#118 Aug 27, 25

Influencing with Intention: Why Authenticity Always Wins | Nneka Chiazor

Nneka Chiazor, President of the Public Affairs Council, discusses the evolving role of influence, leadership, and authenticity in today’s complex and fast-paced environment. Drawing on her deep experience in both the public and private sectors, including leading 1,200 employees at Cox Communications, Nneka shares why public affairs is no longer a cost center but a strategic investment in social capital. She unpacks her “Mercy Framework” for thoughtful leadership, discusses the importance of internal influence, and reflects on how leaders must now show up with intention, reliability, and heart. From the Queen Elizabeth II communication rule to the power of LinkedIn as a platform for authentic thought leadership, this episode is filled with real talk, practical insights, and inspiring wisdom.

Takeaways:

Influence Begins Within: You can’t have external champions without internal ones. Employees are trusted messengers; make sure they’re equipped and aligned with your message.
Use the Mercy Framework to Prioritize Thoughtfully: When taking on new roles or initiatives, ask: What should we Maintain, Expand, Reduce, Cease, or Introduce? Only introduce after creating space.
Treat Public Affairs as a Strategic Investment: In a VUCA world (Volatility, Uncertainty, Complexity, Ambiguity), public affairs professionals are critical partners to the C-suite, unlocking both markets and trust.
Pour Into Senior Leaders Before They Burn Out: Leaders are often so focused on pouring into others that they neglect themselves. Organizations should invest in refilling their leaders’ cups through support and development.
Live by the Queen Elizabeth II Rule: Before speaking or posting, ask: Is it kind? Is it necessary? Is it true? This simple filter builds credibility and maintains trust.
Build Your Personal Brand Authentically: You are You, Inc. Consistency in values across all platforms, especially LinkedIn, builds trust. Let your lived experiences serve as bridges to others.
Influence with Intention: True influence isn’t just about getting someone to act; it’s about helping them feel good about taking that action. That’s where meaningful impact begins.

Quote of the Show:

"Intention is the word. How we live, how we make our mark, and how we ensure that the dash between our birth and death is filled with purpose, impact, and meaning."

Links:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nneka-chiazor/
Website: https://linktr.ee/pacouncil

Episode Video

Creators and Guests

Host

Anthony Shop

Anthony Shop believes in the power of people-centered branding and marketing to create a bright future. He chairs the National Digital Roundtable, the premier convener of digital innovators, leaders and policy shapers. Anthony also is the Co-Founder and Chief Strategy Officer of Social Driver, a digital services firm that helps companies and non-profits establish winning strategies with social media, websites, creative, and advertising. An enthusiastic presenter and teacher, he has led executive-level training for Amazon, PepsiCo, NASA, The British Embassy and the Bipartisan Policy Center. He has been recognized as an “OUTstanding LGBT Role Model” by The Financial Times, “40 Under 40” by The Washington Business Journal, and Business Leader of the Year by the DC Chamber of Commerce. A former newspaper reporter, Anthony was the first new media professional elected to the National Press Club’s Board of Governors. He currently serves on the boards of Leadership Greater Washington and LearnServe International. He earned his MBA from The George Washington University School of Business, where he teaches as an adjunct lecturer.

Producer

Amanda Goyette

Producer

Robert Krueger

Robert is an Executive Director for The Communications Board, an organization with the mission of providing high-quality professional development for every communicator in every location. He is also the Global Lead for Partnership Communications at Gensler, the world’s largest architecture and design firm. Prior to his current role, he performed executive and CEO communications for Gensler, and was the senior director of public relations and social media at the Urban Land Institute. He obtained an MA in Communications and an MA in History from George Mason University. He did his undergraduate studies at the University of Missouri-Columbia. In addition, Robert has taught communications at universities including George Mason University, West Virginia University, and the University of Florida. Robert currently serves as Immediate-Past President for the Public Relations Society of America’s National Capital Chapter (PRSA-NCC) -- the nonprofit’s largest chapter.