Just Curious...

Recent episodes

1. AI, Reputation and the Human Future of Business with Tom Cheesewright from Just Curious...

   Jul 22, 202659 min

   How do leaders build trust when technology, work and consumer behaviour are changing at speed? What does AI really mean for knowledge workers, and how can brands remain human when more of their customer experience is mediated by machines? In a world of high-frequency change, the challenge is not simply to predict the future, but to understand what is changing, what is not, and where communications leaders should place their energy. In this episode of Just Curious…, hosts Nicky Regazzoni and George Blizzard speak to applied futurist and author Tom Cheesewright about the practical future of work, reputation, AI and human connection. Tom explains why organisations should focus less on fixed predictions and more on agility, adaptability and the intersections between big external trends and internal business pressures. The discussion also addresses hybrid work, productivity, de-urbanisation, the changing meaning of status and the growth of the experience economy. Throughout, Tom makes a clear case for optimism, arguing that while the next 20 years will be challenging, businesses should not lose sight of human ingenuity, progress and possibility. Find The PR Network online at www.thepr.network LinkedIn: @theprnetwork Instagram: @prnetwork Connect with Nicky Regazzoni on LinkedIn Connect with George Blizzard on LinkedIn

2. The Power of Difference with Brenda Emmanus OBE from Just Curious...

   Jul 8, 202655 min

   How do you maintain trust when the media landscape is changing around you? What can leaders learn from artists, journalists and people whose perspectives are too often overlooked? And how can authenticity, curiosity and professionalism help someone build a reputation that survives setbacks, reinvention and public scrutiny? In this episode of Just Curious, hosts Nicky Regazzoni and George Blizzard speak to broadcaster, journalist and cultural leader Brenda Emmanus OBE about her distinguished career across British television, arts and culture. Brenda reflects on joining the BBC at a time when few people on screen or behind the scenes looked like her. She shares how prejudice and self-doubt strengthened her determination to remain professional and authentic. From interviewing figures including Robert Redford, Sinead O’Connor and George Michael to becoming the BBC’s arts, culture and entertainment correspondent, she explains why the best interviews begin by recognising the human being behind the public image. The conversation explores what businesses can learn from the arts, including collaboration, experimentation and storytelling, and the challenge of building an identity and learning to value the experience you bring rather than pretending to know everything. Above all, this is a conversation about courage, consistency and continuing to take steps, even when the destination is uncertain. Find The PR Network online at www.thepr.network LinkedIn: @theprnetwork Instagram: @prnetwork Connect with Nicky Regazzoni on LinkedIn Connect with George Blizzard on LinkedIn

3. Why Digital ID Could Change the Internet Forever with Robin Tombs from Just Curious...

   Jun 24, 20261 hr 0 min

   Digital identity is becoming one of the defining trust issues of modern life. Who should own our personal data? How can children be protected online without creating new privacy risks? And what does it really take for a technology brand to earn public trust when it handles some of the most sensitive information we possess? In this episode of Just Curious, hosts Nicky Regazzoni and George Blizzard speak to Robin Tombs, co-founder and CEO of Yoti, the global digital identity platform. Robin explains how Yoti grew from a frustration with broken online identity systems into a company focused on helping people prove who they are safely, privately and simply. The conversation explores the challenge of communicating complex technology in language that ordinary people can understand, and why warmth, clarity and transparency are central to building trust. Robin discusses Yoti’s B Corp status, its founding principles and the role of its independent Guardian Council in holding the company accountable. He also explains how Yoti’s age estimation technology is being used across sectors including social media, gaming, vaping and adult content to protect children while preserving privacy. The discussion looks ahead to a future in which millions of UK adults may use reusable digital ID, reducing fraud and making online interactions safer. Above all, Robin argues that trust is not created by messaging alone, but by consistent action, ethical decision-making and designing every part of a business with the user’s interests in mind. Find The PR Network online at www.thepr.network LinkedIn: @theprnetwork Instagram: @prnetwork Connect with Nicky Regazzoni on LinkedIn Connect with George Blizzard on LinkedIn

