The Strategic Communicator Podcast with Dan Farkas

Hosted by Dan Farkas

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Oct 2025

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How do we use communication to make the world a better place? The Strategic Communication Podcast with Dan Farkas tries to answer that question in under 30 minutes each week. Dan features industry leaders who offer tangible advice you can use after the show, and we learn about the people behind the process Let’s use communication to bring about a better planet. Subscribe today to the Strategic Communicator Podcast with Dan Farkas, part of the Marketing Podcast Network.

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40 recent

October 7, 202536 min

Harnessing AI for Strategic Communication with Sarah Evans

In this episode of 'Strategic Communicator with Dan Farkas on the Marketing Podcast Network, Dan sits down with Sarah Evans, partner and head of PR at Zen Media, to discuss the evolving role of AI in strategic communication. Sarah shares her insights on the integration of AI tools like ChatGPT for overcoming writer's block and enhancing creativity. She then discusses the importance of maintaining the human element in PR, especially as more AI-generated content becomes prevalent. They delve into the trust and credibility issues surrounding AI-generated content and explore strategies for PR agencies to adopt AI into their workflow effectively. Sarah also touches on the implications for education and the need for future PR professionals to blend technical skills with traditional strategic abilities. (00:00) Introduction and Guest Welcome (02:28) Balancing Creativity and Technology in PR (03:53) The Role of AI in Strategic Communication (07:07 )Generative AI and Content Strategy (09:02) Navigating the Future of PR with AI (23:13) The Importance of Human Relationships in PR (30:19) Five Questions with Sarah Evans https://www.linkedin.com/in/prsarahevans/ https://zenmedia.com https://passpr.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

September 29, 202539 min

Carmen Ohling on Amplified Living, the Power of White Space, and Whole Body Leadership

In this episode of 'Strategic Communicator with Dan Farkas' on the Marketing Podcast Network, host Dan Farkas welcomes Carmen Ohling, CEO of the Amplified Life Company. We talk about leadership, self-regulation, and the importance of margins and white space in one's schedule to enhance productivity and well-being. Carmen shares her journey from corporate leadership at JP Morgan to becoming a life and executive coach. She emphasizes the significance of lived experiences, balanced schedules, and being present in the moment for effective leadership. The conversation also touches upon practical strategies for managing time, conducting productive meetings, and cultivating an environment of psychological safety in the workplace. Carmen provides actionable advice for young leaders on how to have difficult conversations and the importance of curiosity and continuous learning. 02:04 Journey to Leadership and Wellness 02:55 From Corporate to Coaching: Carmen's Career Path 03:41 The Importance of Lived Experiences 04:18 Unique Approach to Executive Coaching 05:32 Balancing Work and Life 07:04 Creating Margins and White Space 08:31 Effective Time Management Strategies 13:06 Planning and Delegation Techniques 15:46 Quality Meetings and Strategic Thinking 18:21 Effective Meeting Strategies 19:05 Strategic Thinking for Innovation 20:50 Handling Difficult Conversations 21:24 Above the Line Leadership 25:15 The Power of Listening 32:16 Five Questions with Carmen Ohling Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

September 16, 202534 min

Heathere Evans on Unlocking Leadership Potential, The Power of Mindset, and Embracing Self-Care

In this episode of 'Strategic Communicator with Dan Farkas' on the Marketing Podcast Network, Dan speaks with Heathere Evans about leadership and self-regulation. Heathere, a professional coach and author of 'The Success Mindset: 12 Strategies to Unlock Your Full Potential for Life and Leadership,' shares insights from her personal journey and the development of her book. She delves into the impact of mindset on leadership, highlighting the importance of self-awareness, overcoming self-sabotage, and maintaining physical and mental well-being. We then highlight practical strategies for leaders to manage stress, foster effective communication, and create psychologically safe environments. The conversation then explores the role of technology and journaling in achieving a balanced and successful mindset. 01:25 Heathere Evans' Journey to Writing 'The Success Mindset' 06:18 Overcoming Self-Sabotage and Stress 08:41 The Impact of Technology on Mindset 11:34 Strategies for Effective Leadership 23:18 The Role of Diet and Exercise in Success 25:31 The Power of Journaling and Inner Conversation 28:18 Five Questions Book Recommendations: - 'Power Versus Force' 'The Success Mindset: 12 Strategies to Unlock Your Full Potential for Life and Leadership' Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

August 18, 202529 min

Dr. Nicole Santee on Harnessing Influence

In this episode of 'Strategic Communicator with Dan Farkas' on the Marketing Podcast Network, host Dan Farkas sits down with Dr. Nicole Santee, a professor at the University of Texas at Arlington, to explore the impact of influence and pop culture on leadership and education. Dr. Santiee discusses the parallels between social media influencers and educators, highlighting the importance of authenticity, transparency, and engagement in both realms. She shares practical strategies for meeting students where they are, using storytelling, short-form content, and interactive activities to enhance learning and maintain attention. We then delve into the significance of feedback and reflection, not only in academic settings but also in business environments, emphasizing the need for ongoing self-regulation and adaptability. Dr. Santee also touches on the evolution of traditional teaching methods to incorporate modern communication theories, making them more relevant and effective for today's generation. 01:41 The Power of Influencers in Education 03:31 Engaging Students with Pop Culture 05:23 Adapting Teaching Methods for Modern Students 10:58 Evaluating and Improving Teaching Strategies 16:17 The Importance of Authenticity and Transparency 23:13 Five Questions with Dr. Nicole Santee Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

