The PR Breakdown with Molly McPherson - podcast cover

The PR Breakdown with Molly McPherson

www.mollymcpherson.commollymcpherson.com

Ever wonder what's really happening behind those viral headlines and celebrity PR disasters? Step into the war room with crisis communications expert Molly as she dissects the week's biggest reputation battles, media meltdowns, and brand controversies.

Each week, Molly peels back the curtain on headline-making moments to reveal the strategic chess moves that shape public perception. From corporate crises to celebrity comebacks, she breaks down what works, what fails, and what it means for the future of reputation management.

Whether you're a PR professional, business leader, or simply fascinated by the art of reputation management, join Molly every week for the conversation everyone in PR is talking about. Subscribe now to master the strategies shaping modern reputation—one breakdown at a time.

Episodes

Behind the Oscar Curtain: Scandals and Apologies

The 2025 Academy Awards weren’t just about golden statues—they were a golden opportunity to survive a PR crisis. From a rumored affair between two co-stars, resurfaced blackface performances to the growing debate over artificial intelligence in filmmaking, this year’s Oscars put the industry’s ethical dilemmas front and center. How did major nominees handle the heat? Taking a closer look at how these Hollywood players navigated public backlash and owned—or avoided—their past decisions. These mom...

Mar 05, 202524 minEp. 302

The Secret Trigger Behind Every Crisis

This is the only thing you have to fear in a crisis. Listen as crisis and reputation strategist Molly McPherson explains what is at the heart of every crisis. Recorded late on a Friday— moments after her meeting with a client in crisis— Molly checked out the national news headlines looking for a Friday news dump. She wanted to find the common theme between what she heard on that client call and what that headline story revealed. She found it. Learn what the secret trigger of every client crisis....

Feb 26, 202517 minEp. 301

The Invisible Machine Behind Celebrity Stories

The Invisible Machine Behind Celebrity Stories Overview In this episode, Molly explores how celebrity stories are crafted and shaped behind the scenes, examining the key players and mechanisms that drive celebrity narratives in media. Case Studies Discussed Meghan Markle's Brand Relaunch Taylor Swift/Blake Lively Situation Ryan Reynolds & Blake Lively Additional Resources Mentioned Vanity Fair article "American Hustle" (February 2025 edition) Previous episode (#299) on Taylor ...

Feb 19, 202538 minEp. 300

Taylor Swift's PR Strategy: Distancing from Blake Lively

In this episode of 'The PR Breakdown,' Molly delves into the intricate PR maneuvers and power plays behind the rift between Taylor Swift and Blake Lively. Taylor Swift reportedly feels used in the ongoing legal tussle between Blake Lively, Ryan Reynolds, and Justin Baldoni. The episode covers the strategic leak by Swift's team to distance her from the drama, involving lawsuits over defamation, sexual harassment, and privacy invasion. McPherson explains why timing and reputation ma...

Feb 12, 202523 minEp. 299

Analyzing Power Dynamics: Trump, Reynolds, and Jay-Z Under the PR Microscope

Dissecting the public relations and power dynamics involving three high-profile men who were in the news recently: Donald Trump, Ryan Reynolds, and Jay-Z. Let's take an impartial but critical look at Trump's controversial handling of a tragic plane crash and his divisive politics, Ryan Reynolds' suspected staged paparazzi event amid legal drama with Blake Lively and Justin Baldoni, and Jay-Z's recent PR moves amidst serious legal troubles coinciding with Beyonce's Grammy...

Feb 05, 202537 minEp. 298

From Voicemails to PR Moves: The Battle Between Lively, Baldoni, and Reynolds

In this explosive episode, we delve into a Hollywood controversy grabbing headlines after a simple voicemail reignited the full-blown power struggle between Justin Baldoni, Blake Lively, and Ryan Reynolds. Molly reveals how Reynolds' carefully crafted public image might be cracking under the pressure of mounting allegations and legal battles between his wife and Justin Baldoni. Listen to several key developments in this unfolding drama: Reynolds' strategic public appearances and speech...

