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Japan's Top Business Interviews Podcast By Dale Carnegie Training Tokyo, Japan
"My career, I like to say, is about saving the world one word at a time." "I love team building. I love creating something from nothing or growing it further." "Creating connection and engagement with people" is one of the hardest parts of leading remotely. "You need to show the vision, where you're going, and why that matters." "Leadership is really about unlocking the potential and power of those who report to you." Meghan Barstow is President of Edelman Japan, bringing a career defined by language, communications, adaptability and cross-cultural leadership. Her Japan story began thirty years earlier when she studied Japanese at Kansai Gaidai in Osaka after intensive language training in the United States. With an academic background in English literature and Japanese, she describes herself as "a woman who loves words," a phrase that neatly captures her professional journey. After university, Barstow returned to Japan through the JET Program, spending three years in rural Kagoshima as an ALT and CIR. That immersive experience deepened both her Japanese language capability and her understanding of regional Japan. She later worked for Hyogo Prefecture's business and cultural centre in Seattle, taught Japanese at a public high school, and returned to Tokyo to create business English textbooks before entering PR and communications through Adcom Group's Tri Media. Her career with Edelman began in Japan on the healthcare team when the office was still relatively small. She later moved to the United States, took time to hike the Pacific Crest Trail from Mexico to Canada, and rejoined Edelman in Washington, D.C., where she developed her leadership capabilities across client leadership, sector leadership and employee experience. Her long-held ambition was to return to Japan and lead an office. She eventually came back as President of Edelman Japan, taking on the challenge of leading more than seventy people during the COVID era, much of it remotely. Barstow's leadership context is shaped by global communications, Japanese cultural fluency, remote transformation, employee engagement, trust-building and organisational change. Her adaptability in Japan comes not from a single posting, but from repeated immersion, reinvention and a deep belief that words, trust and human connection sit at the centre of effective leadership. Meghan Barstow's leadership story is a study in language, mobility, resilience and change. As President of Edelman Japan, she leads an organisation at the intersection of communications, marketing, trust, earned attention and cultural transformation. Her path to Japan did not begin with the usual clichés of pop culture or food. Instead, it began with a love of travel, a willingness to take on difficult languages and a desire to build a career through communication. Her first deep experience of Japan came as a student at Kansai Gaidai in Osaka. Later, through the JET Program, she spent three years in rural Kagoshima, an experience that gave her more than language ability. It gave her the kind of cultural immersion that helps a foreign leader understand Japan beyond Tokyo boardrooms. She went on to work in cultural exchange, education, publishing and eventually PR, where she discovered that communications felt like her "calling." Barstow's return to Japan as Edelman's country leader came after significant leadership experience in the United States, particularly in Washington, D.C. Yet the move back was not simply a geographic transfer. She returned to a Japan office undergoing transformation, in an industry where the boundaries between PR, marketing, advertising, digital and corporate communications had become increasingly blurred. Edelman's value proposition, as she explains it, lies in being independent, family-owned, grounded in earned attention and differentiated by decades of research into trust through the Edelman Trust Barometer. Her biggest challenge was not only strategy. It was connection. She took on the role during COVID and had not met most of her employees face to face. Leading a team of more than seventy people remotely required deliberate communication, listening and repetition. She used all-staff business updates, weekly written roundups, one-on-one meetings, roundtables, strategy workshops and "strategy spotlight" sessions to make the direction tangible. In Japan, where uncertainty avoidance, consensus and nemawashi matter, remote transformation made alignment even harder. Barstow's approach to change management is grounded in clarity, role modelling and personal experience. She believes leaders must show the vision, explain why it matters, gain manager buy-in and give employees direct experiences of the new strategy. This is especially important in Japan, where change can feel risky because it moves people from competence into uncertainty. The challenge is not simply to announce direction, but to help people understand it emotionally and practically. Her leadership style is also shaped by trust. She recognises that trust in Japan is hard-won, takes time and becomes even more difficult in a remote environment. She sees consistency, integrity, care and communication as central to building it. Employee engagement surveys, business performance metrics and informal feedback help her understand whether the organisation is moving, but she also recognises that Japanese survey responses can be culturally restrained. For her, improvement over time matters more than absolute scores. Her view of leadership is ultimately humble and enabling. She sees the leader's role not as personal heroics, but as unlocking the potential of others. Sometimes the leader stands in front, showing the way. Sometimes beside people, supporting them step by step. Sometimes behind them, cheering them forward. For foreign executives in Japan, her lesson is clear: the fundamentals of leadership may be universal, but the path to alignment, buy-in and trust requires patience, listening, nemawashi and respect for how decisions are actually made. Q&A Summary What makes leadership in Japan unique? Leadership in Japan requires a careful balance between hierarchy and bottom-up consensus. Meghan Barstow observes that people may defer to the leader and expect direction, while also expecting decisions to emerge through wider involvement and alignment. This creates a leadership paradox for foreign executives. They must provide vision and direction without bypassing the consensus-building process that helps people feel ownership. Japan's business culture places high value on listening, patience, nemawashi and relationship-based trust. Leaders need to spend more time preparing the ground before pushing major initiatives forward. This is not simply politeness. It is a practical requirement for gaining commitment and avoiding resistance. In Barstow's experience, one-on-one listening, roundtables and repeated communication are essential to helping people understand both the logic and emotional meaning of change. Why do global executives struggle? Global executives often struggle in Japan because they underestimate how much time alignment takes. In faster-moving Western environments, a leader may announce a strategy and expect the organisation to move. In Japan, the message may need to be repeated, discussed, localised and validated through multiple channels before people fully commit. Barstow's own challenge was intensified by remote work. She was leading more than seventy people, yet had not met most of them face to face. That made trust-building, employee engagement and emotional connection much harder. Global executives may also misread employee engagement data, because Japanese respondents often score more conservatively than employees in other markets. Barstow therefore focuses less on comparing Japan with global averages and more on whether the organisation is improving over time. Is Japan truly risk-averse? Japan is often described as risk-averse, but Barstow's experience suggests the issue is more nuanced. The deeper challenge is uncertainty avoidance. People may hesitate when change pushes them out of a known area of competence into a new environment where they may make mistakes or lose face. This is particularly important in Japan's quality-conscious, defect-sensitive culture. For leaders, the answer is not to criticise caution. It is to reduce uncertainty through explanation, involvement, repetition and evidence of progress. Barstow emphasises the importance of showing the vision, explaining why it matters and giving people personal experiences of the change. When employees see that a new way of working succeeds with clients or improves outcomes, the change becomes real rather than abstract. What leadership style actually works? Barstow's leadership style combines strategic clarity, listening, humility and persistence. She began her tenure by preserving existing communication rhythms, then spent her first months listening through one-on-ones and roundtables. After understanding what employees wanted and needed, she built a communication and engagement plan around strategy, business updates and practical learning. She also recognises the importance of the "frozen middle" — the layer of managers who can either accelerate or block transformation. In Japan, leaders need managers to champion the change, role model new behaviours and translate strategy into daily practice. A leadership style that works is therefore not only top-down. It is distributed, repeated and reinforced through many small touchpoints. How can technology help? Technology can support leadership, but it cannot replace human trust. Barstow used remote platforms, written updates, engagement dashboards, survey tools and virtual roundtables to maintain communication during COVID. These tools created visibility when informal office interactions disappeared. Written communication also helped employees absorb messages at their own pace, especially in a multilingual environment. Technology can also improve decision intelligence by giving leaders more data about employee engagement, business performance and organisational change. In the future, tools such as digital twins of organisational workflows could help leaders model bottlenecks, workload pressures or collaboration patterns. However, Barstow's experience shows that technology only helps when paired with listening, empathy and human interpretation. Does language proficiency matter? Language proficiency matters, but cultural fluency matters even more. Barstow's Japanese study, rural JET Program experience and repeated periods living and working in Japan gave her a deeper foundation than a short-term expatriate assignment would have provided. Her language background helped her connect with Japan, but her leadership effectiveness also comes from understanding context, patience and communication style. She also recognises that English can be challenging in remote settings, even for capable bilingual professionals. Written updates, clear repetition and structured communication help ensure people can process complex information. For foreign leaders, language ability is valuable, but the bigger issue is whether employees feel understood, respected and included. What's the ultimate leadership lesson? The ultimate leadership lesson from Barstow's experience is that leadership is about unlocking the potential and power of others. She does not see leadership as being centred on the leader's ego. Rather, it is about helping people grow, strengthening organisational capability and creating conditions where others can succeed. Her definition of leadership is flexible. Sometimes leaders must lead from the front, showing the way. Sometimes they stand side by side, supporting people closely. Sometimes they lead from behind, encouraging and cheering others forward. In Japan, the most effective leaders combine vision with patience, courage with humility and strategy with the deep human work of trust-building. Author Credentials Dr. Greg Story, Ph.D. in Japanese Decision-Making, is President of Dale Carnegie Tokyo Training and Adjunct Professor at Griffith University. He is a two-time winner of the Dale Carnegie "One Carnegie Award" (2018, 2021) and recipient of the Griffith University Business School Outstanding Alumnus Award (2012). As a Dale Carnegie Master Trainer, Greg is certified to deliver globally across all leadership, communication, sales, and presentation programs, including Leadership Training for Results. He has written several books, including three best-sellers — Japan Business Mastery, Japan Sales Mastery, and Japan Presentations Mastery — along with Japan Leadership Mastery and How to Stop Wasting Money on Training. His works have also been translated into Japanese, including Za Eigyō (ザ営業), Purezen no Tatsujin (プレゼンの達人), Torēningu de Okane o Muda ni Suru no wa Yamemashō (トレーニングでお金を無駄にするのはやめましょう), and Gendaiban "Hito o Ugokasu" Rīdā (現代版「人を動かす」リーダー). In addition to his books, Greg publishes daily blogs on LinkedIn, Facebook, and Twitter, offering practical insights on leadership, communication, and Japanese business culture. He is also the host of six weekly podcasts, including The Leadership Japan Series, The Sales Japan Series, The Presentations Japan Series, Japan Business Mastery, and Japan's Top Business Interviews. On YouTube, he produces three weekly shows — The Cutting Edge Japan Business Show, Japan Business Mastery, and Japan's Top Business Interviews — which have become leading resources for executives seeking strategies for success in Japan.
That Solo Life Episode 339: Why Smart Solos Are Watching These Five Trends Right Now Episode Summary Karen and Michelle are back with one of their favorite formats — a roundup of what's happening in the world right now and what it means for solo and small agency PR, communications, and marketing professionals. From the growing opportunities in internal communications to a telling shift in how and where people place their trust, the co-hosts cover five timely topics shaping the landscape for independent practitioners. The conversation is grounded, practical, and delivered with the candor and warmth that listeners have come to expect — including a solid reminder that measurement isn't going anywhere, social media strategy is getting smarter (not louder), and community may be the most underrated channel in your toolkit right now. Episode Highlights [01:22] Internal Comms Is an Opportunity Worth Claiming: Internal communications has long been part of the broader comms picture, but many solos have treated it as someone else's territory. Karen and Michelle make the case for why that should change. When companies lack strong internal comms, external clarity suffers — and that's where solos can step in to add real strategic value. As Karen puts it: you cannot have external clarity with internal confusion. [05:35] Trust Is Getting Smaller and More Local: The latest Edelman Trust Barometer data points to a meaningful cultural shift: amid economic anxiety, geopolitical tension, and AI disruption, people are narrowing their trust to smaller, more familiar circles. For solo PR pros, this is a signal worth acting on. Leaning into local relationships, nurturing offline connections, and building genuine community may matter more right now than any amount of digital thought leadership. [09:11] Measurement Is Still Non-Negotiable: Measurement continues to be a source of stress across the industry — but Karen reframes it: it doesn't have to mean complicated dashboards. It means connecting your strategies to what actually matters to your clients, tracking impact rather than just activity, and being able to have honest conversations when outcomes fall short. Solos who are fluent in measurement have a genuine competitive edge — and there are excellent free resources to help build that fluency. [12:20] Social Strategy Is About Intention, Not Volume: The era of 'post more' is over. Pew Research and broader industry data are confirming what communicators have known for a while: what matters is why you're on a platform, not how often. Karen and Michelle encourage solos and their clients to audit their social presence every six months — who are you actually reaching, and is this platform still the right place to reach them? Chasing algorithms isn't a strategy. [14:58] Community Is a Communications Channel: Pew Research highlights a growing trend: people are turning to niche online communities — like Reddit — to find answers that broad searches and AI can't provide. For PR pros, this is a reminder that community building is a long game, but one with serious returns. The fundamental truth still holds: people buy from people they know, like, and trust — and that means amplifying real voices and real customer experiences, not just polished messaging. Resources & Additional Information Edelman Trust Barometer: edelman.com/trust/trust-barometer Katie Payne's Measurement Resources: kdpaine.blogs.com AMEC (International Association for Measurement and Evaluation of Communication): amecorg.com Pew Research Center: pewresearch.org Solo PR Pro membership community: soloprpro.com That Solo Life podcast website: thatsololife.com Host & Show Info That Solo Life is a podcast created for public relations, communication, and marketing professionals who work as independent and small practitioners. Hosted by Karen Swim, APR, founder of Solo PR Pro, and Michelle Kane, Principal of Voice Matters, the show delivers expert insights, encouragement, and practical advice for solo PR pros navigating today's dynamic professional landscape. Listen to all episodes and catch up on previous conversations at thatsololife.com. Did this episode inspire you? If you found value in this conversation, please take a moment to leave us a review on your favorite podcast platform. Your feedback helps us reach more solo pros just like you! Don't forget to subscribe so you never miss an episode.
