Stop Chasing Attention — Build Infrastructure Instead ft. Edward James

What does it actually take to use an artist or cultural figure to move a brand — or a cause — in today's market?In this episode of the Brandinc PR Podcast, Dr. Brandi Sims sits down with Edward James, Founder and President of CHQ Media and a 20-year veteran of lifestyle, entertainment, and brand communications. Ed has built campaigns for major brands including Toyota, Guitar Center, Bowers & Wilkins, and AllianceBernstein, and has done cause-driven work spanning music education, mental health, and gun violence prevention.This conversation goes deep on what most PR pros never get taught: how to position artists as strategic brand vehicles, how to align a brand with a cause without it feeling performative, and why chasing attention without infrastructure is a losing strategy in the attention economy.In this episode, we cover:• Why brand + artist alignment is about values, not visibility• How to approach cause-driven campaigns with integrity and impact• What today's PR landscape demands from communications strategists• Real talk on manufactured buzz, bot culture, and what it costs your reputation• Tactical advice for breaking into entertainment brand workWhether you're a PR pro, founder, or marketer — this one will change how you think about influence.🎙️ New episodes drop weekly. Subscribe, leave a review, and share with a colleague who needs to hear this.RESOURCES + LINKSBook Your PR Power Hour Session — If you're ready to cut through the noise and get a clear, strategic PR plan tailored to your brand, this 1:1 intensive session is the fastest way to work with Brandi. Start Here. LIMITED TIME: Pitch Kit — $27 (Valued at $497) Get the exact tools, templates, and frameworks you need to position your brand for media opportunities and stand out in a crowded landscape here. Get Brandi’s AI-Powered Tool For Pitching Media ⁠Right Here⁠. Use code BIPR to get $50 off your first month! Revamp Your Business Foundation with our exact automation tool that streamlines communications from prospects to media bookings in minutes. ⁠Start For Free⁠.⁠Sign Up for Our Free Weekly Newsletter⁠ and get bi-weekly insights on brand strategy, PR trends, and business growth.Drop us a review and we’ll send you our 5 Things You Must Have to Be A Media Magnet FREE (Value $297).