4. AI is Changing PR - Here’s What Comes Next with Stephen Waddington from Just Curious...

   Jun 10, 202648 min

   Artificial intelligence is reshaping public relations faster than many practitioners expected. But what happens when the industry built on human relationships, creativity and instinct suddenly has to navigate governance, data literacy and machine collaboration? How can communications professionals embrace AI without losing the critical thinking and emotional intelligence that define great PR? And as generative engine optimisation transforms visibility online, are agencies and brands prepared for what comes next? In this episode of Just Curious... hosts Nicky Regazzoni and George Blizzard welcome communications advisor, researcher and author Stephen Waddington to discuss his new book, ‘AI for Public Relations: A How-To Guide for Implementation and Management’. Drawing on insights from leading voices across global communications, Stephen explores how AI is already changing the structure of the PR industry, from entry-level recruitment through to leadership and governance. The conversation examines the growing importance of AI literacy, critical thinking and ethical decision-making, alongside concerns around job security, overreliance on automation and the danger of ‘outsourcing’ human judgement. Stephen also discusses the rise of GEO, why earned media is becoming increasingly valuable in AI search, and how agencies can position themselves to support clients in this evolving landscape. Find The PR Network online at www.thepr.network LinkedIn: @theprnetwork Instagram: @prnetwork Connect with Nicky Regazzoni on LinkedIn Connect with George Blizzard on LinkedIn

5. Bonus Episode: The Art of Asking Better Questions with Naga Munchetty from Just Curious...

   Mar 4, 202630 min

   Naga Munchetty is a hugely respected household name in the UK, anchoring BBC Breakfast as well as presenting BBC Five Live. In this episode, Naga joins George and Nicky for an unflinching conversation about journalism, communication and the women’s health crisis. Naga reflects on her unconventional route into journalism, which has spanned a career across Reuters, CNBC, Bloomberg and the BBC. She shares how curiosity, analytical rigour and the discipline of asking the right questions have shaped her interviewing style, and why the best journalists know when to stay silent. At the heart of her approach is clarity: say little, facilitate much, and never make the story about yourself. The conversation then turns deeply personal. After decades of debilitating pain, heavy bleeding and dismissal, Naga was diagnosed with adenomyosis, a chronic condition affecting the uterus. She speaks candidly about the frustration of misdiagnosis, the culture of minimising women’s pain, and the stark reality that only a small fraction of research funding goes to women’s reproductive health.This episode is a masterclass in communication and a rallying cry for systemic change - honest, thought-provoking and ultimately empowering. Find The PR Network online at www.thepr.network LinkedIn: @theprnetwork Instagram: @prnetwork Connect with Nicky Regazzoni on LinkedIn Connect with George Blizzard on LinkedIn

6. Inclusion Isn’t Politics, It’s Performance with Koray Camgöz from Just Curious...

   Jan 28, 202654 min

   In the last year there has been a growing backlash against DEI. As a result of political narratives and media framing, and as the language around DEI shifts, there is a risk that leaders are distracted from the real business value of inclusion. In this episode of Just Curious..., hosts George Blizzard and Nicky Regazzoni are joined by Koray Camgöz, CEO of the Taylor Bennett Foundation, to explore the evolving conversation around diversity, inclusion and business performance in the communications industry. Koray reflects on why leading the Taylor Bennett Foundation was a natural next step in his career, outlining his ambition to help organisations build more inclusive and equitable workplace cultures. Drawing on his experience across agencies, industry bodies and global communications roles, he makes a clear case that inclusion is not a political issue but a commercial one, pointing to evidence that diverse teams deliver stronger decision-making, creativity and financial performance. We also talk about why some organisations are rebranding their initiatives, and the importance of being thoughtful and consistent in how inclusion is communicated internally and externally. Koray looks ahead to emerging challenges, including the impact of AI on bias, junior talent development and access to opportunity. And he has a clear call to action for leaders: start somewhere, be transparent, and commit to meaningful, consistent progress that builds trust over time. Find The PR Network online at www.thepr.network LinkedIn: @theprnetwork Instagram: @prnetwork Connect with Nicky Regazzoni on LinkedIn Connect with George Blizzard on LinkedIn

