Russel Wasserfall Media Echoes & Influence

#6  Balance

Loading player...
Conversations about public relations and reputation management and why they matter.
Whether you're a seasoned communications professional or just finding your feet, this podcast is a space to learn, reflect, and grow. Hosted by Joanne Smith of Pillar9, and content strategist Francois Rank of 2BFrank, Echoes and Influence explores the trends, disciplines and moments that define communications today.
Through interviews with leading voices in the field, it offers insight into the impact of public relations and reputation management and why these practices matter in business today.
Season 1 / Episode 6 7 Aug 2025 English South Africa Business · Education

Other recent episodes

S2-01 PR Revenue Models

In this episode of Echoes & Influence - the first of Season Two - Jo and Franki discuss how and why the revenue models in PR agencies or communications businesses work. Balancing staffing with strategy and practical needs - what does 'cost-to-company' mean for someone in their first comms role…
Season 2 / Episode 1 28 min

Cause Campaigns

In this episode of Echoes and Influence, Jo and Frankie unpack the complex world of cause campaigns and cause marketing. They explore how brands can support social issues authentically, when to get involved, and why genuine impact matters more than lip service. From powerful GBV awareness work to the controversial…
Season 1 / Episode 17 22 min

AI and Professional Ethics

On this episode of Echoes & Influence, we speak with Tokiso Molefe, a seasoned communications professional and digital strategist, about the rapid pace of change driven by AI in the communications space — and the ethical questions around advising clients and billing for AI‑enhanced services.
Season 1 / Episode 13 39 min

Celebrity Endorsements

In this episode of Echoes and Influence, Jo and Frankie dive into the tricky world of celebrity spokespeople. From Gwyneth Paltrow’s headline grabbing appearance for Astronomer to infamous endorsement missteps like Kylie Jenner’s Pepsi ad, they unpack what makes celebrity partnerships succeed or fail. Expect insights on authenticity, ethics, brand…
Season 1 / Episode 12 23 min

AI in the Communications Space

On this episode of Echoes & Influence, we speak with Sarah Gooding, PR and communications leader based in Gauteng, about the transformative impact of AI on the communications industry. From content creation to strategy, Sarah opened our eyes to what practitioners need to know to stay relevant in an AI-driven…
Season 1 / Episode 11 28 min
All episodes