Episode 156: Ethics, AI, and the Future of Public Relations in Canada

Three of the lead researchers behind the Canadian Public Relations Society’s landmark report, 2025 State of Public Relations in Canada: Ethics, AI and Reframing the Professional Field, join The Crux of the Story to unpack how the profession is evolving at a pivotal moment. Kim Blanchette (EVP of Castlemain/ChangeMakers), Dr. Terry Flynn (Associate Professor at McMaster University), and Colleen Killingsworth (Principal of CKCommunications) explore the identity shift between “communications” and “public relations,” the trust gap with the public, and the ethical challenges posed by artificial intelligence. Together, they reveal how Canadian practitioners are adopting AI, where governance is falling short, and what role professional associations must play to remain relevant. This episode goes beyond the findings—it challenges the profession to confront its future with clarity, courage, and purpose.