Reimagining PR’s Future with David Gallagher

In our latest “Just Curious…” episode, our co-founders Nicky and George sat down with one of the industry’s most thoughtful voices David Gallagher. With over three decades of experience leading some of the world’s top communications agencies, David is now co-founder of Folgate Advisors, a consultancy that's rewriting the rulebook on how PR agencies operate and grow. Folgate shares our own disruptive virtual agency model.

Our conversation traversed continents and decades, from David's early agency days in Washington DC and London, to his reflections on the seismic shifts shaking up the industry today. We explored everything from the role of AI and algorithms in reshaping the public sphere, to the rise of decentralised models and flexible agency structures. It’s a compelling listen for anyone wondering about the future of PR and comms and how to stay ahead.

David also shared his vision for The Advisory Club, a WhatsApp-based global community that has become a thriving hive of comms leaders, insight-sharing and real-time reflection. With more than 1,000 members and growing, it’s a powerful example of collective intelligence in action.

But what really stood out was David’s optimism. Despite industry growing pains whether it’s the confidence gap, lack of standardisation, or educational challenges he’s bullish about the future. He sees green shoots in the next generation of talent: digital-first, ethically grounded, and not weighed down by legacy thinking.

Tune in for a rich conversation that will leave you reflecting on your own role in shaping PR’s future and how we might reframe our purpose to build a stronger, more confident profession.