Logo

Has business lost the argument? X versus Bluesky, and Coleen’s jungle PR

en

November 19, 2024

TLDR: CEOs like Greg Jackson from Octopus Energy are taking a stance in public debates; Ben & Jerry's and big pharma respond to Robert Kennedy Jr's nomination as US health secretary; Elon Musk's X exodus impact on communication; Coleen Rooney's PR strategy dissect.

1Ask AI

In the recent episode of BBC Radio 4's When It Hits The Fan, hosts David Yelland and Simon Lewis tackle the pressing question: Has the business world lost its grip on public debates? They explore crucial moments in communication, highlight the implications of misinformation, and suggest strategic shifts for businesses today.

Key Discussion Points

The Role of Business in Public Debate

The hosts argue whether it's bad PR for businesses to abstain from public discourse. They cite instances where companies, especially in traditional sectors like energy and pharmaceuticals, have faced backlash or negligence due to their silence on pertinent societal issues. Notably, Greg Jackson, CEO of Octopus Energy, is presented as an example of a business leader stepping into the limelight to clarify misperceptions, especially around renewable energy.

  • Key Highlights:
    • Greg Jackson's Interaction: On BBC's Question Time, Jackson successfully corrects misinformation in real-time, showcasing how direct engagement can redefine public trust.
    • Impact of New Entries: The rise of technology-driven energy companies, such as Octopus, signals a shift in how industry leaders can engage publicly and effectively.

The Challenge of Misinformation

The podcast highlights two sectors facing the brunt of misinformation: energy and healthcare. With the growing influence of conspiracy theories, listeners are urged to consider the risks of not addressing public concerns. The discussion emphasizes:

  • The necessity for business leaders to actively participate in public dialogues to counter misinformation.
  • The importance of presenting factual, transparent information to combat public doubt and fears.

The Case of Ben & Jerry’s

Another intriguing case study discussed was that of Ben & Jerry’s and its controversial position on various social issues. The ice cream company has a history of prioritizing its political stance, which has sometimes led to conflicts with its parent company, Unilever, particularly concerning social justice issues.

Key takeaways from this case include:

  • Values-Based Business: The founding principles of Ben & Jerry’s serve as a model for how embracing controversial topics can enhance brand loyalty.
  • Legal Tensions: Their recent lawsuit against Unilever illustrates the complexities of corporate structure where social mission and profit motives collide.

The Shift From X to Bluesky

Moving to social media dynamics, the discussion contrasts X (formerly Twitter) and Bluesky. The latter has become a refuge for users disenchanted with X's content moderation and perceived bias.

  • Growing Exodus: Over two million users have migrated to Bluesky, highlighting a clear demand for platforms that prioritize community control and user experience.
  • Implications for PR: Companies face challenges in navigating these changing platforms, raising concerns about branding and communication strategies.

Conclusion: The Future of Business Communication

As the episode concludes, Yelland and Lewis stress the urgency for businesses to re-evaluate their communication strategies in light of these discussions:

  • Engagement Over Silence: Companies must not retreat from controversial issues but rather articulate their positions clearly and effectively.
  • Adaptability in PR: With consumer behavior shifting toward platforms like Bluesky, businesses need to remain active across multiple channels to reach diverse audiences.

In summary, this podcast episode forces us to reconsider the age-old adage about staying neutral—how that might no longer be viable in an era where misinformation can thrive unchecked. Businesses are urged to step up, engage, and ultimately, reclaim their voice in the public debate.

Was this summary helpful?

Recent Episodes

Gregg Wallace, ‘casting doubt’ PR and Ed Davey’s Christmas single

Gregg Wallace, ‘casting doubt’ PR and Ed Davey’s Christmas single

When It Hits the Fan

TV personality Gregg Wallace faces crisis as allegations arise from social media video. Examining implications for MasterChef producer Banijay and BBC. Australia's under 16 ban on social media prompting big tech to use cynical PR tactics as an attempt to halt worldwide trend. Discussion over Liberal Democrat leader Ed Davey's PR strategy with a debut Christmas single release.

December 03, 2024

Jaguar’s rebrand, John Prescott and Meet the Rees-Moggs

Jaguar’s rebrand, John Prescott and Meet the Rees-Moggs

When It Hits the Fan

In this podcast, David Yelland and Simon Lewis discuss Jaguar's controversial rebrand video, Elon Musk's reaction, and the potential impact on Jaguar's PR strategy. They also delve into the political legacies of Lord John Prescott and Jacob Rees-Mogg's interest in reality TV.

November 26, 2024

Why Trump means boom times for PR, and a Rivals spat

Why Trump means boom times for PR, and a Rivals spat

When It Hits the Fan

Discussion between David Yelland and Simon Lewis on potential impact of a second Trump presidency on PR and business (USA & abroad), how powerful players influence new presidents, role of money in influencing decisions, and critique towards Eve Streeter's review of Rivals.

November 12, 2024

Telling the truth, being on TV and the best PR comebacks

Telling the truth, being on TV and the best PR comebacks

When It Hits the Fan

David Yelland and Simon Lewis discuss topics such as when to tell the truth and the impact of fly-on-the-wall television on publicity, the role of PR in news agenda, best reputation comebacks from famous figures, and the influence of namedropping in PR on this listener-led special episode. Send your own PR question via text or voice note.

November 05, 2024

AI

Ask this episodeAI Anything

When It Hits the Fan

Hi! You're chatting with When It Hits the Fan AI.

I can answer your questions from this episode and play episode clips relevant to your question.

You can ask a direct question or get started with below questions -

Sign In to save message history