Insurance.  At the center of the issue, the release of an audit claiming the Insurance Superintendent failed to collect nearly $200 million in taxes from insurance companies.The seven-year period also included new hospital construction and improvements as well as the creation of and merger of various insurance and medical groups.Despite the changes, New Mexico residents are generally consistent in how they feel about the medical system.  Favorability, hovers just below the 50 percent mark with the most fluctuation occurring in 2013 when it dropped from 49 percent to 46 percent.  Over the past seven years, the medical system has averaged 47 percent favorability among New Mexico residents.Geographically, residents in the Albuquerque area are the most consistent and generally have the highest levels of trust and favorability regarding doctors and the medical system. Residents in the Northwest have the largest swings in favorability of the medical system with a low of 45 percent in 2015 and high of 75 percent in 2016.  Trust of doctors also saw some extreme swings in North Central New Mexico with a 39 percent favorability in 2014 followed by 70 percent favorability in 2015.Interestingly, the oldest and youngest residents have the highest level of trust in physicians. The youngest (18-34 years of age), typically the lightest users of insurance and healthcare, have an average 66 percent trust of physicians compared to residents over the age of 65 years, the most frequent users of insurance and health care, who have a 69 percent average of trust in doctors. More information and analysis of this information is available online at www.garrityperceptionsurvey.com.

Faith and religion are intertwined with New Mexico history and who we are as a society.Generally, more than 70 percent of New Mexico residents place a high value of faith in their personal life.  Their favorability of religious institutions and trust of religious leaders isn't far behind.Sixty five percent of New Mexico residents, on average, have a favorable view of religious institutions.  Sixty one percent of residents, on average, have a favorable view of religious leaders.However, drilling down into the numbers shows the impacts that scandal can have on perceptions of any industry.In 2013 and 2014, lawsuits against the Catholic Church, alleging abuse by several priests against parishioners, were in the headlines.  The New Mexico lawsuits were filed in 2013 and were reflected, in part, when the 2014 survey was in the field in February/March of that year. The lowest levels of trust and favorability of religious leaders and institutions were seen in the 2013 and 2014 surveys.  When news started to hit, Statewide trust of religious leaders dropped ten percent and favorability of religious institutions dropped eight percent.The negative hit was most evident among resident's trust of priests in areas where there is a high level of catholic residents. Specifically, trust of religious leaders went from a high of 74 percent in 2013 to a low of 41 percent in 2015, a drop of 33 percent over the course of the year.  Trust of religious leaders in that region has still not recovered and trust among North Central residents remains the lowest in the state (an average of 58 percent).Conversely, areas with high level of protestant membership (Northwest and Eastern New Mexico) saw increases in trust of their religious leaders during that time.  In fact, residents in Northwest New Mexico saw an eleven percent increase in trust from 2013 to 2014.Paralleling legal settlements was an aggressive effort by the Catholic Church to own the narrative of showing compassion to the victims.  This resulted in a gradual increase of trust and favorability for all pastors and priests as well as churches.More information and analysis of this information is available online at www.garrityperceptionsurvey.com.

Perceptions of education swing wildly in New Mexico.  Media coverage and controversy tend to be the biggest sway of favorability and trust.  Another motivator of “perception” is political ideology.For example, favorability of universities tends to dip whenever there is controversy or transition in leadership.  Favorability of Universities in Southern New Mexico dipped when New Mexico State University was in the midst of a very hostile leadership transition. The same dip was seen in the Albuquerque area when the University of New Mexico's sports programs grabbed the headlines.The scenario for K-12 education is not much different.  While people connect with people and not so much institutions, it should not be surprising about the general differences between the lower favorability of public schools and higher trust of teachers.  However, there are some things to notice in the seven years of perception surveys.In 2011, Public Schools enjoyed a 47 percent favorability.  The next year, it slipped to 38 percent. The ebb and flow of favorability continued.  Favorability increased for three years to 46 percent in 2015 only to drop again to 39 percent in 2017.Trust of Teachers is not as volatile, increasing three percent over the past seven years.  Teachers saw the lowest level of trust in 2013 (63 percent) and the highest level of trust in 2015 (74 percent).The age groups most vested in K-12 education are the 18-34 and 35-49 year old age group. New Mexico residents in these age groups are the most likely to have children in the public schools. Both of these age demographics place a high level of trust in teachers, both seeing peaks in 2015. The age groups tend to split a little more dramatically when it comes to favorability of public schools. The 18-34 age group, despite an 18 point shift from 2012 to 2015, tends to be more favorable of public schools than the 35-49 age group.Statewide, residents in Eastern New Mexico are the most favorable of public schools (51 percent average) while residents in Albuquerque have the lowest level of favorability (38 percent average).  Trust of teachers is highest in North Central New Mexico (an average of 70 percent). More information and analysis of this information is available online at www.garrityperceptionsurvey.com.

