Tony Panaccio is a veteran marketing and communications strategist whose career has been uniquely shaped by his professional association with two profoundly opposite public figures: a creator of heroes and a real-world monster. For a decade, he served as the publicist, friend, and mentee to Stan Lee, the legendary Marvel Comics founder who inspired generations. In stark contrast, his career began in journalism as an official media eyewitness to the execution of serial killer Ted Bundy. This rare intersection with iconic heroism and infamous evil has given him an unparalleled perspective on narrative and reputation—insight that now informs his work as an authority on ethical AI in marketing and an expert in the comic book industry. His key areas of expertise include:

• Ethical AI Application in B2C & B2B Marketing
• Strategic Public Relations & Media Relations
• Brand & Content Marketing
• Crisis Communications & Reputation Management
• Journalism & Narrative Storytelling
• Executive Communications

Tony built the foundation of his career at two of the world's premier public relations agencies, Edelman PR in Miami and Hill and Knowlton in Tampa. His career also includes experience in the New York market with TSI Inc.

He then served as Senior Vice President for CrossGen Comics, where he worked on projects in publishing and movies with luminaries like Oscar winner Robert Zemeckis, Wes Craven and Michael Uslan. After decades in the corporate world, Tony now operates as a marketing mercenary for hire. In this capacity, he also maintains a close working relationship with St. Petersburg’s Wilson Media -- with principals Paul Wilson and John Wilson, the longtime anchor of WTVT News in Tampa Bay.