SPIN is a Four Letter Word

SPIN is a Four Letter Word

Hearing the word "spin" is every public relations professional’s worst nightmare. From an outsider's perspective, hearing the term "public relations" means, "crisis communications", "media" or even the dreaded "spin" word itself... we're here to clear up those stereotypes and misunderstandings. Long-time PR pro and President of Maroon PR, John Maroon hosts SPIN is a Four Letter Word, a no-fluff, cut-to-the-chase show that gets to the heart of the industry today and the different issues impacting our world. SPIN is back for its third season with a fresh focus. Welcome to The Brew, where we dive into hot topics in public relations and share smart, actionable strategies. Join the MPR team as we rotate hosts to share insider insights, revealing how we brew success and drive growth for our clients.

Episodes

Market to Market Pitching

August 8, 2025 • 14 mins
In this episode, Matt Williams and Matt Lund break down the art of market-to-market pitching—what works, what doesn’t, and how to cut through the noise. From securing local stories in all 50 states to building tailored, meaningful pitches, they share real wins, honest struggles, and smart strategies PR pros can use to earn coverage far […]
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Fresh Takes, Loyal Clients

July 28, 2025 • 16 mins
How do we approach work for long-time clients? In this episode of The Brew, John Maroon and Matt Williams share how Maroon PR keeps things fresh—turning routine events into standout stories, spotting hidden angles, and staying one step ahead. It’s about remaining sharp, being proactive, and never settling for “same old.”
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Preparing for the Unexpected

July 9, 2025 • 15 mins
When the pressure is on at a client event, are you ready for curveballs? In Episode 13 of The Brew, Founder & President John Maroon and Account Manager Mike Twiname share real stories and smart tactics for staying calm, taking charge, and leaning into relationships when things go off script. From media no-shows to last-minute pivots, […]
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Maroon Pride

June 26, 2025 • 21 mins
In this Pride Month-inspired episode, Sarah Hill and Emma Cenicacelaya join host Rocco DiSangro to discuss how Maroon PR authentically supports LGBTQ+ communities. They explore creating inclusive client content, how queer identity fuels creative work, and why meaningful representation matters.
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Maroon Cares

June 12, 2025 • 17 mins
Maroon Cares is our nonprofit pillar—and in the literal sense, we care. In Episode 11 of The Brew, John Maroon and Nancy Yasharoff share how Maroon PR cultivates strong relationships with our nonprofit clients to build trust, tell meaningful stories, and deliver PR results that positively impact the communities they serve. 
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The Jump from College to PR Career

May 28, 2025 • 19 mins
From the campus to client calls! On this episode of The Brew, Maroon PR’s newest account coordinators Eliana Rakhamimov and Sydnee Hart share what surprised them most when stepping from the classroom into fast-paced agency life. Tune in for real talk on deadlines, client communications, and why adaptability is key in your first PR job.
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Creative by Design

May 16, 2025 • 24 mins
Design is one of our strengths and an area of constant adaptation and evolution. Sarah shares how empathy fuels her creative work and Amanda unpacks visual storytelling strategy. 🎨 Tap in, get inspired, and learn how we approach visual communication. 🎧
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Awards for Clients

April 30, 2025 • 15 mins
🏆 From bios to big wins—Emma Hottel and Carmel Gambacorta break down the art of client award submissions. Learn how PR pros play matchmaker between brands and the recognition they deserve, why strategic storytelling matters, and how award wins boost visibility and business. Tune in and start turning accolades into impact. 🎧
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Role of the Sports PR Person

April 11, 2025 • 28 mins
Recent sports media missteps have made headlines, notably in basketball and golf. In this timely episode, John Maroon and Amanda Sarver break down the role of a Sports PR pro—what it is, and what it’s not. They explore the importance of building relationships and trust between athletes, the front office, and media, and share firsthand […]
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Managing Client Expectations

April 2, 2025 • 17 mins
Navigating client relationships isn’t always smooth sailing. In this episode of The Brew, John Maroon and Jen Renehan share insights on setting clear expectations and tackling tough conversations. From managing media coverage goals to refining social strategies, learn how they build trust and deliver results. Tune in for real talk on client communication!
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TikTok & Social Media Trends

