Comms Confidential: The Podcast

Adrianna G. Bevilaqua started college as a pre-med student. She ended up as Chief Creative Officer of M Booth and the path in between tells you everything about how great creative instincts actually develop.In this episode of Comms Confidential, Adrianna unpacks the frameworks behind her creative process: her small data vs. big data approach, the Culture Mark tool M Booth built to map brand archetypes in culture, and why diverse media consumption is non-negotiable for anyone trying to forecast what's next.They also cover the cultural trends reshaping communications in 2026: cognitive revivals, the monoculture era, the rise of GEO, and what AI's growing influence means for the future of PR. An added bonus: how Adrianna convinced a client to put a chronic insomniac comedian to sleep in a Macy's window, and why that campaign is still a masterclass in organic storytelling.TakeawaysEvolution of creativity in PRImpact of cultural trends and shifts in 2026 PR's role in culture and the need for retrainingThe significance of cultural insights and diverse media consumptionChapters00:00 Journey to Chief Creative Officer08:51 Pushing Boundaries and Abandoning Safe Ideas13:50 Trends and Cultural Shifts in 202621:08 The Monoculture Era and Chronically Offline Trend26:22 The Future of PR and Culture36:08 Cultural Insights and Predictive Analysis43:06 The Role of PR in Culture and Media Consumption

Ashley Jacobson shares her unconventional journey to PR, highlighting the transferable skills acquired from a background in theater and corporate sponsorship. She discusses the challenges of transitioning from theater to PR, overcoming imposter syndrome, and balancing creativity with reality. Additionally, she provides insights into working with celebrity talent and the transition to ad tech. The conversation covers Ashley Jacobson's transition to the ad tech industry, her role in corporate marketing, and the adoption of AI and automation in marketing. It provides insights into the ad tech ecosystem and the strategic role of corporate marketing in building the company's brand. Additionally, it explores the differentiation between AI and automation and their impact on marketing initiatives.TakeawaysUnconventional Path to PRTransferable Skills Transition to Ad TechUnderstanding Ad Tech EcosystemChapters00:00 Journey to PR09:43 Overcoming Imposter Syndrome16:29 Working with Celebrity Talent30:42 Corporate Marketing and Initiatives

This conversation explores the recognition of the need for change and the decision to take a leap into something different. Sarah Kissko Hersh, founder of Type A Consultancy, discusses the internal whisper that signals the need for change and the courage to pursue a new path.Learn more about Type A Consultancy at https://www.typeaeveryday.com/Connect with Sarah on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarahkisskohersh/TakeawaysRecognizing the need for changeTaking a leap into something different

What does it really take to turn creative campaigns into lasting credibility?In this episode of Comms Confidential, host Joe Gallo sits down with Sofie Diskin, who leads trade PR at The Martin Agency, one of the most influential creative agencies in the world. Sofie shares what it’s like to run communications inside an ad agency—where PR, creativity, and business growth constantly collide—and why agencies must think and operate like brands in their own right.Together, they unpack the tension between PR and advertising, how trade PR extends far beyond campaign launches, and the role earned media plays in building reputation, momentum, and trust. Sofie takes listeners behind the scenes of viral campaigns, narrative backlash, and Cannes main-stage moments, offering a candid look at how credibility is built—and rebuilt—over time.If you’ve ever wondered:How PR actually drives business growth inside creative agenciesWhat effective thought leadership really looks likeHow to align comms goals with growth, talent, and reputationOr when patience is the smartest PR strategyThis episode pulls back the curtain.

Amanda Russo shares her journey from a terrorism analyst to the Director of Communications for the Crypto Council for Innovation (CCI). She discusses the challenges and opportunities in her transition, the role of CCI as a trade organization, and the communication strategy at CCI. Amanda also provides insights into preparing for congressional testimony, measurement and merchandising of work, and advice for PR practitioners.TakeawaysTransitioning from one career to another requires adaptability and a willingness to learn.Active participation in meetings and saying 'yes' to new opportunities are key to professional growth.Chapters00:00 Journey from Terrorism Analyst to Comms Director05:59 Transition to Crypto Council for Innovation20:05 Preparing for Congressional Testimony27:59 Measurement and Merchandising of Work

An overview for what you can expect from the Comms Confidential Podcast. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit jgallo02.substack.com