The energy industry will singlehandedly shape New Mexico's future. Oil and gas coupled with “wind and solar” will respectively shape future state budgets and could become the state's largest export to the west coast over the next 20 years.According to the Legislative Finance Committee, “New Mexico typically receives about $2 billion in direct revenue from oil and gas production through severance and property taxes and royalty and rental income. Additional indirect income is generated by sales and income taxes on “oil and gas” drilling and service, which generate about $300 million. The State of New Mexico's 2018 budget is $6.3 billion.”According to the Wind Energy Foundation: “New Mexico stands out as an emerging wind powerhouse, adding wind power capacity at a faster rate than any other state in 2017. Wind farms supplied over 13 percent of the state's electricity generation last year, enough to power over 422,000 average homes. New Mexico is now ranked 15th in the nation with installed capacity. A wave of new wind investment will soon advance the state's leadership” in this arena.Over the past seven years, favorability of the two industries traditionally has had stark differences.  On average, 60 percent of state residents are favorable of the “solar and wind” industry versus 44 percent favorability of the “oil and gas” industry.Politically, those who identify themselves as republican are favorable of oil/gas while those who identify as democrat are just as favorable of solar/wind.Breaking down favorability of the industries by age reveals the 35-49 demographic is the most favorable of solar/wind while the 50+ demographic is most favorable of oil/gas.  Interestingly, the 65+ age group is least favorable of solar/wind compared to the 35-49 age group which is least favorable of oil/gas.Geographically, residents in North Central New Mexico are the most favorable of solar/wind  versus residents in Eastern New Mexico are the most favorable of oil/gas.Gender and ethnicity don't really come into play as a differentiator for the solar/wind industry.  Male/Female and residents who identify themselves as Hispanic or Anglo are, on average, favorable of the renewable industry.The oil and gas industry is viewed with greater favorability among males versus females as well as residents who identify themselves as Anglo versus Hispanic.More information and analysis of this information is available online at www.garrityperceptionsurvey.com.

Providing insight and a voice for Fortune 500 companies that have a presence in New Mexico, The Garrity Group uses the data to demonstrate how New Mexico is not a “one size fits all” state.For example, how residents in Northwest New Mexico view the oil and gas industry varies differently than those in the North Central part of the state. We use the information with our “instate” clients as a basis for understanding the best way to approach unique communities throughout the Land of Enchantment.In the rapidly changing news industry, we use the information to shape our earned media plan. For example, if you want to use digital media to inform those who are favorable towards media, you will want to focus first on social media and then on bloggers.  If you are trying to decide whether print or radio is the best option to reach Farm & Ranch Industry advocates, the research skews toward newspaper. And if you are trying to chart ways to reach millennials, you will want to focus on “niche” digital campaigns.More information and analysis of this information is available online at www.garrityperceptionsurvey.com.

The Garrity Group has a quick five minute take on the perception issues facing the Ohio State University and its head coach for the football program. We also weigh in on how this piles onto other issues in the Big 10 with Michigan State, Maryland and Wisconsin.