From entrepreneurial burnout to authorship on realignment, Pascal Wiscour-Conter shares his learnings You know that feeling when someone speaks and every single word lands? Not because they're loud or made slick slides or rehearsed an elevator pitch to death, but because you sense they mean it? Pascal Wiscour-Conter calls this alignment and has spent three years building the science to prove it. Pascal is back in the studio: author, entrepreneur, strategist, and the kind of person who once convinced government ministers in a landlocked country to register mega-yachts. His new book, The Culture of Purpose: How to Communicate in the Age of Intelligence, is out now. "Shouting louder does not work anymore. The secret is learning how to whisper: clearly, meaningfully, and with impact." We are drowning in noise: more channels, content, AI-generated everything. And yet, nobody feels more heard. Pascal's counter-intuitive argument, backed by neuroscience, Havas research, and decades of entrepreneurial scar tissue, is that the answer is not volume but authenticity. Specifically: the alignment between what you believe, what you say, and what you do. It sounds simple. Of course it's not quite that simple. The Noble Cause Why do you do what you do? Before there's a pitch, a mission statement, or a marketing budget, there's a why. Pascal calls it the Noble Cause: the thing inside you that, when unfulfilled, leaves you hollow. Pair that with an Aspirational Goal: something that makes you want to get up every morning, and you have the roots of purpose. Here's the twist: you can't think your way to it. Your neocortex, the rational brain, is not where decisions are actually made. That happens in the limbic system, the emotional centre, the part that knows you love someone but can't explain why. "Ask 'why' seven times," Pascal advises. "Keep going deeper. Very often, the real answer takes you back to your adolescence - something that made you suffer, something you've been trying to solve ever since." "People think they rationally made a decision. What really happened is the brain decided emotionally and then rationalised afterwards." The Business Case Purpose isn't fluffy - it's financial. For the sceptics, and Pascal has met plenty, here are the numbers. Havas research shows that purpose-driven, meaningful brands are 100% more effective than their counterparts. On the stock exchange? A 133% premium. The Edelman Trust Barometer maps trust against competence and ethics. Deloitte can now measure it in five specific parameters. This is a competitive edge. Pascal's model, the Tree of Business Life™, maps it visually: roots (your vision), trunk (mission and value proposition), the prism of culture, and two ecosystems in the crown: outward communication to clients, inward communication to teams. When both ecosystems are aligned and self-sustaining, he calls it Comusynthesis™: converting the energy of ideas into the energy of communities. Just like photosynthesis. Just as essential. On AI & Being Human The beast is yours to harness. Pascal is not afraid of AI. He is, however, precise about what it cannot do. Curiosity? An LLM can't wonder. Transcendence? It cannot transpose one idea onto an entirely different domain the way Newton did when an apple fell on his head. Wisdom - the ability to use lived experience to make the right call in a new situation? Distinctly human. "Use AI as a tool," he says. "But harness it. Push the limits further. The questions just get harder, like the day you were allowed a calculator in a maths exam. The test didn't get easier. You just got to solve bigger problems." His term for this? Creative AI, as opposed to Lazy AI, where you prompt, copy-paste, and call it done. One of these will make you obsolete. The other will make you extraordinary. "The next ten years will compress an Industrial Revolution and a Renaissance into one decade. Step out of the comfort zone, or someone will do it for you." Physicians lack of self-compassion? Physicians in the USA have the lowest self-compassion of any workforce. That statistic, shared at a Stanford medical roundtable that Pascal sat on, is the kind of detail that stays with you. People who enter medicine to heal others, hollowed out by a system that forgot to ask why. It is, Pascal argues, the corporate culture problem in its starkest form: the gap between the values on the wall and the values in the room. Luxembourg, by the way, has one of the highest rates of active workplace disengagement in Europe. Numbers from the annual Gallup Quality of Work Life study don't lie, even when they're uncomfortable. The Culture of Purpose: How to Communicate in the Age of Intelligence Pascal Wiscour-Conter · Pascalogy · Published March 2026 · Available in ebook, audiobook, and paperback · https://pascalogy.me/
بیداری مدنی | اعتمادچرا بدون اعتماد، مشارکت دوام پیدا نمیکند و نهادها ناکارآمد میشن؟ چرا حتی اگر قانون باشه نهاد باشه و مشارکت هم باشه، باز هم همکاری سخته؟ و چرا اینقدر بیاعتمادی رایجه؟در مسیری که تا اینجا طی کردیم، بارها از اعتماد گفتیم در کنش جمعی، در مسئولیت، و در شکلگیری نهادها. شاید وقت آن رسیده که خودِ اعتماد را به منزله چسب همه این اجزای جامعه مدنی ببینیماعتماد یعنی اینکه با وجود عدم قطعیت، باز هم وارد رابطه و کنش با دیگران شویم. یعنی بپذیریم که نتیجه کاملاً در کنترل ما نیست، اما با این حال همکاری را انتخاب کنیم. شاید بشه گفت اعتماد فقط یک احساس نیست، بلکه یک تصمیمه. تصمیمی که در آن ریسکِ دیگری را میپذیریم.اگر به مسیر بیداری مدنی برگردیم: عاملیت به ما امکان کنش داد، مشارکت ما را در کنار هم قرار داد، مسئولیت ما را نسبت به پیامدهای کنشهامون پاسخگو کرد، و اخلاق به این کنشها جهت داد. اما بدون چسب اعتماد، هیچکدام از اینها دوام و ادامه پیدا نمیکند.کنش جمعی بدون اعتماد بهسرعت از هم میپاشد. مسئولیت بدون اعتماد بیمعنا میشود. و نهادها بدون اعتماد به ساختارهایی بیروح تبدیل میشوند.این مسئله فقط در سطح نظری یا در رابطههای فردی نیست در هر جایی که کنش جمعی شکل میگیرد هم خودش را نشان میدهد.در گروههای مدنی، در نهادهای غیرانتفاعی، در فضاهای مذهبی، و حتی در جمعهایی که با هدف بهبود شرایط یا ایجاد تغییر دور هم جمع میشوند،وقتی اعتماد کم باشد، همکاری بهراحتی دچار اصطکاک میشود. سوءتفاهمها بیشتر میشود، انگیزهها زیر سؤال میرود، و حتی هدفهای مشترک بهتدریج کمرنگ میشوند.در چنین شرایطی، افراد بهجای تمرکز بر مسئله، بیشتر درگیر یکدیگر میشوند.در زندگی روزمره نمونههای سادهای از این را میبینیم. وقتی قولی میدهیم و به آن عمل نمیکنیم، اعتماد کمی کمتر میشود. وقتی قانونی هست اما اجرا نمیشود، اعتماد آسیب میبیند. وقتی افراد فقط به منافع کوتاهمدت خود فکر میکنند، اعتماد فرسوده میشود.اعتماد همونطور که یکباره به وجود نمیاد، یکباره هم از بین نمیرود. بهتدریج محو میشود در تجربههای مکرری که در آنها افراد نمیتوانند در بحثهایی که درباره شکلگیری جامعه مطرح شده، از جمله در مفهوم قرارداد اجتماعی، معمولاً از توافق بر سر قواعد صحبت میشود. اینکه افراد میپذیرند در چارچوبی مشترک با هم زندگی کنند.اما یک نکته مهم کمتر گفته میشود: هیچ توافقی بدون اعتماد شکل نمیگیرد. اگر افراد به یکدیگر و به اجرای این قواعد اعتماد نداشته باشند، قرارداد فقط روی کاغذ و لای کتاب میماند.در این معنا، اعتماد قبل از قانون است و در عین حال نتیجه اجرای قانون هم هست. اگر اعتماد نباشد، قانون اجرا نمیشود. و اگر قانون اجرا نشود، اعتماد تقویت نمیشود.در بسیاری از تحلیلها به این نکته اشاره میشود که وقتی اعتماد کاهش پیدا میکند، همهچیز سختتر و پرهزینهتر میشود. همکاری کمتر میشود، تصمیمگیری کندتر میشود، و حتی روابط ساده پیچیدهتر میشوند.اما شاید مسئله فقط این نباشد که اعتماد کم شده است. این فقط یک برداشت شخصی هم نیست. دادههای جهانی هم از همین روند خبر میدهند.گزارشهایی مانند Edelman Trust Barometer نشان میدهند که سطح اعتماد عمومی به نهادهای اصلی در بسیاری از کشورها حوالی مرز ۵۰ درصد باقی مانده است، و بررسیهای Pew Research Center نیز از سطح پایین یا متزلزل اعتماد به دولتها در بخشهای قابل توجهی از جهان حکایت دارند. این وضعیت در برخی موارد به نهادهای مذهبی و رسانهها هم گسترش یافته است.پس مسئله فقط کاهش اعتماد نیست، بلکه این است که افراد خود را در این ساختارها مؤثر نمیبینند.==وقتی نهادها وجود دارند، اما افراد نقشی برای خود قائل نیستند، وقتی تصمیمها گرفته میشود، اما مردم در آن سهیم نیستند، نوعی شکاف شکل میگیرد: شکاف میان ساختار و تجربهٔ زیستهٔ جامعه.در چنین شرایطی، حتی اگر نهادها باقی بمانند، حتی اگر قانون برقرار باشد، اعتماد بهتدریج فرسوده میشود.و شاید بشه گفت اعتماد زمانی شکل میگیرد که افراد احساس کنند هم دیده میشوند، و هم اثر دارند.در این معنا، اعتماد هم نتیجه رفتار ماست، و هم شرط تداوم آن.اعتماد پدیدهای از بالا به پایین نیستدر تعاملات روزمره، در پایبندیهای کوچک،و در تجربههایی ساخته میشود که در آنهاافراد میتوانند روی یکدیگر حساب کنند.ما در رفتارهای روزمرهمان چقدر قابل اعتماد هستیم؟ و چقدر به گونهای عمل میکنیم که دیگران بتوانند روی ما حساب کنند؟آیا ما فقط انتظار داریم دیگران قابل اعتماد باشند، یا خودمان هم در ساختن این اعتماد نقش داریم؟در این معنا، اعتماد یک امر یکطرفه نیست، یک رابطه است.
