Podcast Summary: Stuff You Should Know – Episode: How Publicists Work
Release Date: May 24, 2025
Hosts: Chuck Bryant, Charles W. Chuck Bryant, and Jerry
Production: iHeartPodcasts
Introduction to Publicists
In this engaging episode of Stuff You Should Know, hosts Chuck Bryant and Charles W. Chuck Bryant delve into the intriguing world of publicists. The conversation kicks off with a candid admission from Jerry about the absence of publicists in their own careers, setting the stage for a deep dive into the roles, responsibilities, and ethical considerations that define the profession.
Chuck Bryant [03:05]: "What I am saying is, no matter who you work for, if you are a publicist, then a percentage of your job will be lying."
The Role of a Publicist
The hosts explore the fundamental duties of a publicist, emphasizing their role in maintaining and promoting a client's public image. They discuss how publicists cultivate relationships with the media to ensure their clients receive favorable coverage.
Charles W. Chuck Bryant [05:51]: "The job, the goal of the publicist is to help maintain and promote the public image of that person that they represent."
Ethical Boundaries and “Professional Lying”
A significant portion of the discussion centers around the ethical boundaries of publicists. Chuck provocatively labels publicists as "professional liars," sparking a debate about the fine line between strategic image management and deceit.
Chuck Bryant [16:30]: "Alright, we've mentioned lying and you know, I joke, but for real, if you want to be a publicist, you better have a certain comfort level with stretching the truth and lying."
The Myth of “No Such Thing as Bad Publicity”
The adage "there’s no such thing as bad publicity" is examined, with the hosts questioning its validity in today's media landscape where negative publicity can have severe repercussions.
Chuck Bryant [06:20]: "And I don't think that's verified. I don't think that's even true. Anyway. I think maybe that used to be true. But these days there's clearly bad publicity."
Publicist-Journalist Relationships
A key theme is the symbiotic relationship between publicists and journalists. The hosts highlight how mutual trust and longstanding relationships can influence media coverage, often benefiting both parties when managed correctly.
Chuck Bryant [09:03]: "And since they're friends, since these people have worked together for decades now, this reporter and your publicist, the reporter actually might respond and show up..."
Skills and Traits of Effective Publicists
The episode outlines essential skills for budding publicists, including excellent writing abilities, networking prowess, and the capacity to handle crisis situations gracefully. The importance of thinking like a journalist to effectively pitch stories is underscored.
Charles W. Chuck Bryant [16:46]: "You need to be a good writer. Need to cultivate those relationships. Need to be a good journalist."
Navigating Social Media and Modern Challenges
With the advent of platforms like Twitter, publicists have new tools and challenges. The hosts discuss how social media can both aid in publicity efforts and create additional crises that publicists must manage.
Chuck Bryant [20:16]: "But Twitter is also their biggest security blanket as well. Because of Twitter, more and more celebrities are saying really stupid things that the publicist is then going to have to cover their tracks."
Pathways to Becoming a Publicist
For listeners aspiring to enter the field, the hosts offer practical advice. They advocate for hands-on experience over formal education, suggesting that internships and entry-level positions are crucial for gaining the necessary skills and industry connections.
Charles W. Chuck Bryant [24:48]: "If you want to career as a publicist, you do not need to spend a single penny on higher education. The entire career of publicists begins as a hands-on experience."
Effective Campaign Management
The conversation transitions to managing publicity campaigns, where the hosts describe how publicists plan and execute strategies well in advance of major events like album releases or tours. The emphasis is on proactive planning and tailored pitching to maximize media coverage.
Charles W. Chuck Bryant [34:23]: "Julie said that they try and get out for major artists three or four months ahead of the release of the album is when they want to start their job."
Networking Without Being Overbearing
Networking emerges as a critical skill, with the hosts discussing strategies to build meaningful professional relationships without coming across as desperate or pushy. The aim is to create genuine connections that can lead to mutually beneficial opportunities.
Chuck Bryant [31:52]: "If you're the publicist's intern... you might end up getting the laundry or dry cleaning."
The Intricacies of Media Rules
Understanding and adhering to media rules is essential for publicists. The hosts highlight common pitfalls, such as overusing phone calls, and stress the importance of respectful and strategic communication with journalists.
Charles W. Chuck Bryant [37:20]: "One of the rules is no phone calls. You just don't use the phone. Especially if you're cold calling people."
Crisis Management and Reputation Repair
Publicists play a pivotal role in crisis management, helping clients navigate scandals or negative publicity. The hosts share anecdotes illustrating how publicists must swiftly and tactfully address damaging situations to mitigate harm to their clients' reputations.
Charles W. Chuck Bryant [21:41]: "He got in big trouble for that. And his apology... is like a forced, insincere apology."
Real-World Examples and Anecdotes
Throughout the episode, Chuck and Charles intersperse their discussion with real-world examples and personal anecdotes, adding depth and relatability to the exploration of publicists' work. They reference historical stunts by publicists and contemporary scenarios involving celebrities and media interactions.
Charles W. Chuck Bryant [44:56]: "He opened an embassy in Washington for a mythical country."
Listener Engagement and Conclusion
The episode concludes with listener interactions, including stories submitted by listeners about their own experiences related to public relations and publicists. This segment reinforces the practical insights shared throughout the discussion.
Chuck Bryant [48:45]: "I have a little story... I just wanted to share how I handled that situation with tact and dignity."
Notable Quotes with Timestamps
- Chuck Bryant [03:05]: "What I am saying is, no matter who you work for, if you are a publicist, then a percentage of your job will be lying."
- Charles W. Chuck Bryant [05:51]: "The job, the goal of the publicist is to help maintain and promote the public image of that person that they represent."
- Chuck Bryant [06:20]: "But these days there's clearly bad publicity."
- Charles W. Chuck Bryant [16:46]: "You need to be a good writer. Need to cultivate those relationships. Need to be a good journalist."
- Chuck Bryant [20:16]: "But Twitter is also their biggest security blanket as well."
- Charles W. Chuck Bryant [24:48]: "The entire career of publicists begins as a hands-on experience."
- Chuck Bryant [31:52]: "If you're the publicist's intern... you might end up getting the laundry or dry cleaning."
- Charles W. Chuck Bryant [37:20]: "One of the rules is no phone calls."
Final Thoughts
Stuff You Should Know offers a comprehensive and entertaining exploration of how publicists operate within the media landscape. By blending professional insights with humor and real-life examples, Chuck Bryant, Charles W. Chuck Bryant, and Jerry provide listeners with a nuanced understanding of public relations, the skills required, and the ethical dilemmas faced by publicists today. Whether you're considering a career in public relations or simply curious about the behind-the-scenes work that shapes public images, this episode serves as a valuable resource.
For more episodes and insights, visit StuffYouShouldKnow.com or listen through your preferred podcast platform.