SPIN is a Four Letter Word

SPIN is a Four Letter Word

SPIN is back for a 4th season - A Toast to 20 Years of Maroon PR Join the celebration as John Maroon welcomes 20 special guests to reflect on the relationships, stories, and hard-earned lessons behind Maroon PR’s growth. Season Four delivers candid conversations and practical advice for business leaders, storytellers, and entrepreneurs building brands and careers that leave a lasting mark. __ 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.

Episodes

June 9, 2026 36 mins
The Baltimore Business Journal’s Market President & Publisher Courtney Bode and Editor-in-Chief Jessica Iannetta join John Maroon to discuss the intersection of public relations and news media. Insights are shared on how the BBJ selects what to cover, AI integration, and advice for PR professionals pitching stories.
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John Maroon sits down with Diane Pelkey, Head of Communications & PR at Chewy, to talk about her journey from Reebok and Under Armour to leading comms at one of the most beloved brands in retail. From crisis management and mentorship to unforgettable career moments, this episode is packed with sharp insights and real-world PR […]
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What does it take to protect—and evolve—one of the most iconic brands in sports? MLB Chief Communications Officer Pat Courtney joins John Maroon to unpack the responsibility of stewarding a legacy brand in an always-on media landscape. From decades of shaping Major League Baseball’s public narrative to navigating today’s real-time news cycle, Pat reveals his […]
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John Maroon reflects on the importance of mentorship with longtime MLB executive Phyllis Merhige—who helped launch his PR career and became a lifelong mentor and friend. They share memories of her trailblazing path in Major League Baseball, career-defining moments, and lessons on the lasting impact of strong relationships. ⚾
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Mark as Played
April 6, 2026 41 mins
John Maroon welcomes MPR’s first client, Cal Ripken, Jr., to reflect on trust, preparation, and a partnership forged during baseball history. From the 1995 consecutive games’ streak to today’s Foundation work, their conversation reveals how lasting careers—and brands—are built: with consistency, composure, and showing up when it matters most.
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March 27, 2026 8 mins
To celebrate 20 years of Maroon PR, John Maroon and Jen Renehan kick off SPIN is a Four Letter Word S4: Maroon’s Mark with a preview of the season ahead. Expect 20 special guests, industry stories, lessons from two decades in PR, and a look at how the business continues to evolve. Grab a drink […]
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December 12, 2025 16 mins
In the season finale of The Brew, John Maroon and Jen Renehan wrap up 2025 with insights on what’s shaping PR and marketing today, and how to plan smart for 2026. From influencer strategy to media relations, earned vs. paid media, and celebrating 20 years of Maroon PR, this one’s packed with perspective and momentum.
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December 4, 2025 13 mins
Introducing Maroon Works, an extension of our core capabilities designed to showcase the work we do in the professional services sector. From plumbers to crypto, we’re helping a wide array of businesses tell their story and drive growth. Tune in as John Maroon and Jen Renehan share the vision, impact, and future of this exciting […]
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October 1, 2025 18 mins
Business development isn’t a department—it’s a mindset. 💼 On this episode of The Brew, John Maroon and Jen Renehan break down Maroon PR’s approach to building relationships, navigating challenges, and always staying on the hunt for new opportunities. Their insights offer a fresh take on growing smarter, not just bigger.
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September 18, 2025 15 mins
In this special episode of The Brew we recognize the 30-year anniversary of Cal Ripken Jr.’s 2,131st consecutive game played, where he surpassed Lou Gehrig’s historic streak to become baseball’s Iron Man. John Maroon, who was the head of Orioles’ PR 30 years ago and remains Cal’s PR person to this day, shares his unique […]
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September 10, 2025 20 mins
Listen as John Maroon and Sophie Rogers dive into Maroon Gathers— our hospitality arm. From casino openings to dog-friendly hotel collabs and the launch of an Influencer & Creator Network, they share how smart strategy and strong storytelling drive real results.
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Mark as Played
August 27, 2025 11 mins
What’s it like to intern at Maroon PR? On this episode of The Brew, Lexi Perrus, Skylar Rosen, and Kylie Redman talk about their summer—from client work and event experiences to taking over our TikTok. Hear how they made the most of it, had some fun, and picked up lessons they’ll take with them into […]
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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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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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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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June 25, 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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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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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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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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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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Mark as Played

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