Best USC Annenberg Podcasts (2024)

1
Defining the Future of Work With USC Annenberg’s Fred Cook 19:19

16d ago19:19

19:19

In the latest episode of PodCatalyst, Matt Tidwell, member of the IABC International Executive Board, sits down with Fred Cook to discuss findings from “Communicating Culture During a Hybrid Revolution,” a joint report from IABC and the USC Center for Public Relations. Tune in as they discuss how the shift to remote and hybridwork is impacting corp…

1
Talib Jasir's on Elevating Black Voices through Afros and Audio 29:32

11h ago29:32

29:32

Talib Jasir joins us to share his incredible journey from creating his first audio drama podcast in 2017 to establishing Afros and Audio, a pioneering festival and network lifting Black voices in podcasting. Talib opens up about the power of representation and the challenges Black creatives face in an industry where their voices are often marginali…

1
Harnessing AI for Inclusive Media: Jeffrey Paul's ZioTag Revolution 27:07

7h ago27:07

27:07

Unlock the transformative potential of AI in media with our exclusive conversation featuring Jeffrey Paul, CEO and co-founder of ZioTag. Discover how an innovative AI-powered video platform is making video content more accessible and searchable. Jeffrey shares the inspirational story behind ZioTag, a tool initially created to navigate lengthy tech …

1
Blockchain, AI, and the Future of Energy with Vivek Bhandari 35:32

17d ago35:32

35:32

Prepare to be inspired by the incredible journey of Dr. Vivek Bhandari, a digital changemaker in the energy sector. Vivek's passion for programming and app development during the IT boom of the 90s in Nepal set him on a path toward electrical engineering and eventually led to his role at Powerledger in Australia. His personal experiences with energ…

1
Scott Duffy's Entrepreneurial Evolution into AI Innovation and Sales Mastery 36:44

14d ago36:44

36:44

Can you imagine transforming from a college freshman looking for internships to a young entrepreneur paving his own path? Scott Duffy's journey with AAA Student Painters is nothing short of inspirational. He shares the pivotal advice that helped him seize entrepreneurial opportunities and develop essential business skills through hands-on experienc…

1
Future-Proofing Business: AI Insights from BL Ochman 25:38

29d ago25:38

25:38

Discover the remarkable journey of BL Ochman, a true pioneer in digital marketing, as she shifts her focus to the transformative power of artificial intelligence. From managing major PR clients like the American Dairy Association and Miracle-Gro to leading digital strategy sessions for Ford and IBM, BL shares her captivating story of embracing the …

1
Brian Garrett's Venture Capital Journey: Crafting Success Through Intellectual Curiosity, Mentorship, and Resilience 28:58

1M ago28:58

28:58

Ready to uncover the secrets of becoming a successful venture capitalist? In this episode of Mediascape Insights from Digital Changemakers, we’re thrilled to sit down with Brian Garrett, a founding partner of Crosscut. Listen as Brian shares his extraordinary journey from a Stanford industrial engineering graduate to a renowned VC in Southern Calif…

1
Evan Leapheart's Vision: Bridging the Gap in Financial Literacy 30:31

1M ago30:31

30:31

Discover the inspiring entrepreneurial journey of Evan Leapheart as he reveals the secrets behind transforming financial missteps into educational triumphs. Tune in to learn how Evan's personal experiences led to the creation of Kiddie Kredit and its innovative evolution into Kredit Academy. Gain insights into the importance of financial education …

1
From Tennis Courts to Virtual Schools: Kirk Spahn on Innovation in Education 35:45

2M ago35:45

35:45

Ever wondered how virtual education can transform from mundane to magical? In this episode, we promise you'll gain exclusive insights from Kirk Spahn, a fourth-generation educator whose journey spans competitive junior tennis, an influential stint at Dartmouth College, and pioneering work in Europe with School-Master.net. As the founder of ICL Acad…

1
In Under 10: Getting the C-Suite’s Take on Comms 13:51

2M ago13:51

13:51

In the latest episode of PodCatalyst, we sit down with Joe Spratt, expert, strategic communications and change, at McKinsey & Company. Tune in as we dig into the future of comms through the lens of the C-suite, based on a series of in-depth conversations, interviews, and survey results that McKinsey & Company conducted. Joe walks us through key fin…

