Under Embargo Podcast

Former Walmart and Pinterest comms leader Meredith Klein joins Perry Hedrick and Becca Chambers to break down how PR professionals can adapt to a fragmented media landscape where Substacks, podcasts, and independent journalists carry real influence. Klein shares how she built "Meredith & The Media" into a 3,500-subscriber resource by interviewing journalists directly, why visual brand consistency drives recognition, and how shareability and findability now matter more than legacy masthead placements.
In this episode, we explore:
• Why a recognizable personal brand, down to a signature hat, separates you from a sea of sameness [00:02]
• How journalists actually source stories through LinkedIn comments, social posts, and independent media [00:29]
• The integrated media mix: treating newsletters and podcasts as core channels, not extras [00:15]
• What PR professionals need to tell executives who still measure success by Wall Street Journal hits alone [00:20]
• Building a distribution flywheel by repurposing even small media appearances across every channel [00:30]
Meredith Klein is a 20-year PR veteran, founder of the Meredith in the Media Substack, and a contributor to Inc. Magazine, focused on spotlighting journalists and helping comms professionals navigate the new media ecosystem.
Listen now to discover how to modernize your media strategy by pitching with precision, building durable visibility, and meeting your audience where they actually consume content.
Check out her Substack "Meredith & The Media" here: https://meredithandthemedia.substack.com/

Struggling with adapting fast-paced communications strategies to public sector realities? Ian Bain, executive director of strategy and communications, reveals the mindset shifts and tactical approaches that helped bridge his transition from corporate comms to education governance with real community impact.
In this episode, we explore:
• Building effective communications in government environments and navigating bureaucratic hurdles
• Leveraging AI tools in public education and communications while managing ethics and workforce changes
• Strengthening agency-media relationships and crisis preparedness for public trust
Ian Bain is a leader, storyteller, and communications expert, drawing on decades in corporate, political, and public education roles to inform strategy and mentor teams on ethical, impactful messaging.
Listen now to discover how to balance innovation with accountability in your public sector communications work.

Struggling with integrating AI into your communications strategy? Gini Dietrich, creator of the PESO Model and communications leader, reveals actionable ways to align paid, earned, shared, and owned media workflows with modern AI tools for better results.
In this episode, we explore:
• How the PESO Model evolved to bridge traditional silos and deliver message consistency [00:00]
• Real-world examples of embedding AI for media monitoring and crisis readiness [15:30]
• Organizational shifts needed for continuous AI learning and cross-team collaboration [28:45]
Gini Dietrich is a globally recognized communications and PR expert, founder of Spin Sucks, and architect of the PESO Model, specializing in integrated strategy and professional development.
Listen now to discover how to break down silos and leverage AI for communications that drive measurable impact.

Struggling with how to stand out in an evolving communications job market? Brooke Kruger, communications recruiter and founder of KC Partners, reveals critical skill shifts and career positioning strategies that helped comms professionals land roles as hiring trends rebound.
In this episode, we explore:
• Why AI proficiency and adaptability are now baseline requirements for PR and comms careers [00:00]
• How the fragmentation of media and new channels like podcasts and Substack are reshaping storytelling and candidate value [15:30]
• Practical LinkedIn tactics, personal branding, and the real impact of reporting structures on comms influence and compensation [28:45]
Brooke Kruger is a leading executive recruiter with over 25 years’ experience building communications teams for tech, startup, and VC-backed companies. She brings deep market insight into what skills, roles, and approaches stand out as the industry transforms.
Listen now to discover how to future-proof your communications career and navigate the shifting landscape.

Struggling with how to translate AI buzz into meaningful, practical impact for your communications strategy? Chris Gee, CEO and AI strategist, reveals specific workflows and skill shifts that enable PR teams to boost productivity, shape reputation, and position brands for visibility in AI-driven search.
In this episode, we explore:
• How AI accelerates slide and content creation for PR pros [00:04:00]
• Approaches to optimizing your brand’s presence and discoverability in LLM platforms
• Why multi-generational and continuous upskilling is key to navigating AI-driven workforce changes
Chris Gee is a digital communications executive, AI consultant, and founder of Chris Gee Consulting, with two decades advising agencies and brands on ethical AI adoption and digital innovation.
Listen now to discover how to level up your PR team’s strategy, efficiency, and competitive edge in the AI communications era.