The Rearview Mirror and the Road Ahead: Public Relations in 2026

Abbie Fink and Adrian McIntyre look back at their Top 10 most popular podcast episodes of 2025 to identify the key themes, trends, and industry shifts that will impact public relations in 2026.

They talk about how PR and media are undergoing rapid transformation due to technological advancements and societal changes. Issues such as authenticity, trust, and influence are recurring themes in the discussion, along with the manipulation of public opinion, the impact of AI on the profession, and the decline of traditional journalism.

Read the transcript and notes for this episode on our website.

Key Takeaways

• The media landscape is shifting with the decline of traditional journalism and the rise of niche digital platforms, requiring new strategies for engagement.
• Building genuine trust through authentic storytelling and transparent communications is crucial for brands in the current climate.
• Public relations strategies must adapt to focus on influence and relationship-building rather than traditional celebrity endorsements.
• AI is changing how media and communications are handled, presenting both challenges and opportunities for growth.
• Developing leadership skills and fostering a culture of trust within organizations can enhance both internal and external communications.

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Need to hire a PR firm?

We demystify the process and give you some helpful advice in Episode 19: "How to Hire a Public Relations Agency in Arizona: Insider Tips for Executives and Marketing Directors."

Credits

Copper State of Mind, hosted by Abbie Fink and Dr. Adrian McIntyre, is brought to you by HMA Public Relations, a full-service public relations firm in Phoenix, AZ.

The show is recorded and produced by the team at Speed of Story, a strategic communications consultancy for PR agencies and marketing firms, and distributed by PHX.fm, the leading independent B2B podcast network in Arizona.

If you like this podcast, you might also enjoy PRGN Presents: PR News & Views from the Public Relations Global Network, featuring conversations about strategic communications, marketing, and PR from PRGN, "the world’s local public relations agency.”