Laughing Matters

Episode 48: Part 2: Witness to History, Voice of the Moment: Jim Hickey, Retired ABC News Correspondent

In Part 2 of their special two-part miniseries on Laughing Matters, Steve Cody and Paul Merchan continue their conversation with legendary journalist Jim Hickey, an Edward R. Murrow Award-winning correspondent whose career placed him at the center of some of the most consequential events of the modern era. From the collapse of the Soviet Union and the opening moments of Desert Storm to the harrowing day-long coverage of 9/11, Jim shares firsthand accounts of reporting history as it unfolded—and the responsibility of documenting it for future generations. Along the way, he reflects on the evolving relationship between journalists and the institutions they cover, the unpredictability of breaking news, and the unexpected moments of humor that emerge even in the most serious circumstances. Tune in to hear Jim talk about: * What it was like witnessing history firsthand—from Soviet tanks rolling through Moscow during the collapse of the Soviet Union to covering the opening moments of Desert Storm from a secret air base in the Persian Gulf * Why one military commander’s view of journalists as “chroniclers of history” forever shaped Jim’s perspective on the role of the media * His unforgettable experience providing continuous ABC Radio coverage on 9/11, including a live eyewitness account of the second plane striking the World Trade Center * The lighter side of a remarkable career, from a suspected KGB “honey trap” in Moscow to a live TV mishap that became an early viral news moment

Episode 47: Part 1: At the Right Place, Right Time to Report on History: Jim Hickey, Retired ABC News Correspondent

In Part 1 of a special two-part miniseries on Laughing Matters, Steve Cody and Paul Merchan sit down with legendary journalist Jim Hickey, an Edward R. Murrow Award winner whose career spans some of the most defining global events of the past half-century. From war zones to world leaders, Jim shares what it means to be fortunate to be where you are when history happens., while reflecting on the moments, mentors and mindset that shaped his remarkable journey—from a college radio station to the front lines of global news. Tune in to hear Jim talk about: * How a college mentor changed the trajectory of his career overnight * What it was like covering the Lebanese Civil War—and an unforgettable moment with Yasser Arafat * The reality of reporting from apartheid-era South Africa (and the disconnect with newsroom expectations back home) * The striking contrast between Princess Diana’s royal funeral and Mother Teresa’s humble farewell * A powerful, personal moment with Archbishop Desmond Tutu upon learning Nelson Mandela would be released

Episode 46: How to Say Diversity Out Loud and Mean It: Carmella Glover, Diversity Action Alliance

On this episode of Laughing Matters, Carmella Glover joins Paul Merchan and Steve Cody to tackle one of today’s most loaded topics with intelligence, candor and yes, a sense of humor. As President and CEO of the Diversity Action Alliance, she shares why leaders should not be afraid of clarity, why innovation depends on different perspectives and why silence can sometimes speak louder than words. From her early days as a chemical engineer explaining complex manufacturing challenges to leading conversations around inclusion in a polarized climate, Carmella makes the case that strong leadership is less about buzzwords and more about precision, courage and humanity. Tune in to hear Carmella talk about: * Why “diversity” is not a controversial word and how leaders can say what they actually mean * How innovation multiplies when different perspectives are truly in the room * The multitasking email moment that proves even seasoned executives should proofread twice We also wanted to flag a great virtual event on 2/24 co-hosted by the DAA, “Leading With Credibility in a Fractured Media World,” featuring Congressman Jim Clyburn. You can find more details linked here [https://www.commpro.biz/events/leading-with-credibility-in-a-fractured-media-world].

Episode 45: How the “Funniest Person in Rochester” Brings Levity Back to Business: David Mammano

Entrepreneur, author, professor, podcaster and business humorist David Mammano joins Paul Merchan and Steve Cody on this episode of Laughing Matters to explore why humor and wit can take business culture to the next level. From winning comedy contests in college to advising business leaders on culture, David shares why there is inherent wisdom in bringing fun back to the workplace - and why having dance moves like Seinfeld’s Elaine [https://www.youtube.com/shorts/rmg97obwVbo] didn’t stop him. Tune in to hear David talk about: * Why AI can never replace humor, experience and wit * His affinity for humorous insurance company campaigns  * A story from his best-selling book about a 20-something business owner who had every one of his employees reapply for their positions * An embarrassing personal story that proves it’s important not to skip human anatomy class

Episode 44: How to Rebrand and Have Some Fun While You’re at it: Tom Martin, The College of Charleston

From FedEx to ITT to the classroom, Tom Martin has built a career on authenticity, wit, and mentorship. Now Executive-in-Residence at The College of Charleston, Tom joins Laughing Matters to share how humor helped him navigate global rebrands, ease the tension during meetings, and inspire the next generation of communicators. Tune in for: * The story behind his eponymous mentorship program for up and coming professionals * How listening (and laughing) led to iconic rebrands * Example of some of Tom’s favorite examples of humor in brand campaigns