In this episode of Communication Breakdown, hosts Steve Dowling and Craig Carroll dissect Jaguar's recent rebranding efforts, focusing on a controversial promotional video that has sparked widespread criticism. They explore the implications of the marketing strategy, the disconnect between the brand's heritage and its new messaging, and the role of social media in shaping public perception. The conversation highlights the challenges of rebranding in a polarized environment and the importance...

In this episode of Communication Breakdown, hosts Steve Dowling and Craig Carroll discuss the implications of the new Trump administration on corporate communication strategies. They explore the themes of adaptability, boundaries, and the chaotic nature of Trump's communication style. The conversation emphasizes the importance of companies charting their own course amidst political turbulence, the role of industry associations, and a framework for engagement that includes principles,...

In this episode of Communication Breakdown, hosts Steve Dowling and Craig Carroll discuss the implications of Trump's victory in the 2024 presidential election on corporate communication strategies. They analyze the contrasting responses from corporations compared to the 2016 election, highlighting a significant silence from many companies. The conversation delves into the importance of articulating corporate values, preparing for potential fallout from divisive policies, and the need for...

In this episode of Communication Breakdown, hosts Steve Dowling and Craig Carroll discuss the recent controversial decision by Jeff Bezos, owner of the Washington Post, to halt presidential endorsements. This decision sparked significant backlash from journalists and readers alike, leading to a notable drop in subscriptions. The hosts explore the implications of ownership on journalistic integrity, the crisis of trust in media, and the importance of clear communication during times of...

In this episode of Communication Breakdown, hosts Steve Dowling and Craig Carroll discuss McDonald's recent challenges, including a political photo op with Donald Trump and a serious E. coli outbreak linked to their food. They analyze the company's communication strategies, employee sentiments, and the implications of their actions on brand reputation and public trust. The conversation highlights the importance of transparency and effective crisis management in maintaining corporate...

In this episode of Communication Breakdown, hosts Steve Dowling and Craig Carroll discuss the controversy surrounding Kellogg's and its failure to eliminate artificial ingredients from its cereals, despite a decade-old promise. They analyze the implications of consumer activism led by influencers like Vani Hari, known as the Food Babe, and explore the various strategies companies can adopt when faced with protests. The conversation then shifts to a misadventure involving Crumbl Cookies, where...

In this episode of Communication Breakdown, hosts Steve Dowling and Craig Carroll discuss the reputational challenges faced by consumer companies in the wake of price increases and supply chain issues. They explore McDonald's lawsuit against some suppliers for alleged price fixing, the new scrutiny on “shrinkflation,” and the value of transparency in crisis communications. The conversation highlights how companies can navigate consumer trust and maintain their reputation amid scrutiny from...

In this episode of Communication Breakdown, hosts Steve Dowling and Craig Carroll discuss the recent crisis faced by Boar's Head due to food safety issues, including listeria contamination that resulted in multiple deaths. They analyze the company's lack of transparency and accountability, the importance of visible leadership during a crisis, and compare Boar's Head's response to that of CrowdStrike during a separate incident. The conversation emphasizes the need for effective communication...

In this episode of Communication Breakdown, hosts Steve Dowling and Craig Carroll explore the evolving landscape of corporate communications, particularly in relation to the Corporate Equality Index and the impact of activism on corporate reputation. They discuss how companies are navigating the pressures of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives while facing backlash from various activist groups. The conversation highlights the importance of transparency, consistency in...

Communication Breakdown is a postgame show for PR pros — a podcast about reputation management and corporate communications, offering unique perspectives on the strategies and tactics companies are using to shape today’s headlines. Drawing on decades of experience and research, hosts Craig Carroll and Steve Dowling discuss how PR leaders are navigating real-world corporate crises and driving comms initiatives.