The Bottom Line with Erick Bauer

Episode 10: Alex Thomas, Head of Communications, Canopy Growth

In this episode of The Bottom Line, Erick sits down with longtime friend and former agency colleague Alex Thomas, now Head of Communications at Canopy Growth. Alex shares what it takes to lead communications at the executive level—shifting from agency execution to shaping enterprise strategy—and the importance of setting boundaries in an always-on profession. He also talks about leading with empathy, protecting your time, and remembering that behind every project and crisis are real people navigating real lives. This conversation offers practical lessons on career longevity, personal balance, and leading with humanity.

Episode 9: Andrea Chrysanthou President of CPRS Toronto and Founder of Amplify

In this episode of The Bottom Line, host Erick Bauer is joined by Andrea Chrysanthou, President of the Canadian Public Relations Society (CPRS) Toronto and founder of Amplify, for an honest and wide-ranging conversation about what it means to lead, adapt, and advocate in the modern PR landscape. Andrea brings a deeply personal and professional perspective to the table. She reflects on her early life arriving in Canada as a refugee, her start in broadcast journalism, and her transition into the world of communications. Now at the helm of her own agency and leading CPRS Toronto, Andrea is a strong voice for the industry—especially at a time when public relations is facing disruption from within and beyond. This episode explores the changing face of PR, the shuttering of post-secondary programs, the need to reframe communications as a behavioral science, and the responsibility we all share to elevate and protect the profession. Andrea also offers thoughtful advice for emerging practitioners and hiring leaders alike, encouraging a renewed sense of pride and purpose in the work we do as communicators. Whether you’re a student, an agency leader, or simply someone who believes in the power of storytelling, this conversation will leave you with practical insights, honest reflections, and a renewed belief in the future of the profession. Subscribe to The Bottom Line for more conversations on leadership, strategy, and the real stories behind the work we do in communications and public relations.

Episode 8: Martin Waxman, Professor & Associate Director at the Schulich School of Business

In this episode of The Bottom Line, Erick is joined by Martin Waxman, one of Canada’s most respected voices in communications with decades of experience in public relations, digital strategy, and education. The conversation explores Martin’s career journey and the evolving role of communications in a rapidly changing world. From the early days of traditional PR to the emerging possibilities of augmented reality, Martin shares his thoughts on how technology is reshaping the way we tell stories and build connections. He offers valuable insight into what the future holds for communicators and why adaptability, curiosity, and continuous learning are more important than ever. They also discuss how immersive digital experiences can enhance—not replace—human interaction, and how the next generation of communicators can prepare for a world where physical and virtual realities increasingly overlap. If you’re interested in the future of communications and the skills needed to thrive in it, this episode offers a thoughtful and inspiring look at what’s ahead. Subscribe to The Bottom Line for more honest conversations with leaders shaping the future of marketing and public relations.

Episode 7: Dr. Terry Flynn, Graduate Director and Professor at McMaster University

In this episode of The Bottom Line, Erick sits down with Dr. Terry Flynn—respected educator, seasoned communicator, and a guiding voice in the world of public relations. What starts as a conversation about his career quickly evolves into a powerful reflection on leadership, mentorship, resilience, and the personal growth that comes from decades of navigating change. We explore Terry’s journey from his early days in politics, to advising some of Canada’s top organizations, to shaping the next generation of communicators in the classroom. Along the way, he shares candid insights on building trust, leading through crisis, and staying grounded in a fast-moving world. Whether you're a student, a PR pro, or a leader in any industry, this conversation offers real lessons on how to build a career—and a life—rooted in integrity, purpose, and impact.

Episode 6: Linda Andross, Managing Partner at APEX

In this episode of The Bottom Line, Erick sits down with Linda Andross, Managing Partner at APEX and ruckus Digital, to explore her inspiring journey through the Canadian communications industry. From being one of APEX’s first employees to eventually taking over the agency and leading it through decades of growth, Linda shares valuable insights on what it takes to succeed—and lead—with purpose. The discuss how agency culture and mentorship shaped Linda’s leadership philosophy, the evolution of communications over the last two decades, and the importance of adaptability, curiosity, and lifelong learning in public relations. Linda also shares why networking and genuine human connection still matter more than ever, and offers candid, actionable advice for new graduates and emerging professionals looking to break into the industry. Whether you're just starting out or leading a team, this conversation is packed with career lessons, honest reflections, and practical guidance from one of Canada’s top communicators.