7. The Future of Work Is Messy - What Leaders Need to Understand Now with Isabel Berwick from Just Curious...

   Jan 14, 202653 min

   The world of work is changing rapidly, and leaders have to understand not only how it’s changing but how to adapt to accommodate this transformation. In this episode of Just Curious..., hosts Nicky Regazzoni and George Blizzard are joined by Isabel Berwick, one of the UK’s leading voices on work, leadership and the future of the workplace. Drawing on years of interviews with global business leaders and her book The Future-Proof Career, she explores the leadership traits that matter most today, from authenticity and self-awareness to the importance of carrying authority lightly in increasingly transparent organisations. A major focus of the conversation is AI and its messy, uneven adoption across industries. Isabel argues that while investment is surging, many organisations lack clarity on use cases, training and ethics. She urges leaders to experiment without panic, to actively use AI themselves, and to prioritise trust as technology reshapes roles, hiring and performance management. The discussion also tackles some of the most sensitive workplace issues of the moment: the rollback and reframing of DEI initiatives, the rise of “fairness” as a unifying principle, ongoing challenges around social mobility, gender parity and ageism, and the persistent barriers facing female entrepreneurs seeking investment. This episode is a must-listen for any leader wishing to tackle the changing workplace positively and without fear. Find The PR Network online at www.thepr.network LinkedIn: @theprnetwork Instagram: @prnetwork Connect with Nicky Regazzoni on LinkedIn Connect with George Blizzard on LinkedIn

8. The Power of Educating Girls: Inside CAMFED’s Movement for Change with Angline Murimirwa from Just Curious...

   Dec 17, 20251 hr 0 min

   Angeline Murimirwa grew up as a subsistence farmer’s daughter in rural Zimbabwe to become a TIME 100 honouree and Africa Education Medal winner. She is now Chief Executive Officer of CAMFED, a pan-African movement supporting girls to go to school and become influential leaders and changemakers, and one of the world’s leading voices on girls’ education and social justice. In this episode of Just Curious…, Angeline shares her own deeply personal story that sits at the heart of CAMFED’s mission with hosts Nicky Regazzoni and George Blizzard. She reflects on the moment her schooling was almost cut short due to poverty, and how being selected for CAMFED support transformed her life. But she is clear that education alone is not enough. Drawing on lived experience, she explains why lasting change requires holistic support, from meeting basic material needs, to supporting transitions into livelihoods and leadership, and ultimately transforming education systems themselves. The conversation explores CAMFED’s unique model and examines leadership, partnership and reputation through a communications lens, highlighting the power of humility and collective action. Above all, Angeline offers a compelling vision for the future; one where educating the most marginalised girls reshapes communities, economies and entire nations. Find The PR Network online at www.thepr.network LinkedIn: @theprnetwork Instagram: @prnetwork Connect with Nicky Regazzoni on LinkedIn Connect with George Blizzard on LinkedIn

9. Beyond Media Relations: Redefining International PR for a New Era from Just Curious...

   Dec 3, 202551 min

   In this episode of 'Just Curious...' from The PR Network, we unpack the findings of ‘People, Pressure and Purpose’, a new report exploring the realities of international public relations. Hosts Nicky Regazzoni and George Blizzard sit down with communications advisor and researcher Stephen Waddington and Matt Stewart, Vice President of Communications at Sysco Corporation. The discussion dives into critical issues such as burnout, blurred work-life boundaries and the need for leadership that models resilience. Stephen shares how the role of global comms leaders has evolved beyond media relations into a strategic management function, while Matt offers an in-house perspective on balancing central strategy with local flexibility across global teams. As well as stressing the importance of trust, judgement and cultural awareness, and the growing significance of comms in risk mitigation, stakeholder trust and business alignment, both guests look ahead at the skills tomorrow’s comms professionals will need: commercial acumen, critical thinking, ethical decision-making and the ability to use AI wisely. Find The PR Network online at www.thepr.network LinkedIn: @theprnetwork Instagram: @prnetwork Connect with Nicky Regazzoni on LinkedIn Connect with George Blizzard on LinkedIn

