PR Explored: The Podcast for Public Relations and Communications Pros

In this episode of PR Explored, host Michelle Garrett, a PR consultant, author, and writer talks with her guest Andy Lambert, co-founder of ContentCal (acquired by Adobe) and author of Spheres of Influence, to discuss how B2B companies should approach social media and PR, especially on LinkedIn and YouTube.Lambert highlights LinkedIn’s algorithm shift toward personal profiles and subject-matter expertise, advises prioritizing original content over reshares, and notes strong performance from carousels and polls when used thoughtfully.He explains LinkedIn’s crackdown on automated AI comment tools while distinguishing useful AI assistance from low-quality AI-generated posts.The conversation emphasizes consistency, content pillars, and quality over “hacks,” plus the growing importance of LinkedIn and YouTube for AI-driven search, including the value of long-form YouTube and LinkedIn articles/newsletters.Lambert also shares practical AI search wins like creating a Wikipedia page and aligning messaging across profiles and review sites.00:00 Welcome and Introductions00:54 Andy Lambert Background02:55 Being Everywhere to Audience04:56 LinkedIn Trends and Algorithm06:54 Formats Video Carousels Polls09:56 Reshares Versus Original Posts11:34 AI Comments and Content19:40 Posting Frequency and Timing23:21 Quality Over Hacks26:21 Hashtags on LinkedIn27:05 Why LinkedIn and YouTube29:51 AI Search Proof Point33:14 Think Like Media34:00 Search Is Audience36:50 Long Form and Articles38:48 Newsletters and Repurposing41:42 Do You Need YouTube44:07 Budget and Authenticity46:21 Trust and Human Stories49:24 Algorithm Proof Strategy50:18 Three AI Search Wins53:19 Wrap Up and ThanksShow notes:Subscribe to Andy Lambert’s Substack: https://spheresofinfluence.substack.comFollow Andy Lambert on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andyrlambert/Andy Lambert’s latest book, Spheres of Influence: https://spheresofinfluence.co/Follow the host: Website: www.michellegarrett.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/prstrategist/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@PRisUsX/Twitter: https://x.com/PRisUsThreads: https://www.threads.com/@prwritergalMichelle's book - B2B PR That Gets Results - is available nowBook a no-obligation call to talk about your needs here. About the host: Michelle Garrett is a B2B PR consultant, media relations consultant, writer and author of B2B PR That Gets Results, an Amazon Best Seller. She helps companies create content, earn media coverage, and position themselves as thought leaders in their industry. Michelle’s articles have been featured by Entrepreneur, Content Marketing Institute, Muck Rack, and Ragan’s PR Daily, among others. She’s a frequent speaker and podcast guest on public relations and content. Michelle has been repeatedly ranked among the top ten most influential PR professionals.

In this episode of PR Explored, host Michelle Garrett, a PR consultant, author, and writer talks with her guest crisis communications expert Shawna Bruce, who shares her 40-year communications background, including 25+ years in military public affairs, work at Dow Chemical, and her current focus (since 2018) on training organizations to prepare for crises.They discuss why crisis communications is now operational infrastructure, how to anticipate risks by studying incidents in your sector, and the importance of preparation, practice, reviews, succession planning, and internal coordination.Bruce emphasizes message maps, fast approvals (including pre-approved holding statements), using owned media as a crisis hub, and having backups/shadows and realistic exercises ranging from lunch-and-learns to multi-day shift-based drills.They address AI-driven misinformation, the need for trusted official channels, careful use of AI for planning (not unsupervised response), and how trust is tested and reinforced during crises rather than built from scratch.00:00 Welcome and Introductions01:57 Shauna’s Crisis Background04:46 Preparation Over Parachuting06:01 Why Crisis Comms Matters Now09:33 Anticipating Risks by Sector14:07 Comms as Part of Response17:04 Air Canada Language Lesson21:34 How to Practice Crisis Drills29:09 Small Business Crisis Basics33:23 Preapproved Holding Statements35:35 Trust and Cadence in Crisis38:02 Internal Comms Ripple Effects40:20 Track Issues Before Crisis41:20 AI Misinformation Reality43:36 Own Your Channels50:59 Build Trust With Humanity52:36 AI For Planning Not Response57:10 When Everything Feels Crisis58:57 Educate Leaders And Triage01:05:18 Preparedness Resources WrapShow notes:Follow Shawna Bruce on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shawnabruce/Visit Shawna Bruce’s site: https://www.mdbruceandassociates.com/Follow the host: Website: www.michellegarrett.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/prstrategist/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@PRisUsX/Twitter: https://x.com/PRisUsThreads: https://www.threads.com/@prwritergalMichelle's book - B2B PR That Gets Results - is available nowBook a no-obligation call to talk about your needs here. About the host: Michelle Garrett is a B2B PR consultant, media relations consultant, writer and author of B2B PR That Gets Results, an Amazon Best Seller. She helps companies create content, earn media coverage, and position themselves as thought leaders in their industry. Michelle’s articles have been featured by Entrepreneur, Content Marketing Institute, Muck Rack, and Ragan’s PR Daily, among others. She’s a frequent speaker and podcast guest on public relations and content. Michelle has been repeatedly ranked among the top ten most influential PR professionals.

In this episode of PR Explored, host Michelle Garrett, a PR consultant, author, and writer talks with her guest Katie Suiters of Brighton Media to discuss modernizing media training for executives. Suiters contrasts outdated, scripted talking-point memorization with a hyper-custom approach that builds authentic, teachable communication skills across scenarios, including media interviews, internal all-hands, social video, panels, and crisis moments. She recommends starting with intention-setting: defining the business objective of an opportunity and how the spokesperson and organization should be perceived, then measuring success against those goals. They address misconceptions that journalists are “out to get you,” the importance of taking pauses, and avoiding jargon because it erodes trust and loses audiences. Suiters advocates ongoing monthly or quarterly prep instead of one-time sessions, explains how to deliver constructive feedback, warns that “internal” remarks can leak, and notes AI increases demand for human, credible delivery and voice-aligned messaging; outside trainers can provide candid third-party coaching.00:00 Welcome and Introductions01:02 Rethinking Media Training02:05 Beyond Broadcast Scenarios03:33 Effort and Practice Payoff05:20 Evolving Past Talking Points06:14 Set Goals and Perception08:45 Debrief and Say No11:50 Misconceptions About Training14:46 Journalists Are Not Enemies19:40 Pause and Speak Clearly22:29 Avoid Jargon and Acronyms28:38 Ongoing Prep Sessions29:26 Always Be Ready30:53 PR As Insurance31:51 Short Tailored Sessions33:59 Handling Training Resistance36:14 Introverts And Authenticity37:46 Giving Executive Feedback41:56 One On One Vs Group43:31 Assume Everything Leaks47:14 Difficult Questions And Bridging50:03 AI And The Human Premium53:42 When To Hire A Trainer56:59 Media Training Wrap UpShow notes: Follow Katie Suiters on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katiesuiters/Follow the host: Website: www.michellegarrett.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/prstrategist/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@PRisUsX/Twitter: https://x.com/PRisUsThreads: https://www.threads.com/@prwritergalMichelle's book - B2B PR That Gets Results - is available nowBook a no-obligation call to talk about your needs here. About the host: Michelle Garrett is a B2B PR consultant, media relations consultant, writer and author of B2B PR That Gets Results, an Amazon Best Seller. She helps companies create content, earn media coverage, and position themselves as thought leaders in their industry. Michelle’s articles have been featured by Entrepreneur, Content Marketing Institute, Muck Rack, and Ragan’s PR Daily, among others. She’s a frequent speaker and podcast guest on public relations and content. Michelle has been repeatedly ranked among the top ten most influential PR professionals.

In this episode of PR Explored, host Michelle Garrett, a PR consultant, author, and writer talks with her guest Katie Robbert, CEO of Trust Insights, about how SEO and GEO (generative AI engine optimization) affect PR work.Robbert explains GEO as serving a new “business to machine” audience—LLMs like ChatGPT, Gemini, and Claude—which summarize information from sources such as listicles and quoted articles, making PR placements and strong SEO fundamentals still essential.Rather than throwing out playbooks, she recommends reverse-engineering AI results by asking for sources, targeting high-quality publications (including trade media), and measuring impact via analytics segments and “how did you hear about us” form fields.They discuss EEAT (experience, expertise, authoritativeness, trustworthiness), avoiding low-quality AI content, and making “machine-readable” content more detailed across owned and Google properties.Robbert also notes using constrained-source tools like NotebookLM and improving accessibility to help machine readability.00:00 Welcome and Guest Intro01:16 Why GEO Matters Now02:00 Defining GEO vs SEO03:29 Trust Insights GEO Course06:46 SEO Not Dead Explained11:05 No Need to Overhaul PR13:19 Paid Placement and Authority16:18 Measuring LLM Discovery20:01 Are LLM Leads Better24:30 PR Priorities for SEO GEO27:07 Avoiding AI Content Slop29:21 Google AI Mode Question29:42 Critical Thinking vs AI30:27 Sniff Test and Skepticism33:27 Ask for Sources34:07 Control the Inputs35:10 Notebook LM Workflows37:11 Trade Media Strategy40:49 Press Releases for Machines43:24 Wire Services and GEO46:16 Start Your Own Publication47:42 Be Everywhere for LLMs50:50 Accessibility as SEO52:14 Final Optimization TakeawaysShow notes:Katie Robbert on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katierobbert/Trust Insights GEO 101 course: https://academy.trustinsights.ai/courses/geo-101-for-marketersTrust Insights site: https://www.trustinsights.ai/Follow the host: Website: www.michellegarrett.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/prstrategist/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@PRisUsX/Twitter: https://x.com/PRisUsThreads: https://www.threads.com/@prwritergalMichelle's book - B2B PR That Gets Results - is available nowBook a no-obligation call to talk about your needs here. About the host: Michelle Garrett is a B2B PR consultant, media relations consultant, writer and author of B2B PR That Gets Results, an Amazon Best Seller. She helps companies create content, earn media coverage, and position themselves as thought leaders in their industry. Michelle’s articles have been featured by Entrepreneur, Content Marketing Institute, Muck Rack, and Ragan’s PR Daily, among others. She’s a frequent speaker and podcast guest on public relations and content. Michelle has been repeatedly ranked among the top ten most influential PR professionals.