March 14, 2025 • 27 mins
Is Your Social Strategy Future-Proof? With TikTok’s uncertain future and new platforms emerging, diversification is key. VP Social Strategy & Content Amanda Sarver and COO Jen Renehan dive into the power of owned media, the rise of influencers, and how brands can stay ahead of shifting trends. Plus, a look at AI’s impact on content […]
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Maroon Plays

February 26, 2025 • 27 mins
Maroon Plays is all about the power of sports PR! In this episode of The Brew, John Maroon, Matt L, Mike, and John dive into how Maroon PR’s roots in sports continue to drive success. From unexpected partnerships to bringing major events to Maryland, they discuss the strategy behind storytelling, media buzz, and client collaborations. […]
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Evolution of Video Services

February 13, 2025 • 25 mins
Video has become a pivotal part of PR and Marketing strategies, but what actually makes for successful video content? In this episode of The Brew, we sit down with Maroon PR’s videographer, Emma, to talk about how our video services have evolved, what makes content stand out, and why some brands totally miss the mark. […]
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Pick Up the Phone

January 29, 2025 • 19 mins
John Maroon, Account Director Nancy Yasharoff, and Account Coordinator Eliana Rakhamimov discuss MPR's media relations approach. With decades of experience, Nancy and John share insights, while Eliana offers a fresh perspective. From crafting compelling pitches to the power of a phone call and building journalist relationships, this episode delivers valuable tips for PR beginners and pros alike.
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New Year, Clear Goals

January 16, 2025 • 26 mins
In this episode, Matt, Sophie, and Mike dive into goal setting and strategic planning for the year ahead. They explore why clear goals are essential, how they guide their work with clients, and the importance of staying flexible and proactive in reaching those goals. From crafting 90-day plans to leveraging earned, owned, and paid media, the team shares actionable insights for achieving success in 2025. Whether you're mapping out s...
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Introducing Season 3: The Brew

January 15, 2025 • 10 mins
New year, new season! Maroon PR's "SPIN is a Four-Letter Word" podcast is back for its third season with a fresh focus. Welcome to The Brew, where we dive into hot topics in public relations and share smart, actionable strategies. Join the MPR team as we rotate hosts to share insider insights, revealing how we brew success and drive growth for our clients.
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January Hot Topics in Sports

January 5, 2024 • 28 mins
With dry January upon us, we’ve temporarily pulled the tap on our regular Let’s Have a Beer With episodes and are turning our attention to the wild world of sports. From the Russell Wilson and the Denver Broncos situation to the drama surrounding college football bowl games, there is a lot to discuss when it comes to public relations. Listen along as we kick off 2024 with a lively discussion around some hot topics in sports PR.
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Let’s Have a Beer: Bill Hooper, Vice President & GM of WMAR-TV |10

November 9, 2023 • 36 mins
In this episode of Let’s Have a Beer, we are joined by Bill Hooper, the Vice President and General Manager of WMAR-TV in Baltimore. A Baltimore native, Hooper has worked exclusively in Baltimore media for 40 years. He joined WMAR in 2004 as general sales manager before taking the top leadership role in 2007. Listen along as we discuss Bill’s journey as a media executive, the state of broadcast media and how he has been leading WMAR...
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Let’s Have a Beer: Jamison Hensley, ESPN Baltimore Ravens Reporter| 9

October 10, 2023 • 32 mins
In this episode of Let’s Have a Beer, we are joined by Jamison Hensley, a Maryland native covering the Baltimore Ravens for ESPN. He joined ESPN in 2011, covering the AFC North before focusing exclusively on the Ravens beginning in 2013. Jamison won the National Sports Media Association Maryland Sportswriter of the Year award in 2018, and he authored a book titled: Flying High: Stories of the Baltimore Ravens. Grab a beer and liste...
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Let’s Have a Beer: Terry Hasseltine, Exec Director, Maryland Sports Commission | 8

August 8, 2023 • 32 mins
In this episode, Terry Hasseltine, Executive Director of the Maryland Sports Commission, joins Jen and John to discuss the career path that lead him to the Maryland Sports Commission and the relationships he built along the way. The trio also discusses current happenings with the Commission and the purpose it serves in our state.
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