Jan 29, 202544 min

Takeaways from Trump's Inaugural Address: Key Highlights You Can't Miss

In this episode of The PR Breakdown , diving into Donald Trump’s second inaugural address and breaking down the PR strategies, rhetorical moves, and media messages woven throughout. From the decision to move the ceremony indoors to Trump’s subdued, teleprompter-driven delivery, the address was a masterclass in image-conscious storytelling. He leaned heavily into his narrative as the avenging hero, divinely chosen to save America—rhetoric that fires up his base but leaves communicators with plent...

Jan 22, 202527 min

L.A. Mayor Karen Bass is Bad in a Crisis. Here's Why

The episode examines the mismanagement of communication during the recent LA wildfires, focusing on Mayor Karen Bass's absence during the crisis and the subsequent erosion of public trust. Key lessons in crisis communication emphasize the need for transparency, empathy, and accountability from leaders facing critical situations. • Analysis of Mayor Bass's timeline during the wildfires • Discussion on the impact of her international travel • Examination of communication failures and tru...

Jan 15, 202522 min

Behind the Spin: Blake Lively, Justin Baldoni, and the High-Stakes PR Showdown

Amid the glamorous yet ruthless world of Hollywood, Blake Lively and Justin Baldoni find themselves embroiled in a high-profile legal battle stemming from the adaptation of Colleen Hoover’s novel, “It Ends With Us.” The episode explores the tangled web of celebrity relations, PR strategies, and serious allegations of misconduct that threaten to overshadow their professional endeavors and alter the public's perception of both stars. • Overview of the legal feud between Blake Lively and Justi...

Jan 08, 202546 min

Year in Review: 2024's Disasters, Recoveries, and Lessons Learned

They’re back and ready to dissect the year’s biggest communications fiascos. I’m joined by Warren Weeks and John Perenack, my Candian colleagues in crisis behind the Reputation Town podcast, to break down 2024’s most cringe-worthy PR disasters. We’re talking about brand meltdowns, public figures who just couldn’t keep it together, and major corporations fumbling their way through social backlash. From outrageous missteps to the frantic damage control that followed, you’ll hear why these moments ...

Dec 18, 20241 hr 1 min

Breaking Down Jay-Z’s PR Strategy In His Statement Denying Allegations

Is Jay-Z truly a victim? Or is this a masterful PR strategy? This episode analyzes Jay-Z’s bold statement denying recent allegations and the strategy behind his fiery words. Hear how Jay-Z frames the accusations as absurd and meritless while directly aiming at attorney Tony Buzbee in a battle of wits and egos. It also looks at Beyonce’s PR strategy and speculates on how the couple might handle high-profile events like the Grammys. The episode includes exclusive clips from Molly’s recent intervie...

Dec 11, 202423 min

Top 5 Controversies Surrounding Wicked Movie and Their PR Lesson

When controversies swirl, smart PR can turn turbulence into triumph. In this episode, dive into how Universal Pictures and the Wicked team transformed five headline-grabbing challenges into opportunities to strengthen the film’s buzz and audience trust. Scandals, Salaries & Strategy: From love triangles to pay gap rumors, discover how they tackled the drama with finesse. Tweets, Trends & Two-Part Twists: See how a two-part release and resurfaced tweets were spun into narrative wins. Cris...

Dec 04, 202418 minEp. 291

Silent vs. Vocal: Zach Bryan and Brianna LaPaglia's Breakup PR Battle

The Zach Bryan and Brianna "Chicken Fry" LaPaglia breakup has become a masterclass in contrasting PR strategies, pitting traditional celebrity discretion against modern social media transparency. As country music star Bryan maintains careful control through cryptic messages and measured statements, Barstool Sports personality LaPaglia takes the opposite approach, sharing raw, emotional details about their relationship and its end. Their public split crystallizes a pivotal moment in cel...

Nov 27, 202419 minEp. 290

TikTok's Pajama Drama and Entitlement: A PR and Psychology Breakdown

Molly breaks down the TikTok drama everyone is consumed with at the moment - two creators and their pajamas. Cecily and Samantha Bachman, whose launch of $98 holiday pajamas sparked intense public criticism and led to a problematic apology that only fueled further backlash. Joining Molly is renowned relationship expert Dr. Abby Medcalf, who illuminates the fascinating connection between entitled behavior and ineffective communication. Together, they explore why people—from social media influence...