The Perception Podcast features Phill Casaus, editor of The Santa Fe New Mexican. Phill offers insights as both a former editor at The Albuquerque Tribune and The Rocky Mountain News as well as work with the Albuquerque Public Schools Foundation. Tom Garrity caught up with Phill following his comments to the New Mexico Chapter of the Public Relations Society of America. http://www.santafenewmexican.com

The Perception Podcast features Jim Strozier of Consensus Planning, a firm that specializes in planning, urban design and landscape architecture. Their clients include some craft breweries in the Albuquerque area. Tom Garrity caught up with Jim to discuss the Albuquerque craft brew scene. Companies discussed in this podcast include: Consensus Planning http://consensusplanning.com , High and Dry Brewing http://highanddrybrewing.com , Bow and Arrow Brewing http://www.bowandarrowbrewing.com , Marble Brewery http://www.marblebrewery.com

The Garrity Group is a long time supporter of the Ronald McDonald House Charities of New Mexico. Its long-time executive director, Kristin Rortvedt, is relocating to closer to family. This provided a great opportunity to get Kristin's insights on how to run a successful nonprofit and get her thoughts on other organizations that are making an impact. http://www.rmhc-nm.org/ http://www.saranamabq.org https://www.fathersbuildingfutures.com

The Perception Podcast takes a twist at the end of 2017 with Tom Garrity, president of The Garrity Group Public Relations, hosting Tom Carroll with Carroll Strategies and James Korenchen of JKPR to the microphone for some fun and forecasting of what is ahead for the public relations industry in 2018 Here are the domains discussed in today's podcast: http://www.carrollstrategies.net http://www.jameskorenchen.com http://garritypr.com

The 2011 Garrity Perception Survey as read by Tom Garrity

Welcome to the Perception Podcast featuring The Garrity Group team discussing all things related to New Mexico public relations, media relations and digital media in ten minutes or less. Today is April 7, 2017. This is Tom Garrity. Joining me on The Garrity Group patio, with a view of the Sandia Mountains is Account Executive for Digital Media Lexi Palmer. Today's topic is purely going to focus on Facebook Live. Lexi has penned a very informative and brief overview of the Facebook Live feature, available only on its mobile application. The Blog post is titled “5 WAYS PR PROS CAN USE FACEBOOK STORIES FOR THEIR CUSTOMERS”. http://garritypr.com/media/blog-listing

Welcome to the Perception Podcast featuring The Garrity Group team discussing all things related to New Mexico public relations, media relations and digital media in ten minutes or less. This is Tom Garrity. Joining me around the table this week includes members of The Garrity Group team: Amanda Molina and Lily Quezada. Today is March 3, 2017… For our Top Topics segment, lets briefly discuss who had the best or worst media moves of the past week… A few years ago there was a movie Superman vs Batman… I never saw the movie but the concept of the clash of super powers was intriguing. Using this premise, in the world of social media who wins in Snapchat vs Instagram? As we wrap up the perception podcast, we will go to the category of “one beggar showing another beggar where to get food” What is a nugget of gold in the media mine that you want to share with each other and our listeners. It can be in the form of a quote, a TV show, a podcast, movie, book or whatever provides you inspiration where you least expect it… For more insights, visit aboutperception.com or garritypr.com. Show notes: Uber CEO http://money.cnn.com/2017/02/28/technology/uber-ceo-travis-kalanick/ George W. Bush: Free Press ‘Indispensable to Democracy' http://www.nbcnews.com/news/us-news/george-w-bush-free-press-indispensable-democracy-n726141 Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice (2016) http://www.imdb.com/title/tt2975590/ Snapchat https://www.snapchat.com Instagram https://www.instagram.com Oscar Night PwC Fiasco http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-4276816/Incompetent-PwC-accounts-froze-Oscars.html Chef's Table https://www.netflix.com/title/80007945 Mike Rowe The Way I heard it http://mikerowe.com/tag/the-way-i-heard-it/ Jay Baer http://www.jaybaer.com Convince and Convert http://www.convinceandconvert.com Have a great day…