PR scams are EVERYWHERE these days. We also see a rise in the number of agencies selling “fake PR” placements. My guest, Bill Byrne, co-founder of Remedy PR, and I delve into this topic on this episode of PR Explored. What should you watch out for? How can you tell when someone is trying to sell you something that's too good to be true? And how should you vet a PR provider to ensure you're hiring a credible consultant or agency? Follow the host: Website: www.michellegarrett.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/prstrategist/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@PRisUsX/Twitter: https://x.com/PRisUsThreads: https://www.threads.com/@prwritergalMichelle's book - B2B PR That Gets Results - is available nowBook a no-obligation call to talk about your needs here. About the host: Michelle Garrett is a B2B PR consultant, media relations consultant, writer and author of B2B PR That Gets Results, an Amazon Best Seller. She helps companies create content, earn media coverage, and position themselves as thought leaders in their industry. Michelle’s articles have been featured by Entrepreneur, Content Marketing Institute, Muck Rack, and Ragan’s PR Daily, among others. She’s a frequent speaker and podcast guest on public relations and content. Michelle has been repeatedly ranked among the top ten most influential PR professionals.

In this episode of PR Explored, host Michelle Garrett, a PR consultant, author, and writer, interviews Becky Lawlor of RedPoint Insights about using original research to support B2B PR and thought leadership. Lawler defines original research (surveys, internal proprietary data, or unique analysis) versus third-party stats and explains how it builds authority by “owning the narrative.” She emphasizes upfront strategy, competitor analysis, and alignment with goals; choosing credible respondents via vetted B2B panel vendors rather than consumer tools; and planning sample size (often 100 minimum in B2B, ~500 robust, larger for segmentation). The discussion covers budgeting ranges from boutique pilots around $10K to large consultancies costing $100K+; incentives and fraud risks; careful survey design to drive headlines, avoid excessive open-ended questions, and ensure clarity; deeper data analysis for benchmarks and contrasts; and PR execution via tailored pitching beyond press releases. They also outline broader uses including lead gen, paid/organic social, sales enablement, speaking slots, SEO/backlinks, and LLM search, and note buyers may find brand-owned research as credible as third-party studies.00:00 Welcome and Introductions01:02 Becky Background and Focus01:53 What Counts as Original Research04:00 Why Research Builds Authority05:26 Research Strategy and Angles07:47 Finding the Right Respondents10:06 Sample Size and Segmentation13:38 Credibility and Media Scrutiny16:02 Budget and Panel Costs19:51 Incentives and Fraud Risks21:26 Survey Design for Headlines26:52 Avoiding Open Ended Pitfalls27:26 Survey Fatigue Traps27:47 Open Ended Limits28:48 Deeper Data Analysis30:46 Pitching the Right Stats33:53 Bring PR In Early37:14 Repurposing Research Everywhere42:08 Measuring PR Impact46:00 Budget-Friendly Pilot Surveys49:02 Finding Industry Gaps51:15 Own Your Research Credibility54:02 Wrap Up and ResourcesShow notes: Redpoint Insights: https://redpointinsights.com/Becky Lawlor on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/beckylawlor/Follow the host: Website: www.michellegarrett.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/prstrategist/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@PRisUsX/Twitter: https://x.com/PRisUsThreads: https://www.threads.com/@prwritergalMichelle's book - B2B PR That Gets Results - is available nowBook a no-obligation call to talk about your needs here. About the host: Michelle Garrett is a B2B PR consultant, media relations consultant, writer and author of B2B PR That Gets Results, an Amazon Best Seller. She helps companies create content, earn media coverage, and position themselves as thought leaders in their industry. Michelle’s articles have been featured by Entrepreneur, Content Marketing Institute, Muck Rack, and Ragan’s PR Daily, among others. She’s a frequent speaker and podcast guest on public relations and content. Michelle has been repeatedly ranked among the top ten most influential PR professionals.

In this episode of PR Explored, host Michelle Garrett, a PR consultant, author, and writer, interviews Fatou B. Barry, founder of the PR Girl Manifesto, a global community and editorial platform created to provide culturally competent PR resources, strategy, and professional development. They discuss the rise of “personality brands” as a structural shift where companies prioritize long-term identity, recurring voices, and entertainment-driven continuity over one-off product campaigns, driven by fragmented attention and declining institutional trust. Using Gap’s new Chief Entertainment Officer as a signal, they cite examples like Nike, Red Bull, Dick’s Sporting Goods, and Skims to show brands building studios, original programming, and IP to own audience relationships. They explore how paid, earned, and owned media are merging, expanding PR into narrative systems, production, ethics, and talent strategy, raising expectations for skills, education, media literacy, and compensation. They also predict collaborations will shift from reach-based influencers toward credible experts and community leaders, emphasizing alignment, authenticity, and trust.00:00 Welcome and Introductions00:50 PR Girl Manifesto Origin03:23 Defining Personality Brands05:48 Attention Fragmentation Today06:54 Gap Chief Entertainment Role07:52 Brands as IP Studios12:24 Paid Earned Owned Blur14:12 Skills and Education Shifts17:47 Media Literacy and Trust23:43 Hiring the Right PR Pro26:38 PR in a Media Company Era28:03 Scope Creep and Fair Pay30:51 Expert Era Shift34:54 Authenticity Over Hype37:01 Beyond Influencers38:11 AI Search Rewards Credibility39:25 Journalists As Creators44:10 Trust And Personality Brands49:43 Values And Taking Stands53:28 Interactive Story Content54:59 PR As Story Makers57:57 Opportunity And ResponsibilityShow notes:The PR Girl Manifesto: https://www.prgirlmanifesto.org/The PR Girl Manifesto on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-pr-girl-manifesto/Fatou Barry on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/fbarry/Follow the host: Website: www.michellegarrett.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/prstrategist/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@PRisUsX/Twitter: https://x.com/PRisUsThreads: https://www.threads.com/@prwritergalMichelle's book - B2B PR That Gets Results - is available nowBook a no-obligation call to talk about your needs here. About the host: Michelle Garrett is a B2B PR consultant, media relations consultant, writer and author of B2B PR That Gets Results, an Amazon Best Seller. She helps companies create content, earn media coverage, and position themselves as thought leaders in their industry. Michelle’s articles have been featured by Entrepreneur, Content Marketing Institute, Muck Rack, and Ragan’s PR Daily, among others. She’s a frequent speaker and podcast guest on public relations and content. Michelle has been repeatedly ranked among the top ten most influential PR professionals.

In this episode of PR Explored, host Michelle Garrett, a PR consultant, author, and writer talks with her guest, Stacia Doss from Glassdoor, as they dive deep into the current job market’s complexities and provide actionable advice for job seekers.In this episode, they discuss effective job search strategies, the importance of networking, leveraging AI, and how to stand out in a crowded field. This follows the discussion on the last episode about skills pros need to succeed in a PR career.They also touch on mental health aspects of job searching and the value of maintaining professional connections.Whether you’re in PR, comms, or any other industry, these insights and tips are designed to help you navigate your job search more effectively.00:00 Welcome and Introduction00:31 Guest Introduction and Background01:34 Current Job Market Challenges02:47 Statistics and Trends in Job Listings04:59 Impact of AI on Job Market12:19 Application Process Frustrations16:25 Exploring the Hidden Job Market20:08 Networking and Building Connections23:04 Leveraging LinkedIn for Job Search33:39 Enhancing Skills and Upskilling35:11 Weekly AI Learning Routine36:34 Free Resources for PR and Comms Pros38:27 Networking and Weak Ties39:28 Informational Interviews and Follow-ups42:34 Virtual Coffee Chats and Professional Organizations45:04 Staying in Touch with Your Network48:06 Mental Health and Community Support52:04 Researching Companies and Job Markets53:17 Organizing Your Job Search58:57 Final Thoughts and ResourcesShow notes:Follow Stacia Doss on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/staciadoss/Stacia’s article on which the episode is based: https://www.glassdoor.com/blog/beyond-online-applications-job-search/The Lonely Office podcast: https://www.glassdoor.com/Community/the-lonely-officeGlassdoor’s blog with more tips and advice for job hunters: https://www.glassdoor.com/blog/Follow the host: Website: www.michellegarrett.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/prstrategist/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@PRisUsX/Twitter: https://x.com/PRisUsThreads: https://www.threads.com/@prwritergalMichelle's book - B2B PR That Gets Results - is available nowBook a no-obligation call to talk about your needs here. About the host: Michelle Garrett is a B2B PR consultant, media relations consultant, writer and author of B2B PR That Gets Results, an Amazon Best Seller. She helps companies create content, earn media coverage, and position themselves as thought leaders in their industry. Michelle’s articles have been featured by Entrepreneur, Content Marketing Institute, Muck Rack, and Ragan’s PR Daily, among others. She’s a frequent speaker and podcast guest on public relations and content. Michelle has been repeatedly ranked among the top ten most influential PR professionals.