Nov 20, 202424 minEp. 290

288: The Perfect Mess: Martha Stewart's Documentary Damage Control

Martha Stewart's Netflix documentary unpacks her biggest PR battles and delivers a masterclass in reputation repair. From that infamous CBS salad interview to the $45,000 ImClone stock trade that sent shockwaves through her empire, the documentary reveals the real story behind Martha's headlines. Learn how her lawyers' tight-lipped strategy backfired, why she stopped dating Anthony Hopkins, and how she's transformed her perfectionist reputation from a liability into an asset....

Nov 12, 202417 min

287: Election PR Showdown: Campaign Predictions with the Guys from the Reputation Town Podcast

It's a special episode featuring Molly's conversation with Canadian PR experts Warren Weeks and John Perenack from the Reputation Town podcast. Just days before the 2024 presidential election, they break down the most talked-about PR moves and media strategies shaping this historic race. Episode Highlights Analysis of Trump's McDonald's publicity stunt in Pennsylvania The "garbage" rhetoric war between campaigns Jeff Bezos and the Washington Post's controversia...

Nov 05, 202451 min

286: Behind the Scenes with Dr. Abby: Celebrity Relationships, Loyalty, and Reputation in the Spotlight

Behind the Scenes with Dr. Abby: Celebrity Relationships, Loyalty, and Reputation in the Spotlight This week’s PR Breakdown Live episode on Patreon takes a deep dive into celebrity relationships, loyalty, and the challenges of managing public perception. With Dr. Abby Metcalf joining as a special guest, this lively discussion covers how fame and success impact high-profile relationships, what drives public reputation, and the complexities that unfold when loyalty and fame collide. Episode Highli...

Oct 30, 202414 min

285: The 3 Questions You MUST Ask Before Speaking to Any Reporter

This episode of The PR Breakdown explores whether individuals and organizations should always respond to reporters' inquiries. She presents a nuanced view of media engagement, highlighting key considerations before agreeing to an interview. The episode outlines three critical questions to guide this decision. The episode includes real-life anecdotes from Molly's work and stresses the importance of understanding the media landscape, preparing adequately, and sometimes choosing to declin...

Oct 23, 202421 min

284: The Risks and Realities of a 100% Denial Strategy

In this episode of The PR Breakdown , we take a deep dive into the high-stakes PR strategy of a "100% Denial." This approach has long been used by celebrities, politicians, and public figures when facing serious accusations. But is it still a smart move in today’s social media-driven world? We explore multiple examples of how this strategy plays out and examine why some public figures—like Garth Brooks, Lizzo, Prince Andrew, and Lance Armstrong—chose the denial route. Is it a legal nec...

Oct 16, 202427 min

283: Low Places, High Stakes: Garth Brooks’ PR Crisis Amid Assault Allegations

In this episode of The PR Breakdown , digging into the PR crisis surrounding country music legend Garth Brooks. Two days before sexual assault allegations against him surfaced, Brooks posted a seemingly wholesome photo with his wife, Trisha Yearwood. Coincidence? Maybe not. Exploring how the couple is strategically handling the allegations in public, breaking down their moves and drawing parallels to familiar PR playbook tactics used by other high-profile figures. With serious accusations brough...

Oct 09, 202417 min

282: Scandal Season: Why September Sparks Media, Celebrity, and Political Firestorms

September marks the beginning of scandal season, when politicians, celebrities, and the media heat up with controversy. In this episode, we break down the crisis communication tactics used by high-profile figures, focusing on New York City Mayor Eric Adams and his response to federal charges of bribery and fraud. We take a closer look at Adams’ video statement and compare it to strategies used by former President Bill Clinton during the Monica Lewinsky scandal and former New York Governor Andrew...

Oct 02, 202431 min

281: Scandal, Power, and Abuse: RFK Jr., Sean Combs, and Muhammad Al-Fayed

What happens when high-profile figures like RFK Jr., Sean Combs, and Muhammad Al-Fayed find themselves at the center of public scandals? This episode unpacks the unsettling truths behind RFK Jr.'s sexting affair with political reporter Olivia Nuzzi, exploring how his wife Cheryl Hines' glamorous appearance at Milan Fashion Week might be a strategic distraction. We delve into the ethical implications of such behavior and the vital role transparency and accountability play in maintaining...