Welcome to the Perception Podcast featuring The Garrity Group team discussing all things related to New Mexico public relations, media relations and digital media in ten minutes or less. This is Tom Garrity. Joining me around the table this week includes Vice President Amanda Molina and Director Lily Quezada. The perception podcast consists of the “top topic”, media moves and takeaways. For the “top topic”…In honor of the movie Groundhog Day, is there a PR program you would like to see over and over again or any you would like to never see again? Our media moves segment lets talk about the changes at the Albuquerque Journal. It was announced earlier this week that long time Editor Kent Walz will be stepping aside allowing Karen Moses take over for the daily newspaper of record. Good move or bad move? And finally this weekend is the Super Bowl! What are your pre-game picks for the best ad… at $4million for a 30 second spot? For more insights, visit aboutperception.com or garritypr.com. Websites featured in this podcast episode: www.balloonfiesta.com www.nmtrue.com www.godaddy.com www.buick.com Bud Light Best Friends https://youtu.be/Uou1YeGxNIA Budweiser “Born The Hard Way” https://youtu.be/HtBZvl7dIu4 www.ABQJournal.com https://www.nfl.com/super-bowl

Welcome to the Perception Podcast featuring The Garrity Group team discussing all things related to New Mexico public relations, media relations and digital media in ten minutes or less. This podcast features: Tom Garrity, Amanda Molina, Lily Quezada. The top topics focus on: Dions Pizza, Waste Isolation Pilot Plant, Affordable Care Act The media moves segment includes: The Craftroom, Steelbridge and the New Mexico themed Emojis! The takeaway segment addresses: The Albuquerque Journal recently started the “Bright Spot” story every day. Is this a good thing to point out to readers or is it just reinforcing that most news reported is negative news? Also, what kind of opportunity does this provide for Albuquerque area businesses? Websites featured in our conversation: http://www.dions.com http://www.wipp.energy.gov/wipprecovery/recovery.html http://www.bewellnm.com http://www.thecraftroomnm.com https://www.abqjournal.com/927725/rescue-mission-to-be-renamed-as-steelbridge.html https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/new-mexico-by-emoji-fame/id1186930417 https://www.abqjournal.com/category/bright-spot

This is a new twist of the Perception Podcast featuring The Garrity Group team discussing all things related to New Mexico public relations, media relations and digital social media in ten minutes or less. This episode includes: Tom Garrity, Lily Quezada and Conor Sanchez Items discussed: • What will be one topic/issue that will shape the public relations industry in 2017? • What are some things we've seen in the world of New Mexico traditional and digital media? • What is one new professional or personal habit you will institute in 2017? For more insights, visit aboutperception.com or garritypr.com. Websites and items mentioned during the podcast • http://blacklivesmatter.com • https://meowwolf.com • https://www.snapchat.com

In the midst of this political season and the presidential debates, how do you rise above the noise to get media attention for your business or client? Tom Garrity will share three things your organization should be doing to stay in front of your customers and clients. Also, Tom will share some insights on things you should keep in mind when developing your 2017 communications strategy.

New Mexico residents rely upon traditional media more than digital media for news and information. Among traditional media, 77 percent of residents access television news “a lot” or “somewhat” for news and information. This according to the 2016 Garrity Perception Survey (GPS). Based on prior GPS's we know 55 percent of New Mexico residents trust local media, compared to 51 percent who trust national media. The Garrity Group has the opportunity to work with both local and national media. This episode of the About Perception podcast will focus on the firms work with a national morning. Amanda Molina, Vice President of The Garrity Group and President of the New Mexico Chapter Public Relations Society of America is our guest.