In this episode of PR Explored, host Michelle Garrett interviews Kristina Markos, an associate professor and co-founder of GenSpark Solutions. They discuss the significance of soft skills such as listening, presenting, collaboration, and curiosity in public relations. Kristina shares her varied background in agency work and academia, emphasizing the transition needs between generations in the workplace. They address the importance of effective presentation skills, the need to ask questions, and the impact of AI on communication roles. The episode highlights the evolving PR landscape and the exciting opportunities for emerging professionals in the field.00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome00:50 Guest Background and Experience02:03 Importance of Soft Skills in PR03:28 Predictions and Essential Skills05:04 Teaching Communication Skills09:42 Presentation Skills and Their Importance15:38 Collaboration and Intergenerational Communication30:37 The Impact of Short Attention Spans31:15 The Importance of Asking Questions32:36 PR Professionals and Journalism Training36:32 Understanding Organizational Dynamics43:08 The Role of Writing in PR49:52 Listening and Perspective Taking53:47 The Exciting Future of PR58:06 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsShow notes:Kristina Markos on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristinamarkos/GenSpark Solutions: https://www.thinknovl.com/gensparkPR Club Prediction Post with Kristina's thoughts that sparked the idea for the topic: https://prclub.org/tips-from-the-board-its-prediction-timeFollow the host: Website: www.michellegarrett.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/prstrategist/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@PRisUsX/Twitter: https://x.com/PRisUsThreads: https://www.threads.com/@prwritergalMichelle's book - B2B PR That Gets Results - is available nowBook a no-obligation call to talk about your needs here. About the host: Michelle Garrett is a B2B PR consultant, media relations consultant, writer and author of B2B PR That Gets Results, an Amazon Best Seller. She helps companies create content, earn media coverage, and position themselves as thought leaders in their industry. Michelle’s articles have been featured by Entrepreneur, Content Marketing Institute, Muck Rack, and Ragan’s PR Daily, among others. She’s a frequent speaker and podcast guest on public relations and content. Michelle has been repeatedly ranked among the top ten most influential PR professionals.

Public speaking is a powerful way for thought leaders to stand out from the crowd.How can PR pros and communicators leverage speaking opportunities to help clients get more visibility for themselves and their brands? In this episode of PR Explored I talked with guest Tricia Richards-Service, founder of I Need a Speaker, which helps organizations and event planners find the right speaker for their events.Overview: In this episode of PR Explored, host Michelle Garrett, a PR consultant, author, and writer, welcomes Tricia Richard Service, founder of I Need a Speaker, to discuss how public speaking can enhance public relations efforts.The conversation delves into the creation and benefits of I Need a Speaker, guidelines for effective public speaking, and how organizations can strategically utilize speakers to boost their PR programs.Tricia offers practical tips for potential speakers, including the importance of practice, clear messaging, and working closely with communications teams. The episode also covers advice for organizations seeking speakers and the value of compensating speakers appropriately.00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome00:31 The Birth of ‘I Need a Speaker’01:16 How ‘I Need a Speaker’ Works02:19 The Value of Diverse Speakers04:12 Public Speaking and PR Programs07:06 Maximizing Speaking Opportunities11:37 Choosing the Right Events23:32 The Importance of Practice and Feedback29:05 Overcoming Public Speaking Anxiety29:49 The Importance of Preparation30:12 Avoiding Off-the-Cuff Remarks33:22 Handling Media Interviews36:13 Engaging with Your Comms Team40:05 Advice for Event Planners46:11 Speaker Compensation and Expectations49:46 Final Thoughts and ResourcesShow notes:I Need a Speaker: https://www.ineedaspeaker.com/Tricia Richard-Service on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/triciarichardsservicephd/Follow the host: Website: www.michellegarrett.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/prstrategist/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@PRisUsX/Twitter: https://x.com/PRisUsThreads: https://www.threads.com/@prwritergalMichelle's book - B2B PR That Gets Results - is available nowBook a no-obligation call to talk about your needs here. About the host: Michelle Garrett is a B2B PR consultant, media relations consultant, writer and author of B2B PR That Gets Results, an Amazon Best Seller. She helps companies create content, earn media coverage, and position themselves as thought leaders in their industry. Michelle’s articles have been featured by Entrepreneur, Content Marketing Institute, Muck Rack, and Ragan’s PR Daily, among others. She’s a frequent speaker and podcast guest on public relations and content. Michelle has been repeatedly ranked among the top ten most influential PR professionals.

In this episode of PR Explored, host Michelle Garrett, a PR consultant, author, and writer chats with Marc Whitt, a seasoned public relations consultant and author.The conversation explores Whitt’s extensive 40-year career in PR, primarily within higher education and nonprofit sectors.They discuss essential topics such as the unique challenges faced by nonprofit PR professionals, the importance of ethical conduct, the role of events in nonprofit PR, and the critical relationship between PR practitioners and legal counsel.Whitt emphasizes strategic planning, efficient use of limited funds, and ways to avoid burnout for one-person PR teams. The episode highlights the significance of maintaining trust, transparency, and integrity in PR and provides actionable strategies for effective crisis management.00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome01:27 Marc Whitt’s Background and Personal Life02:44 Marc’s Career in Public Relations07:54 The Role of PR in Nonprofits08:43 Challenges in Nonprofit PR11:47 Strategies for Effective Nonprofit PR16:52 Importance of Integrity and Ethics in PR23:02 Managing a One-Person PR Team31:11 Focused Budgeting for Nonprofits33:59 The Stress of Nonprofit PR35:10 The Multifaceted Role of Nonprofit PR Professionals40:28 Crisis Communications in Nonprofits45:48 The Importance of Events in Nonprofit PR50:32 Building a Strong PR-Legal Relationship58:15 Final Thoughts and MentorshipShow notes:​​Marc Whitt on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/marcwhitt/​​Marc Whitt’s site: https://www.marcwhitt.com/Follow the host: Website: www.michellegarrett.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/prstrategist/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@PRisUsX/Twitter: https://x.com/PRisUsThreads: https://www.threads.com/@prwritergalMichelle's book - B2B PR That Gets Results - is available nowBook a no-obligation call to talk about your needs here. About the host: Michelle Garrett is a B2B PR consultant, media relations consultant, writer and author of B2B PR That Gets Results, an Amazon Best Seller. She helps companies create content, earn media coverage, and position themselves as thought leaders in their industry. Michelle’s articles have been featured by Entrepreneur, Content Marketing Institute, Muck Rack, and Ragan’s PR Daily, among others. She’s a frequent speaker and podcast guest on public relations and content. Michelle has been repeatedly ranked among the top ten most influential PR professionals.

Here we go, heading into 2026. Changes are coming at PR pros faster than they can keep up. But, what should we really focus on? What trends deserve our attention? And which ones should we adopt a wait-and-see approach for? My guest, Bill Byrne of Remedy Public Relations, is with me to discuss what to expect as we hurdle into the new year. Whether you’re in B2C or B2B PR and comms, we’ll cover the insight you need to get ready for what lies ahead. Overview: In the final episode of 2025, PR Explored host Michelle Garrett, a PR consultant, author, and writer, welcomes guest PR veteran Bill Byrne. The episode delves into the transformative trends in public relations, discussing the impact of AI on PR practices, the enduring value of press releases, the integration of thought leadership, and navigating the evolving media landscape. Michelle and Bill highlight the importance of consistent PR efforts, the role of various media types including niche media and Substack newsletters, and the need for creating credible, valuable content. They emphasize building long-term relationships with the media and the criticality of trust in communication strategies. The discussion also touches on the challenges and opportunities posed by AI-driven search, the resurgence of press releases, and strategies to adapt to changing PR dynamics. As the industry moves forward, the episode encourages brands to be proactive, stay informed, and embrace comprehensive PR audits to effectively target their audiences.00:00 Introduction and Welcome00:28 Meet the Guest: Bill Byrne00:40 Holiday Festivities and Personal Touches01:30 Bill Byrne's PR Journey03:24 PR Realities: What Won't Change16:20 AI and PR: The Deep Fakes Issue32:01 The Power of Consistent Content in B2B PR32:28 The Importance of Building a Deep and Clear Trail33:01 Creating News Beyond Product Announcements35:20 The Role of AI in PR and Media Relations37:10 Navigating the Media Landscape: Newsletters and Niche Media45:40 The Resurgence of Press Releases in the AI Era57:43 The Value of Thought Leadership in Building Trust01:02:31 Final Thoughts and Future Trends in PRShow notes: Bill Byrne on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/billbyrne/Remedy Public Relations: https://remedypr.com/Follow the host: Website: www.michellegarrett.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/prstrategist/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@PRisUsX/Twitter: https://x.com/PRisUsThreads: https://www.threads.com/@prwritergalMichelle's book - B2B PR That Gets Results - is available nowBook a no-obligation call to talk about your needs here. About the host: Michelle Garrett is a B2B PR consultant, media relations consultant, writer and author of B2B PR That Gets Results, an Amazon Best Seller. She helps companies create content, earn media coverage, and position themselves as thought leaders in their industry. Michelle’s articles have been featured by Entrepreneur, Content Marketing Institute, Muck Rack, and Ragan’s PR Daily, among others. She’s a frequent speaker and podcast guest on public relations and content. Michelle has been repeatedly ranked among the top ten most influential PR professionals.