Few people outside of the industry know about all of the major players – be they drugmakers, medical marketing agencies, health media companies or patient advocates – let alone the intricate dynamics between them. Unless you're raised in the industry, medical marketing doesn't come across your radar on a daily basis. Luckily, this week's guest is a leader who was born and raised in the industry and plays an integral role in the story of MM+M.Anne Gideon, the executive director of the Medical Advertising Hall of Fame, joins the show for a conversation with editor-in-chief Jameson Fleming to discuss her family's decadeslong legacy in medical marketing and how her late father, David, elevated the publication's profile in the 1980s and 90s. She also reflects on how his contributions will be further recognized at the MM+M Awards in October when we hand out the David Gideon Leadership Award. Then, during our Trends segment, we're talking about the 2026 Edelman Trust Barometer and why 70% of respondents indicated they hold at least one “divisive” health belief. Check us out at: mmm-online.com Follow us: YouTube: @MMM-onlineTikTok: @MMMnewsInstagram: @MMMnewsonlineTwitter/X: @MMMnewsLinkedIn: MM+M To read more of the most timely, balanced and original reporting in medical marketing, subscribe here.Music: “Deep Reflection” by DP and Triple Scoop Music. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Stephen Grootes speaks to Karena Crerar, CEO of Edelman Africa, about the 2026 Edelman South Africa Trust Barometer and what it reveals about growing insularity, widening trust gaps, and why business leaders are being called on to act as trust brokers in a divided society. The Money Show is a podcast hosted by well-known journalist and radio presenter, Stephen Grootes. He explores the latest economic trends, business developments, investment opportunities, and personal finance strategies. Each episode features engaging conversations with top newsmakers, industry experts, financial advisors, entrepreneurs, and politicians, offering you thought-provoking insights to navigate the ever-changing financial landscape. Thank you for listening to a podcast from The Money Show Listen live Primedia+ weekdays from 18:00 and 20:00 (SA Time) to The Money Show with Stephen Grootes broadcast on 702 https://buff.ly/gk3y0Kj and CapeTalk https://buff.ly/NnFM3Nk For more from the show, go to https://buff.ly/7QpH0jY or find all the catch-up podcasts here https://buff.ly/PlhvUVe Subscribe to The Money Show Daily Newsletter and the Weekly Business Wrap here https://buff.ly/v5mfetc The Money Show is brought to you by Absa Follow us on social media 702 on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TalkRadio702 702 on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@talkradio702 702 on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/talkradio702/ 702 on X: https://x.com/CapeTalk 702 on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@radio702 CapeTalk on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CapeTalk CapeTalk on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@capetalk CapeTalk on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ CapeTalk on X: https://x.com/Radio702 CapeTalk on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@CapeTalk567 See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Welcome to another energizing solo episode of Build a Better Agency! This week, host Drew McLellan draws on his 25+ years of agency experience to deliver both a rallying cry and a clear-eyed reality check for independent agency owners: the chaos swirling around AI, consolidation, and economic uncertainty isn't the threat it appears to be — it's an invitation. For owners who are willing to evolve, this may be the best decade in history to run an independent agency. Diving deep into the macro forces reshaping the industry, Drew McLellan unpacks the five trends that every agency owner needs to understand right now — from the collapse of institutional trust landing squarely in your lap, to the cracks forming inside the big holding company networks, to the seismic shift in how clients find and hire agencies. He shares data from AMI's own 2026 Agency Edge Research alongside findings from the Edelman Trust Barometer, painting a compelling picture of why independent, niche, founder-led boutiques are uniquely positioned to thrive while the giants stumble. Beyond the trends, Drew maps out five concrete opportunities your agency can pursue in the next three to ten years — from repositioning as a strategic advisor rather than a vendor, to monetizing AI the right way, to riding the in-house reversal as brands unwind internal teams they can no longer sustain. You'll hear real data on what's happening to AGI per FTE, why generalist agencies are losing ground, and what the consulting world can teach us about where agency revenue is headed next. If you're tired of feeling anxious about the future and ready to see the opportunity hiding inside the uncertainty, this episode is essential listening. Whether or not you make it to the Build a Better Agency Summit in May, Drew McLellan's guidance will challenge you to stop waiting for the dust to settle — and start building the agency you actually want to own. A big thank you to our podcast's presenting sponsor, White Label IQ. They're an amazing resource for agencies who want to outsource their design, dev, or PPC work at wholesale prices. Check out their special offer (10 free hours!) for podcast listeners here. What You Will Learn in This Episode: Why this is the best decade to own an independent agency for those willing to evolve their business model How consolidation among holding companies creates lucrative opportunities in the neglected middle market segment Five major opportunities that will define successful agencies over the next decade Why AI adoption gives small shops the sophistication level that previously required holding company resources How to transform from vendor relationships into strategic advisor partnerships that command premium pricing The specialization imperative that delivers 10-20% higher margins than generalist agencies Why your agency is positioned as the most trusted entity in the new economy How to monetize AI properly by focusing on outcomes rather than tool usage The workforce evolution requiring fewer FTEs but more strategic value creation
Luxury brands talk about loyalty... but what does it actually take to earn it? In this episode of Marketing in the Madness, recorded live at Shoptalk Luxe, Katie Street sits down with Ahmed Al Derazi, VP & Head of Corporate Communications at Landmark Group, a $7B retail business operating across 15 countries with over 50 million loyalty members. They unpack what most brands still get wrong about loyalty, trust and customer experience and why the rules are changing fast. Because loyalty isn't just about points or perks anymore. It's about how brands show up. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Landmark Group and why they're at Shoptalk Luxe 01:00 Inside a $7B value retail empire with 2,500+ stores 03:00 Blending value with premium in-store experiences 06:30 How Landmark built a 50M+ member loyalty ecosystem 09:30 Why loyalty today is about behaviour, not just rewards 10:50 What the Edelman Trust Barometer reveals about trust today 12:30 Why CEOs and leaders are becoming the new marketing channel 15:00 The decline of trust in traditional media 17:30 What makes brand communication feel human and believable 18:30 What “reputation” really means in modern retail 20:00 Strategic priorities for 2026 and building a “tomorrow company” The big shift? Trust is no longer built through campaigns. It's built through people, consistency and experience. And in a world of AI, content overload and declining trust in media… that matters more than ever. And because this series is part of our partnership with Shoptalk Luxe, if conversations like this one spark ideas then you'll definitely want to be in the room next time! Shoptalk Europe 2026 is already shaping up to be HUGE. If retail, tech and innovation sit anywhere in your world, now's the time to get your ticket and get it in the diary here: https://europe.shoptalk.com/home?utm_source=mediapartner&utm_medium=website&utm_campaign=marketing-in-the-madness-podcast Subscribe to the podcast: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2UUIgMdZ6FdSCrux5BY7PI?si=c48bdbecb5be4a6e Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/marketing-in-the-madness/id1688996981 Connect with us: Ahmed Al Derazi LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ahmedalderazi/ Katie Street LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katiestreet/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/streetmate/ Marketing in the Madness LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/marketing-in-the-madness-podcast/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/marketinginthemadness/ Street Agency https://street.agency/ https://www.instagram.com/street.agency/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/streetagency/ #luxuryretail #customerexperience #brandtrust #loyalty
Kirsty Graham, CEO of Edelman U.S., draws on three decades in global policy and communications to unpack the findings of the Edelman Trust Barometer and why leaders today must act as “trust brokers.” In an age when AI can mimic us, she argues, leaders must become better at being human. She reflects on why workplaces have become “islands of civility” and how corporate leaders can rebuild trust at scale. Kirsty previously spent 16 years in New Zealand's Foreign Service and a decade in senior global roles at Pfizer. Since joining Edelman in 2020, she has held multiple leadership positions and now serves on the firm's Global Executive Leadership Team.Tags: janice, ellig, podcast, kirsty, graham, leaders, executive, impact, society, business, ceo
Kirsty Graham, CEO of Edelman U.S., draws on three decades in global policy and communications to unpack the findings of the Edelman Trust Barometer and why leaders today must act as “trust brokers.” In an age when AI can mimic us, she argues, leaders must become better at being human. She reflects on why workplaces have become “islands of civility” and how corporate leaders can rebuild trust at scale. Kirsty previously spent 16 years in New Zealand's Foreign Service and a decade in senior global roles at Pfizer. Since joining Edelman in 2020, she has held multiple leadership positions and now serves on the firm's Global Executive Leadership Team.Tags: janice, ellig, podcast, kirsty, graham, leaders, executive, impact, society, business, ceo
What you will learn in this episode: Why the title of "thought leader" is something earned from others, not a label you give yourself What the critical difference is between attention and authority in a landscape of endless content How consistency and repetition differentiate true thought leaders from self-proclaimed ones Why your ideas need to be tested and challenged for them to be trusted Why context is king, and how skipping to conclusions erodes trust Communications is the CENTER OF ALL THINGS. Lee Caraher talks all things communications – from language to format to channel, from employee engagement to great leadership, from PR to social media, and reputation management to personal branding, and crisis communication, bringing you key insights from her experience and expertise that can be used in the day-to-day to make your work, your PR, and your culture, and your potential …WORK. Resources: Website: https://leecaraher.com/ Website: www.double-forte.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/leecaraher/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leecaraher Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LeeCaraher1/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/leecaraher Edelman Trust Barometer: https://www.edelman.com/trust/2026/trust-barometer MIT Sloan Management Review: https://sloanreview.mit.edu/
Automation was sold as a way to scale good experiences. It scales bad ones just as efficiently. Healthcare has spent the last decade deploying chatbots, portals, AI-generated content, and personalization engines in the name of patient experience. The ROI case was built on efficiency: lower cost per interaction, faster throughput, reduced call center volume. What was never put on the balance sheet is what happens to patient trust when those systems fail — and they fail regularly, quietly, and without anyone in the organization knowing it happened. That's trust debt. Every time an automated system fails a patient and the patient absorbs the cost silently — closes the portal, hangs up, stops engaging — a withdrawal is made from an account most health systems never knew they had. It doesn't show up in satisfaction scores. It shows up in churn, in rising call volumes that automation was supposed to reduce, in patients who schedule once and don't come back. Chris Boyer and Reed Smith work through where the debt is accumulating right now — and where automation is actually doing the opposite: Why AI-generated health content optimized for fluency, not accuracy, is seeding doubt in the patients most likely to engage with it How portal adoption metrics are measuring the wrong signal — and why enrollment without satisfaction is just a larger audience for your frustration Where DXP personalization crosses from service into surveillance — and how thin consent frameworks are accelerating that perception What trust-building automation actually looks like, and what it has in common with the best human interactions in healthcare The three questions every team should ask before the next automated touchpoint goes live The research is catching up to what practitioners already sense. AI safety disclaimers in patient-facing responses dropped from 26% in 2022 to under 1% in 2025. Sixty-one percent of patients say they'd consider switching providers over a better digital experience. And the 2025 Edelman Trust and Health report found that no institution — not business, not government, not NGOs — is trusted to address patient needs. Healthcare is operating in a trust deficit it didn't create alone, but automation is making it worse in ways that are largely invisible to the organizations doing it. The question isn't whether to automate. It's whether you've been honest about what you're actually scaling. Mentions from the Show: TP456: When AI Speaks for the Patient — touchpoint.health TP460: When Digital Speaks for the Patient — touchpoint.health TP470: When AI Becomes the First Stop for Care — touchpoint.health AI errors in healthcare — Healthcare Brew, August 2025: https://www.healthcare-brew.com/stories/2025/08/20/healthcare-execs-ai-errors Declining medical safety messaging in AI — npj Digital Medicine, October 2025: https://www.nature.com/articles/s41746-025-01943-1 ECRI Top 10 Patient Safety Concerns 2025: https://www.medtechdive.com/news/ecri-patient-safety-report-2025-ai/742114/ ONC Patient Portal Access Data Brief 2024: https://healthit.gov/data/data-briefs/individuals-access-and-use-patient-portals-and-smartphone-health-apps-2024/ Experian Health patient portal switching stat: https://www.experian.com/healthcare/solutions/patient-engagement-solutions 2025 Edelman Trust Barometer: Trust and Health: https://www.edelman.com/trust/2025/trust-barometer/special-report-health 2026 Edelman Trust Barometer: https://www.edelman.com/trust/2026/trust-barometer Reed Smith on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/reedtsmith/ Chris Boyer on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chrisboyer/ Chris Boyer website: http://www.christopherboyer.com/ Chris Boyer on BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/chrisboyer.bsky.social Reed Smith on BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/reedsmith.bsky.social Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
7 in 10 people globally say they're hesitant to trust someone different from them, according to the 2026 Edelman Trust Barometer. Trust is getting more personal. So where does that leave brands? This week, Elena, Angela, and Rob explore what it really means to build a brand in a world where trust is earned through experience, not messaging. They dig into why the gap between marketing promises and reality is so damaging, how to bridge online and in-person brand moments, and what channels like TV do for brand trust that others simply can't. Plus, hear real-world examples of brands that get it right, from Snickers to Disney to Jeep. Topics covered: [01:00] 2026 Edelman Trust Barometer findings on consumer trust[03:00] How much control marketers actually have over brand perception[06:00] Where marketing promises most often break down[08:30] Why marketers over-index on comms and under-index on product experience[11:00] The moment where brand actually happens[14:00] How TV builds familiarity that carries into other channels[17:00] Real examples of brands bridging TV and in-person experience To learn more, visit marketingarchitects.com/podcast or subscribe to our newsletter at marketingarchitects.com/newsletter. Resources: 2026 Edelman Trust Barometer Report: https://www.edelman.com/trust/2026/trust-barometer Get more research-backed marketing strategies by subscribing to The Marketing Architects on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen to podcasts.