10. EQ in the Age of AI with Gina Sheibley from Just Curious...

    Nov 19, 202559 min

    With more than 25 years’ communications experience, Gina Sheibley is one of Silicon Valley’s most respected communications leaders. She’s a huge believer in the power of human connection, and argues that emotional intelligence, curiosity and courage will always matter more than perfection. And that this is especially true in an age increasingly defined by AI. In this episode of Just Curious..., hosts Nicky Regazzoni and George Blizzard talk to Gina, now Chief Communications Officer at Workday, about the importance of curiosity, grit and authenticity in building successful teams, and why diversity of thought and background are essential for great decision-making. Gina shares her journey from studying economics to discovering her passion for communications, and the lessons she’s learned leading teams at some of the world’s most influential tech companies. She reflects on how leadership shapes culture, explaining why she values bravery over fearlessness and believes that perfectionism can hold teams back. The conversation dives into the evolving role of communications within marketing, the balance between global alignment and local flexibility, and the power of listening when building international teams. Find The PR Network online at www.thepr.network LinkedIn: @theprnetwork Instagram: @prnetwork Connect with Nicky Regazzoni on LinkedIn Connect with George Blizzard on LinkedIn

11. How PR Leaders Can Shape AI Strategy with Katie King from Just Curious...

    Nov 5, 202551 min

    AI has evolved from a futuristic concept into an essential business tool, and its implementation is now as much about reputation and ethics as it is about technology. In this episode of Just Curious..., hosts Nicky Regazzoni and George Blizzard talk to one of the UK’s leading voices in artificial intelligence, Katie King, about the role of communicators in AI adoption. Author and international consultant Katie advises global organisations on business transformation and ethical AI adoption. She talks about the importance of reframing ‘artificial’ intelligence as augmented intelligence, highlighting how language shapes perception and can help build trust among employees and customers alike. She also explains how AI’s “golden hour” has been driven by access to big data and affordable computing power, and urges leaders to see AI as a board-level imperative that touches every department. And she shares practical steps for businesses; creating cross-functional AI task forces, developing playbooks, and implementing readiness audits and literacy training. This episode is a must-listen for communications leaders who want to integrate AI responsibly, strategically, and with humanity at its core. Get 25% off Katie's new book 'AI Strategy for Sales and Marketing' at koganpage.com using code AEMS25. Find The PR Network online at www.thepr.network LinkedIn: @theprnetwork Instagram: @prnetwork Connect with Nicky Regazzoni on LinkedIn Connect with George Blizzard on LinkedIn

12. IVF, Broadcasting and Being Real with Hannah Vaughan Jones from Just Curious...

    Oct 22, 20251 hr 0 min

    In this episode of Just Curious…, hosts Nicky Regazzoni and George Blizzard are joined by Hannah Vaughan Jones, former Sky News and CNN anchor and now a media consultant and moderator working with global leaders and organisations. Hannah shares her journey from political studies at Nottingham to a high-profile career in journalism, covering landmark events such as royal weddings, general elections and the Manchester Arena bombing. She opens up about the emotional toll of broadcasting during national tragedies while undergoing her own personal challenge - 15 rounds of IVF over six years. Hannah discusses the power of authenticity, both in the media and in leadership. Drawing on her journalistic experience, she explains how preparation and human connection are key to impactful communication, whether you're being interviewed or leading an organisation. She also explores the importance of owning vulnerability and the shift towards more human, relatable leadership, especially in a post-COVID world. From hosting global events alongside figures like Bill Gates, Dr Tedros, and King Charles III, to navigating drone malfunctions on stage with grace and humour, Hannah reflects on the moments that shaped her confidence and career. She speaks candidly about personal branding, the need for clear and honest crisis communication, and why being “truthful, not neutral” is more relevant than ever. Hannah’s story is a powerful reminder that behind every headline is a human being. Find The PR Network online at www.thepr.network LinkedIn: @theprnetwork Instagram: @prnetwork Connect with Nicky Regazzoni on LinkedIn Connect with George Blizzard on LinkedIn