Social media is a valuable part of a company’s marketing program – but it can sometimes take a turn we may not have anticipated .What happens when your brand finds itself in the midst of a crisis created by a social media post?Well, first, you probably panic. Then, you might turn to your social media or PR team for help.How can a company best manage a crisis created when a customer complaint goes viral?Overview: In this episode of PR Explored, host Michelle Garrett, a PR consultant, author, and writer, welcomes guest Brooke Sellas, founder of B Squared Media, to discuss the nuances of managing social media crises.Brooke shares her expertise on how social media, often viewed merely as a content channel, should be utilized more effectively as a customer experience channel. Brooke emphasizes that the key to handling crises includes proactive listening, empathetic responses, and timely engagement with customers.She introduces the CARE model (Conversation, Acquisition, Retention, Engagement) for social media management and stresses the importance of building a strong community before a crisis occurs.They discuss various real-world examples, including crises at Chipotle, Kit, and Nike, and the long-term impacts of each.Brooke also shares advice about team coordination, especially between social media and PR, and provides tips on how to keep responses authentic without sounding scripted.The episode concludes with a Q&A session addressing common social media crisis scenarios.00:00 Welcome and Guest Introduction01:02 Brook Solis: Social Media Expertise03:49 Defining a Social Media Crisis07:08 Examples of Social Media Crises10:43 Handling a Social Media Crisis22:15 The Role of PR in Crisis Management29:35 Balancing Brand Personality and Crisis Management30:22 The Power of Emotional Content: Patagonia Case Study32:16 Breaking Down Silos in Marketing and PR34:22 The CARE Model for Social Media Crisis Management46:19 Handling Layoffs and Sensitive Situations51:07 The Importance of Authentic Conversations on Social Media57:34 Final Thoughts and Future TrendsShow notes:Brooke Sellas on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brookebsellas/Brooke’s website – B Squared Media: https://bsquared.media/Follow the host: Website: www.michellegarrett.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/prstrategist/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@PRisUsX/Twitter: https://x.com/PRisUsThreads: https://www.threads.com/@prwritergalMichelle's book - B2B PR That Gets Results - is available nowBook a no-obligation call to talk about your needs here. About the host: Michelle Garrett is a B2B PR consultant, media relations consultant, writer and author of B2B PR That Gets Results, an Amazon Best Seller. She helps companies create content, earn media coverage, and position themselves as thought leaders in their industry. Michelle’s articles have been featured by Entrepreneur, Content Marketing Institute, Muck Rack, and Ragan’s PR Daily, among others. She’s a frequent speaker and podcast guest on public relations and content. Michelle has been repeatedly ranked among the top ten most influential PR professionals.

In this episode of PR Explored, host Michelle Garrett, a PR consultant, author, and writer, invites communications and presentations coach Joel Schwartzberg to discuss key message development and the importance of media training for executives. Joel shares his approach to executive communication, emphasizing the importance of having a clear and compelling point, and offers practical tips on how to effectively convey messages to a reporter’s audience. The conversation covers techniques such as the primacy and recency effects, bridging off-topic questions back to key messages, and the importance of making messages simple yet impactful. The episode concludes with recommendations for tailoring communication styles to different mediums without altering the core message, solidifying the idea that preparation and practice can turn anyone into a confident spokesperson.00:00 Welcome to PR Explored00:17 Meet Joel Schwartzberg01:29 The Importance of Key Messages04:17 Effective Communication Strategies07:55 Crafting Strong Key Messages21:39 Bridging Off-Point Questions30:52 The Pitfalls of Overloading Information32:04 Prioritizing Key Messages34:21 Effective Storytelling in Media37:31 Handling Off-the-Cuff Remarks41:04 The Importance of Media Training42:45 Crafting Authentic Email Interviews47:26 Defining Technical Terms for Impact49:43 The Power of Practice and Feedback54:50 Adapting to Different Media Channels58:55 Conclusion and Upcoming TopicsShow notes:Learn more about Joel Schwartzberg and his services: https://www.joelschwartzberg.net/Follow Joel Schwartzberg on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joelschwartzberg/Follow the host: Website: www.michellegarrett.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/prstrategist/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@PRisUsX/Twitter: https://x.com/PRisUsThreads: https://www.threads.com/@prwritergalMichelle's book - B2B PR That Gets Results - is available nowBook a no-obligation call to talk about your needs here. About the host: Michelle Garrett is a B2B PR consultant, media relations consultant, writer and author of B2B PR That Gets Results, an Amazon Best Seller. She helps companies create content, earn media coverage, and position themselves as thought leaders in their industry. Michelle’s articles have been featured by Entrepreneur, Content Marketing Institute, Muck Rack, and Ragan’s PR Daily, among others. She’s a frequent speaker and podcast guest on public relations and content. Michelle has been repeatedly ranked among the top ten most influential PR professionals.

This episode of PR Explored explores how companies can make the most out of a partnership with a PR consultant or agency.What do B2B clients need to bring to the start of the engagement?Join my guest, John Forberger, communications strategist for B2B companies, and me as we dig into this topic. Follow the host: Website: www.michellegarrett.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/prstrategist/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@PRisUsX/Twitter: https://x.com/PRisUsThreads: https://www.threads.com/@prwritergalMichelle's book - B2B PR That Gets Results - is available nowBook a no-obligation call to talk about your needs here. About the host: Michelle Garrett is a B2B PR consultant, media relations consultant, writer and author of B2B PR That Gets Results, an Amazon Best Seller. She helps companies create content, earn media coverage, and position themselves as thought leaders in their industry. Michelle’s articles have been featured by Entrepreneur, Content Marketing Institute, Muck Rack, and Ragan’s PR Daily, among others. She’s a frequent speaker and podcast guest on public relations and content. Michelle has been repeatedly ranked among the top ten most influential PR professionals.

In this episode of PR Explored, host Michelle Garrett, a PR consultant, author, and writer, welcomes guest Amanda Milligan to discuss brand authority and its critical role in public relations and marketing.Amanda shares her background in content, SEO, and brand strategy, emphasizing the importance of holistic marketing efforts.They delve into how brand authority is measured, identify practical steps to assess it through tools like Reddit, LLMs, and social media, and discuss the intricate relationship between owned and earned media.The episode also addresses the evolving landscape of SEO and the importance of maintaining continuous engagement to build long-term brand trust and authority.00:00 Welcome to PR Explored00:28 Meet Amanda Milligan01:38 Amanda’s Professional Journey02:49 The Importance of Brand Authority03:29 Challenges in Marketing and PR04:30 Speaking Engagements and Networking06:37 Brand Authority Club and Community Building23:15 Defining Brand Authority26:19 Brand Authority in PR and Communications30:20 Why Companies Overlook Brand Authority32:45 Introduction to Reddit Search Tool33:22 Trust Issues in Online Platforms35:01 Google’s Shift Towards Reddit37:20 Using LLMs for Brand Analysis40:18 Importance of Third-Party Signals43:28 Tracking Mentions and Backlinks53:48 Social Media and Content Value58:32 Owned vs. Earned Media01:02:41 Final Thoughts and Wrap-UpShow notes:Brand Authority Club: https://www.brandauthority.club/Amanda Milligan on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amandamilligan/Follow the host: Website: www.michellegarrett.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/prstrategist/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@PRisUsX/Twitter: https://x.com/PRisUsThreads: https://www.threads.com/@prwritergalMichelle's book - B2B PR That Gets Results - is available nowBook a no-obligation call to talk about your needs here. About the host: Michelle Garrett is a B2B PR consultant, media relations consultant, writer and author of B2B PR That Gets Results, an Amazon Best Seller. She helps companies create content, earn media coverage, and position themselves as thought leaders in their industry. Michelle’s articles have been featured by Entrepreneur, Content Marketing Institute, Muck Rack, and Ragan’s PR Daily, among others. She’s a frequent speaker and podcast guest on public relations and content. Michelle has been repeatedly ranked among the top ten most influential PR professionals.

In this episode of ‘PR Explored,’ hosted by Michelle Garrett, PR consultant and writer, the focus is on the intersection of Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) criteria, Artificial Intelligence (AI), and corporate ethics in the realm of Public Relations.The guest, Bo Breuklander, founder of Breuklander Communications, shares insights on how AI affects sustainability, governance, and the broader PR landscape. They discuss the importance of values, consistency, and trust in corporate behavior, and how companies can proactively address issues like DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion), AI policies, and data privacy.The conversation also touches on the current trends, challenges, and best practices for integrating AI responsibly and ethically, with a focus on employee well-being and corporate reputation. Bo highlights the necessity for companies to educate themselves about AI, develop robust policies, and maintain their core values to build trust among stakeholders.Bo further shares insights on evaluating AI vendors and stresses the need for ongoing professional development in this rapidly evolving landscape.00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome00:57 Guest Background and Current Work01:41 Understanding ESG and Its Importance08:39 AI’s Role in ESG and Sustainability16:47 Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) in Focus28:36 Governance and AI Policies40:02 Final Thoughts and Professional Development41:44 Conclusion and Upcoming EventsShow notes:Bo Breuklander’s Email Course: The GenAI Playbook: https://www.bobreuklander.com/generative-ai-playbook-for-executive-messaging-and-employee-engagementBo’s In-Person Workshop: GenAI Readiness for Communicators: https://www.bobreuklander.com/genai-readiness-workshop-for-communicatorsFollow Bo Breuklander on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bobreuklander/Follow the host: Website: www.michellegarrett.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/prstrategist/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@PRisUsX/Twitter: https://x.com/PRisUsThreads: https://www.threads.com/@prwritergalMichelle's book - B2B PR That Gets Results - is available nowBook a no-obligation call to talk about your needs here. About the host: Michelle Garrett is a B2B PR consultant, media relations consultant, writer and author of B2B PR That Gets Results, an Amazon Best Seller. She helps companies create content, earn media coverage, and position themselves as thought leaders in their industry. Michelle’s articles have been featured by Entrepreneur, Content Marketing Institute, Muck Rack, and Ragan’s PR Daily, among others. She’s a frequent speaker and podcast guest on public relations and content. Michelle has been repeatedly ranked among the top ten most influential PR professionals.

