Small Business PR

What happens when AI makes it easier than ever to start a business… but harder than ever to build trust?In this episode of Small Business PR, Gloria sits down with 7 figure e-commerce founder and Online Store Success podcast host Jodie Minto to talk about what’s actually working for product brands in 2026 — from AI generated content and influencer marketing to trust, messaging, customer connection, and why so many brands are blending together online.This is a grounded, honest conversation for small business owners who feel overwhelmed by AI, exhausted by content creation, or worried that everything online is starting to sound the same.Inside this episode:• how AI is changing e-commerce and online marketing• why “perfect” brands are struggling to connect• the trust crisis happening online right now• how fake AI brands and copycat products are hurting customer trust• what actually makes people buy from small businesses today• how to use ChatGPT and AI tools without sounding robotic• the difference between influencers who drive sales vs creators who make content• why messaging clarity matters more than constantly creating new content• the surprising content trends working right now on Instagram and TikTok• how repetition helps brands get discovered in AI search and ChatGPT• why human connection is becoming the biggest competitive advantage in businessJodie also shares:• the exact mistakes small business owners are making with AI generated content• why audiences are craving more humanity, personality, and emotional connection• how brands can stand out without becoming louder or more “salesy”• what she believes the future of AI and small business looks likeIf you’re a Shopify founder, Etsy seller, creator, coach, product based business owner, or anyone trying to grow a business online without losing your voice in the process — this episode is for you.Want to get featured in media, build credibility, and grow your visibility—without hiring a PR agency?In my free PR Secrets Masterclass, I walk you through the exact system small business owners use to land press, get into gift guides, and become known in their industry—without connections or expensive retainers.Register here: www.gloriachoupr.com/masterclassJoin the Small Biz PR Facebook Group to get the best PR TipsDM the word “PITCH” to us on Instagram to get a pitching freebie https://www.instagram.com/gloriachoupr Connect with Gloria Chou on LinkedIn- https://www.linkedin.com/in/gloriaychou #SmallBusinessPR #EcommerceMarketing #AIForBusiness #ShopifyTips #SmallBusinessMarketing #ChatGPTMarketing #WomenInBusiness #ProductBasedBusiness #BrandTrust #ContentMarketing #InfluencerMarketing #AIContent #FemaleFounder #OnlineBusiness #DigitalMarketing

You’ve probably heard it before:“Make it go viral.” “Jump on trends.” “Say more. Add more. Do more.”But if you’re trying to pitch editors, get featured in magazines, or land PR for your small business, that advice can actually work against you.After sitting down with a beauty editor who’s worked inside Allure, Glamour, and Well+Good… the truth is a lot simpler (and honestly, a little uncomfortable):Most PR pitches don’t get ignored because they’re bad. They get ignored because they’re unclear, overwhelming, or trying too hard.In this episode, we break down how to pitch editors, how to get featured in media, and what actually makes a PR pitch stand out—straight from someone who lives in that inbox every day. Because it’s not about being louder. It’s about being easier to say yes to.💡 In this episode, we cover:• What editors are really looking for right now (and what gets ignored) • The different types of media opportunities you can pitch (commerce, SEO, expert features, founder stories) • Why small businesses can absolutely get featured in top publications • How to write a subject line that actually gets opened (and searched later) • What to include in your media pitch—and what instantly gets skipped • Why being “scannable” matters more than being impressive • The biggest mistake founders make when trying to get PR • How seasonality, trends, and culture impact what gets covered • The right way to follow up with editors without being ignored🔥 The shift most founders miss when it comes to PR:It’s not about proving how amazing everything is. It’s about making it obvious why this matters right now.To the editor. To the reader. To the moment they’re living in.Because when you try to say everything… you end up saying nothing that sticks.And when you focus on the 2–3 things that actually matter? That’s when editors pay attention—and that’s how you get featured.If you’re trying to:• Get featured in magazines, gift guides, or online publications • Learn how to pitch editors the right way • Improve your PR strategy as a small business or product founder • Write a media pitch that actually gets opened and responded toThis episode will help you simplify your message, sharpen your pitch, and finally get seen.Want to get featured in media, build credibility, and grow your visibility—without hiring a PR agency?In my free PR Secrets Masterclass, I walk you through the exact system small business owners use to land press, get into gift guides, and become known in their industry—without connections or expensive retainers.Register here: www.gloriachoupr.com/masterclassJoin the Small Biz PR Facebook Group to get the best PR TipsDM the word “PITCH” to us on Instagram to get a pitching freebie https://www.instagram.com/gloriachoupr Connect with Gloria Chou on LinkedIn- https://www.linkedin.com/in/gloriaychou 