13. Inside Bloodgate, Rugby’s Most Notorious Scandal with Tom Williams from Just Curious...

    Oct 8, 20251 hr 1 min

    In 2009, Harlequins rugby player Tom Williams was banned from the sport for his role in the infamous "Bloodgate" scandal, one of the most shocking incidents in professional rugby history. In this episode of Just Curious…, Tom opens up about his involvement to hosts Nicky Regazzoni and George Blizzard, recounting the win-at-all-costs culture that led to his participation in faking a blood injury to manipulate a substitution. He reflects candidly on the long-lasting personal, emotional, and professional impact of that decision, including the shame, anxiety, and identity crisis that followed. Tom reveals how a lack of crisis planning and strong leadership at the club left him exposed and unsupported in the aftermath. He discusses the parallels between sport and other high-pressure environments, like financial services, where success can be dangerously conflated with rule-bending and manipulation. Now working in business, Tom shares how he's applied hard-won lessons from his experience to leadership, ethics, and decision-making in his career. The conversation also explores deeper issues of whistleblowing, institutional culture, and the need for moral frameworks in elite sport. As Tom reflects on the importance of integrity and how he now teaches his children to stand up for what’s right, his story becomes more than just a tale about sport - it becomes about accountability, resilience, and redemption. Find The PR Network online at www.thepr.network LinkedIn: @theprnetwork Instagram: @prnetwork Connect with Nicky Regazzoni on LinkedIn Connect with George Blizzard on LinkedIn

14. Bonus Episode: The Future of British Business with Rain Newton-Smith from Just Curious...

    Jul 9, 202559 min

    In this episode of Just Curious…, Nicky Regazzoni and George Blizzard talk to Rain Newton-Smith, Chief Executive of the Confederation of British Industry (CBI). Rain shares her remarkable journey from economist to one of the UK’s most influential business leaders, and reflects on the CBI’s role in supporting British business through the pandemic, driving the net zero agenda, and shaping the UK’s economic future. The show explores the power of collective action, the importance of international trade, and the vital role of the UK’s universities and innovation ecosystem. Rain offers an optimistic yet realistic take on sustainability, discussing how to balance growth with environmental responsibility and why better storytelling around climate and net zero is urgently needed. She also highlights the promise and complexity of AI, from revolutionising diagnostics in healthcare to transforming citizen access to services. As a mother of four, Rain speaks candidly about the challenges of balancing leadership with family life and the importance of visible role models in reshaping perceptions of working women. The conversation spans everything from critical minerals and car clubs to age verification tech and the future of work. With warmth, insight and a clear-eyed view of both policy and people, Rain demonstrates why she is such a powerful advocate for business in the UK. Find The PR Network online at www.thepr.network LinkedIn: @theprnetwork Instagram: @prnetwork Connect with Nicky Regazzoni on LinkedIn Connect with George Blizzard on LinkedIn

15. PR - An Industry in Flux. Reimagining our Future with David Gallagher from Just Curious...

    Jun 25, 202555 min

    In this insightful episode of Just Curious…, Nicky Regazzoni and George Blizzard are joined by communications industry veteran David Gallagher for a wide-ranging and thought-provoking conversation. With over 30 years of global agency experience, including senior leadership roles at Ketchum and Omnicom, David brings a wealth of perspective on the evolution of PR, the challenges facing the industry today, and the opportunities ahead. David discusses his shift from large agency life to co-founding Folgate Advisors, a flexible, independent consultancy model built to meet the changing needs of clients and the communications landscape. He also introduces The Advisory Club, a global WhatsApp community of over 1,000 senior comms professionals, which serves as a living forum for collective intelligence, shared learning, and candid discussion. Together, we explore the tensions between centralised and decentralised models, the impact of geopolitical instability, the rise of AI, and the shifting expectations of clients. David reflects on the need for PR to define its higher purpose, address its confidence crisis, and improve its own reputation. A highlight of the conversation is David’s optimism about the next generation of practitioners - those entering the field with fresh ideas, ethical instincts, and a digital-first mindset. The episode closes with a reaffirmation of the power of community, flexibility, and relevance in building future-ready agency models. Whether you’re an agency founder, in-house comms leader, or curious about the future of PR, this episode offers thoughtful commentary, practical insight, and a healthy dose of realism from one of the industry's most respected voices. Find The PR Network online at www.thepr.network LinkedIn: @theprnetwork Instagram: @prnetwork Connect with Nicky Regazzoni on LinkedIn Connect with George Blizzard on LinkedIn

16. From Meal Kits to Matcha: Building Brands with Purpose with Patrick Drake from Just Curious...

    Jun 11, 202551 min

    In this inspiring episode of Just Curious…, Nicky Regazzoni and George Blizzard are joined by TV chef, author and co-founder of HelloFresh, Patrick Drake.Patrick’s entrepreneurial journey has taken him from scrubbing cars on a council estate to revolutionising global food and wellness habits, and he shares how his early drive for independence shaped his approach to business. From launching HelloFresh in a London living room to building his latest venture, Autonomy, a disruptive wellness brand born out of his passion for morning rituals and functional food, Patrick reflects on his personal approach to brand building. He talks about creating a brand-new category with HelloFresh, from carrot-costume street marketing to scaling a billion-meal-a-year global business. And he opens up about how he leveraged his personal brand and media presence to drive awareness, and why founder-led storytelling remains a crucial differentiator. We also explore the motivation behind Autonomy – a health-forward coffee and matcha creamer line powered by adaptogenic mushrooms – and how a homemade “Patrick coffee” evolved into a product now stocked in Goop HQ and endorsed by Gwyneth Paltrow herself. Patrick talks candidly about his use of vision boards, the power of manifestation combined with action, and the importance of building trust through integrity. From juggling breathwork and fatherhood to sharing values of authenticity, resilience, and human connection, this episode is full of energy, insights, and optimism. Find The PR Network online at www.thepr.network LinkedIn: @theprnetwork Instagram: @prnetwork Connect with Nicky Regazzoni on LinkedIn Connect with George Blizzard on LinkedIn

17. PR, AI and Purpose-Driven Leadership with Effie Kanyua from Just Curious...

    May 28, 202546 min

    In this episode of Just Curious…, Nicky Regazzoni and George Blizzard are joined by Effie Kanyua, a leading figure in UK PR and media, and the first black female comms leader at a major publishing house. Effie reflects on her 25-year career, from her early days at the BBC to senior roles in top agencies and in-house at Bauer and Hearst UK. She shares insights on navigating cross-market campaigns, the evolution of the media industry, and the increasing role of AI in communications. Effie discusses founding her agency, We Are Warriors, and launching Lila Assistant, an AI platform built with ethics, privacy and inclusion at its core. She explores the potential and pitfalls of AI in media and comms, particularly the need for greater diversity in its development and use. The conversation also delves into the responsibility of the luxury sector in driving sustainable change, and the ongoing challenges in improving diversity and inclusion within the PR industry. As the UK Chair of the G100 Media, Arts and Communication wing, a global think tank driving gender parity, Effie outlines her vision for impactful change through collective leadership. We also discuss the importance of allyship, accountability in DEI efforts, and the power of female collaboration on a global scale. Effie’s story is one of purpose, resilience, and innovation; from creating platforms for underrepresented voices to championing ethical tech. Whether you’re in PR, media, tech or advocacy, this episode is full of inspiration and practical insight for changemakers across sectors. Find The PR Network online at www.thepr.network LinkedIn: @theprnetwork Instagram: @prnetwork Connect with Nicky Regazzoni on LinkedIn Connect with George Blizzard on LinkedIn

