The Empty Chair Interview

In today’s media landscape, appearing in the headlines can feel like standing trial before the court of public opinion. Too often, journalists act as prosecutors, shaping public perception and rushing to judgment—handing down a sentence before the facts have been fairly presented. One of the most damaging situations is what we call an empty chair interview: when a client or spokesperson is absent, the media fills the void—often with speculation, one-sided narratives, or biased reporting. The result? Your story is told by others, casting you in a negative light without the benefit of your perspective.

At The Johnson Agency PR, we never let our clients give an empty chair interview. Instead, we prepare you to sit confidently across from the interviewer, share your side of the story, and set the record straight. Our media coaching ensures you are equipped to address tough questions, correct misinformation, and bring balance and context to the conversation. We believe that when you claim your seat at the table, you reclaim control of your narrative—and that’s how we help you turn even the toughest news cycle into an opportunity for clarity and resilience.