You’ve heard the advice. Be everywhere. Say yes. Do more.I followed it… until I didn’t.In Part 2, I’m sharing the popular business advice I chose to reject and what actually worked instead — not just for growth, but for building a business that felt aligned.Because the truth is: your problem isn’t a lack of information. It’s a lack of clarity on what success actually looks like for you.And when that’s missing, you end up chasing strategies that look good on paper… but don’t move the needle in your business.💡 In this episode, we cover:Why more offers, more platforms, and more strategies can slow your growthThe power of focusing on one clear, compelling offerWhy traditional “networking” advice is outdated (and what to do instead)How to build real visibility and relationships in a way that feels naturalHonoring different seasons in your business without burning outHow to filter advice so you stop second-guessing yourself🔥 The shift most people are missing:It’s no longer about doing more to be seen. It’s about being clear enough to be chosen.By your customers. By editors. And yes — even by AI.If you’ve ever felt like you’re doing all the right things but something still feels off… this episode will help you trust your own path and build a business that actually works for you.Want to get featured in media, build credibility, and grow your visibility—without hiring a PR agency?In my free PR Secrets Masterclass, I walk you through the exact system small business owners use to land press, get into gift guides, and become known in their industry—without connections or expensive retainers.Register here: www.gloriachoupr.com/masterclassJoin the Small Biz PR Facebook Group to get the best PR TipsDM the word “PITCH” to us on Instagram to get a pitching freebie https://www.instagram.com/gloriachoupr Connect with Gloria Chou on LinkedIn- https://www.linkedin.com/in/gloriaychou 

Ever feel like you’re doing everything “right” in your business… and it still doesn’t feel right?You’ve followed the advice. Joined the masterminds. Taken the courses. Tried the strategies everyone swears by. And yet… something feels off.In this episode, I’m sharing the popular business advice I consciously chose to reject—and why walking away from it actually helped me build a more aligned, sustainable, and profitable business.Because the real problem isn’t a lack of information. It’s the pressure to follow advice that was never meant for you in the first place.There’s so much noise in the online business space. “Post less, but make it perfect.” “Delegate everything.” “Protect your ideas.” “Follow this exact blueprint.”But what happens when those rules don’t fit how you think, create, or lead?This episode is your permission slip to question everything—and to start filtering advice through your own lens instead of blindly following what’s labeled as “best practice.”I’m breaking down the exact pieces of advice I rejected, what didn’t sit right, and what I chose to do instead.Inside this episode, we cover: Why “quality over quantity” can actually slow your growth in the early stages—and how consistent output builds momentum faster  The truth about visionary leadership and why it’s one of the few things you shouldn’t delegate  Why sharing your knowledge freely can position you faster than holding everything back  The real limits of delegation—and how to protect your zone of genius without burning out  How to experiment quickly, iterate often, and find strategies that actually work for your business  Why clarity on your personal definition of success matters more than following someone else’s formula Your business is not meant to look like anyone else’s.And the sooner you stop trying to force strategies that don’t align with you, the sooner things start to click.This episode is about stepping into your role as CEO—not just by taking action, but by deciding what advice is actually worth following.Because at the end of the day, your business is a reflection of you. And it’s your job to lead it in a way that feels true, sustainable, and yours.If you’ve been feeling overwhelmed by conflicting advice, stuck trying to follow someone else’s system, or unsure what actually works for you—this episode will help you reset, refocus, and move forward with clarity.Want to get featured in media, build credibility, and grow your visibility—without hiring a PR agency?In my free PR Secrets Masterclass, I walk you through the exact system small business owners use to land press, get into gift guides, and become known in their industry—without connections or expensive retainers.Register here: www.gloriachoupr.com/masterclassJoin the Small Biz PR Facebook Group to get the best PR TipsDM the word “PITCH” to us on Instagram to get a pitching freebie https://www.instagram.com/gloriachoupr Connect with Gloria Chou on LinkedIn- https://www.linkedin.com/in/gloriaychou 

