Spin Cycles fails a basic PR test

Perhaps I'm hypersensitive and egotistical. But I think that the PR folk for CBC have missed an opportunity.

Michael O'Connor Clarke's Uninstalled blog covered a news release about a new CBC Radio show called "Spin Cycles."

The show, hosted by longtime journalist and CBC producer Ira Basen, will, according to the release, explore "a range of issues surrounding the PR industry, from its humble beginnings to the significant challenges this multi-billion dollar industry now presents to journalists.A highlight in the series is Basen's look at political spin. Through interviews with pioneers of modern day spin, including the communications consultants behind Ronald Reagan, Bill Clinton and Canadian prime ministers from Lester Pearson to Paul Martin, Spin Cycles examines how these PR wizards concocted "leaks" to selective reporters, who then transformed their spin into "news". The series then analyzes how effective reporters have been at cutting through this media manipulation."

A Google of Basen and the show title also brings results that indicate a book's in the works, although there have been several publication dates announced and missed.

After seeing Michael's post and commenting on it, I immediately contacted the company doing CBC's PR, Media Profile, and asked for more info and, if possible, a chance to talk with Basen. Unfortunately for me, the only response -- silence.

I would love to have been able to write something substantive about "Spin Cycles" before it aired. I might even have done a column about it on my regular CBC Radio gig. But I guess I'll have to listen and draw my own conclusions.

I know I'm no Allan Gregg. But jeez. What would a journalist on deadline say about this?

Ciao,
Bob.