Sep 25, 202427 min

280: The Hidden Meanings Behind Kate Middleton's Cancer Journey Video

In this episode of The PR Breakdown with Molly McPherson , Kate Middleton’s health update video is more than just an announcement. It’s a masterclass in PR, packed with hidden symbolism and subtle storytelling designed to reshape the public perception of the royal family. Uncover ten key meanings behind the visuals, from Kate in the driver’s seat to the color blue, and explore how Kate and William are distancing themselves from Harry and Meghan as they face ongoing branding challenges. Mentioned...

Sep 18, 202425 min

279: How Travis Kelce’s PR Team Turned A Fake Breakup Into A Win

In this episode of The PR Breakdown , we'll delve into the fascinating world of celebrity PR and dissect one of the most strategic PR moves we've seen lately: the rumored breakup between Travis Kelce and Taylor Swift. However, as Molly suggests, things may not be as they seem. Key Points Covered: The Rumored Breakup: Before the Kansas City Chiefs season opener, rumors swirled about a leaked breakup contract between Travis Kelce and Taylor Swift. But Molly takes a closer look, questioni...

Sep 11, 202427 min

278: Courting Public Favor: Jessica Biel & Justin Timberlake

Courting Public Favor: Jessica Biel & Justin Timberlake Summary: In this episode of The PR Breakdown , analyzing the recent PR moves surrounding Jessica Biel and Justin Timberlake. Following Timberlake’s arrest for a DWI in June 2024, Biel made a rare public appearance with their son at the US Open. Was this just a family outing, or a carefully timed PR strategy to shift the public’s focus from Timberlake’s legal issues? Looking into the key moments of their public image management, examinin...

Sep 04, 202427 min

277: The Inside Scoop: The Day I Became a Boston Globe Headline

‘Who’s holding those strings’: Molly McPherson goes viral on TikTok for decoding celebrity PR strategy. - Boston Globe, Dec. 25, 2023 Seeing my name next to the words 'viral' and 'TikTok' is nothing short of terrifying. In this final episode, the tables are turned when I sit down for an interview with the Boston Globe's Dana Gerber for a feature story highlighting my work as a creator on TikTok. Judging by the comments that appeared alongside the story, I was a hit! Good...

Feb 07, 202453 min

276: Before the Fame: Journalist Vanessa Grigoriadis on Taylor Swift's Early Years

Journalist and host of the Infamous podcastt, Vanessa Grigoriadis joins Molly as they dive deep into the life, career, and public image of global pop star, Taylor Swift. Vanessa profiled Taylor Swift for Rolling Stone in 2009 right after the release of her second album, “Fearless.” Since then she has been following Taylor from country pop-start to a dominated figure in our culture. In this episode of the "Allegedly" series, Vanessa and Molly discuss Taylor’s PR from her early days of r...

Jan 24, 202440 min

275: Allegedly Series: Behind the Headlines Ben Affleck & Jennifer Lopez

This is the inaugural episode of the Indestructible PR podcast series called, Allegedly . In this series, I take a critical look at the PR moves, media narratives, and survival tactics that celebrities use to circumvent a PR nightmare. On my very first episode of the Allegedly series, we are talking all about Ben Affleck and Jennifer Lopez. From red-carpet appearances to playing the supporting role in each new venture, we break down the calculated decisions that the couple is making behind the s...

Jan 17, 202448 min

274: The Future of Public Relations: A Conversation with PRSA's Michelle Egan

An episode about the profession of public relations for the practitioners who make it one of the most exciting fields to work in. In this episode, a discussion about the future of the public relations industry with Michelle Egan, APR, Fellow PRSA, and Immediate Past Chair of PRSA. Boasting over three decades of communication experience, Michelle brings a substantial depth of understanding to the evolving PR landscape. Our conversation covers the significant changes currently shaping the industry...

Jan 09, 202443 min

273: 2023's Unforgettable Celebrity Scandals: A Year in Review

First episode for 2024! Hey there, PR pros and dedicated listeners! You won't want to miss this special episode where I dive deep into the year that left jaws on the floor with never-ending celebrity drama and crisis. Let's hit the rewind button and explore the twists and turns of 2023's scandalous celeb behavior that kept publicists on their toes and the rest of us following along closely. Here are your top five most popular episodes of the year. (Thank you, listeners!) Top Five ...

Jan 02, 202430 min