Interview by Mark S. Lee
Mark Lee: Mario, you’ve had a diverse career leading up to your role at Mario Morrow and Associates. How does your background influence the work you do in public relations and communications?
Mario Morrow: My journey through education, government, and business has given me a unique lens through which I view PR and communications. Each role, whether in the classroom or the boardroom, taught me the power of clear, purposeful communication. At MMA, we apply these principles to help our clients articulate their stories in compelling ways, ensuring they resonate with their intended audiences.
Mark Lee: MMA offers a wide range of services. Could you highlight a couple that you feel are particularly impactful?
Mario Morrow: We are known for our media and outreach strategy and crisis management services. We craft aggressive media strategies designed to create meaningful engagement. We have strong relationships in urban communities across the state, which have allowed us to also carve out a lane in the community outreach space. And finally, when a crisis strikes, our team is skilled at navigating the storm, ensuring our clients maintain credibility and trust with their stakeholders.
Mark Lee: What’s your take on the current communications and PR landscape?
Mario Morrow: The landscape is more dynamic than ever, driven by rapid technological advancements and a continuous shift in media consumption. It’s crucial for any organization to stay agile. At MMA, we blend traditional methods with innovative techniques to keep our clients ahead of the curve, whether it’s through social media or cutting-edge media relations.
Mark Lee: Studies show younger demographics are shifting to non-traditional media consumption practices. Does this impact how you develop messages or reach your target markets?
Mario Morrow: Understanding that there is a whole generation of people who rely on social media for their news has resulted in social media being one of the most important tactics we use.
Mark Lee: With the rapid advancements in technology, what are your thoughts about AI and its potential impact on the PR and Communications industries?
Mario Morrow: The core of our strategy remains deeply rooted in human creativity and intuition. However, there is a space for integrating AI into our work. AI can be a powerful assistant when used correctly. For example, AI-driven analytics help us understand media consumption patterns and audience behaviors. This allows us to tailor our clients’ messaging more precisely and time our communications for maximum impact.
Mark Lee: How does MMA incorporate expanded media options and current trends like digital content and podcasts when developing PR strategies?
Mario Morrow: Digital content, including podcasts and video series, offers unique opportunities for deeper engagement. For instance, I host a series called Casual Conversations where we feature leaders from various sectors. This platform goes beyond typical interviews, allowing audiences to connect with the person behind the title in a casual, relatable setting. By incorporating such content into our strategies, we not only broaden the reach but also enhance the depth of connections, making PR more effective and personal.
Mark Lee: Is there a core philosophy that guides your work at MMA?
Mario Morrow: At the heart of it, we believe in the power of storytelling. Every strategy we develop is designed to tell a story that is authentic, engaging, and effective. We’re not just sharing messages; we’re crafting narratives that inspire action and foster understanding.
Mark Lee: What advice do you have for young professionals looking to get into this field?
Mario Morrow: My best advice is to follow your dreams, stay focused and seek out experiences that will help you master your craft.
