Rob Biesenbach on Storytelling, Communication and Ferris Bueller

An interview by Kaylee Holland - Q: What drew you to storytelling as the core of your work?Rob Biesenbach explains that storytelling has always been embedded in his career as a communications and public relations professional. However, his passion intensified in the early 2000s when he began taking improv and sketch comedy classes at Second City. “That just was so mind-expanding and enriching,” he says. “It really deepened my understanding of storytelling and my passion for it.” Through that experience, Biesenbach realized that storytelling principles drawn from performance could be applied to help people communicate more effectively in professional settings. Continue reading

Communications Hiring in 2026: Optimism, Opportunity, and the Power of Preparation

By Kaylee Holland: After a few uncertain years in the job market, 2026 is shaping up to be a promising year for communications professionals—and Brooke Kruger couldn’t be more excited about it. As the founder of KC Partners, a firm specializing exclusively in communications recruiting, Kruger has had a front-row seat to the ebbs and flows of hiring across agencies, corporations, startups, and venture capital firms for nearly two decades. Continue reading

Innovation is Everyone’s Business: Carla Johnson Shares a Fresh Framework to becoming an Innovative Thinker

by Kaylee Holland - Most organizations see innovation as complex, time-consuming, and reserved for a select few. But according to innovation strategist and author Carla Johnson, that belief is exactly what’s holding companies back. Continue reading

Iyer Named IABC Philly President

By Kaylee Holland - The Philadelphia Chapter of the International Association of Business Communicators is proud to announce the appointment of Rashi Iyer as its new chapter president starting January 1, 2026. Continue reading

Meet the Board: Rashi Iyer - Championing Communications Excellence Through Accreditation

by Katrina Hook - As Senior Vice President of Corporate Communications at Radian, Rashi Iyer leads a wide-ranging portfolio that includes corporate and business PR, executive communications, crisis communications, philanthropy, and more. Her work not only shapes Radian’s narrative but also strengthens the company’s connections with stakeholders at every level. Continue reading

Ready or Not, AI Is Redefining the Way We Communicate

by Kaylee Holland - In the murky realm of artificial intelligence, the question remains: Should we fear its power or harness it for good? Rebecca Bultsma knows that for some, using AI models can spark unease—but she also sees its immense potential. Drawing on over 16 years of strategic communication and public relations expertise, she is an internationally recognized communications professional and a sought-after AI trainer, speaker, and consultant, dedicated to helping others harness AI’s power for good. Continue reading

Understand the Psychology of Persuasion: Strategies from Captivate’s Experts

By Kaylee Holland - The ability to negotiate, persuade, and influence others is essential for success in business communications. Understanding the psychology behind these abilities can set you apart from your peers by applying the tactics and seeing improvements in reaching your professional goals. Continue reading

Matt Russell: Riding the Wave

by Katrina Hook - The power of AI is infiltrating nearly every element of daily life. What does this mean for the communications industry? Matt Russell, Principal Business Analyst at Mayo Clinic, advocates for riding the generative AI wave.  “Generative AI tools can help you work smarter, not harder, and if used correctly, can help you do your best possible work,” he says. Continue reading

5 Must-Know Behavior Hacks for Communicators

by Katrina Hook - Nancy Harhut started her career in a marketing agency. Working on campaigns for various companies got her thinking: What gets people to say yes? “I’ve had a long-term interest in why people do what they do, and how we can make the most of that influence,” she says. “When we sent something out into the world, we wanted people to read it and respond.” Years of research later, Nancy has five tips and tricks to maximize your influence on your audience. Continue reading

Compassionate Communication: Telling Stories That Unite

by Katrina Hook - As the world changes, communicating effectively requires empathy and understanding. Communications strategist Arlene Amitirigala is a film believer that mindfulness, self-awareness, and listening are the keys to compassion. Continue reading