The PIO Podcast
The PIO Podcast is a platform for Public Information Officers (PIO's) and Public Affairs Officers (PAO's) in public sector organizations, including Police, Fire, EMS, FEMA, state, local, and federal government organizations. The podcast aims to facilitate learning, growth, and discussion of issues that PIO's/PAO's may encounter within their profession. If you would like to support the podcast and connect with other PIO's/PAO's, please email us at thepiopodcast@gmail.com.
Episodes
In this episode, retired Chief of Police Thomas Weitzel discusses his extensive career in law enforcement, the challenges posed by the Safety Act in Illinois, and the implications for policing and community safety. He emphasizes the need for proactive policing, the importance of maintaining high standards for officers, and the role of social media in shaping public perception. Weitzel also addresses the impact of rece...
Summary: In this episode of the PIO podcast, host Robert Tornabene interviews Brent Patterson, the Public Information Officer and Media Relations Director at the Madison County Sheriff's Department in Huntsville, Alabama. Brent shares his unique journey from law enforcement to becoming a PIO, discussing the challenges and responsibilities of the role, the importance of social media in law enforcement, and the imp...
Summary: In this episode, Leah Tedesco, a senior consultant at Social Simulator, discusses the importance of crisis communication preparedness and the role of Public Information Officers (PIOs) in crisis management. She explains how Social Simulator's platform replicates various communication channels to train organizations in effectively handling crises. Leah highlights the challenges posed by misinformation and...
Episode Summary: In this conversation, Sam Toles from Civic Social discusses the innovative approach of empowering Public Information Officers (PIOs) in local governments to effectively engage with their communities through social media. He emphasizes the importance of authenticity, strategic planning, and the need for a modern approach to communication that resonates with younger audiences. Toles shares insights on n...
Summary: In this episode of the PIO podcast, Robert Tornabene interviews Amy Maxwell, the public relations manager for the Hamilton County Office of Emergency Management in Chattanooga, Tennessee. Amy shares her journey from working in cardiology to emergency management, detailing her responsibilities as the sole public information officer. She discusses her daily tasks, including managing social media, community enga...
Summary: In this episode, Amanda Schoepp, a digital content editor at Hyatt Hotels Corporation, discusses her role in enhancing website copy and transitioning from journalism to content editing. She shares insights on common mistakes made in media releases, the importance of clarity and conciseness in writing, and the differences between content marketing and digital marketing. The conversation concludes with Amanda&...
Summary: In this episode of the PIO podcast, host Robert Tornabene interviews Jamie Sacco, the Public Information Officer for Shawnee, Oklahoma. Jamie shares her journey from working in news to becoming a PIO, discussing her role's unique challenges and opportunities. She emphasizes the importance of community engagement, effective communication strategies, and the need for a proactive approach in addressing loca...
Episode Summary: In this episode, Robert Tornabene interviews Juliet Casey, the Director of Marketing and Media Design at Los Medanos College. They discuss Juliet's transition from journalism to public information, the importance of accuracy and accountability in communication, and the impact of community engagement. Juliet shares her experiences in recruitment strategies for community colleges, the challenges fa...
Episode Summary: In this episode, Sergeant Jessica Shehan, a Public Information Officer for the Virginia State Police, shares her journey into law enforcement and the unique challenges of her role. She discusses the importance of transparency in communication, the impact of social media on public relations, and her experiences in recruitment and community outreach. Jessica emphasizes the rewarding nature of her job an...
Summary: In this episode of the PIO podcast, Scott Mann, a retired Green Beret, shares his journey from a small town in Arkansas to becoming a leader in the U.S. Army Special Forces. He discusses the challenges of transitioning to civilian life, the emotional toll of military service, and the importance of storytelling for healing. Scott also addresses the controversial withdrawal from Afghanistan and the abandonment ...
Summary: In this episode of the PIO Podcast, Stephen Kuhr shares his extensive experience in emergency management, discussing his journey from the New York City Emergency Medical Service to his role at Colorado Springs Utilities. He emphasizes the importance of crisis communication, the differences between public and private sector emergency management, and the critical lessons learned throughout his career. Stephen h...
Summary: In this episode of the PIO podcast, Kent Keller, former police officer and now CEO of OS Media Group, shares his journey from law enforcement to marketing for public safety agencies. He discusses the importance of community engagement, the challenges public information officers face, and how his company aims to support smaller agencies with their communication needs. Keller also explores the role of social me...
In this Special Edition, Sarah Lux discusses the importance of go bags for public information officers (PIOs) and shares her personal experiences and insights on what to include. She emphasizes the need for emergency preparedness and provides practical tips on essential items, balancing technology with traditional tools, and unique, surprisingly valuable items. The conversation also covers power management solutions a...
Summary: In this episode of the PIO podcast, host Robert Tornabene interviews Carolina Montelongo, the Public Relations Coordinator for the Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office. Carolina shares her journey from journalism to becoming a Public Information Officer (PIO), emphasizing the importance of community engagement, especially within the Hispanic community. She discusses the structure of the Sheriff's Of...
Author, life coach, entrepreneur, founder of Tornabene Wine, Miss New York 2022.
Baxter Learns to Save (Amazon)
Our premiere sponsor, Social News Desk, has an exclusive offer for PIO Podcast listeners. Head over to socialnewsdesk.com/pio to get three months free when a qualifying agency signs up.
Summary: In this episode of the PIO podcast, host Robert Tornabene interviews Dawn Small, the strategic communications manager for Aurora Fire Rescue. Dawn shares her journey from public relations agencies to the fire service, highlighting her experiences and the changes she aims to implement in communications. The conversation delves into the importance of community engagement, the role of social media, and the daily...
Summary: In this episode of the PIO podcast, Robert Tornabene interviews Rick Rice, the public information officer for the Asheville Police Department. They discuss Rick's background in radio, the challenges they faced during Hurricane Helene, and the launch of the APD Pod Squad podcast aimed at improving community engagement. Rick shares insights on managing misinformation during the crisis and the importance of...
Summary: In this conversation, Doug Levy discusses his extensive background in journalism and emergency communications, leading to the writing of his book, 'The Golden Hour.' He emphasizes the critical importance of timely and accurate communication during crises, outlining common mistakes made by Public Information Officers (PIOs) and the evolving role of social media in disseminating information. Levy shar...
Summary of the Podcast: in this episode, Ashley Bradshaw, the Public Information and Engagement Specialist for the Kyle Police Department, shares her journey into law enforcement communication. She discusses the challenges and opportunities of being the first PIO in her department, the importance of community engagement, and innovative strategies for connecting with youth. Ashley emphasizes social media's role in...
Episode Summary: In this episode of the PIO podcast, PR expert Molly McPherson shares her insights on navigating media crises, the importance of social media in crisis management, and the common pitfalls faced by public information officers (PIOs). She emphasizes the need for transparency, accountability, and stakeholder engagement in communications and discusses how to transform crises into opportunities for building...
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