For 26 years, Richard Edelman has measured the world's trust levels through the Edelman Trust Barometer. In this final episode of our trust series, he joins Andrew Keen to diagnose a new and troubling phase: insularity. After years of polarization, grievance, and activism, societies are hardening into self-contained camps, "turtles in shells", as Edelman puts it, trusting only those who share their values, media and worldview. Governments are faltering, media credibility is shrinking, and a widening mass class divide is fueling pessimism about the future. Yet amid AI disruption, nationalism, and economic anxiety, Edelman argues that trust can still be rebuilt, from the bottom up. Employers, local institutions, and "poly-national" businesses may hold the key. The question is whether democracies can restore optimism before insularity becomes permanent. Is trust the missing ingredient in democratic, or its final casualty?
Trust used to flow upward. To experts, institutions, and authority. Then it shifted to “people like me.” Now even that circle is tightening. The 2026 Edelman Trust Barometer reveals a growing insularity: smaller tribes, hardened perspectives, and a widening mass-class divide driven by whether people believe the system works for them. Persuasion is shifting to trust brokerage, and what communicators, leaders, and businesses can do when trust itself has become the battleground.Listen For3:10 Skip the opening story and go right to the interview with Tim Weber3:47 What does it mean that we've moved from echo chambers to “turtle shells”7:21 Is polarization economic, cultural, technological—or all three?12:35 How can companies blunt fear and become true trust brokers?20:13 Will AI reinforce our biases and deepen our personal echo chambers?Guest: Tim Weber, Managing Director & EMEA Head of Editorial, EdelmanLinkedIn | Instagram | Bio | Website2026 Edelman Trust Barometer DougSubstack | Website | LinkedInFarzanaSubstack | Website | LinkedInAre you a brand with a podcast that needs support? Book a meeting with Doug Downs to talk about it.Apply to be a guest on the podcastConnect with usLinkedIn | X | Instagram | You Tube | Facebook | Threads | Bluesky | PinterestRequest a transcript of this episodeSupport the show
Let's dive into a troubling reality that many of us have felt: trust, a cornerstone of our society, is being chipped away at. Recent research, including the 2025 Edelman Trust Barometer, reveals a striking statistic—70% of people believe that our leaders and institutions are willfully misleading us. This isn't just a passing trend; since 2021, distrust in business leaders has surged by 21%. Government and media also aren't faring much better, with growing skepticism that affects how we engage with the world around us.This erosion of trust isn't confined to any one country or demographic. For example, while trust in the fire department remains solid, other institutions, especially social service agencies, are struggling to maintain credibility. And if we look at generational differences, it becomes clearer that younger generations, particularly Gen Z, exhibit significantly lower levels of trust than their predecessors. What does that mean for the future? It's a huge red flag.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/conspiracy-theories-exploring-the-unseen--5194379/support.
In the wake of the World Economic Forum in Davos and the release of the larest Edelman Trust Barometer last week, PRovoke Media founder Paul Holmes sat down with Richard Edelman for a wide-ranging discussion that covered polarization, global pessimism, the potential for companies to become “trust brokers,” how tech companies have failed to address concerns over AI, what Martin Sorrell got wrong about the PR industry, and how the holding companies getting rid of “the idea machines” might benefit independent firms.
When It All Feels Like Too Much Feeling overwhelmed and uncertain right now? If the world feels heavier, more unsettled, or harder to process than usual, you're not alone. When what we thought was stable no longer feels certain, our nervous systems respond with stress, fear, and powerlessness. These reactions are not personal failings. They're natural biological responses to uncertainty. In this episode, Blake names what so many people are experiencing right now and explains how to cope when everything feels overwhelming. She offers a grounded perspective and practical ways to find calm and perspective in uncertain times, helping you find steadiness and agency when the stress and uncertainty feels like too much. Episode Highlights Why Everything Feels So Hard Right Now [01:30] - Understanding fight, flight, freeze, and fawn responses [03:45] - Why most people are cycling between multiple survival responses [04:30] - How awareness creates self-compassion and clarity Division, Information Overload, and Where Trust Begins [05:20] - The Edelman Trust Barometer [06:16] - Why companies are best positioned to bridge divides [07:00] - Where safety and trust really begin The River Story: A Powerful Metaphor for Uncertain Times [10:15] - The moment of danger that shifted the entire journey [12:30] - When trying to control exhausts us more than the danger itself [14:00] - The shift from panic to presence and strategic action Finding Steadiness in the Middle of Uncertainty [17:45] - What we can control when we can't control the river [19:30] - Why slowing down is strategic, not passive [22:30] - Change as the gift that opens possibility Powerful Quotes "If you've been feeling unsettled, reactive, angry, exhausted, overwhelmed, numb, or emotionally raw lately, I want to say this first: there's nothing wrong with you." -Blake Schofield "We can't control the level of unrest, division, and challenges that we are under globally, economically, and everything else. The only thing we can control is how we go through it." -Blake Schofield "Change actually is the gift. It is the only place of which we're able to create what it is that we want." -Blake Schofield Resources Mentioned Edelman Trust Barometer Drained at the end of the day & want more presence in your life? In just 5 minutes, learn your unique burnout type™ & how to restore your energy, fulfillment & peace at www.impactwithease.com/burnout-type The Fastest Path to Clarity, Confidence & Your Next Level of Success: executive coaching for leaders navigating layered challenges. Whether you're burned out, standing at a crossroads, or simply know you're meant for more—you don't have to figure it out alone. Go to impactwithease.com/coaching to apply! Ready to Future-Proof Your Leadership? Let's explore what's possible for your team. Whether you're navigating rapid growth, culture change, or quiet disengagement…we can help with our high-touch, root-cause focused solutions that are designed to help grow resilient, aligned & empowered leaders who navigate uncertainty with confidence and create impact without burning out, go to https://impactwithease.com/corporate-training-consulting/
Max Klymenko, Creator of “Career Ladder,” joins Edelman Trust Institute Executive Director Justin Blake at the World Economic Forum in Davos to discuss how trust is formed in the creator economy. Max offers his perspective on findings from the 2026 Edelman Trust Barometer, shares stories behind his YouTube success, and talks about the responsibility creators face in addressing misinformation and bridging divides in an insular world.
Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney stood up in Davos and didn't waste words. He gave a speech that cut through the noise. The room stood. The world noticed. He said, “If you're not at the table, you're on the menu.” People replayed that line like it was a lifeline. This episode of The Week Unspun comes straight from the snowy peaks of Davos, but the questions are sharp and wide-reaching. Can speeches still move people to action? Can we trust the Edelman Trust Barometer, or has its credibility fractured like the world it measures? And as the World Economic Forum eyes cities like Detroit and Dublin, what happens when the name “Davos” no longer fits the map? Listen For:51 What made Mark Carney's Davos speech go viral?6:54 Why do some PR pros hate the Edelman Trust Barometer? 9:38 Are we living in a “retreater” era of trust and communication? 12:40 Should Davos be moved to Detroit or Dublin? 18:15 Is short-form, flashy content reshaping public opinion? The Week Unspun is a weekly livestream every Friday at 10am ET/3pm BT. Check it out on our YouTube Channel or via this LinkedIn channelFolgate AdvisorsCurzon Public Relations WebsiteStories and Strategies WebsiteRequest a transcript of this livestreamSupport the show
Everyone talks about the private jets and parties at Davos — but the real story is in the data.I went through the key reports released at the World Economic Forum so you don't have to, and what's emerging is a very different picture of the job market in 2026.This isn't about hype anymore.It's about flattened management, AI-driven job shifts, and a growing trust crisis inside organisations.In this video, I break down four major signals from Davos 2026 that will directly impact your career, your team, and how companies operate over the next few years.If you're navigating your career, leading a team, or trying to understand where work is actually heading — this is essential context.--Resources Mentioned:WEF / LinkedIn Future of Work Report 2026: ttps://www.weforum.org/stories/2026/01/ai-has-already-added-1-3-million-new-jobs-according-to-linkedin-data/Edelman Trust Barometer 2026:https://www.edelman.com/trust/2026/trust-barometer:Mercer Global Talent Trends:https://www.businessinsider.com/middle-managers-have-more-direct-reports-after-great-flattening-2026-1--
Stephen Kehoe, EVP and Chief Corporate Affairs Officer, PepsiCo, joins Justin Blake, Executive Director of the Edelman Trust Institute, at the World Economic Forum in Davos for a conversation on trust, leadership, and global responsibility. Drawing on findings from the 2026 Edelman Trust Barometer, they discuss why trust is increasingly earned locally, how multinational companies balance global scale with local credibility, and what it means for business to broker trust amid economic pressure, misinformation, and geopolitical uncertainty.
