Episode 208 David Thalberg

David Thalberg

Stryker-Munley Group

Public Relations Specialist

“There is no question that if Jeanne and Gideon are the soul of #BlazeitForward, David is the heart”

David is not just the president of Stryker-Munley Group, Charlotte, North Carolina. He is also the one of the integral parts of the inception of #BlazeitForward. David’s podcast reveals that philanthropy is not just about money - he proves to us that money alone cannot buy purpose in life or friendship - both of which David has more than most. Besides working full-time as a senior communications advisor to a client base including media & publishing, advertising & production, technology, entrepreneurs and non-profit organizations - he also has time to be a basic superhero and do-gooder at large. Previously lead of SMG, Los Angeles, David remains active with Southern California business and organizations as well. Don’t miss this podcast and the man that moves mountains with his warm smile, humble wit and immense charm.

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David Thalberg

David Thalberg is an accomplished Public Relations Specialist and the President of the Stryker-Munley Group (SMG), Charlotte, North Carolina. With more than two decades of experience, he serves as a senior communications advisor guiding complex clients across media and publishing, advertising, technology, and non-profit sectors. Though currently leading the Charlotte office, David has previously headed the SMG office in Los Angeles and remains deeply connected and active with Southern California businesses and organizations.

Beyond his successful corporate career, David is known for his profound personal commitment to philanthropy and advocacy, particularly as an integral part of the #BlazeItForward movement. Following the tragic death of Blaze Bernstein, David volunteered his considerable expertise as a career publicist to serve as the family’s media liaison and strategic counsel. This pro bono dedication helped the Bernsteins transform their grief into a powerful national movement dedicated to spreading kindness and tolerance.

David’s personal philosophy, as explored in the podcast, challenges the notion that wealth alone grants purpose. Instead, he embodies the idea that true wealth lies in meaningful work and deep friendships. He successfully balances the demands of advising major clients and managing a thriving PR firm with his self-described role as a "basic superhero and do-gooder," dedicating substantial time and expertise to causes that promote positive change and social justice.

Referred to by the Bernsteins as the "heart" of the organization, David’s involvement with #BlazeItForward is a testament to the fact that professional skills—like strategic communications and media relations—can be a powerful form of non-monetary philanthropy. His humility, wit, and charm have not only moved mountains for his clients but have also helped amplify a global message of hope, resilience, and anti-hate advocacy.

Episode 208

Hosted by: Jeanne Pepper

Guest: David Thalberg

Executive Producer: Jeanne Pepper

Producer: Eli Moskowitz

Original Theme: Jay Bernstein

Find out more about David here

dthalberg@strykermunleygroup.com

917.952.2580