Dear BAMf Podcast: Episode 28 with Drew Beechler

Dear BAMf // Episode 28: Drew Beechler of High Alpha reminds founders that nothing is off the record in media relations.

In this episode of the Dear BAMf podcast, we speak with Drew Beechler, Director of Marketing at High Alpha. Drew considers himself a marketer, thinker, writer, researcher, analyst, and storyteller and has a passion for technology, startups, and data-driven insights. In this episode, Drew answers some tough marketing and PR questions from our listeners, including this one about the best ways to handle a misquote:

Dear BAMf,

My client was quoted in a recent article based on something they shared with the reporter on a phone call interview. He said it was said off the record, but it seems the reporter used the quotes anyways. Is there anything I can do? The quote is not something he wanted to be made public and I'm concerned it could be damaging to the brand.

Listen now to hear how Drew advises this writer to move forward.

Dear BAMf: Episode 28

Episode 28 highlights:

• (01:35) Drew gives solid advice to our listeners about media relations saying, "Something everyone has learned the hard way is that nothing is truly off of the record." Practice approaching all media interactions in this respect. Remember to be human and understand that journalists have no obligation to founders, but don't be afraid to ask for changes to an article. Be mindful and proactive with your preparation. Take media training courses, webinars, and trainings. For more advice on media relations read, Four Tips to Ace Your Next Media Interview on our blog.
• (07:30) Drew coaches our listeners on how to approach internal leaks. He explains that confidential news should be handled internally by educating leads on when to share exclusive information with the entire team. Drew suggest creating an FAQ document and establishing media relations best practices among your team. If the problem is coming from your c-suite or board, it's a much bigger issue and conducting an internal audit is required. 
• (13:41) COVID has caused a lot of companies to downsize. Living on thin ice, how does a startup communicate that they are not in the position to donate to a cause without being offensive? Drew reminds us all that, "Everyone in the world right now is hurting and struggling in different ways. So there's also this level of just having empathy." Over-communicate with your customer base and be honestly transparent. 

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