imPRessions: a pollack group production

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May 2026

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About the show

ImPRessions investigates the fundamentals of marketing and public relations, how professionals can adapt to the ever-changing media landscape, and what’s next for the two dynamic industries. Hosts Jennifer Lewis and Kalli Vetrano interview prominent voices on various topics, including navigation through a PR crisis, the wavering of social media trends, and the art of SEO, to name a few.

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May 20, 202633 min

Inside the New Age of Political Reporting: How National Policy Becomes Local News and What Communicators Need to Do to Break Through | Season 4 Episode 5

Political reporting dominates our social feeds and increasingly influences the way brands communicate. It’s a critical component of journalism and is more than just what’s happening in Washington, D.C. Policy stories are all around us - in our local media and affect businesses and societies on a personal level. Today’s imPRessions guest is Kevin Grant, executive director of the All-Britton Journalism Institute, who shares insight into how reporters are connecting national political developments to local audiences and how media consumption habits are reshaping the news cycle.

April 15, 202628 min

The Importance of Trade Media in PR with Allison Carter | Season 4 Episode 4

PR professionals know the thrill of landing a placement in a top-tier publication. For clients, big names equate to big wins, and while mainstream media is usually an indicator of success, one important medium is often overlooked: trade media. In today’s episode, we sit with Allison Carter, Editor-in-Chief at PR Daily, to unpack why trade media needs a front row seat in every PR strategy.

March 18, 202631 min

Beyond the Logo: How Honda Turns Sponsorships into Cultural Impact with Jennifer Symington | Season 4 Episode 3

Sponsorships can be one of the most powerful tools in a brand’s marketing arsenal, but only when they’re done right. There is more to an effective partnership than slapping a logo onto the website and posting about it on social media. It takes thought and strategy. And one of those brands that knows how to do it right is joining us today. Jennifer Symington, Assistant Vice President of Marketing at American Honda Motor Co., discusses how Honda transforms sponsorships into meaningful cultural moments. Editor’s note: At 1:39, Jennifer Symington is referenced as being with Honda Motor. The correct company name is American Honda Motor Co.

February 18, 202637 min

Marketing a Modern Resort on the Las Vegas Strip with Kassidy Krystek | Season 4 Episode 2

Las Vegas is the epicenter for entertainment, luxury, and nightlife. Ever wonder what goes into the PR and marketing for some of the most iconic properties on the The Strip? Look no further. This week, Jenn and Kalli welcome Kassidy Krystek, former Director of Public Relations and Communications of Resorts World Las Vegas. Today’s deep dive conversation tackles what it really takes to build momentum in a city where every property is fighting for headlines - and bookings.

January 21, 202634 min

The Evolution of Music Marketing with Laura Whitmore | Season 4 Episode 1

If you’ve dreamed about working in the music industry, you’re going to love our first guest of season 4! Laura Whitmore is the Senior Vice President of Marketing for Positive Grid, one of the most popular music brands in the industry. In today’s episode, Jenn and Kalli chat with Laura about how to effectively market new products, what the future of music marketing is heading, and more.

May 6, 202634 min

The Next Generation of PR: A Conversation with PR Student of the Year Sophie Schaked | Bonus Episode

Graduation season is upon us, so what better time than to speak with PRWeek’s 2026 PR Student of the Year, Sophie Schaked? In this month’s bonus episode, Jenn and Brittany speak with one of the brightest PR minds of the future. Tune in to hear what Sophie's generation believes will shift the PR industry and advice for those seeking a career in the field.

December 31, 202527 min

Putting the World into World-Class PR with Doug Dawson | Season 3 Episode 21

For half a century, Microsoft has been at the forefront of technology and innovation. As one of the most influential companies in the world, Microsoft faces a unique set of challenges: staying human, trusted, and consistent while operating across countries, cultures, and industries at massive scale. This week’s episode welcomes Doug Dawson, Vice President of Communications at Microsoft, for a behind-the-scenes look at how one of the world’s largest brands manages its marketing, PR, and communications. Jenn and Kalli unpack global storytelling, AI, and more.

December 17, 202526 min

Grateful Ducks with Brooke Robinson and Lauren Miller Stanfield | Season 3 Episode 20

For generations, the University of Oregon has built a brand rooted in innovation, culture, and community both on and off the field. During the 2025 football season, that identity took on a bold new life through the "Grateful Ducks," a creative partnership with the Grateful Dead that brought together two iconic brands with deeply loyal followings. Ahead of the team's third College Football Playoff appearance, this week’s episode welcomes Brooke Robinson, Assistant Athletic Director of Marketing & Fan Experience, and Lauren Stanfield, Associate Vice President for Marketing & Brand Strategy, for a behind-the-scenes look at how the iconic collaboration came together.

December 3, 202525 min

Legacy vs. Trend: Keeping a 170-Year-Old Brand Culturally Relevant with Kelly McGinnis | Season 3 Episode 19

This week’s imPRessions episode celebrates a 170-year legacy. Levi’s isn’t just another fashion brand; it’s a cultural icon. Joining Jenn and Kalli is Kelly McGinnis, Levi’s Senior Vice President and Chief Communications Officer, who discusses the company’s long history of purpose-driven advocacy, its partnership with Beyonce, and everything in between. Tune in now!

November 19, 202532 min

How to Become a Freelance Journalist with Alex Kirkman | Season 3 Episode 18

The way we communicate is changing and for many reporters, that means evolving their careers. Between newsroom layoffs and shifting editorial priorities, today many journalists are opting to leap into the world of freelancing. So, what does it take to build a career as an independent writer?Alex Kirkman, who started as an international reporter for Forbes, has been freelancing since 2013 and joins imPRessions this week to educate listeners on how to make it as a freelance reporter.