1
Allan Knight on Transforming Communication Through Self Mastery 36:00

2M ago36:00

36:00

What if mastering communication could be the key to overcoming loneliness and depression? We sit down with Allan Knight, whose personal journey of self-discovery began with his mother's battle with cancer and his quest for meaning after his father's passing. Allan's path took him to a Zen meditation center where he lived as a monk for nine years, a…

1
Stephen Blackburn and Stephen Johnson: Mastering the Digital Ecosystem to become Rich From Anywhere 52:11

2M ago52:11

52:11

Ever wondered how two broke musicians from Florida could turn their fortunes around to become thriving entrepreneurs? Join us as Stephen Blackburn and Stephen Johnson, the powerhouse duo behind Rich From Anywhere, share their extraordinary journey from the tough streets of Fort Myers to the bustling entrepreneurial scene in Atlanta. Learn how they …

1
Jon Clemence on Elevating Content Authenticity and Team Integrity 33:34

2M ago33:34

33:34

What if you could navigate the rocky transition from corporate life to freelance success in a post-pandemic world? That’s exactly what John Clemence, founder of Cedar Press, accomplished, and he’s here to share his inspiring journey. Discover how Jon turned his passion for English into a thriving business, leveraging platforms like UpWork to offer …

1
Jimmy Brady's Odyssey: Redefining Resilience and Embracing AI Ethics for a Transformative Future 49:32

3M ago49:32

49:32

Ever wondered how the human spirit can transcend adversity? Join us as we promise you will be inspired by Jimmy Brady’s incredible journey from dropping out of school at 12 to becoming a passionate learner and successful entrepreneur. Jimmy’s story is a testament to resilience and the transformative power of meditation. Despite the formidable chall…

1
Overheard at World Conference 30:40

3M ago30:40

30:40

Earlier this summer, IABC hosted communicators from all over at its annual World Conference, held this year in Chicago. In this special edition of PodCatalyst, we catch up with attendees between sessions to get their aha moments. From insights around how they’re are thinking about AI, tobetter practices for accessibility, rethinking hiring practice…

1
AI in Action: Nick Martin's Vision for the Future of Media and Education 40:27

3M ago40:27

40:27

How will AI reshape the future of digital media and education? Join us as we uncover the transformative power of AI with Nick Martin, one of the founders of Direqt, an AI startup recognized by Adweek as one of the top 12 hottest in the industry. Hear Nick's inspiring journey from college dropout to successful entrepreneur and discover how Direct is…

1
Harnessing AI for Ethical Sales Success with Gregg Murphy and Mike Latch 51:43

3M ago51:43

51:43

Join us for an inspiring conversation with Gregg Murphy and Mike Latch, two visionaries who transformed their journey from a residential solar company in Hawaii into a powerful narrative at the intersection of AI and sales with Patter AI. Have you ever wondered how a structured sales process and mentorship can turn a near-firing into a flourishing …

1
Revolutionizing FinTech Ventures Through AI Innovation with Drew Glover 45:20

3M ago45:20

45:20

Unlock the secrets of building a successful business with Drew Glover, co-founder of Fiat Growth and general partner at Fiat Ventures. Drew's journey from growing up in the Bay Area and attending UC Berkeley to making a significant impact in the venture capital world is nothing short of inspiring. Alongside co-founder Alex Harris, Drew has identifi…

1
In Under 10: Deciphering Misinformation With Candace Denison 9:22

3M ago9:22

9:22

In the latest episode of PodCatalyst, we sit down with Candace Denison, communications and engagement manager at Rocky View County, to discuss misinformation and the role of the communicator. As we navigate the Wild West era of AI, allowingmisinformation to spread easier than before, how can communicators come armed with facts? What tactics and str…

1
Arra Yerganian's Blueprint for Effective CMO Leadership and Innovation 28:14

4M ago28:14

28:14

Is it possible to stand out in a crowded marketplace? Join us as we explore this question with Arra G. Yerganian, a distinguished Chief Marketing Officer with a wealth of experience at organizations like One Medical and the University of Phoenix. Arra unpacks his approach to breaking through the "sea of sameness" using research, insights, and marke…

1
Leaning in to Neurodiversity and Flexibility With Becca Chambers 37:49

4M ago37:49

37:49

In the latest episode of PodCatalyst, we sit down with Becca Chambers, chief communications officer at ControlUp. Her journey to the C-suite began with a role in sports PR and from there took a few twists and turns, including grad school and landing on her love of all things branding and communication. Today, she remains a staunch advocate for comm…