In this episode of PR Explored, host Michelle Garrett, a PR consultant, author, and writer, interviews Lou Covey, a veteran journalist with 55 years of experience.Lou shares his journey from journalism to exploring cybersecurity and creating the Cyber Protection Magazine. They discuss the state of PR today, including formulaic approaches, the impact of AI, and the importance of storytelling.They also highlight the challenges of effectively pitching to journalists, the decline of independent journalism, and the need for PR professionals to support quality journalism.Key takeaways include the necessity of thorough research, avoiding overused phrases in press releases, fostering transparency, and the evolving relationship between paid and earned media.00:00 Introduction and Welcome00:23 Guest Introduction: Lou Covey01:52 Lou Covey’s Career Journey05:29 The Evolution of PR08:43 Challenges in Modern PR11:55 The Importance of Human-Created Content15:15 Words That Kill Trust in PR25:15 The Disconnect Between PR and Clients31:38 The Ego Exercise32:13 Storytelling Principles for PR Pros33:13 The Importance of Context in Storytelling34:33 Finding the Right Person for Thought Leadership35:38 Challenges with the C-Suite40:05 Crafting Effective Pitches41:13 The Role of Statistics in PR43:59 Avoiding Common PR Mistakes54:53 The Decline of Journalism56:34 Supporting Independent Media58:46 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsShow notes:Link to Cyberprotection Magazine (Lou is the editor):​​www.cyberprotection-magazine.comLou’s podcast Crucial Tech: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/crucial-tech/id1455648744Lou Covey on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/loucovey/Follow the host: Website: www.michellegarrett.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/prstrategist/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@PRisUsX/Twitter: https://x.com/PRisUsThreads: https://www.threads.com/@prwritergalMichelle's book - B2B PR That Gets Results - is available nowBook a no-obligation call to talk about your needs here. About the host: Michelle Garrett is a B2B PR consultant, media relations consultant, writer and author of B2B PR That Gets Results, an Amazon Best Seller. She helps companies create content, earn media coverage, and position themselves as thought leaders in their industry. Michelle’s articles have been featured by Entrepreneur, Content Marketing Institute, Muck Rack, and Ragan’s PR Daily, among others. She’s a frequent speaker and podcast guest on public relations and content. Michelle has been repeatedly ranked among the top ten most influential PR professionals.

In this episode of PR Explored, host Michelle Garrett discusses misinformation and its impact on public relations with guest Jennifer McGinley, a PR consultant specializing in healthcare.They delve into the definitions of misinformation, disinformation, and malformation, providing insights into how organizations can prepare and respond to these challenges.The conversation covers proactive crisis communication strategies, the importance of internal communications, media training, and the role of community building in maintaining trust and credibility.They also emphasize the need for continuous monitoring and engagement on social media platforms to manage and address misinformation effectively.00:00 Welcome to PR Explored00:15 Introducing Jennifer McGinley00:44 Understanding Misinformation, Disinformation, and Malformation05:24 The Importance of Crisis Communication09:26 Building Trust and Internal Communication17:51 Navigating Social Media and Information Overload24:48 Preparing for Misinformation in Healthcare34:20 Navigating Trust in Health Advice35:25 The Overwhelming Flood of Information35:56 Skepticism and Trust in the Digital Age36:18 The Importance of Media Literacy37:13 Purpose and Motivation Behind Sharing Information38:34 Managing Misinformation in Companies39:33 Proactive Crisis Management40:39 The Role of Social Media in Crisis Response42:30 Monitoring Online Discussions45:55 Leveraging Social Proof Against Disinformation46:52 Building Community Trust49:33 The Impact of Crisis on Reputation and Bottom Line50:03 The Importance of Accurate Information in Research53:38 Generational Differences in Brand Loyalty55:20 The Role of Reviews and Feedback56:46 The Importance of Clear Communication58:07 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsShow notes:JLM Strategic Communications: https://jlmstrategiccommunications.com/Follow Jennifer McGinley on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennifer-mcginley/Follow the host: Website: www.michellegarrett.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/prstrategist/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@PRisUsX/Twitter: https://x.com/PRisUsThreads: https://www.threads.com/@prwritergalMichelle's book - B2B PR That Gets Results - is available nowBook a no-obligation call to talk about your needs here. About the host: Michelle Garrett is a B2B PR consultant, media relations consultant, writer and author of B2B PR That Gets Results, an Amazon Best Seller. She helps companies create content, earn media coverage, and position themselves as thought leaders in their industry. Michelle’s articles have been featured by Entrepreneur, Content Marketing Institute, Muck Rack, and Ragan’s PR Daily, among others. She’s a frequent speaker and podcast guest on public relations and content. Michelle has been repeatedly ranked among the top ten most influential PR professionals.

In this episode of PR Explored, host and PR consultant Michelle Garrett sits down with her longtime friend and colleague Erika Heald to discuss the crucial role that thought leadership plays in content marketing and PR.Erika, a seasoned marketing communications consultant and former journalist, delves into her journey and experience in the field, highlighting the importance of having a strategy to create impactful content.The conversation covers the definition of thought leadership, the types of content that contribute to it, and the synergy between content and PR teams. They emphasize the need for collaboration and strategic planning to maximize the impact of thought leadership efforts.The episode is a treasure trove of insights on how to foster cross-functional teamwork and create valuable, engaging content that drives business results.00:00 Welcome to PR Explored01:11 Meet Erika Healed: A Journey from Journalism to Content Strategy04:59 The Importance of Thought Leadership05:32 Defining Thought Leadership14:48 Creating Effective Thought Leadership Content23:46 Integrating PR and Content Teams29:40 Breaking Down Silos for Better Collaboration30:31 Winning Awards with Strategic Collaboration32:52 The Importance of Measurement in PR39:46 Leveraging Research for Thought Leadership51:08 Effective Interview Techniques for Content Creation56:07 Final Thoughts on Thought Leadership and CollaborationShow notes:Follow Erika Heald on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/erikaheald/Erika Heald Marketing Consulting: https://erikaheald.com/Erika’s show #ContentChat: https://www.linkedin.com/in/erikaheald/recent-activity/events/Follow the host: Website: www.michellegarrett.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/prstrategist/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@PRisUsX/Twitter: https://x.com/PRisUsThreads: https://www.threads.com/@prwritergalMichelle's book - B2B PR That Gets Results - is available nowBook a no-obligation call to talk about your needs here. About the host: Michelle Garrett is a B2B PR consultant, media relations consultant, writer and author of B2B PR That Gets Results, an Amazon Best Seller. She helps companies create content, earn media coverage, and position themselves as thought leaders in their industry. Michelle’s articles have been featured by Entrepreneur, Content Marketing Institute, Muck Rack, and Ragan’s PR Daily, among others. She’s a frequent speaker and podcast guest on public relations and content. Michelle has been repeatedly ranked among the top ten most influential PR professionals.

In this episode, host Michelle Garrett, a public relations consultant and writer, interviews Doug Downs, the host of ‘Stories and Strategies’ podcast.They discuss the significance of podcasting in PR and marketing, highlighting how podcasts can build brand trust and engage audiences more deeply than traditional social media posts.Doug shares insights into his journey with ‘Stories and Strategies,’ a leading PR-focused podcast, and the launch of his podcast production agency. They also address common pitfalls that cause many podcasts to fail early, the importance of niching down content, and the effort required to produce and maintain a successful podcast.Additionally, Doug emphasizes the need for more diversity in podcasting, particularly the inclusion of more women and marginalized voices as guests and hosts.As the conversation progresses, they explore effective strategies for pitching guests to podcasts and how to differentiate oneself in a crowded media landscape.This episode is packed with valuable insights for brands considering starting their own podcasts and for individuals looking to become notable podcast guests.00:00 Welcome to PR Explored00:49 Introducing Doug Downs and His Podcast03:22 The Importance of Podcasts in PR and Marketing09:33 Challenges and Realities of Podcasting16:13 Building and Engaging Your Podcast Audience29:42 The Future of Podcasting and AI31:38 The Gender Dynamics in Podcasting32:15 Promoting Diversity in Podcasting33:05 Challenges in PR and Podcasting34:28 Effective Pitching Strategies38:21 Building Relationships Through Podcasting48:13 The Importance of Storytelling in Podcasts54:29 Concluding ThoughtsShow notes:Website: https://storiesandstrategies.ca/Podcast: https://podcast.storiesandstrategies.ca/ (now co-hosted with Farzana Baduel) – #1 PR podcast in the World per Rephonic and GoodpodsYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@storiesandstrategiespodcastYouTube video specific to how to pitch a podcast: https://youtu.be/IMdN6GROLDIInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/storiesandstrategiespodcasts/Follow the host: Website: www.michellegarrett.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/prstrategist/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@PRisUsX/Twitter: https://x.com/PRisUsThreads: https://www.threads.com/@prwritergalMichelle's book - B2B PR That Gets Results - is available nowBook a no-obligation call to talk about your needs here. About the host: Michelle Garrett is a B2B PR consultant, media relations consultant, writer and author of B2B PR That Gets Results, an Amazon Best Seller. She helps companies create content, earn media coverage, and position themselves as thought leaders in their industry. Michelle’s articles have been featured by Entrepreneur, Content Marketing Institute, Muck Rack, and Ragan’s PR Daily, among others. She’s a frequent speaker and podcast guest on public relations and content. Michelle has been repeatedly ranked among the top ten most influential PR professionals.

In this episode of PR Explored, host Michelle Garrett, a PR consultant, author and writer, talks with public relations consultant Crystal Richard about managing client expectations in the realm of public relations.They delve into Crystal’s background, which includes over 15 years in the PR industry and founding her own company, Crystal Richard & Co. Crystal also shares details about her lifestyle and travel brand, East Coast Mermaid.The discussion covers the critical aspect of setting realistic client expectations around media coverage, including the time it takes to secure placements, the importance of trade publications, and the role of consistency in pitching.Michelle and Crystal also address common client misunderstandings regarding instant results in PR, the value of press releases, and the impact of shrinking newsroom staffs on media relations strategies.They emphasize the need for clients to be proactive and understanding about the intricacies and timelines involved in media outreach and coverage.Crystal offers valuable insights into effective media pitching, the significance of being available for media opportunities, and tips for businesses looking to handle their own PR.00:00 Welcome to PR Explored00:59 Meet Crystal Richard: PR Expert and Lifestyle Brand Founder01:38 Crystal’s Unique PR Journey and Media Adventures04:16 Discussing PR Expectations and Client Realities06:28 The Challenges of Media Coverage and Client Education12:17 The Importance of Setting Realistic PR Goals24:32 Navigating Media Relations and Press Releases32:06 The Importance of Press Releases in Modern PR32:56 Effective Press Release Distribution Strategies36:22 Adapting to Shrinking Newsrooms39:36 Leveraging Thought Leadership and Affiliate Links42:38 DIY PR: Tips for Small Businesses44:20 Consistency and Persistence in PR Efforts47:50 Building Relationships with Journalists50:14 Setting Realistic PR Expectations56:14 Crisis PR and Timing Considerations57:37 Final Thoughts and EncouragementShow notes:Crystal Richard’s site: https://www.crystalrichard.com/Follow Crystal Richard on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/crystalrichard/Follow the host: Website: www.michellegarrett.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/prstrategist/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@PRisUsX/Twitter: https://x.com/PRisUsThreads: https://www.threads.com/@prwritergalMichelle's book - B2B PR That Gets Results - is available nowBook a no-obligation call to talk about your needs here. About the host: Michelle Garrett is a B2B PR consultant, media relations consultant, writer and author of B2B PR That Gets Results, an Amazon Best Seller. She helps companies create content, earn media coverage, and position themselves as thought leaders in their industry. Michelle’s articles have been featured by Entrepreneur, Content Marketing Institute, Muck Rack, and Ragan’s PR Daily, among others. She’s a frequent speaker and podcast guest on public relations and content. Michelle has been repeatedly ranked among the top ten most influential PR professionals.