Creating leadership impact isn't about one defining moment—it's about the ripple effects your leadership generates over time. In this episode of Leadership Lounge, Emma Combe sits down with Shannon Knott and Erin Marie Collins to unpack what meaningful impact looks like today, and how leaders can sustain it. They explore: Why impact extends beyond results to the experience others have of your leadership. The key skills—curiosity, adaptability, and an understanding of your purpose—that enable long-term influence. How to evaluate whether your leadership is truly landing across stakeholder groups. Why reflection and feedback loops are essential to maintaining credibility and trust. “Leaders who can sustain real impact do so because they're able to stay curious. They continually learn and adjust. They treat leadership less like a position and more as a practice.” — Shannon Knott, Leadership Advisor, Russell Reynolds Associates Four things you'll learn from this episode Impact is intentional: define it consciously and test it objectively through feedback. Curiosity sustains relevance: stay adaptable and open to learning at every stage. Feedback fuels evolution: build a trusted “cabinet” to give unfiltered perspectives. Purpose anchors action: a clear sense of values helps leaders maintain credibility and trust. In this episode, we cover: (01:35) How you define leadership impact and why it extends beyond results to lasting influence (04:10) The skills that sustain long-term impact (07:25) Why leadership must shift from mastery and control to influence and judgment as careers progress (09:42) Practical ways to assess whether your impact is landing across teams and stakeholders (12:10) How reflection, feedback, and purpose create a rhythm for sustained leadership effectiveness (14:38) What inspirational leaders do differently to remain authentic and effective over time A closer look at the research from this episode: Edelman Trust Barometer 2025 Russell Reynolds Associates Global Leadership Monitor, H2 2025
For the final Think Fresh of 2025, we're bringing you a short and sweet episode about the state of trust. Jen & Ryan discuss the Edelman Trust Barometer report, our “crisis of grievances”, and what marketers can do about it. We also cover a Google Pixel campaign with a clever take on a competitor. We'll see you back for more Think Fresh in 2026! The conversation doesn't end here! Find us on Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn, sign up for our newsletter, or send us an email at: info@thinkdenovo.com with the subject "Dear de Novo." Links: Edelman Trust Barometer Creative Briefs: Google Pixel “Vanilla” Ad
This episode of Sell With Authority is part of our special series exploring one of the most vital dynamics inside every agency's sales process: trust and distrust. You've been hearing from agency leaders who are leaning into this issue head-on. These conversations are not only timely — they're also forming the research foundation for my next book, The Trust Architecture, and a new series of Field Guides we'll be sharing with our community. As we've seen time and again from our work alongside agency owners and their teams — trust, or the lack of it, is often the biggest obstacle to having a sales pipeline that feels like a steady stream of right-fit prospects flowing into your agency. Which makes today's conversation a perfect fit for this series. Our special guest expert is Jerry Gennaria, President and CEO of TOKY. Jerry brings more than 30 years of experience helping professional service firms tell their story more effectively, build stronger businesses, and reach their full potential. He's also the host of The Intangible Brand podcast — where he explores what brand really means beyond the surface-level tactics. Here's why Jerry's perspective matters so much for this series… In a recent LinkedIn post, he made an incredibly sharp observation — when Southwest Airlines cut away the very things customers loved most about their experience, it wasn't just a rebrand. A brand isn't just graphics or identity — it's about who you are internally and how customers experience you externally. When you change that alignment — you break trust. That ties directly to what we saw in the 2025 Edelman Trust Barometer — when trust erodes, grievance and frustration take over — but when trust grows, optimism and loyalty follow. That's exactly the kind of work Jerry and his team at TOKY do every day — helping clients align their brand and their actions so that trust is reinforced at every single touchpoint. When your agency's brand and your actions are aligned — trust isn't an abstract idea. It's felt — in every interaction, every proposal, every conversation. When trust is felt at every touchpoint — selling more of what you do stops being about persuasion — and starts being about consistency. That's why we wanted Jerry's perspective to be part of this series. When I say we — I mean Hannah Roth, our Director of Strategy and Mad Scientist, is here with me for this conversation to bring her data-driven perspective into this discussion with Jerry — because when you combine brand alignment with real-world strategy — that's when trust becomes measurable and scalable. What you will learn in this episode: How to make prospects feel seen — and why that matters for conversion Jerry's "brand is a promise delivered" philosophy for agencies The art and science of pushing back — and how it earns deep respect from right-fit clients Why authentic storytelling aligned with your brand delivers exponential results Ways to boldly show your expertise without being self-aggrandizing Why trust is not built in the big gestures Resources: Website: toky.com LinkedIn Personal: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gennaria/ The Intangible Brand: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-intangible-brand/ TOKY: https://www.linkedin.com/company/toky-branding/ The Intangible Brand Podcast: www.theintangiblebrand.com
Guest post by Stanley Olisa For years, corporate giving has been dominated by the same playbook: annual donations, branded sponsorships and one-off CSR campaigns that rarely go beyond a press release. The problem is lack of structure. Business leaders want to create real social impact but most models for doing so are still transactional, not transformative. The world no longer needs photo-op charity. It needs systems that save lives. And that's where a new generation of tech-driven nonprofits, such as Helpster, are rewriting the rules of corporate giving: replacing one-off sponsorships with traceable impact, symbolic gestures with measurable outcomes and delayed reporting with real-time transparency. The CSR problem Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) was meant to align business growth with societal good. But even after two decades of global adoption, its impact remains inconsistent. More than 80% of companies globally say they can measure ROI for their sustainability projects, according to a 2025 survey by Morgan Stanley Institute, but only around 70% report having long-term CSR strategies. These figures show a gap between doing good and knowing whether the good lasts. Across Africa, much of CSR funding still goes to highly visible projects, such as events, donations or relief drives, that are hard to scale or sustain. Globally, companies are re-evaluating this approach. The Edelman Trust Barometer 2024 found that 71% of consumers expect CEOs to drive societal change, not just fund it. Investors are also shifting attention to measurable ESG outcomes where impact is quantifiable, continuous and tied to business value. The implication is clear: companies that treat giving as a one-off cost miss the opportunity to make it a recurring investment in resilience, equity and public trust. A smarter model for impact Helpster Charity, founded in 2023, shows what already works: a model of social impact built on speed, transparency and sustainability. The organisation uses technology to provide free urgent medical cover for underprivileged populations across Africa and Asia. Behind its humanitarian mission lies a model that redefines how giving can work for both individuals and businesses. Helpster's life-saving platform tracks every donation in real time, from contribution to medical intervention, allowing donors and corporate partners to see precisely where their money goes and whose life it touches. This level of transparency builds accountability and emotional proximity; donors no longer just give, they witness impact. More interesting, however, is how Helpster's funding ecosystem creates continuity. In addition to one-time donations, it partners with an investment foundation where members can commit funds that generate income. The returns are directed towards medical interventions while the investors retain access to their principal. This structure converts generosity into a sustained revenue stream for impact, a practical blend of finance and philanthropy. In 2025, Helpster and its partners have distributed over $260,000 in direct medical aid, saving more than 1,100 lives across Kenya, Nigeria, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka and Cambodia, at the average cost of about $230. These are modest figures compared to the size of global corporate giving, estimated at $21 billion in 2023 (CECP Giving in Numbers Report), but they point to a model that's measurable, renewable and scalable. Why businesses should care For companies, embedding impact in operational systems is both moral and strategic. The COVID-19 pandemic revealed how fragile public health ecosystems directly affect supply chains, consumer behaviour and workforce stability. A business landscape that ignores health inequity is one that underestimates risk. By integrating giving through tech-driven platforms like Helpster, businesses can achieve three critical outcomes: Sustained visibility: real-time funding infrastructure ensures every donation is visible from disbursement to treatm...
Tom Wilson, Chair, President and CEO of Allstate, joins Edelman's Richard Edelman to look at how trust in America is shifting from national institutions to local communities. Drawing on Allstate's report, The Trust Tipping Point, and the Edelman Trust Barometer, Tom explains why neighbors and local networks inspire greater confidence than national leaders, and shares … Continue reading "Allstate CEO Tom Wilson on Creating Trust Through Community"
In today's world flooded with AI-generated content and “AI slop,” one quality stands out as the ultimate differentiator: Brand Authenticity. AI is a powerful tool, but it can't replicate humanity. Half of consumers say AI content feels “off” or inauthentic. So how can your brand leverage AI without losing the human touch? Joanne explores how to let AI handle efficiency, while humans own creativity, storytelling, and emotional connection. In this video, global brand strategist and thought leadership coach Joanne Z. Tan unpacks: ✅ What brand authenticity really means (beyond buzzwords) ✅ How brands like Cracker Barrel and Coca-Cola show the risks of losing authenticity ✅ Why “social-first” brands are outperforming others with double-digit growth ✅ How AI is changing consumer perception—and why humans must lead creativity ✅ Practical steps to protect your brand identity, vision, and trust in the AI era To read it as a 3-min blog To watch it as a 10-min video Why does authenticity matter more than ever? According to the 2025 Edelman Trust Barometer, trust in institutions is dropping, while trust in brands is rising. Consumers are no longer just buying products—they're investing in purpose, values, and honesty. Brands that “walk the walk” and “talk the talk” are the ones building loyalty, stability, and real human connection.
Kogo dziś uważamy za autorytet? I czy w ogóle jeszcze ich mamy? Z raportu Edelman Trust Barometer 2024 wynika, że aż 63% z nas ufa „zwykłym ludziom” bardziej niż liderom politycznym czy CEO firm. A 71% oczekuje, że marki zajmą stanowisko w ważnych społecznie i politycznie tematach, zamiast pozostawać neutralne. Tymczasem z badań Kantar Public (2022) wiemy, że aż 42% Polek i Polaków nie potrafi dziś wskazać żadnego autorytetu, a niemal 1 na 5 nie ma zdania w tej sprawie. W dodatku, jak pokazują dane Fundacji Włączeni Plus, niemal połowa badanych uważa, że głos kobiet w przestrzeni publicznej jest za słabo słyszalny.Co to znaczy być dziś autorytetem? Czy popularność w mediach społecznościowych to to samo, co eksperckość? Jak odróżnić wiedzę od viralu, dezinformacji czy manipulacji? Czy mamy do czynienia z kryzysem autorytetów, czy raczej z ich redefinicją?O tym rozmawiamy w najnowszym odcinku z:Beatą Porą – Dyrektorką Marketingu Salveo Poland,Natalią Jaźwierską – Specjalistką ds. Digital Marketingu Salveo Poland, dystrybutora pastylek na gardło @isla_polskaMaciejem Makselonem – redaktorem literackim i popularyzatorem języka inkluzywnego.Wspólnie szukamy odpowiedzi na pytania:jak mówić, by poruszać, a nie antagonizować,czy marki mogą być nowymi autorytetami,co dziś znaczy odpowiedzialny głos w debacie społecznej.Posłuchaj tego odcinka, jeśli chcesz lepiej zrozumieć mechanizmy zaufania, komunikacji i autorytetu w erze szybkich treści i wielkich oczekiwań wobec marek i ludzi.
For your communication to be credible, you can't just say it — you have to do it.Want people to believe what you say? According to Richard Edelman, the words you choose only get you halfway there. To build real trust, he says, you have to practice what you preach.“Action builds trust,” says Edelman. “If you don't do something, you can't talk about it.” As the president and CEO of Edelman, a leading global communications marketing firm, Edelman is widely recognized for his thought leadership in marketing and PR, especially on issues related to corporate trust, brand reputation, and social responsibility. His annual Edelman Trust Barometer reveals a sobering reality: "Two-thirds of people believe leaders lie to them now, business leaders, government leaders, even journalists." For people and organizations that want to rebuild trust, whether in a one-on-one relationship or with a customer base of millions, Edelman's advice is simple: "Decide, do, communicate."In this episode of Think Fast, Talk Smart, Edelman and host Matt Abrahams explore strategies for winning trust when traditional authority no longer guarantees it. In an age of skepticism, Edelman's insights show that sustainable trust comes not from perfect messaging, but from consistently aligning your actions with your words.Episode Reference Links:Richard Edelman158. Hope for Cynics: Building Trusting Relationships through Communication Connect:Premium Signup >>>> Think Fast Talk Smart PremiumEmail Questions & Feedback >>> hello@fastersmarter.ioEpisode Transcripts >>> Think Fast Talk Smart WebsiteNewsletter Signup + English Language Learning >>> FasterSmarter.ioThink Fast Talk Smart >>> LinkedIn, Instagram, YouTubeMatt Abrahams >>> LinkedInChapters:(00:00) - Introduction (03:06) - The Evolution of Trust (04:17) - Rebuilding Trust After a Breach (05:10) - Leaders as Influencers (06:22) - New Media Ecosystems (08:06) - The Role of AI in Communication (09:26) - Key Qualities for Future Leaders (10:26) - The Final Three Questions (17:57) - Conclusion ********This Episode is brought to you by Strawberry.me. Get $50 off coaching today at Strawberry.me/smartBecome a Faster Smarter Supporter by joining TFTS Premium.