1
Kevin Surace: Merging the Arts with AI Innovation and Cultivating Joy in Entrepreneurship 51:18

5M ago51:18

51:18

Join the conversation with Kevin Surace, an AI maverick and the "Father" of the Virtual Assistant, who not only shapes the future of technology but also intertwines it with the vibrancy of the arts. Imagine a world where engineers take center stage, melding code with creativity in a performance that's as technical as it is theatrical. Kevin's story…

1
In Under 10: What Does Taylor Swift Have to Do With Your Comms Strategy? 9:21

5M ago9:21

9:21

In the latest installment of In Under 10, we talk to EmilyCaister about what communicators can learn from Taylor Swift’s marketing mastery. Whether you consider yourself a Swiftie or not, there’s something for everyone to learn. Tune in as we discuss the pop star’s approach to branding,as well as how dialing into pop culture more broadly can help c…

1
Darrell Evans on Transforming Digital Media with Email Magic, Video Authority, and MindShift Wisdom 52:35

5M ago52:35

52:35

Join the journey with digital marketing virtuoso Darrell Evans as we dissect the ever-changing landscape of digital media. Darrell brings his wealth of knowledge from real estate to YouTube stardom, providing a roadmap for success in utilizing email marketing and video content. Our conversation is a treasure trove of insights, sharing how innovatio…

1
Unveiling the Impact of Artificial Intelligence on Small Business Marketing with Menekse Stewart 49:13

5M ago49:13

49:13

Embark on an expedition through the dynamic landscape of AI in digital marketing with our esteemed guest, Menekse Stewart, who illuminates the intricate dance between technology and human insight. From her early SEO roots to the sophisticated algorithms of today, Menekse imparts her wisdom on the seismic shift from keyword-stuffed pages to the subt…

1
Alex Back: From Singing to Sofas in the Digital Furniture Frontier 46:22

5M ago46:22

46:22

From the glitz of the stage to the gloss of home décor, Alex Back's journey is as unconventional as it gets. Our latest episode peels back the curtain on his fascinating transition from a crooning singer to a trailblazing entrepreneur in the digital furniture realm. As I, Anika Jackson, chat with Alex, he unveils the inner workings of his success w…

1
Listening Leads to Understanding, a Prize Worth Fighting For: A Conversation With Julian Treasure 28:19

5M ago28:19

28:19

“Everybody wants to be heard, but not many people areinterested in listening,” Julian Treasure, expert in sound and listening, says in the latest episode of PodCatalyst. So when was the last time you listened to the world around you? Is a lack of listening harming your business or, worse, your well-being? Tune in as Julian shares how listening has …

1
Charting New Media Territories Through Digital Innovation with Derek Riesfeld 48:36

5M ago48:36

48:36

Embark on a compelling voyage through the career of USC Annenberg alum and digital pioneer, Derek Riesfeld. His extraordinary journey from the halls of traditional media to the forefront of the digital age offers a treasure trove of insights for anyone intrigued by the seismic shifts in media and technology. With a narrative that begins at USC and …

1
Jarrod Lopiccolo's Journey: Crafting Digital Innovation and Curating a Global Corporate Culture 49:47

6M ago49:47

49:47

Embark on a captivating exploration of digital advertising's ever-shifting landscape with Jarrod Lopiccolo, the visionary leader of Noble Studios. In a heartfelt conversation, Jarrod opens up about the trials and triumphs of melding a bustling career with the demands of a rich personal life. Our discussion uncovers the keys to a harmonious work-lif…

1
7. Conversational Receptiveness - A Talk With Michael Rain (ENODI & Harvard University) 25:04

6M ago25:04

25:04

We would love to hear your feedback on this episode! Please click here to share your thoughts via text message. We can't wait to hear what's on your mind! Listen, and learn about Conversational Receptivenss in this talk with our guest Michael Rain. Michael founded ENODI, a media and research company focused on all people with immigrant backgrounds.…

1
In Under 10: TikTok, Policy and Losing Community 8:20

6M ago8:20

8:20

Editor’s Note: This episode was recorded one week prior to recent legislative decisions by U.S. President Joe Biden, signing into law that TikTok will be banned unless sold within a year. Catalyst will continue to follow this story as it develops. What happens when an app fades from existence — or gets legislated out of the hands of the public? Wha…