Working with companies in so-called “boring” industries can be its own type of challenge.PR and communications pros in industries like construction, manufacturing, agriculture and others often struggle to find creative ways to talk about what they do.How can those in public relations and marketing breathe new life into their efforts when working in these industries?Michelle's guest, Ayo Abbas, an award-winning built environment marketing consultant with a background in communications and public relations and host of The Built Environment Marketing Show, joins her to discuss how to approach this challenge.Follow the host: Website: www.michellegarrett.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/prstrategist/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@PRisUsX/Twitter: https://x.com/PRisUsThreads: https://www.threads.com/@prwritergalMichelle's book - B2B PR That Gets Results - is available nowBook a no-obligation call to talk about your needs here. About the host: Michelle Garrett is a B2B PR consultant, media relations consultant, writer and author of B2B PR That Gets Results, an Amazon Best Seller. She helps companies create content, earn media coverage, and position themselves as thought leaders in their industry. Michelle’s articles have been featured by Entrepreneur, Content Marketing Institute, Muck Rack, and Ragan’s PR Daily, among others. She’s a frequent speaker and podcast guest on public relations and content. Michelle has been repeatedly ranked among the top ten most influential PR professionals.

In this episode of PR Explored, host Michelle Garrett, a public relations consultant, discusses the crucial topic of PR ethics with industry experts Mary Beth West and Jared Mead. They explore the importance of ethical practices in public relations, share their extensive backgrounds, and discuss the creation of an online PR ethics community on LinkedIn.The episode covers why ethics in PR is often overlooked, the necessity of integrating ethical discussions into the classroom, and the importance of collaborating with legal teams.Highlighting relevant resources such as industry associations, ethical guidelines, and initiatives like the International Communications Consultancy Organization (ICCO) and the Ethics and Compliance Initiative (ECI), the guests emphasize proactive steps to integrate ethical practices in PR.The discussion also touches on the ethical use of AI in PR and the need for continuous advocacy to improve the public perception of the PR profession.The episode concludes by encouraging PR professionals to engage deeply with ethical standards to enhance the industry’s credibility and effectiveness.00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome00:39 Mary Beth’s Background and PR Ethics Advocacy01:57 Jared’s Background and Ethics in PR03:33 The Importance of PR Ethics05:02 Challenges in Discussing PR Ethics08:05 Ethics Education in PR17:05 Handling Unethical Requests25:44 Creating Effective Ethics Guidelines31:35 The Psychological Toll of Whistleblowing34:20 The Importance of Legal and PR Collaboration37:07 Navigating the Court of Public Opinion43:10 Ethical Use of AI in PR55:51 Advocating for PR Ethics58:40 Final Thoughts and ResourcesShow notes:PR Ethics community on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/prethics/Mary Beth West on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mbwcommunications/Jared Meade on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jaredmeademps/Jared Meade of Rayne Strategy Group website: https://www.raynestrategygroup.com/Follow the host: Website: www.michellegarrett.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/prstrategist/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@PRisUsX/Twitter: https://x.com/PRisUsThreads: https://www.threads.com/@prwritergalMichelle's book - B2B PR That Gets Results - is available nowBook a no-obligation call to talk about your needs here. About the host: Michelle Garrett is a B2B PR consultant, media relations consultant, writer and author of B2B PR That Gets Results, an Amazon Best Seller. She helps companies create content, earn media coverage, and position themselves as thought leaders in their industry. Michelle’s articles have been featured by Entrepreneur, Content Marketing Institute, Muck Rack, and Ragan’s PR Daily, among others. She’s a frequent speaker and podcast guest on public relations and content. Michelle has been repeatedly ranked among the top ten most influential PR professionals.

In this episode of PR Explored, host Michelle Garrett, a public relations consultant, author and writer, interviews Sunny Hunt, CEO of Hunt Interaction, about the intersection of public relations (PR) and the customer buying journey.Sunny discusses the importance of integrating PR with sales and customer success teams to better understand and meet customer needs, ultimately driving revenue and shortening sales cycles. She emphasizes the need for customer-driven PR strategies, the value of customer testimonials, and the impact of consistent messaging.The episode also highlights the significance of understanding where customers get their information and how to measure PR’s impact on business outcomes effectively.Sunny also addresses the challenges of cutting through the noise in today’s market and offers actionable advice on using customer insights to craft effective PR campaigns.00:00 Welcome to PR Explored00:26 Meet Our Guest: Sunny Hunt00:44 Introduction to the Customer Buying Journey00:53 Sunny Hunt’s Professional Background02:43 Marketing Fridays: A Free Webinar Series03:59 The Importance of Content Repurposing05:06 Customer Growth and Retention Strategies11:01 Aligning PR with Sales and Marketing15:54 The Value of Customer Insights23:49 Measuring PR Success Beyond Impressions27:39 Combating the Status Quo in PR31:37 The Role of Trade Media in PR32:14 Voice of Customer Data32:56 Integrating Sales and PR Efforts33:30 Leveraging Customer Success Teams34:36 Breaking Down Silos35:17 Engaging with Sales Teams36:41 Understanding Customer Behavior37:54 Gathering Customer Insights39:17 Effective Customer Surveys40:51 Adapting to Market Changes41:55 Challenges in PR and Marketing47:37 The Importance of Consistent Messaging48:44 The Shift in B2B Sales Dynamics51:17 The Role of PR in Market Expansion54:00 Cutting Through the Noise57:02 The Value of PR in Tight Budgets58:33 Actionable PR Advice59:26 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsShow notes:Join Sunny Hunt for Free Marketing Fridays: https://www.huntinteraction.com/free-marketing-fridays/Hunt Interaction: https://www.huntinteraction.com/Follow Sunny Hunt on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sunnyhunt/Follow the host: Website: www.michellegarrett.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/prstrategist/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@PRisUsX/Twitter: https://x.com/PRisUsThreads: https://www.threads.com/@prwritergalMichelle's book - B2B PR That Gets Results - is available nowBook a no-obligation call to talk about your needs here. About the host: Michelle Garrett is a B2B PR consultant, media relations consultant, writer and author of B2B PR That Gets Results, an Amazon Best Seller. She helps companies create content, earn media coverage, and position themselves as thought leaders in their industry. Michelle’s articles have been featured by Entrepreneur, Content Marketing Institute, Muck Rack, and Ragan’s PR Daily, among others. She’s a frequent speaker and podcast guest on public relations and content. Michelle has been repeatedly ranked among the top ten most influential PR professionals.

In this episode of PR Explored, host Michelle Garrett, a public relations consultant and writer, interviews Matisse Hamel-Nelis, founder and principal of Matisse Nelis Consulting. They discuss the importance of digital accessibility in public relations and communications. Matisse explains her background, her work in teaching, and her PR & Lattes blog and podcast.Matisse emphasizes the importance of making digital content accessible to everyone, including individuals with disabilities. They discuss practical steps for ensuring content such as videos, PDFs, and social media posts are inclusive.Matisse shares her journey into the realm of accessible communications and highlights several companies leading by example. The conversation also addresses the growing significance of including accessibility in strategic planning, training, and overall communication efforts.Matisse encourages starting small and progressing with intention, ensuring that all audiences can fully engage with and benefit from the information shared.00:00 Welcome to PR Explored00:20 Meet Matisse Hamel-Nellis03:39 The Importance of Accessibility in PR04:18 Defining Accessibility in Communications06:02 The Market Impact of Accessibility08:46 Challenges and Solutions in Digital Accessibility13:51 Learning from Mistakes16:45 Practical Tips for Accessible Communications22:21 Avoiding Hashtag Mistakes23:58 Testing and Engaging for Accessibility25:33 Importance of Integrated Audio Descriptions26:00 Camel Case vs Pascal Case26:49 Brands Leading in Accessibility29:34 Making Trends Accessible32:17 The Growing Importance of Captions34:31 Encouraging Accessibility in Organizations39:08 Starting Your Accessibility Journey42:52 Progress Over Perfection45:04 Final Thoughts and ResourcesMatisse Hamel-Nelis' site: https://matissenelis.com/Michelle Garrett's site: www.michellegarrett.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/prstrategist/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@PRisUsX/Twitter: https://x.com/PRisUsThreads: https://www.threads.com/@prwritergalMichelle's book - B2B PR That Gets Results - is available nowBook a no-obligation call to talk about your needs here.About the host: Michelle Garrett is a B2B PR consultant, media relations consultant, and author of B2B PR That Gets Results, an Amazon Best Seller. She helps companies create content, earn media coverage, and position themselves as thought leaders in their industry. Michelle’s articles have been featured by Entrepreneur, Content Marketing Institute, Muck Rack, and Ragan’s PR Daily, among others. She’s a frequent speaker on public relations and content. Michelle has been repeatedly ranked among the top ten most influential PR professionals.Follow the host: Website: www.michellegarrett.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/prstrategist/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@PRisUsX/Twitter: https://x.com/PRisUsThreads: https://www.threads.com/@prwritergalMichelle's book - B2B PR That Gets Results - is available nowBook a no-obligation call to talk about your needs here. About the host: Michelle Garrett is a B2B PR consultant, media relations consultant, writer and author of B2B PR That Gets Results, an Amazon Best Seller. She helps companies create content, earn media coverage, and position themselves as thought leaders in their industry. Michelle’s articles have been featured by Entrepreneur, Content Marketing Institute, Muck Rack, and Ragan’s PR Daily, among others. She’s a frequent speaker and podcast guest on public relations and content. Michelle has been repeatedly ranked among the top ten most influential PR professionals.