August 11, 202532 min

The Power of Improv in Business and Communication with Katlin Hall

In this episode of 'Strategic Communicator with Dan Farkas, Dan talks to Katlin Hall about the intersection of improvisation and business communication. Katlin, who has extensive experience with Second City, shares her journey from sales to teaching improv-based communication skills to various organizations. They discuss how improv fosters better listening, authenticity, and adaptability in both corporate and day-to-day settings. Katlin also shares personal anecdotes, tips for overcoming nervousness, and why having fun and being present are vital for success. 00:00 Introduction and Welcome 02:24 Katlin's Journey with Second City 04:29 Improv in Business 06:55 The Power of Listening and Authenticity 12:52 Engaging the Introverted 18:25 Adapting and Going with the Flow 24:31 Five Questions with Katlin Hall Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

July 28, 202527 min

Navigating Nonprofit Communications with Michelle Stuffmann

In this episode of 'Strategic Communicator with Dan Farkas' on the Marketing Podcast Network, Dan Farkas interviews Michelle Stuffmann, Director of Communications at the Venice Family Clinic. Michelle shares her insights into the complexities of nonprofit communication, particularly how national events and local challenges impact their work. Key strategies discussed include effective planning, simplifying jargon, and building strong internal relationships. Michelle also touches on the unique demands of nonprofit roles and offers advice for young professionals entering the sector. 01:34 Balancing National Events and Daily Needs 03:31 Long-term Planning vs. Daily Tasks 04:20 The Role of a Nonprofit Communications Professional 05:17 Advice for Aspiring Nonprofit Communicators 07:25 Simplifying Complex Information 11:45 Building Strong Internal Relationships 14:40 Transitioning from For-Profit to Nonprofit 16:30 Final Thoughts and Advice Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

July 14, 202515 min

Understanding Supply Chain and Project Management With Danaka Porter

In this episode of 'Strategic Communicator with Dan Farkas' on the Marketing Podcast Network, host Dan Farkas welcomes Danaka Porter, an expert in supply chain, project management, and neuroscience. They discuss the importance of communication within organizations, and how transparency and collaboration across departments is much easier to say than to do. Danaka helps communicators understand the pitfalls of information hoarding and the benefits of a holistic approach to supply chain and project management. 00:40 Supply Chain and Project Management Insights 01:52 The Importance of Communication 02:55 Challenges in Communication and Collaboration 05:51 Understanding Supply Chain Beyond Procurement 07:17 Project Management for Communicators 09:10 Effective Information Sharing Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

June 26, 202525 min

ADHD and Executive Functon With Danaka Porter

In this episode of 'Strategic Communicator with Dan Farkas on the Marketing Podcast Network, Dan interviews Danaka Porter, a consultant with a PhD from the University of Calgary. They discuss the impact of supply chain management on communication and learning, and delve deep into Danaka's personal journey with ADHD. Danaka shares her strategies for managing distractions and maintaining executive function, including the use of paper planners, Gantt charts, and minimizing screen notifications. 00:14 Discovering Supply Chain Communication 01:25 Meet Danica Porter: A Multifaceted Professional 04:13 Living with ADHD: Diagnosis and Impact 06:04 Strategies for Managing ADHD 14:52 The Power of Gantt Charts and Color Coding Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

June 16, 202526 min

Ruth Milligan on Six Principles to Unlock your Communication Potential

Public speaking is hard. Ruth Milligan is on a mission to make it easier. She co-authored 'The Motivated Speaker: Six Principles to Unlock Your Communication Potential.' They discuss the core principles of effective communication, including storytelling, neuroscience, and confidence. Ruth explains the importance of forming good habits, seeking constructive feedback, and understanding the stress response in communication. They also explore various communication genres, the importance of audience engagement, and offer practical advice for enhancing public speaking skills. 01:29 The Motivated Speaker: Key Concepts 03:44 The Importance of Feedback and Practice 07:02 Overcoming the Fear of Listening to Yourself 10:14 Effective Communication Techniques 15:25 Managing Different Speaking Formats 18:14 Five Questions with Ruth Milligan Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

March 4, 202535 min

Megan Poliquin, LPCC-S, LICDC-GAMB on ADHD and Stratgic Communication

In this episode of 'Strategic Communicator with Dan Farkas' on the Marketing Podcast Network, host Dan Farkas discusses ADHD and its impact on strategic communication. communication in the digital age. Megan Poliquin, manager of gambling treatment at the Zeph Center in Toledo, Ohio, shares her personal journey of being diagnosed with ADHD and how it has helped her better understand and engage with her clients. Megan then explains how ADHD influences behavior in a way that can help or hurt strategic communication efforts. We close the conversation with ideas on setting technology boundaries with understanding dopamine's role in successful and unsuccessful communication. . 00:00 Introduction to the Podcast 00:21 Discussing ADHD with Megan Poliquin 01:41 Megan's Personal Journey with ADHD 03:06 ADHD and Its Impact on Work and Life 08:58 The Role of Technology and Dopamine 16:22 Creating a Supportive Environment for ADHD 20:12 Practical Tips and Personal Experiences Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices