Episode 206

The Coldplay Cam Effect: Reputation, Reaction & the New Rules of PR

July 24, 2025

Diane Schwartz, CEO of Ragan Communications, breaks down one of the year’s most viral PR moments—the Coldplay concert “Crisis Cam”—and shares what brands should do when leadership missteps play out in public.

She also reflects on becoming Ragan’s first female CEO, why internal communications is more important than ever, and how leaders can build trust, influence, and confidence at every level. From the value of in-person connection to what today’s employees want most, this episode delivers practical insights for communicators navigating a changing workplace.

Episode Highlights

  • How Diane would’ve handled the “Crisis Cam” fallout.
  • The enduring value of in-person community.
  • Why flexibility, recognition, and transparency matter most to employees.
  • Advice for speaking up, building influence, and bouncing back from failure.
  • What leadership really looks like behind the scenes.

Links and Resources 

Connect with Diane Schwartz on LinkedIn

Connect with Ragan Communications on LinkedIn

Learn more about Ragan Communications

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