Welcome to a special solocast episode of Build a Better Agency! In this midyear trend report, hosts Drew McLellan and Danyel Newcom McLellan dig deep into the evolving landscape facing agency owners in 2025. Leveraging data, global industry perspectives, and hands-on agency experience, Drew and Danyel break down what's really impacting agencies right now and what to keep your eye on as the year unfolds. This episode covers the biggest drivers reshaping the agency world—from economic and political disruptions to shifting client and employee expectations. Drew and Danyel explore findings from the 2025 Edelman Trust Barometer, including the global “crisis of grievance,” and detail the unique opportunities and obligations business leaders face as the most trusted type of institution. They reveal how financial trends, M&A activity, and even compensation expectations are shifting, providing a realistic look at growth, profitability, and future planning. You'll also hear a candid analysis of client dynamics and new business trends: increased buyer skepticism and demand for transparency, shorter contract terms, and the rising importance of social proof and niche expertise in attracting and retaining accounts. Internally, the episode explores changing workforce norms, a renewed focus on employee development and mental health, and innovative staffing strategies to increase agility and resilience. Rounding out the conversation, Drew and Danyel highlight where agencies are finding success—including the explosive impact of AI, new roles like creative technologists, the resurgence of retro campaigns, and the growing power of influencer and creator marketing. Whether you're preparing your agency for exit, acquisition, or simply striving to thrive during uncertain times, this action-packed episode provides practical, actionable insights to help you build a stronger, more sustainable business. Don't miss the chance to regroup, refocus, and get energized for what's ahead! A big thank you to our podcast's presenting sponsor, White Label IQ. They're an amazing resource for agencies who want to outsource their design, dev, or PPC work at wholesale prices. Check out their special offer (10 free hours!) for podcast listeners here. What You Will Learn in This Episode: Navigating economic and political uncertainty in agency operations Building and maintaining trust with clients and employees Shifting trends in agency growth, profitability, and M&A activity The rising importance of transparency and authenticity with clients Harnessing outside validation and social proof for new business Leveraging innovation, partnerships, and flexible team structures Embracing AI and data-driven insights as core agency strengths
The Illinois Corn Marketing Board is actively working to build consumer confidence in modern agriculture and Illinois corn. In this Managing for Profit, Lindsay Croke, Director of Communications and Marketing at Illinois Corn, explains how important research is for guiding corn checkoff outreach. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Nothing is covered up that will not be revealed, or hidden that will not be known.Luke 12:2Have no fear of them, nor be troubled, 15 but in your hearts honor Christ the Lord as holy, always being prepared to make a defense to anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you; yet do it with gentleness and respect,1 Peter 3:14-15HYPOCRISY - “Isn't Christianity just full of hypocrites?”HYPOCRISY IN THE CHURCH AND IT'S EFFECT“How many people are radically and permanently repelled from The Way by Christians who are unfeeling, stiff, unapproachable, boringly lifeless, obsessive, and dissatisfied? Spirituality wrongly understood or pursued is a major source of human misery and rebellion against God.”Dallas Willard“The perception and reality of hypocrisy remain among the most significant barriers to evangelism and credibility in the modern age.”Pew Research (2023):Only 31% of U.S. adults now identify as Protestant (down from 51% in 2007).One key reason cited: “Christians don't act like Jesus.”Barna Group (2019):85% of non-Christians in the U.S. see Christians as “hypocritical.”Among Millennials (Christian or not), 66% say churchgoers are “more judgmental than loving.”Lifeway Research (2019):66% of church-going teens stop attending church regularly in their twenties.Top reason: “Church members appear judgmental or hypocritical.”Edelman Trust Barometer (2022):Trust in religious institutions is lower than in tech companies or NGOs globally.Many still seek spirituality but avoid institutional religion due to perceived hypocrisy.Pew (2021):29% of U.S. adults now identify as religious “nones” (atheist, agnostic, or “nothing in particular”).13 “You are the salt of the earth, but if salt has lost its taste, how shall its saltiness be restored? It is no longer good for anything except to be thrown out and trampled under people's feet.Matthew 5:1317 But in the following instructions I do not commend you, because when you come together it is not for the better but for the worse.1 Corinthians 11:177 WOES / CONTEXT OF THE PHARISEESNo passage in the Bible is more biting, more pointed, and more severe than this pronouncement of Christ upon the Pharisees. The pharisees, while attempting to honor the Word of God and manifesting extreme form of religious observance, were actually the farthest from God.WalvoordConverting the Church - Church of the City NYThen Jesus said to the crowds and to his disciples, 2 “The scribes and the Pharisees sit on Moses' seat, 3 so do and observe whatever they tell you, but not the works they do. For they preach, but do not practice. 4 They tie up heavy burdens, hard to bear,[a] and lay them on people's shoulders, but they themselves are not willing to move them with their finger. 5 They do all their deeds to be seen by others. For they make their phylacteries broad and their fringes long, 6 and they love the place of honor at feasts and the best seats in the synagogues 7 and greetings in the marketplaces and being called rabbi[b] by others. 8 But you are not to be called rabbi, for you have one teacher, and you are all brothers.[c] 9 And call no man your father on earth, for you have one Father, who is in heaven. 10 Neither be called instructors, for you have one instructor, the Christ. 11 The greatest among you shall be your servant. 12 Whoever exalts himself will be humbled, and whoever humbles himself will be exalted.Matthew 23:1-12HYPOCRISY FROM THE PLATFORM26 “Today I am giving you a choice. You may choose the blessing or the curse. 27 You will get the blessing if you listen and obey the commands of the Lord your God that I have told you today. 28 But you will get the curse if you refuse to listen and obey the commands of the Lord your God. So don't stop living the way I command you today, and don't follow other gods that you don't know.Deuteronomy 11:26-284 They tie up heavy burdens, hard to bear,[a] and lay them on people's shoulders, but they themselves are not willing to move them with their finger. 5 They do all their deeds to be seen by others.Matthew 23:4-5Majoring over minors28 Then they led Jesus from the house of Caiaphas to the governor's headquarters.[f] It was early morning. They themselves did not enter the governor's headquarters, so that they would not be defiled, but could eat the Passover.John 18:28Seeking honor of man vs. approval of God“Honor is like a shadow, which flees from those that pursue it, and grasps at it, but follows those that flee from it.”Henry12 Whoever exalts himself will be humbled, and whoever humbles himself will be exalted.Matthew 23:12“They will be better through me.” - The PhariseesHYPOCRISY FROM THE PEW8 But you are not to be called rabbi, for you have one teacher, and you are all brothers.[c] 9 And call no man your father on earth, for you have one Father, who is in heaven. 10 Neither be called instructors, for you have one instructor, the Christ.Matthew 23:8-10The perversity of the religious leaders of Israel does not excuse the people of Israel. They were guilty of willfully following blind guides.Toussaint“I will be better through them.” - The IsraelitesHYPOCRISY FROM THE STREETWhoever…Matthew 23:12FUNDAMENTAL ATTRIBUTION ERROR“I will be better apart from them.” - The WorldNO ONE IS SAFE (NONE ARE GO...
We explore the future of communication through the lens of conflict, with Lena Morgan, former midwife turned conflict resolution specialist. Zoë shares updates from Planet Human, reflecting on the scathing insights from the Edelman Trust Barometer and her return from the Australian Alpine Walking Track. The Kickstarter for her latest book, Power Games, is on the horizon. Then we welcome Lena Morgan, creator of The Fight Languages. Lena unpacks how understanding our instinctive conflict responses can turn tension into connection. Drawing on her experience in high-stress environments, she shares how organisations can transform culture by decoding these ‘fight languages.' This episode delves into how somatic intelligence, leadership presence, and emotional fluency are crucial in today's polarised environments. SHOWNOTES are here: https://www.zoerouth.com/podcast/conflict-resolution-fight-languages Power Games: https://www.zoerouth.com/power-games Zoë's Substack: https://substack.com/@zoerouth Planet Human: Edelman Trust Barometer reveals collapsing trust in key institutions, with growing class divides and despair. https://www.edelman.com/trust-barometer Key Quotes: "Conflict is information—it tells us what matters most to people." – Lena Morgan "Assume self-interest, not good intent. That's how we keep eyes wide open and hearts open." – Zoë Routh "We all stay in the fight too long. The real skill is knowing when to pause and pivot." – Lena Morgan Questions Asked: What are the five fight languages and how do they show up in teams? How can leaders manage their own conflict response before addressing others'? Why is somatic intelligence essential in high-stakes conversations? How can we better support extinguishers, amplifiers, and analyzers in a workplace? Take Action: Notice your personal conflict pattern. Are you an igniter, amplifier, negotiator, analyzer, or extinguisher? Use Lena's techniques to pause and pivot—whether it's through movement, silence, or strategic escape. Open dialogue with your team about how they experience tension. Use the fight language framework to foster mutual understanding. Tip of the Week Create a “fight language map” with your team. Identify each member's default response and explore ways to better support one another in high-tension moments. Key Moments 00:00 Introduction and Weekly Theme 00:23 Edelman Trust Barometer Report 01:30 Restoring Trust in Systems 02:36 Positive Aspects in Australia 03:27 Personal Update and Upcoming Projects 04:24 Assuming Good Intent in Conflict 05:24 Exploring Power Games and Self-Interest 08:25 Interview with Lena Morgan: Fight Languages 16:25 Understanding Different Fight Languages 22:44 Understanding the Analyzer's Perspective 23:26 Introducing the Extinguishers 24:41 Navigating Mixed Fight Languages 26:10 Starting with Your Own Fight Language 27:22 Techniques for Managing Fight Responses 29:45 Handling Different Fight Languages 35:51 The Fast Three Questions 37:34 The Importance of Conflict in Relationships and Business 38:24 Conclusion and Resources
On this episode, we explore the threat landscape in crypto and fintech — and how companies can go beyond maintaining customer trust to turn confidence into a competitive advantage. With the advent of fintech and crypto platforms, financial services have become more accessible, efficient and transparent for customers. However, the combination of social engineering tactics, deep fakes and AI tools has led to an increase in fraud, scams and other threats.In a world where trust in institutions is declining — the 2025 Edelman Trust Barometer found Americans' institutional trust fell from 52% to 47% over the past decade — crypto and fintech brands must be diligent in earning and maintaining customer trust. Success takes careful consideration and a comprehensive trust and safety strategy. Listen for the compelling perspectives of Amanda Wick, author, former U.S. federal prosecutor specializing in financial crime, founder and CEO of the Association for Women in Cryptocurrency and principal at Incite Consulting, as she shares practical strategies for protecting your customers in an increasingly complex digital financial ecosystem.Amanda's book, The Catalysts: The Accelerating Forces Forging the New World Financial Order, is available for pre-order wherever books are sold.Visit our website to learn more about TELUS Digital.
Today's senior executives operate in an environment where trust has never been more critical, or more fragile. According to the latest Edelman Trust Barometer, trust in business leaders is at an all-time low, with people's fear that business leaders are dishonest increasing by 12% in the last year. So, as a leader, how can you cultivate trust within your team and organization? In this episode of Leadership Lounge, we talk to three of our trusted advisors—Henryk Krajewski, Emmy Melville, and Ilana Abramowicz—who share their perspectives on: How trust is evolving in today's fast-paced business environment The specific behaviors that distinguish highly trusted executives Practical strategies for building and rebuilding trust within teams How to accurately assess trust levels rather than relying on gut feeling “Don't take somebody else's credit. If you make a mistake, you own it. You don't bury somebody else.”Ilana Abramowicz, Leadership Advisor, Russell Reynolds Associates Four things you'll learn from this episode:Trust is built on consistency. You need to demonstrate that you can follow through on your promises and commitments, no matter how small. Trust isn't something that's nice-to-have in an organization. It needs to be intentionally built at a foundational level. Transparent communication is vital for trust—sharing relevant information openly, explaining decisions clearly, and being forthright about challenges creates a culture where trust can flourish. Trusted leaders give credit, own mistakes (even if minimal), and maintain confidentiality. In this episode, we will cover: The four fundamental components that make up trust in the leadership context Why trust should be a foundational priority rather than an afterthought Why trust is critical for accelerating decision-making and enabling productive conflict The ‘1% rule' for initiating trust repair when relationships have fractured The connection between trust and concrete business outcomes How differing trust languages can create unintended barriers within teams Why timing is critical in addressing trust breaches before they become permanent A closer look at the research from this episode: Edelman Trust Barometer How CEOs Can Build and Maintain a High-Performing C-suite | Russell Reynolds Associates The New CEO | Russell Reynolds Associates
Tired of leaders who throw around trendy terms but fail to walk the talk? So are we. In this fiery episode, we dig into one of 2025's most exhausting workplace epidemics: performative leadership. From fake psychological safety claims to the illusion of inclusion, we're calling out the empty mantras and surface-level stunts for what they are—lip service. Tune in as we unpack what real leadership looks like, why your team sees through the BS, and how to lead with integrity, consistency, and a little bit of human grace. It's time to ditch the buzzwords and build trust that sticks.