In this episode of PR Explored, host Michelle Garrett, a PR consultant and writer, interviews Kathy Kashani, the principal of Azul Communications, about the nuances of public relations for startups.Kathy discusses her journey from a long-time PR agency veteran to an independent PR consultant, focusing on consumer goods and B2C brands, especially startups. The conversation centers around defining a startup, understanding the distinct needs of startups versus established companies, and the foundational steps necessary for effective PR.They delve into the importance of having clear business goals, identifying the right time to start PR, and how startups can build foundational elements like a solid website and social media presence before engaging in PR activities.Kathy also highlights common mistakes startups make, such as not having a clear plan or budget, and the need for ongoing, rather than one-off, PR efforts. The discussion also covers how startups can attract investors through media visibility and the evolving nature of PR resources, including the benefits of hiring consultants or smaller agencies over large firms.The episode wraps up with practical advice on how startups can evaluate and select the right PR help, emphasizing the importance of honest communication and setting clear goals.Follow the host: Website: www.michellegarrett.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/prstrategist/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@PRisUsX/Twitter: https://x.com/PRisUsThreads: https://www.threads.com/@prwritergalMichelle's book - B2B PR That Gets Results - is available nowBook a no-obligation call to talk about your needs here. About the host: Michelle Garrett is a B2B PR consultant, media relations consultant, writer and author of B2B PR That Gets Results, an Amazon Best Seller. She helps companies create content, earn media coverage, and position themselves as thought leaders in their industry. Michelle’s articles have been featured by Entrepreneur, Content Marketing Institute, Muck Rack, and Ragan’s PR Daily, among others. She’s a frequent speaker and podcast guest on public relations and content. Michelle has been repeatedly ranked among the top ten most influential PR professionals.

It’s time for a mid-year check-in on PR trends. Has AI destroyed PR as we know it? Is TikTok the only social media channel that matters?Back in December, Bill Byrne of Remedy Public Relations and I discussed which PR trends we’d be keeping an eye on as we headed into the new year. Some of the trends we noted: AI in PR. The shrinking number of media outlets. How silos impact our work. The role the C-suite plays in the success of a PR program.So, where are we now? And what trends should we be watching as we enter the second half of 2025?I’m excited that my colleague Bill Byrne is joining me again. He’s frequently named a Top 10 PR expert and influencer and often contributes to marketing industry trades, including Ragan PR Daily, Muck Rack, and Bulldog Reporter.Follow the host: Website: www.michellegarrett.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/prstrategist/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@PRisUsX/Twitter: https://x.com/PRisUsThreads: https://www.threads.com/@prwritergalMichelle's book - B2B PR That Gets Results - is available nowBook a no-obligation call to talk about your needs here. About the host: Michelle Garrett is a B2B PR consultant, media relations consultant, writer and author of B2B PR That Gets Results, an Amazon Best Seller. She helps companies create content, earn media coverage, and position themselves as thought leaders in their industry. Michelle’s articles have been featured by Entrepreneur, Content Marketing Institute, Muck Rack, and Ragan’s PR Daily, among others. She’s a frequent speaker and podcast guest on public relations and content. Michelle has been repeatedly ranked among the top ten most influential PR professionals.

The public relations industry is undergoing a seismic shift, driven by artificial intelligence, hybrid work, a changing media landscape, and deepening political divides.Across four generations — Gen Z to Baby Boomers — PR professionals are navigating these transformations, each with unique perspectives on where the industry is headed.On this episode of PR Explored, we discuss the findings of this year’s USC Annenberg School for Communication and Journalism‘s survey, as compiled in its Global Communication Report.“The future of the PR industry depends upon how tomorrow’s leaders tackle the critical issues we are beginning to face today,” said Fred Cook, director of the USC Annenberg Center for Public Relations and chair emeritus of Golin.Cook is my guest on this latest episode of PR Explored.Follow the host: Website: www.michellegarrett.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/prstrategist/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@PRisUsX/Twitter: https://x.com/PRisUsThreads: https://www.threads.com/@prwritergalMichelle's book - B2B PR That Gets Results - is available nowBook a no-obligation call to talk about your needs here. About the host: Michelle Garrett is a B2B PR consultant, media relations consultant, writer and author of B2B PR That Gets Results, an Amazon Best Seller. She helps companies create content, earn media coverage, and position themselves as thought leaders in their industry. Michelle’s articles have been featured by Entrepreneur, Content Marketing Institute, Muck Rack, and Ragan’s PR Daily, among others. She’s a frequent speaker and podcast guest on public relations and content. Michelle has been repeatedly ranked among the top ten most influential PR professionals.

Burnout in the PR and social media marketing fields is rampant.Many communications pros are exhausted. The non-stop news cycle. The demand to be “always on.” The rising stress level, as day-to-day responsibilities continue to grow.Surveys repeatedly show that those working in public relations and social media marketing experience some of the highest rates of burnout.It’s no wonder, because, more than almost any other group of workers, we’re under pressure to stay in touch with our audiences, even during the most challenging circumstances. We’re so consumed with worrying about what our audiences need, we may have forgotten about taking care of ourselves.So what can we do about it?My guest, Breanne A. Mertz, DBA, Assistant Professor of Marketing at the University of Tampa, and I talk about burnout and how practitioners and their employers can address it.Mertz has extensively researched social media marketer burnout and shares insight on how her findings apply to those working in PR, comms, and social media.Follow the host: Website: www.michellegarrett.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/prstrategist/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@PRisUsX/Twitter: https://x.com/PRisUsThreads: https://www.threads.com/@prwritergalMichelle's book - B2B PR That Gets Results - is available nowBook a no-obligation call to talk about your needs here. About the host: Michelle Garrett is a B2B PR consultant, media relations consultant, writer and author of B2B PR That Gets Results, an Amazon Best Seller. She helps companies create content, earn media coverage, and position themselves as thought leaders in their industry. Michelle’s articles have been featured by Entrepreneur, Content Marketing Institute, Muck Rack, and Ragan’s PR Daily, among others. She’s a frequent speaker and podcast guest on public relations and content. Michelle has been repeatedly ranked among the top ten most influential PR professionals.

The media relations game is ever-changing. While traditional media outlets remain coveted by businesses that want to be in the news, non-traditional outlets are on the rise.Podcasts, newsletters and social media influencers now often play a key role in effective media outreach. PR pros need to ensure they’re immersed in as much client-relevant content as possible, regardless of where it comes from.PR Consultant Michelle Garrett and her guest, Peter Himler, founder of Flatiron Communications and veteran of agencies including Edelman and Hill & Knowlton, discuss how to reconcile clients’ desire for coverage in legacy media with the impact of a new cadre of earned media platforms.Follow the host: Website: www.michellegarrett.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/prstrategist/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@PRisUsX/Twitter: https://x.com/PRisUsThreads: https://www.threads.com/@prwritergalMichelle's book - B2B PR That Gets Results - is available nowBook a no-obligation call to talk about your needs here. About the host: Michelle Garrett is a B2B PR consultant, media relations consultant, writer and author of B2B PR That Gets Results, an Amazon Best Seller. She helps companies create content, earn media coverage, and position themselves as thought leaders in their industry. Michelle’s articles have been featured by Entrepreneur, Content Marketing Institute, Muck Rack, and Ragan’s PR Daily, among others. She’s a frequent speaker and podcast guest on public relations and content. Michelle has been repeatedly ranked among the top ten most influential PR professionals.

Eleanor Hawkins, a communications strategist and writer at Axios, and PR Consultant Michelle Garrett discuss trending topics in the world of communications. Hawkins authors the weekly Axios Communicators newsletter covering topics and trends that impact how leaders, brands and employers communicate.Follow the host: Website: www.michellegarrett.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/prstrategist/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@PRisUsX/Twitter: https://x.com/PRisUsThreads: https://www.threads.com/@prwritergalMichelle's book - B2B PR That Gets Results - is available nowBook a no-obligation call to talk about your needs here. About the host: Michelle Garrett is a B2B PR consultant, media relations consultant, writer and author of B2B PR That Gets Results, an Amazon Best Seller. She helps companies create content, earn media coverage, and position themselves as thought leaders in their industry. Michelle’s articles have been featured by Entrepreneur, Content Marketing Institute, Muck Rack, and Ragan’s PR Daily, among others. She’s a frequent speaker and podcast guest on public relations and content. Michelle has been repeatedly ranked among the top ten most influential PR professionals.

Newer to PR? Or maybe you’ve worked in PR for a while but are trying to keep up with the changing landscape. Sure, writing is important. But what other skills and aptitudes are vital for today’s public relations and communications professionals?As roles become more sophisticated and communication challenges more complex, PR pros must prove value, adapt to new technologies, navigate ethical challenges  – and there is so much unknown. And unknowable.My guest is Steve Ryan, Assistant Professor of Instruction & Program Director of Public Relations at Temple University.Follow the host: Website: www.michellegarrett.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/prstrategist/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@PRisUsX/Twitter: https://x.com/PRisUsThreads: https://www.threads.com/@prwritergalMichelle's book - B2B PR That Gets Results - is available nowBook a no-obligation call to talk about your needs here. About the host: Michelle Garrett is a B2B PR consultant, media relations consultant, writer and author of B2B PR That Gets Results, an Amazon Best Seller. She helps companies create content, earn media coverage, and position themselves as thought leaders in their industry. Michelle’s articles have been featured by Entrepreneur, Content Marketing Institute, Muck Rack, and Ragan’s PR Daily, among others. She’s a frequent speaker and podcast guest on public relations and content. Michelle has been repeatedly ranked among the top ten most influential PR professionals.