18. Balancing Corporate Strategy and Creative Storytelling with Zoe Melarkey from Just Curious...

    May 14, 202552 min

    In this engaging and wide-ranging episode of “Just Curious…”, Nicky Regazzoni and George Blizzard are joined by Zoe Melarkey, Head of Communications at Ocado Retail , to explore the evolving world of consumer brand PR. With over 25 years of experience in both agency and in-house roles, Zoe reflects on her dynamic career working with major UK brands including Purplebricks, npower, MFI, and Ocado. From nostalgic tales of early internet days at Berkeley Communications, to leading multi-channel campaigns and navigating crises, Zoe shares honest insights and lessons from her journey. Zoe reveals behind-the-scenes stories, including working with Nigella Lawson, a clever PR stunt with the boy band Blue, and the realities of handling a high-profile crisis in today’s post-truth world. And she discusses the importance of authenticity, the shift towards unpolished, real-time content, and how to balance corporate and creative priorities, particularly when it comes to working with influencers and agency partners. The episode also touches on the challenges of measuring PR impact, the growing role of AI in communications work, and how to rebuild trust and reputation in times of crisis. Zoe shares candid reflections on balancing senior leadership with family life, the myth of “having it all,” and why being open, honest, and human is key to building brand loyalty. Packed with real-life examples, thoughtful perspectives, and practical advice, this episode offers a rich insight into the realities of modern PR, from campaign ideation to crisis management and everything in between. Find The PR Network online at www.thepr.network LinkedIn: @theprnetwork Instagram: @prnetwork Connect with Nicky Regazzoni on LinkedIn Connect with George Blizzard on LinkedIn

19. Building Agencies That Last: Lessons in Leadership with Andrew Bloch from Just Curious...

    Apr 30, 20251 hr 1 min

    In this episode of Just Curious…, George Blizzard and Nicky Regazzoni sit down with Andrew Bloch, one of the most influential figures in the PR and marketing industry. Co-founder of the iconic Frank PR and now a consultant, non-exec, and M&A adviser, Andrew shares insights from his 30-year career, spanning agency life, brand building, talent management, and high-profile client representation, including his long-standing role as Lord Sugar’s spokesperson. Andrew reflects on his early beginnings at Lynne Franks, the founding philosophy behind Frank PR, and the evolution of ‘talkability’ as a core campaign strategy. He discusses the dynamics of agency partnerships, what makes a pitch successful, and the importance of chemistry and trust in client-agency relationships. As a consultant at AAR and partner at PCB Partners, he also unpacks the intricacies of M&A in the creative industries, including what buyers are looking for and how founders can best prepare for a sale. The conversation explores how the agency landscape is shifting in 2025, with thoughts on the rise of independents, network consolidation, hybrid working, and the role of hustle in driving agency success. George and Nicky reflect on their own agency journey and the enduring value of media relationships, authentic storytelling, and maintaining a differentiated proposition. Full of practical advice, industry anecdotes, and honest reflections, this episode is a must-listen for anyone working in PR, marketing, or creative leadership. Andrew’s candour and clarity offer an invaluable perspective on how to grow, sustain, and future-proof an agency. Find The PR Network online at www.thepr.network LinkedIn: @theprnetwork Instagram: @prnetwork Connect with Nicky Regazzoni on LinkedIn Connect with George Blizzard on LinkedIn

20. Put People First and Everything Will Follow with Sarah Waddington CBE from Just Curious...

    Apr 16, 202557 min

    In this episode of Just Curious, hosts Nicky Regazzoni and George Blizzard sit down with Sarah Waddington CBE, a powerhouse in the PR and communications industry. A seasoned leader, activist, and interim CEO of the PRCA, Sarah shares her journey from agency founder to industry advocate. She opens up about her leadership evolution, the importance of professional development, and the systemic issues affecting PR, particularly the gender imbalance highlighted in the CIPR’s “Missing Women” study, which she developed with husband Stephen Waddington through their consultancy, Wadds,Inc. Sarah also discusses Socially Mobile, the initiative she co-founded with Stephen to improve socio-economic diversity in PR, and how it's creating a new generation of diverse leaders. She delves into the challenges of hybrid work, inclusivity, and the role of social media in shaping reputations, both as a tool for opportunity and a source of controversy. As the interim CEO of the PRCA, Sarah outlines her vision for industry advocacy, pushing PR professionals to be seen as strategic business partners as opposed to PR being an afterthought in marketing. She talks candidly about procurement challenges, reputation management, and how organisations must address real issues rather than applying PR as a quick fix. With her characteristic passion, Sarah champions change, diversity, and better industry standards. This is an insightful conversation about leadership, resilience, and the future of PR, one that any communications professional won’t want to miss. Find The PR Network online at www.thepr.network LinkedIn: @theprnetwork Instagram: @prnetwork Connect with Nicky Regazzoni on LinkedIn Connect with George Blizzard on LinkedIn