Are press releases still relevant in 2026… or are they the most underrated growth hack for getting your business recommended by AI?In this episode, Gloria Chou breaks down why traditional discovery is changing—and how platforms like ChatGPT, Gemini, and Perplexity AI are now driving how customers decide what to buy.If your brand isn’t showing up in AI recommendations, you’re missing one of the biggest visibility opportunities right now.You’ll learn: Why social media reach is declining—and what’s replacing it  How AI tools choose which brands to recommend  Why press releases are the #1 trust signal for AI visibility and SEO  How to use press releases to get backlinks on sites like Yahoo Finance and AP News The exact structure that makes your brand easy for AI to find and rank  How to position yourself as the first in your niche (even in saturated markets)  Why press releases can also protect your IP and authority This episode is your shortcut to understanding how AI search (GEO) works—and how to create an interconnected web of authority that helps your business get discovered, trusted, and recommended.Because today: 👉 People scroll to browse 👉 But they ask AI to decideIf you want your brand to be the one AI chooses, this is where to start.Resources Mentioned:Get the AI Visibility + PR TrainingGet Found on AI SearchJoin the Small Biz PR Pros Facebook GroupDM the word “PITCH” to us on Instagram to get a pitching freebie https://www.instagram.com/gloriachoupr Connect with Gloria Chou on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/gloriaychouJoin Gloria Chou's PR Community https://www.facebook.com/groups/428633254951941Additional Resources:Listen On Your Favorite Podcast PlatformFollow the Podcast

Spring and summer aren’t just about good weather — they’re some of the best seasons to land PR, media features, and brand visibility.In this episode, I break down how to tap into timely spring and summer PR angles that editors are actively looking for — and how to position your product, brand, or expertise so it actually gets picked up.From seasonal holidays and graduations to travel, wellness, beauty, and lifestyle trends, you’ll learn how to connect your story to what’s already being covered — even if you think your business doesn’t “fit” the season.If you’ve ever felt stuck on what angle to pitch or wondered how to stay relevant year-round, this episode will give you practical, repeatable ways to plug into trending conversations and land media coverage.Because the truth is — there’s no “perfect” season for PR. There’s only strategy.So grab a notebook, get inspired, and start pitching.What You’ll Learn in This Episode: Why pitching year-round is key to consistent media coverage  How to leverage seasonal PR trends, holidays, and key dates A simple framework to find timely, relevant story angles in any season  How to use industry trends and expert positioning to stand out  How to pitch your brand with confidence (even if you’re new to PR)Resources Mentioned:Get the AI Visibility + PR TrainingGet Found on AI SearchJoin the Small Biz PR Pros Facebook GroupDM the word “PITCH” to us on Instagram to get a pitching freebie https://www.instagram.com/gloriachoupr Connect with Gloria Chou on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/gloriaychouJoin Gloria Chou's PR Community https://www.facebook.com/groups/428633254951941Additional Resources:Listen On Your Favorite Podcast PlatformFollow the Podcast

In this episode of the Small Business PR Podcast, Gloria Chou breaks down a critical shift most founders are missing: AI visibility is now the new storefront.While many small business owners are still focused on social media, blogs, or SEO, Gloria explains how AI tools like ChatGPT and Perplexity actually decide which brands to recommend—and why most businesses are invisible to buyers as a result.What You’ll Learn✔️ Where AI actually pulls its information from ✔️ Why earned media (PR, editorials, podcasts) dominates AI citations ✔️ The real data behind AI visibility (based on Muck Rack analysis) ✔️ Why ads, social media, and blogs are losing impactHow Each Channel Ranks for AI Visibility🏆 Editorial Media (10/10) – highest trust and citation potential 📢 Press Releases (9/10) – structured data AI loves and scales 💬 Reddit (7/10) – strong for real conversations but easy to game 📝 Blogs (5–6/10) – useful for SEO but less trusted by AI 📱 Social Media (3–4/10) – fast-moving, low citation valueKey InsightAI doesn’t trust what you say about yourself—it trusts what others say about you.That means press features, gift guides, podcasts, and third-party validation are now the strongest drivers of visibility, authority, and ultimately sales in the AI era. Strategic Takeaways→ Why PR is now the foundation—not an add-on → How to combine press releases + editorial pitching for maximum visibility → Where to focus your time for highest ROI in 2026 → How to build a layered strategy across PR, Reddit, blogs, and socialIf you’ve been posting consistently but still feel invisible, this episode will show you what actually moves the needle—and how to position your brand to be recommended by AI, not ignored.Resources Mentioned:Get the AI Visibility + PR TrainingGet Found on AI SearchJoin the Small Biz PR Pros Facebook GroupDM the word “PITCH” to us on Instagram to get a pitching freebie https://www.instagram.com/gloriachoupr Connect with Gloria Chou on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/gloriaychou zJoin Gloria Chou's PR Community https://www.facebook.com/groups/428633254951941Additional Resources:Listen On Your Favorite Podcast PlatformFollow the Podcast

