The PR Breakdown with Molly McPherson

The PR Breakdown with Molly McPherson

The PR Breakdown with Molly McPherson pulls back the curtain on the PR moves driving today's biggest stories. Join Molly each week as she decodes the strategy behind the headlines, revealing the hidden tactics at play. With her insider perspective, you’ll learn why these PR moves matter, who’s calli...

Recent Episodes

Oct. 15, 2025

From Panic to Power: The 90-Second Rule for Handling Haters

When the internet comes for you, your instinct is to fight back or disappear. Neither helps. In this episode, Molly breaks down her simple, proven 90-second rule for handling online hate without losing your cool or your credi...
Oct. 8, 2025

When Sports and Scandal Collide: Inside the Biggest Controversies and Comebacks

In this episode, Molly sits down with Jim Rocco and Thom Weidlich, co-authors of Sports Crisis Communications: Cases and Controversies , to explore how the worlds of sports and crisis PR collide. From Tiger Woods’ redemption ...
Oct. 1, 2025

Behind the Scenes of Greg Floyd’s Interview: Son Admits Killing Parents on Camera

This episode of The PR Breakdown examines a viral crime case out of Albany, New York, that drew national attention when a suspect confessed on camera to killing and burying his parents. Guest Greg Floyd, veteran journalist an...
Sept. 24, 2025

Breaking Down the Media Statements: Kimmel, Trump, Tylenols Counterpunch

When three statements drop within the same hour, it’s not just news, it’s a case study. Disney walks back Jimmy Kimmel’s suspension with a vague, deflective release.Donald Trump grabs headlines in the Roosevelt Room, suggesting Tylenol in pregnancy raises autism risk — without evidence.Tylenol fire…
Sept. 17, 2025

When Words Become Weapons: Speech, Consequences, and the Charlie Kirk Fallout

Outrage isn’t random anymore, it’s a playbook. In the wake of Charlie Kirk’s assassination, what started as shock turned into a communication crisis that exposed how words can either shape narratives or ignite division. Here’...
Sept. 10, 2025

From Phillies Ball Snatch to US Open Hat Grab: Outrage, Backlash, and Blowback Explained

Outrage isn’t new, but the way it plays out in 2025 feels like a full-time industry. This week, it’s Phillies fans brawling over a foul ball, a CEO swiping a signed hat at the US Open, Bruce Willis’ family facing judgment in ...