cbuzz: AI, Public Relations & Brand Reputation with Julie Granillo

July 1st, 2026

How do you build a reputation that lasts in a world where AI is changing everything?

In this episode of cBuzz, the Columbus Chamber’s podcast, we sit down with Julie Granillo, President of Werth PR, to explore how public relations, brand strategy, and artificial intelligence are reshaping the way organizations build trust and connect with their audiences.

From reputation management and crisis communications to earned media and the growing influence of Large Language Models (LLMs), Julie shares practical insights on why credibility matters more than ever—and why strong communications always begin with strong business strategy.

This conversation explores what it takes to build a resilient brand in today’s evolving landscape, offering guidance on preparing for crises, strengthening employee and customer trust, and ensuring your organization stands out in an increasingly AI-driven world.

For business leaders, marketers, entrepreneurs, and communications professionals, this episode is a timely conversation about protecting your reputation, embracing innovation, and leading with clarity in a rapidly changing marketplace.

Julie Granillo | WerthPR

Julie Granillo is the President and CEO of Werth PR, representing the third generation to lead the strategic communications and public affairs firm founded by her grandfather in 1963. Under her leadership, Werth PR continues its legacy of helping organizations strengthen their reputations, navigate complex communications challenges, and shape meaningful public conversations.

Before joining Werth PR, Julie led strategy and operations for two early-stage startups in Nashville, following leadership roles with ToGoTechnologies and Dispensary of Hope, where she helped scale mission-driven organizations focused on innovation and community impact.

Today, Julie advises businesses, nonprofits, and public sector organizations on corporate positioning, crisis communications, public affairs, and reputation management. She is an active leader in the Columbus community, serving on the boards of the Columbus Metropolitan Library Foundation and the Columbus College of Art & Design. Julie is also a graduate of Leadership Columbus and a recipient of the Columbus Business First 2025 C-Suite Award, recognizing her integrity, leadership, and commitment to excellence.


To learn more about WerthPR, please visit https://werthpr.com.

Tune in today as Mikaela Hunt sits down with Julie Granillo of Werth PR to answer one big question: How do you build a reputation that lasts in the age of AI?




A note about cbuzz production: We are thrilled to be recording episodes for our Central Ohio community. Stay tuned for new episodes, which will share the stories of some of our best and brightest Columbus Chamber members.

Cbuzz is the Columbus Chamber of Commerce’s business-focused podcast and was named Best Business Podcast in 2019 by the Columbus Podcast Awards. The show is produced in partnership with the Convergent Media Center at Capital University and its students, and the show is hosted by Mikaela Hunt, brand journalist and storyteller.