1
Payal Shah's Evolution: From Product Technologist to Digital Eco-Warrior and Sustainable Business Innovator 24:12

6M ago24:12

24:12

Imagine transforming from a product technologist to an eco-warrior in the world of digital entrepreneurship. Payal Shah, the trailblazing founder of Good 4 Earth, shares her captivating transition and the revolutionary steps she's taken from advising giants like Coca-Cola and Warner Brothers to leading sustainable change through her ed-tech and HR-…

1
Narek Vardanyan's Odyssey: Cultivating Resilience and Revolutionizing Product Launches on Prelaunch.com 28:24

6M ago28:24

28:24

Embark on an enthralling voyage with us as Narek Vardanyan, the CEO of Prelaunch.com, shares his personal narrative of cultural transition and entrepreneurial conquest. From the early setbacks of his initial crowdfunding efforts to the triumphs of his current venture, Narek's story is a testimony to the resilience and adaptability necessary for suc…

1
In Under 10: Understanding Digital Accessibility With Matisse Hamel-Nelis 8:57

6M ago8:57

8:57

In today’s digital age, making sure your online presence meets basic accessibility standards isn’t just the right thing to do — it’s good for business, too. In the latest installment of In Under 10, Matisse Hamel-Nelis walks us through the basics of understanding digital accessibility, recent examples of well-known brands that have gotten into hot …

1
Thomas Helfrich's Blueprint for Conquering Digital Branding and Mastering LinkedIn Mastery 57:46

6M ago57:46

57:46

Ever felt like the corporate 9-to-5 just isn't cutting it for your ambitious spirit? Tune in as I chat with the indomitable Thomas Helfrich, who shares his voyage from the corporate world to the land of entrepreneurship. Discover how he built a digital brand that not only stands out but speaks volumes to those who matter in his professional circle.…

1
Jennifer Reitman's Media Odyssey: From Dame Magazine's Roots to Independent Media's Horizon 41:50

7M ago41:50

41:50

When Jennifer Reitman reminisces about her father's legacy at Brides Magazine and Publisher's Clearinghouse, it's like opening a time capsule of media history that echoes through her own career trajectory. From the inception of Dame Magazine, which faced the onslaught of the 2008 financial crash, to its metamorphosis into a digital powerhouse, Jenn…

1
Ron Skotarczak’s Secrets to Crafting Sales Stories That Resonate 34:49

7M ago34:49

34:49

Discover the transformative power of storytelling in sales with Ron Skotarczak, the EVP and Chief Sales and Marketing Officer at Madison Square Garden Entertainment Company. He's not just a top executive; Ron is a maestro of personal connections and narrative who knows that the key to unlocking success in sales goes beyond pushing products—it's abo…

1
‘Leadership Is an Act of Extended Storytelling’: A Conversation With Oscar Munoz, Former United Airlines CEO and Chairman 17:48

7M ago17:48

17:48

What happens when your frontline employees are tired of apologizing on behalf of the company? When public perception isn’t in your favor? This was the reality Oscar Munoz faced when he took the role of CEO and chairman of United Airlines in 2015. So he went back to basics, embarking on an extensive listening tour with thousands of employees — and i…

1
A Deep Dive into Gen Z's Scrolls with Day One Agency's Josh Rosenberg 26:47

7M ago26:47

26:47

In this episode, Josh Rosenberg, CEO of Day One Agency, joins Fred Cook to discuss the results of a real-time ethnographic study about Gen Z media habits that Day One and the USC Annenberg collaborated to conduct. The discussion uncovers the nontraditional news sources and the 'always on' media engagement that characterize Gen Z's unique media land…

1
Envisioning Success Beyond Profits with Legacy Architect Natalie Byrne 15:31

7M ago15:31

15:31

Discover the transformative power of authentic legacy and its undeniable imprint on business success with Natalie Byrne, the visionary from Blank Space, an impact strategy powerhouse at the nexus of culture, impact, and capital. As we unravel their journey from journalism to impact strategy, you're promised insights into the artistry of storytellin…

