Episode 40: Path to CCO+ with Laura Duda

Welcome to the Communications Business Advisor™ podcast with host, Tara McDonagh. In this episode, Tara continues the Path to CCO+ series with Laura Duda, Senior Vice President and Chief Communications Officer at Goodyear. Laura shares what it really means to lead communications at the enterprise level, how she built her path from "writer first" to executive leader, and what communicators need to develop if they want a true seat (and voice) at the decision-making table.

From navigating matrixed teams and "shadow communicators," to earning authority through stakeholder insight, to leading through volatility, AI, and modern crisis dynamics, this conversation is packed with practical guidance for directors, VPs, and emerging comms leaders.

In this episode, Tara and Laura cover: What the CCO role looks like at Goodyear The scope of Laura's remit across internal + external comms and closely adjacent functions Team size and global structure How to lead in matrix environments and work effectively with "shadow communicators" Laura's career path: from writer to executive leader, including a pivotal industry switch What "authority" really means in communications: shaping decisions, not just messaging The uniquely cross-stakeholder lens communicators bring to the leadership table The CCO skills that matter most: business fluency and humility (especially across generations) Navigating today's reality: AI, volatility, and modern crisis dynamics Why data-driven response protects leaders from overreacting to "viral" noise Advice for directors/VPs who feel stuck: assess your readiness, pursue stretch work, and evaluate whether your environment will sponsor your growth Laura's message is clear: authority is earned daily through credibility, stakeholder insight, and business fluency. Leadership at the CCO level requires both confidence and humility. The path isn't always linear, but communicators who keep learning, keep showing up, and choose growth-oriented environments give themselves the strongest chance to rise.

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This episode is sponsored by Raise the Tide™, a professional development ecosystem for women in communications - helping them grow, connect, and lead with confidence through mentorship, coaching, prof