Where do people place their trust? Why is it declining – and what can CMOs do to reverse the trend? The 2025 Edelman Trust Barometer presents a nuanced picture of public sentiment, complete with troubling social shifts – and some glimmers of optimism, too. The CMO Show host Mark Jones sat down to unpack it all in data-led detail with Edelman CEO, Tom Robinson. The CMO Show is produced by ImpactInstitute, in partnership with Adobe. www.impactinstitute.com.au | https://business.adobe.com/au
Phil Kirschner, Founder of PK Consulting, is an innovator at the intersection of employee experience, corporate real estate, organizational effectiveness, and technology strategy. Drawing on his background at Credit Suisse, WeWork, and McKinsey, Phil shares insights about professional and personal responses to workplace changes. He discusses leaders' and employees' intuitions and the frictions affecting trust. Phil explains the cultural impact of co-working environments and how a hospitality mindset helps achieve strategic human-centric productized work experiences to meet employees' modern work needs. TAKEAWAYS [01:57] Phil shares his experiences in corporate real estate, workplace strategy, and employee experience. [02:45] Cost management taught Phil the importance of understanding workplace dynamics. [04:20] Phil loves the dimensions of workplace change recognizing people's emotional responses. [05:41] How work-life integration can mean the physical manifestation of a policy in the work world. [06:38] Place is personal, affecting choices, relationships and how people communicate. [07:44] How office changes impact managers' perceived control over their teams. [08:45] Executives visiting WeWork's offices were often surprised by the energy and vibrancy. [10:12] Employees embracing the WeWork hospitality, community culture, and work patterns typically had better experiences than those who resisted. [14:00] How smaller companies smaller office investments allows them to be more responsive than large organizations which often struggle with underutilized space. [15:15] COVID revealed more humanity at work—executives were seen differently and trusted. [16:22] The Edelman Trust Barometer shows the first ever dip in trust in corporate leadership. [16:50] Employees' and executives' different intuition about what was ‘better before' and for whom. [18:22] Discrepancies in pre-COVID experiences change expectations for new work environments. [19:22] Phil shares how a real estate company failed to extend workplace flexibility to frontline staff. [22:00] A critical missing question: what needs to be true to allow greater flexibility and not have core metrics dip? [24:40] Remote work enables business continuity and offer an operational risk mitigation framework. [25:00] Digital-first companies have better organizational health by adapting for being distributed. [25:45] Experiencing inefficient processes to develop metrics and optimize operations. [29:02] HR, IT, and Facilities Management need to collaborate to enable modern workplaces. [29:54] Work experience needs productization and someone in charge. [31:07] Real estate reporting to HR help shift the focus from cost control to employee experience. [32:35] Hospitality oriented experiences are typically revenue lines not expense related. [34:31] Companies with “virtual-first, but not placeless” mindset rethink workplace strategy effectively. [35:53] Many executives assume office presence is essential without analyzing why. [39:10] Organizational health and connecting business objectives and work experience. [40:30] How corporate cultures can connect and align employees with purpose enabling change. [43:06] IMMEDIATE ACTION TIP: The first questions to ask at the start of any good change program: who thinks something is wrong? What do they think is wrong? And who else knows? RESOURCES Phil Kirschner on LinkedIn Phil Kirschner, Contributor – Leadership Strategy, Forbes QUOTES "Many employees are feeling gaslit when they hear leaders say, ‘It was better before,' because that doesn't resonate with them." "Trust in organizations dipped for the first time in Edelman's latest trust barometer report." “When I walk into the building, if the experience of getting in or registering a visitor or attending event is, is not a great one, at that point, I do not know or care whose problem it is. I want one place to go easily and I want a hospitality feeling in the response to that, which is really difficult for groups that are viewed as an expense.” “The companies that say place isn't the thing, then tend to come back around with much more interesting and studied uses and new designs of place, whether that's somebody's house, whether that's a coworking space, whether that's an “office” that they retain for gathering purposes, right? These are the same companies that tend to staff up on workplace experience. They staff up on customer success for tools, they staff up for gathering.”
In the latest episode of PodCatalyst, IABC ExecutiveDirector Peter Finn returns as host, sitting down with Shane Hatton to talk all things company culture. From the critical role communicators play in shaping the language of the organization, to understanding Gen Z's expectations, what this year's Edelman Trust Barometer means for leaders, and more, this conversation covers some of the more pressing issues today's workforce faces. Shane is a speaker at this year's World Conference, takingplace in Vancouver, 8-11 June. Tune in to this conversation to get a better idea of what you can expect from his Master Class, “Culture Is Your Unseen Competitive Advantage — Is Yours by Choice or by Chance?” and session, “Gen Z Uncensored.” +++++++++++++++ Shane Hatton is a global expert in leadership and teamculture with over a decade of experience developing remarkable leaders, teams and cultures. Blending business experience with psychology, Shane's passion lies in empowering leaders to communicate, connect, and collaborate more effectively. He thrives on helping leaders have the conversations they need to build the team they want. His perspectives and expertise have been shared in notable publications such as the Harvard Business Review, Forbes, The Australian, HRD, CEO World, Smart Company, Kochies Business Builders, The Herald Sun, Foundr, Company Director, and more. Clients consistently value Shane's skill for introducing clarity to their thought processes and distilling complex ideas into pragmatic strategies. Shane is the author of two books: "Lead The Room —Communicate a Message That Counts in Moments That Matter," and the bestselling "Let's Talk Culture — The Conversations You Need to Create the Team You Want." He is also the host of the insightful podcast Phone Calls With Clever People, which delves into a diverse range of leadership topics. With a prolific career as a speaker, executive coach andfacilitator, Shane has collaborated with businesses spanning a range of industries across the public, private, and not-for-profit sectors. Currently, Shane is elevating the conversation about culture across Australia, New Zealand, the U.K. and the U.S., upholding his reputation as a global thought leader in leadership and culture.+++++++++++++++LINKS Mentioned in This EpisodeIABC World ConferenceEdelmanTrust BarometerConnect With IABC on Social MediaX (Twitter) | LinkedIn | Facebook | YouTube | InstagramVisit IABC Online https://www.iabc.com/https://www.iabc.com/catalyst
Glen shares a pair of interviews from last week's Deluxe Exchange conference- Scamnetic co-founder Al Pascual on a startup's mission to preempt fraud earlier in the pipeline, and Deidre Campbell on a few financial services silver linings amid troubling data from the annual Edelman Trust Barometer. Also- Bingo cards and the CFPB carousel. Links related to this episode: Edelman Trust Barometer: https://www.edelman.com/trust/2025/trust-barometer Our previous conversation about Edelman's Trust Barometer: https://www.big-fintech.com/Media?p=retaining-member-trust-amid-the-decline-of-authority Scamnetic: https://scamnetic.com/ Scamnetic's Fall 2024 Finovate demo: https://finovate.com/videos/finovatefall-2024-scamnetic/ Scamnetic: YouTube overview: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y__BrHsi1Jc Deluxe: https://www.deluxe.com/ Join us for our next CU Town Hall- Wednesday February 26 at 3pm ET/Noon PT- for a live and lively interactive conversation tackling the major issues facing credit unions today. Industry developments keep coming fast and furious- the CU Town Hall is the place to make sense of these items together. It's free to attend, but advance registration is required: https://www.cutownhall.com/ Signing up for the Town Hall also earns you a card for our Bingo game tracking 2025 industry predictions. Find out more here: https://www.big-fintech.com/Media?p=did-you-have-that-one-on-your-bingo-card Follow us on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/best-innovation-group/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/jbfintech/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/glensarvady/
Copper State of Mind: public relations, media, and marketing in Arizona
Abbie and Adrian talk about the 2025 Edelman Trust Barometer report, which reveals rising global grievances and declining trust in institutions. They explore how businesses, governments, and NGOs can rebuild trust amidst economic and social challenges. The discussion centers on the role of transparent communication, responsible leadership, how generational differences affect perceptions of trust and "hostile activism," as well as what people say institutions should do to improve societal trust. Read the transcript and notes for this episode on our website. Key Takeaways The Edelman Trust Barometer reveals a global decline in trust across institutions, with grievances rising significantly. Business leaders are being called upon to spearhead trust restoration efforts, but this must be a collaborative endeavor involving governments, NGOs, and the media. Generational differences exist in perceptions of activism, with younger populations more inclined to view hostile activism as a necessary response to grievances. There is a pressing need for transparent and honest communication by institutions to combat misinformation and rebuild public trust. Consumers of news must also engage responsibly by seeking diverse perspectives and developing informed opinions. Follow the podcastIf you enjoyed this episode, please follow Copper State of Mind in Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or any other podcast app. We publish new episodes every other Friday. Just pick your preferred podcast player from this link, open the app, and click the button to “Follow” the show: https://www.copperstateofmind.show/listen Need to hire a PR firm? We demystify the process and give you some helpful advice in Episode 19: "How to Hire a Public Relations Agency in Arizona: Insider Tips for Executives and Marketing Directors" CreditsCopper State of Mind, hosted by Abbie Fink and Dr. Adrian McIntyre, is a project of HMA Public Relations, a full-service public relations and marketing communications firm in Phoenix. The show is recorded and produced by the team at Speed of Story, a B2B communications firm, and distributed by PHX.fm, the leading independent B2B podcast network in Arizona. If you enjoyed this episode, you might also like the PRGN Presents podcast, hosted by Abbie Fink, featuring conversations about PR, marketing, and communications with members of the Public Relations Global Network, "the world's local public...
Épisode 1258 : Le personal branding des dirigeants, ce n'est plus une option. C'est un levier stratégique. Aujourd'hui, un CEO doit être visible, incarné, inspirant. Pourquoi ? Parce que les consommateurs ne suivent plus seulement des marques, ils suivent des visages, des histoires, des convictions.—Un CEO incarné, c'est une entreprise qui inspire confianceLes consommateurs ont changé. La défiance envers les grandes entreprises n'a jamais été aussi forte. Selon une étude Edelman Trust Barometer 2024, 63 % des consommateurs font davantage confiance à une entreprise dont le dirigeant prend la parole publiquement.—Exemple : Alexandre Bompard, le patron de Carrefour.Depuis quelques mois il développe une prise de parole décomplexée et très humaine sur Instagram. (11k abonnés) —LinkedIn, le terrain de jeu des CEOLinkedIn, c'est devenu LA plateforme des patrons. Un espace où l'on ne parle pas que de business, mais aussi de convictions. Certains y ont construit une audience massive et deviennent de véritables leaders d'opinion.Exemple : Emmanuel Faber, ex-CEO de Danone, qui a incarné un capitalisme responsable. Son engagement pour une économie plus durable a propulsé l'image de Danone. Sur Linkedin Emmanuel Faber c'est une communauté de 317k abonnés. On peut quasiment parler de marque à part entière. Quand il a été évincé, l'entreprise a subi une véritable crise d'image.—Personal branding et marque employeur : un combo gagnantUn CEO qui communique bien, c'est aussi un atout pour recruter et fidéliser les talents. Pourquoi ? Parce que ça donne du sens. Un patron qui partage ses valeurs, qui raconte son parcours, ça motive. Les employés se sentent plus proches, plus engagés.Exemple : Loïc Soubeyrand, fondateur et CEO de Swile, utilise efficacement le personal branding pour promouvoir les valeurs de son entreprise. Ca se passe sur Linkedin où il rassemble presque 40k abonnés. Ces angles sont simples : Esprit d'équipe, Equilibre vie pro/vie perso, l'innovatioon et rester soi-même.—Les CEO influenceurs, un levier businessAu-delà du branding, il y a aussi un vrai enjeu business. Un CEO qui prend la parole, c'est un dirigeant qui génère de la visibilité et, potentiellement, des opportunités.Personal branding = parler de soi ?C'est la grande peur des CEO en général quand il s'agit de personal branding. Parler de son histoire personnelle ? Raconter sa vie… Jamais de la vie !Si on regarde Loic Soubeyrand, ou Alexandre Bompard. Aucun n'a eu besoin d'étaler sa vie privée pour imposer son image. Pourtant, ils ont réussi à incarner leur marque et à fédérer. Leur secret ? Prendre la parole avec leur propre style et une vraie valeur ajoutée.Alors, d'où vient cette idée qu'il faut se mettre à nu pour engager des clients ? Retrouvez toutes les notes de l'épisode sur www.lesuperdaily.com ! . . . Le Super Daily est le podcast quotidien sur les réseaux sociaux. Il est fabriqué avec une pluie d'amour par les équipes de Supernatifs. Nous sommes une agence social media basée à Lyon : https://supernatifs.com. Ensemble, nous aidons les entreprises à créer des relations durables et rentables avec leurs audiences. Ensemble, nous inventons, produisons et diffusons des contenus qui engagent vos collaborateurs, vos prospects et vos consommateurs. Hébergé par Acast. Visitez acast.com/privacy pour plus d'informations.