1
David Freeman on the Art of the CAA's Talent Acquisition and Digital Strategies 34:00

7M ago34:00

34:00

Prepare to get a front-row seat to the digital transformation revolution with the masterminds at Creative Artists Agency (CAA). As we unravel the intricacies of talent acquisition in the era of influencers and gamers, our guest from CAA shares how personal branding and networking are key in an industry that's constantly seeking the next big thing. …

1
PR Education: What Does the Next Generation Need to Succeed? 24:07

7M ago24:07

24:07

Founded in 1973, the Commission on Public Relations Education(CPRE) provides recommendations on public relations education foruniversities and professional associations around the world. CPRE’s latest signature report, “NavigatingChange: Recommendations for Advancing Undergraduate PR Education,” offersan in-depth look into what’s needed and expecte…

1
Navigating the Podcasting Revolution: Anika Jackson's Insider Guide to Industry Shifts, AI Integration, and Authentic Growth 57:33

8M ago57:33

57:33

Embark on an audio odyssey where we unravel the podcasting phenomenon alongside Anika Jackson, a VP at Full Capacity Marketing and podcast pro. Our conversation paints a vivid picture of the industry's seismic shifts, putting into perspective the sheer number of weekly podcast aficionados outstripping Netflix subscribers! Anika's transition from ra…

1
In Under 10: Guiding Principles for the Ethical Use of AI 5:59

8M ago5:59

5:59

In Under 10:Guiding Principles for the Ethical Use of AI As a complement to the association’s Code of Ethics, IABCrecently released Guiding Principles for the Ethical Use of AI by CommunicationProfessionals. In this first edition of “In Under 10,” Kristin Frankiewicz,IABC content manager, sits down with Simon Murphy, a member of the IABC EthicsComm…

1
Leonora Zilkha Williamson on Crafting a Career That Echoes Beyond the Boardroom 31:18

8M ago31:18

31:18

When Leonora Zilkha Williamson, founder and CEO of Platinum Rule Advisors, and lecturer at Vanderbilt University, speaks, you can't help but be drawn into her world—a tapestry where the vibrant threads of business, media, and the human spirit intertwine. Our latest conversation with this Vanderbilt sage takes you from the halls of liberal arts to t…

1
Building Your Brand With Microsoft Senior Storyteller Miri Rodriguez 27:09

8M ago27:09

27:09

When it comes to brand-building, the communicator iswell-equipped to not only manage that of their organization or clients, buttheir own brand as well. So what does that look like in practice? Miri Rodriguez, senior storyteller at Microsoft, offers herinsight and sage advice to “date the brand and marry yourself.” IABC Content Manager Kristin Frank…

1
Mastering Digital Influence: AJ Kumar's Playbook for Viral Success 1:09:30

8M ago1:09:30

1:09:30

Unlock the full potential of your online influence with insights from digital marketing maestro AJ Kumar of The Limitless Company, as he recounts his transformative journey from sales to thought leadership. This episode is a treasure trove of strategies and stories, including AJ's role in catapulting the likes of Kimberly Snyder and Neil Patel to d…

1
From Athlete to Entrepreneur: Steve Gatena's Transformational Journey in Media and Personal Growth 50:14

8M ago50:14

50:14

When collegiate athlete turned media mogul Steve Gatena stepped onto our digital stage, he brought with him a treasure trove of insights bridging the world of personal growth and digital innovation. Founder of Pray.com, Steve's journey is anything but ordinary, as he narrates his transition from the football field of USC to the high-stakes game of …

1
Unwrapping M&M's Super Bowl Magic: How to Manage A Legacy Brand with Jessica Adelman 36:40

8M ago36:40

36:40

M&M’s is Gen Z’s favorite brand. Its spokescandies are beloved by all, so much so that any minor change to their cadence can cause a political discourse and polarize the nation. How does a legacy brand stay relevant in the modern world and remain pervasive in the minds of millions? In honor of the upcoming Super Bowl, we’re revisiting the 2023 M&M …

1
Bridging the Digital Divide: Cortney Woodruff on Assemble and the Future of Networking 37:52

9M ago37:52

37:52

Have you ever stumbled across a story so compelling, it inspired you to rethink your own path? That's precisely what happened when I sat down with tech entrepreneur Cortney Woodruff. He walked us through his conception of Assemble, a groundbreaking online platform earmarked to democratize the digital landscape. Rooted in his own challenges of being…

Podcasts Worth a Listen

USC Annenberg Podcasts

Podcasts Worth a Listen

Quick Reference Guide