Welcome to the About Perception Podcast from The Garrity Group Public Relations, this is Tom Garrity. Our topic today focuses on two aspects of The 2016 Garrity Perception Survey: Perception of the banking industry and the call for buinsess owners and executives to be more involved in the solving the State's economic and social issues. According to the 2016 survey, New Mexico residents have a 64% favorability of local banks a 35% favorability towards national banks. In addition, 76% of residents wants business owners and executives to have a more active role to improve New Mexico's economy and 71% want the business leaders to have a more active role in solving New Mexico's social problems. Joining me today is someone who knows a thing or two about banking, business leadership and is herself a servant leader in the community, Jennifer Riordan, Vice President with Wells Fargo. I've had the opportunity to know Jennifer for decades and her community involvement on a personal and corporate level is beyond admirable. One award that sums up Jennifer is an honor of receiving the Samaritan Counseling Center's New Mexico Ethics in Business Young Leader Award. Welcome Jennifer… What do you think is driving the disparity of favorability between local and national banks? Two years ago, New Mexicans told us that they prefer shopping local small businesses over the big national stores, then identified Walmart as their favorite local small business. What are some of the ways Wells Fargo is like a local bank? Switching topics, one of the areas asked New Mexico residents about was the amount of involvement business owners and executives should have in helping to improve New Mexico's Economy. 76% say business leaders need to have a more active role. What is your take on that response? The last topic we will touch on during our time today revolved around the amount of involvement business owners/executives should have in helping solve New Mexico's social problems. 71% said leadership needs to have a more active role. Are you surprised by this? What are some ways that business owners and executives can get involved in helping to solve New Mexico's social problems? Thank you for listening to the About Perception podcast on aboutperception.com. For more information about the research we discussed visit garrityperceptionsurvey.com Also, be sure to listen to some of our other perception podcasts, all available through Garritypr.com.

Welcome to the About Perception Podcast from The Garrity Group Public Relations, this is Tom Garrity. This episode is focusing on those who stand the watch… trust of police officers and what our community can do to get a better understanding of this important profession. The 2016 Garrity Perception Survey of New Mexico residents, commissioned by The Garrity Group and conducted by Research and Polling, recently measured perceptions of New Mexico residents about favorability od small business. The survey results have a 95 percent level of confidence. New Mexico residents trust police officers. But it hasn't always been that way. In 2014, according to the Garrity Perception Survey, only 39% of residents trusted police officers. According to the 2016 Garrity Perception Survey52% of residents trust plice officers… an increase of 13% over the past two years. Given how the law enforcement profession was perceived in our state – a result of some very high profile incidents – to see a 13% increase over two years is nothing short of impressive. Joining me today is someone who wears a lot of hats very well including community leader, real estate financer and BBQ aficionado but most of us know him as the Vice President of Business Development and Marketing for the Frost Mortgage Banking Group… Greg Frost Junior.

It has been said, more than once, that small business is the backbone of New Mexico's private sector. The 2016 Garrity Perception Survey of New Mexico residents, commissioned by The Garrity Group and conducted by Research and Polling, recently measured perceptions of New Mexico residents about favorability od small business. The survey results have a 95 percent level of confidence. New Mexico residents are very favorable toward small business with a 77% favorability in 2016. The industry is consistently one of the most favorable in New Mexico. Residents living in eastern, Northwest and the Greater Albuquerque area are more supportive of small business than those in other parts of the state. Going behind the numbers, we took the About Perception Podcast to Roswell, New Mexico to speak to a small business owner, Anne Baker owner of the Stellar Coffee Company. To get her thoughts on the successes and challenges of running a small business.

Brace for impact! This is a number rich comparison of the 2011-2015 Garrity Perception Survey as it relates to New Mexico residents trust of Federal and State Government Officials. Tom Garrity talks about the increased level of distrust among registered voters and provides insights on how Albuquerque and Las Cruces area residents distrust government officials more than residents living in any other part of New Mexico. The Garrity Perception Survey is the premier resource for understanding New Mexico residents. Since 2011, the annual survey measures who residents trust, which industries are favorable, among other topics.

Martin Waxman, of Martin Waxman Communications in Toronto, enjoys talking about the Social Media Barometer. It is his perspective on some of the trends and pressure points facing the PR/marketing profession. It also provides a forecast on how to put things into a context that makes sense for communicators. In this interview, Martin provides three (ok, it is really four) ways for organizations to effectively engage their communities. For more information about Martin visit www.martinwaxman.com

Welcome to the About Perception Podcast from The Garrity Group Public Relations, this is Tom Garrity. Today's episode will include insights from Tom Hoog, Fellow PRSA and vice chairman of H+K Strategies. I had a chance to catch up with Tom at the North Carolina Public Relations Society of America conference, where we were both keynote speakers. Tom was speaking to the group about “understanding and motivating today's workforce.”