In this episode of PR Explored, host Michelle Garrett, a public relations consultant, is joined by Christopher Penn of Trust Insights to discuss the impact of AI on public relations, particularly in terms of search. The conversation covers the evolution and deployment of AI models, the importance of SEO and broad content distribution, and the ethical implications of AI in content creation. The discussion also touches on the efficiency of AI in automating repetitive tasks and its potential to transform the workload of PR professionals. Penn, a veteran in the AI field, provides insights on how the rapid advancement of AI tools impacts marketing and communications, emphasizing the need to adjust strategies to gain visibility on AI-enabling platforms like YouTube, LinkedIn, and Google.Follow the host: Website: www.michellegarrett.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/prstrategist/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@PRisUsX/Twitter: https://x.com/PRisUsThreads: https://www.threads.com/@prwritergalMichelle's book - B2B PR That Gets Results - is available nowBook a no-obligation call to talk about your needs here. About the host: Michelle Garrett is a B2B PR consultant, media relations consultant, writer and author of B2B PR That Gets Results, an Amazon Best Seller. She helps companies create content, earn media coverage, and position themselves as thought leaders in their industry. Michelle’s articles have been featured by Entrepreneur, Content Marketing Institute, Muck Rack, and Ragan’s PR Daily, among others. She’s a frequent speaker and podcast guest on public relations and content. Michelle has been repeatedly ranked among the top ten most influential PR professionals.

AI is transforming how we search and engage with content online. In this episode of PR Explored, host Michelle Garrett is joined by digital marketing expert Andy Crestodina to discuss how AI-based search is reshaping the PR and marketing landscape. From AI optimization strategies to leveraging PR for brand visibility in generative search engines, Andy shares actionable insights to help professionals navigate this rapidly evolving space.Whether you’re a PR pro looking to stay ahead or a marketer curious about AI’s impact, this conversation dives deep into strategies, challenges, and the future of PR in an AI-driven world. Don’t miss this insightful episode packed with practical tips for thriving in the age of AI.Follow the host: Website: www.michellegarrett.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/prstrategist/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@PRisUsX/Twitter: https://x.com/PRisUsThreads: https://www.threads.com/@prwritergalMichelle's book - B2B PR That Gets Results - is available nowBook a no-obligation call to talk about your needs here. About the host: Michelle Garrett is a B2B PR consultant, media relations consultant, writer and author of B2B PR That Gets Results, an Amazon Best Seller. She helps companies create content, earn media coverage, and position themselves as thought leaders in their industry. Michelle’s articles have been featured by Entrepreneur, Content Marketing Institute, Muck Rack, and Ragan’s PR Daily, among others. She’s a frequent speaker and podcast guest on public relations and content. Michelle has been repeatedly ranked among the top ten most influential PR professionals.

In this episode of PR Explored, host Michelle Garrett, a public relations consultant, welcomes crisis communications expert Shawna Bruce to discuss the critical importance of effective crisis management for brands and organizations. They cover how social media has amplified the visibility of crises, making preparedness more crucial than ever.Shawna shares her experience from her 40-year career in communications, including her time in the Canadian Armed Forces and Dow Chemical. Specific examples of crises, such as the tragedies involving Boeing and Alaska Airlines and the aftermath of a tragedy involving hockey players are examined to underscore critical strategies such as accountability, transparency, and preparedness.Key takeaways include the necessity of having a crisis plan, the steps to create and implement one, and the importance of transparency, timely communication, and empathy. They emphasize the role of video in crisis messaging and the significance of community and loyal customer bases, as well as the need for delegated authority, pre-approved holding statements, consistent messaging, and continuous plan updates.The episode is a comprehensive guide for communicators on the essentials of crisis readiness and management.Follow the host: Website: www.michellegarrett.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/prstrategist/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@PRisUsX/Twitter: https://x.com/PRisUsThreads: https://www.threads.com/@prwritergalMichelle's book - B2B PR That Gets Results - is available nowBook a no-obligation call to talk about your needs here. About the host: Michelle Garrett is a B2B PR consultant, media relations consultant, writer and author of B2B PR That Gets Results, an Amazon Best Seller. She helps companies create content, earn media coverage, and position themselves as thought leaders in their industry. Michelle’s articles have been featured by Entrepreneur, Content Marketing Institute, Muck Rack, and Ragan’s PR Daily, among others. She’s a frequent speaker and podcast guest on public relations and content. Michelle has been repeatedly ranked among the top ten most influential PR professionals.

In this episode of PR Explored, host Michelle Garrett, a public relations consultant, talks with guest Jonna Burke about the importance of measurement in PR.They discuss the evolving landscape of AI and automation, the necessity of having strong data acumen, the importance of setting measurable objectives, the challenges around vanity metrics, and the significance of frameworks like the Integrated Evaluation Framework (IEF) and Barcelona Principles for effective PR measurement.Jonna highlights tools and resources available for PR professionals, including AMEC’s measurement maturity mapper and the importance of ethical and inclusive data practices. They also explore the challenges and opportunities in communicating the value of PR efforts to organizations and the importance of PR professionals being confident in asking critical questions to improve strategy and outcomes.The episode wraps up with insights on the nuances of copyright in PR, the varying levels of sophistication in PR globally, and the emphasis on continuous learning, curiosity, and being an advocate for strategic and data-driven PR within organizations.Follow the host: Website: www.michellegarrett.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/prstrategist/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@PRisUsX/Twitter: https://x.com/PRisUsThreads: https://www.threads.com/@prwritergalMichelle's book - B2B PR That Gets Results - is available nowBook a no-obligation call to talk about your needs here. About the host: Michelle Garrett is a B2B PR consultant, media relations consultant, writer and author of B2B PR That Gets Results, an Amazon Best Seller. She helps companies create content, earn media coverage, and position themselves as thought leaders in their industry. Michelle’s articles have been featured by Entrepreneur, Content Marketing Institute, Muck Rack, and Ragan’s PR Daily, among others. She’s a frequent speaker and podcast guest on public relations and content. Michelle has been repeatedly ranked among the top ten most influential PR professionals.

In this episode of PR Explored, host Michelle Garrett, a PR consultant and writer, is joined by Gini Dietrich, founder of Arment Dietrich and Spin Sucks, to discuss the refreshed PESO model.They explore the evolution of the model from its tactical roots to a focus on outcomes, and discuss the importance of owned media as the foundation of any PR strategy.Gini shares her insights on the rising role of AI in PR, the ways to effectively measure PR outcomes, and the importance of community building.Michelle and Gini also touch on managing client expectations, the significance of thoughtful comments in building relationships with journalists, and the need for an integrated approach to the PESO model over time.Follow the host: Website: www.michellegarrett.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/prstrategist/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@PRisUsX/Twitter: https://x.com/PRisUsThreads: https://www.threads.com/@prwritergalMichelle's book - B2B PR That Gets Results - is available nowBook a no-obligation call to talk about your needs here. About the host: Michelle Garrett is a B2B PR consultant, media relations consultant, writer and author of B2B PR That Gets Results, an Amazon Best Seller. She helps companies create content, earn media coverage, and position themselves as thought leaders in their industry. Michelle’s articles have been featured by Entrepreneur, Content Marketing Institute, Muck Rack, and Ragan’s PR Daily, among others. She’s a frequent speaker and podcast guest on public relations and content. Michelle has been repeatedly ranked among the top ten most influential PR professionals.

PR and social media benefit from leveraging each other – yet often, there’s a disconnect between the two. Silos may exist that prevent them from collaborating to maximize a brand’s communications. How can public relations and social media pros work together to get more out of each other’s efforts?My guest, Karen Freberg, a professor of strategic communication at the University of Louisville and social media expert, joins me to discuss the best ways for these two to team up.We also discuss the 2025 social media trends Karen is watching.Follow the host: Website: www.michellegarrett.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/prstrategist/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@PRisUsX/Twitter: https://x.com/PRisUsThreads: https://www.threads.com/@prwritergalMichelle's book - B2B PR That Gets Results - is available nowBook a no-obligation call to talk about your needs here. About the host: Michelle Garrett is a B2B PR consultant, media relations consultant, writer and author of B2B PR That Gets Results, an Amazon Best Seller. She helps companies create content, earn media coverage, and position themselves as thought leaders in their industry. Michelle’s articles have been featured by Entrepreneur, Content Marketing Institute, Muck Rack, and Ragan’s PR Daily, among others. She’s a frequent speaker and podcast guest on public relations and content. Michelle has been repeatedly ranked among the top ten most influential PR professionals.

The media layoffs aren’t stopping – and that can make it even more difficult for public relations professionals to land earned media coverage for their companies and clients. My guest, Frank Strong of Sword and the Script Media, and I will discuss approaches PR pros can use to find opportunities and garner coverage in these challenging conditions.This is the first episode of my new show, PR Explored, where I’ll talk with some of the best and brightest in the public relations industry to discuss questions on the minds of PR pros today, as well as industry trends.Follow the host: Website: www.michellegarrett.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/prstrategist/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@PRisUsX/Twitter: https://x.com/PRisUsThreads: https://www.threads.com/@prwritergalMichelle's book - B2B PR That Gets Results - is available nowBook a no-obligation call to talk about your needs here. About the host: Michelle Garrett is a B2B PR consultant, media relations consultant, writer and author of B2B PR That Gets Results, an Amazon Best Seller. She helps companies create content, earn media coverage, and position themselves as thought leaders in their industry. Michelle’s articles have been featured by Entrepreneur, Content Marketing Institute, Muck Rack, and Ragan’s PR Daily, among others. She’s a frequent speaker and podcast guest on public relations and content. Michelle has been repeatedly ranked among the top ten most influential PR professionals.