S2 E12: Combatting Fake News and Misinformation with David Wills

The rise of disinformation, mal-information, and misinformation is a growing concern in Canada, just as it is in the United States and other countries. The Institute of Public Relations recently published a study highlighting the significant gap that exists between the sources responsible for combating disinformation and how well they are actually doing it. In this episode, David Wills, a Toronto-based public relations expert, talks about Canadians' attitudes towards disinformation and who they believe is responsible for combating it.

About the Guest

David Wills is Senior Vice President of Media Profile, Canada’s largest full-service, independent PR agency based in Toronto, Ontario. He has been proving senior strategic counsel to Canadian business, not-for-profit and political leaders for more than 25 years. David began his career as a journalist for a string of weekly newspapers before becoming a political aide for the Ontario provincial government. He is an active supporter of the Canadian Journalism Foundation and has been involved in their campaigns to combat fake news and misinformation.

About the Host

Abbie Fink is vice president/general manager of HMA Public Relations in Phoenix, Arizona and a founding member of PRGN. Her marketing communications background includes skills in media relations, digital communications, social media strategies, special event management, crisis communications, community relations, issues management, and marketing promotions for both the private and public sectors, including such industries as healthcare, financial services, professional services, government affairs and tribal affairs, as well as not-for-profit organizations.

PRGN Presents is brought to you by Public Relations Global Network, the world’s local public relations agency. Our co-host and executive producer is Adrian McIntyre with Speed of Story, a B2B communications firm in Phoenix.

Follow the Podcast

If you enjoyed this episode, please follow PRGN Presents in Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, or any other podcast app. We publish new episodes every other Thursday. To have them delivered automatically and free of charge, just choose your preferred podcast player from this list, open the app, and click the button to “Follow” or “Subscribe” to the show: https://prgnpodcast.com/listen

Need to hire a PR firm?

Leading a business effectively in today's fast-paced world requires expert guidance and a strong communications strategy. No matter where you do business, PRGN has a member agency in your region with the deep industry expertise, international experience, and local market knowledge you need to connect with your target audience and achieve your goals. Find a PR firm near you »