That Solo Life, Episode 273: Being a PR Pro in the Age of Mistrust In this Episode In this episode of That Solo Life, co-hosts Karen Swim, APR and Michelle Kane discuss the pressing issues of declining trust in institutions and how it impacts the practice and perception of the public relations industry. The co-hosts discuss how the lack of trust has allowed for the proliferation of false narratives, making the PR professional's job more difficult and vital than ever. They emphasize the importance of PR professionals in protecting brand reputation, serving as strategic counselors, and being the crafters of the story that companies present to their audiences. The speakers call for the PR industry to do a better job of elevating the value and expertise of PR professionals, who possess crucial institutional knowledge and the ability to navigate the complex trust landscape. Karen and Michelle kick off the episode with a look at the alarming decline in trust across various institutions, as highlighted by the Edelman Trust Barometer. Karen points out that this erosion of trust has led to a fragmented reality where individuals cling to beliefs that align with their perceptions, often disregarding factual information. This phenomenon is exacerbated by the rise of misinformation, which has become rampant in our digital age. The discussion explores how the internet, while a powerful tool for communication, has also created a level playing field for the spread of both truth and falsehoods. PR professionals recognize the critical importance of their role in combating misinformation and maintaining brand trust. The work of PR pros goes beyond simply securing media placements; they are the storytellers who shape how organizations present themselves to the world. However, the hosts acknowledge the challenges faced in educating clients and the public about the true value of public relations. Throughout the episode, Karen and Michielle highlight the necessity of having skilled communicators who can navigate crises and manage brand reputation. We stress that the decisions made today will have long-lasting effects, and without a strong PR strategy, organizations risk losing the trust of their audiences, including their own employees. Karen and Michelle reflect on the unique expertise that comes from years of experience in the field. They advocate for the need to elevate the perception of the PR profession and ensure that our voices are heard. Listeners are encouraged to share their thoughts and questions, and reminded of the vital role they play in shaping narratives and fostering trust in an increasingly complex world. Episode Timeline 00:00:00 - Introduction to That Solo Life Welcome and introduction of hosts Michelle Kane and Karen Swim. 00:01:00 - The Decline of Trust in Institutions Discussion on the decreasing trust in organizations and institutions over the past decade. 00:02:30 - Misinformation and Its Impact Exploration of how misinformation spreads and its relationship with the lack of trust. 00:04:00 - The Role of Critical Thinking The importance of critical thinking in discerning truth in the age of misinformation. 00:05:30 - The Challenge of Ideologies How deeply held beliefs complicate the public relations landscape. 00:06:30 - The Importance of PR in Crisis Management The vital role of public relations in protecting brand reputation and managing crises. 00:08:00 - Understanding the Role of PR Professionals Discussion on the misconceptions about public relations and the need for better understanding of the profession. 00:09:30 - The Value of Storytelling in PR The significance of storytelling in communicating a brand's identity and values. 00:10:30 - Elevating the PR Profession The need for the public relations industry to advocate for itself and improve public perception. 00:11:30 - The Long-Term Impact of Trust Erosion The potential long-term consequences of declining trust on organizations and society. 00:12:30 - Building and Maintaining Trust The importance of consistent actions and accountability in maintaining brand trust. 00:14:00 - The Value of Institutional Knowledge The significance of experience and institutional knowledge in the effectiveness of PR professionals. 00:16:00 - Conclusion and Call to Action Wrap-up of the discussion and encouragement to share the podcast and engage with the hosts. Resources: Edelman Trust Barometer How PR Pros Can Fight Fake News in 2024 Everything Starts with Trust Disconnect, Division and the Urgent Need for Diligence in Communications Enjoyed the episode? Please leave a review here - even a sentence helps. Share and tag us (@SoloPR, @SoloPRPro) on social media so that we can thank you personally! Your support helps us keep bringing you insightful content every week. Thank you for tuning in!
In a world grappling with declining trust in institutions, businesses face increasing pressure to become agents of societal change. This episode of Mission Forward explores this evolving dynamic with Sarah Schwimmer, co-lead executive at B Lab Global, the non-profit behind the B Corp movement. Host Carrie Fox cedes the interviewing chair to her colleague, Bridget Pooley, Mission Partners' chief operating officer, for a deep dive into the forces reshaping corporate responsibility.They explore the Edelman Trust Barometer's findings, revealing a fascinating dynamic: as trust in traditional institutions wanes, the pressure mounts on businesses to step up. Sarah highlights the B Corp movement's explosive growth as evidence of this trend, with thousands of companies seeking ways to balance purpose and profit. She shares compelling examples of B Corps actively engaging in their communities, like Legacy Vacation Resorts' efforts to empower employee voting.The conversation also touches on the crucial issue of shareholder vs. stakeholder capitalism. Is simply declaring a commitment to all stakeholders enough? Sarah and Bridget discuss the importance of accountability and the role of B Lab's rigorous B Impact Assessment in driving real change.Finally, they explore the age-old tension between mission and profit. Can businesses truly prioritize both? Sarah showcases Patagonia as a shining example of a company successfully integrating purpose and profitability, highlighting innovative ownership models that prioritize long-term mission. The landscape for businesses is complex, but there is always room to become true forces for good.
Trust, from employees, customers and other stakeholders, is core to responsible business. And since the pandemic, people expect even more from businesses, which are – according to the latest Edelman Trust Barometer -- the only institution trusted by the global public.In this episode Veronica and her guest, Brad Greve, Chief Financial Officer at BAE Systems, discuss what the pandemic has taught us about building and maintaining trust.Find out more: https://www.bristol.ac.uk/campaigns/responsible-business/
Part 2 of our Finovate recap features interviews with three more standouts- Further, MoneyKit and Telesign- from an impressive batch of demoing companies. Plus- Glen reveals his Best of Show ballot, and serial entrepreneurs extend their winning streaks. Links related to this episode: MoneyKit: https://moneykit.com/ Further: https://gofurther.app/ Telesign: https://www.telesign.com/ Telesign's Trust Index: https://www.telesign.com/continuous-trust-authority/trust-index Last week's episode featuring interviews with Finovate standouts CardLift and Quavo: https://www.big-fintech.com/Media?p=the-best-things-i-saw-at-finovatefall Our interview with Deidre Campbell on the Edelman Trust Barometer: https://www.big-fintech.com/Media?p=retaining-member-trust-amid-the-decline-of-authority Glen's blog on his key takeaways from FinovateFall: FinovateFall: https://informaconnect.com/finovatefall/ Best of Show winners: https://finovate.com/finovatefall-2024-best-of-show-winners-announced/ Replay of our recent CU Town Hall on what constitutes a Primary Financial Institution (and whether it matters): https://www.big-fintech.com/Media?p=cu-town-hall-episode-122-primary-financial-institutions Find us on X and BlueSky at @bigfintech, @jbfintech and @154Advisors You can also follow us on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/best-innovation-group/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/jbfintech/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/glensarvady/
Glen speaks with Managing Director Deidre Campbell about the Edelman Trust Barometer and its insights on consumer attitudes, with impact for financial institutions and beyond. We then detour into regenerative farming as Fintech South Innovation Challenge winner Alex Edquist discusses how her startup Good Agriculture empowers small farms. Also- banking's version of the Tide Pod Challenge? Links related to this episode: The Edelman Trust Barometer: https://www.edelman.com/trust/2024/trust-barometer Trust at Work: https://www.edelman.com/trust/2024/trust-barometer/special-report-trust-at-work Good Agriculture: https://goodagriculture.com/ Fintech South: https://www.fintechsouth.com/ Hypepotamus' overview of the ten Innovation Challenge participants: https://hypepotamus.com/companies/b2b/meet-the-10-semifinalist-startups-for-the-fintech-south-innovation-challenge/ The Chase ATM TikTok fiasco (a/k/a Check Fraud): https://www.cnn.com/2024/09/03/business/chase-tiktok-trend/index.html Consolidation of the Virginia Credit Union League and League of Southeastern Credit Unions: https://www.vacul.org/news/lscu-and-vacul-announce-intent-to-consolidate Join us for the next CU Town Hall on Wednesday September 18 at 3pm ET/Noon PT for a live and lively interactive conversation tackling the major issues facing CUs today. This session will focus on whether the notion of a Primary Financial Institution is myth or reality. It's free to attend (credit union employees might even win a door prize!), but advance registration is required: https://www.cutownhall.com/ Find us on X and BlueSky at @bigfintech, @jbfintech and @154Advisors You can also follow us on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/best-innovation-group/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/jbfintech/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/glensarvady/
Listen to part one here! This week's episode of The Inspired Podcast is the second in a two-part series about trust in business today. During a trust recession, it isn't just important to practice honest business ethics. New and established businesses alike must show consumers that they are a purpose-driven company that is committed to achieving good in the world. Andrea explores why consumers have lost so much trust in businesses and how organizations can drive with purpose to help win that trust back. . . . RESOURCES IN TODAY'S EPISODE Register for our free Masterclass happening July 23rd! Purpose in Action: Crafting and Delivering an Impactful Brand Purpose EthicalConsumer.org The Trust Recession Cyber Peace Institute 2024 Edelman Trust Barometer . . . CONNECT WITH KANDULA Kandula Blogs Youtube Instagram LinkedIn . . . ABOUT ANDREA DE LA CERDA Andrea De La Cerda is a highly accomplished communications professional with over 25 years of experience in the fields of advertising, communications and marketing. Throughout her career, Andrea has held key positions in renowned advertising agencies, brand consultancies and in-house marketing departments before creating Kandula. She possesses a deep understanding of consumer behavior and market trends, allowing her to develop innovative communication strategies that resonate with diverse audiences. Andrea received both her B.A. in Advertising and Business Administration and a M.A. in Education from Pepperdine. She is currently pursuing her Accreditation in Public Relations and is a member of PRSA. Sign up for Andrea's monthly newsletter, Insights for Systemic Change. . . . WORK WITH US Kandula works with nonprofits, entrepreneurs, educational institutions, and established brands dedicated to expanding their influence and amplifying their impact through purpose-driven communication strategies. Reach out to work with us!
There are two things you should always trust: Signal and yourself. But what makes trusting everything else so hard? Mory and Melissa break down what makes us develop and lose trust while discovering some fundamental differences between them. Starting first with a mini-history lesson (a Signal staple), they close out with some tips on how to build trust in yourself. Read the Edelman Trust Barometer: https://www.edelman.com/trust/trust-barometerTo submit questions for future episodes (and tell us your relationship with trust!): https://forms.gle/ZhSKGveWox33GvFq6Follow Signal on insta: https://www.instagram.com/signalwithmoryandmelissaFollow Mory on insta: https://www.instagram.com/moryfontanez/