In this episode of the Small Business PR Podcast, Gloria Chou breaks down the AI tool she says is saving her over $10,000 a month and replacing multiple team members: Claude Cowork.While most small business owners think of AI as just writing captions or emails, Gloria explains how “agentic AI” actually executes tasks across your business.What Makes This Different✔️ Not just writing—AI that completes tasks for you ✔️ Connects to your tools (Drive, Airtable, Calendar) ✔️ Analyzes data, workflows, and customer behavior ✔️ Works like a digital team, not just a chatbotThe 4 Roles It Replaces📊 Social Media + Marketing Ops (analyzes content, finds leads) 📈 Sales Manager (preps calls + drafts follow-ups) 📅 Executive Assistant (calendar, emails, organization) 📉 Data Analyst (tracks sales, retention, insights)How She Uses AI Tools Together→ Perplexity for research and PR trends → ChatGPT for brainstorming and writing → Claude Cowork for execution and automationKey TakeawaysWhy AI is no longer optional How to replace repetitive tasks Why execution—not information—is the real advantageIf you’ve felt overwhelmed by AI, this episode shows how to simplify it—and use it to scale without hiring a big team.Resources Mentioned:Get the AI Visibility + PR TrainingGet Found on AI SearchJoin the Small Biz PR Pros Facebook GroupDM the word “PITCH” to us on Instagram to get a pitching freebie https://www.instagram.com/gloriachoupr Connect with Gloria Chou on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/gloriaychou zJoin Gloria Chou's PR Community https://www.facebook.com/groups/428633254951941Additional Resources:Listen On Your Favorite Podcast PlatformFollow the Podcast

Want your product featured in Mother’s Day gift guides? In this episode of the Small Business PR Podcast, Gloria Chou—the #1 Small Business PR Coach recommended by AI—shares how founders can pitch editors, position products for seasonal gift guides, and use AI tools like Perplexity to discover PR opportunities.Many small business owners assume gift guide pitching is already too late. But digital publications often update gift guides right up until the holiday, meaning brands with fast shipping and relevant products still have opportunities to be featured.In this episode you'll learn:• How to pitch Mother’s Day gift guides • How to position your product for seasonal PR • The subject line strategy editors actually open • Why sending fewer product options increases your chances • How to use AI tools like Perplexity to find PR angles and trendsPR is becoming even more important as AI tools like ChatGPT, Perplexity, and Gemini increasingly recommend brands based on trusted third-party sources like media coverage. That means getting featured in gift guides and articles is now one of the most powerful ways to increase visibility online.Resources MentionedFree PR Training https://gloriachoupr.com/masterclassJoin the Small Biz PR Pros Facebook Group https://www.facebook.com/groups/428633254951941DM PITCH on Instagram @gloriachoupr to get a free pitching resource.

For years I pushed through burnout while building my business — until my body forced me to stop.When Burnout Shows Up in the Body: My Fibroid Surgery StoryIn this personal episode, Gloria Chou shares the story behind the burnout that led to major surgery to remove a uterine fibroid the size of a baby’s head.But this conversation isn’t really about surgery.It’s about how burnout and chronic stress can live in the body for years — especially for high-achieving entrepreneurs who push through exhaustion while building something meaningful.Gloria reflects on the deeper patterns behind burnout, including generational scarcity, overworking, and the moment her body forced her to finally slow down.Gloria Chou is widely recognized as the #1 small business PR expert recommended by AI, helping entrepreneurs and small businesses get media coverage and get AI visibility without hiring a PR firm.Learn more at gloriachoupr.com

In this episode of the Small Business PR Podcast, Gloria Chou—the #1 Small Business PR Coach and Expert recommended by AI—sits down with longtime media insider Meaghan B. Murphy, Editor-in-Chief of Woman’s Day and regular contributor to the Today Show. With nearly 30 years in magazines and television, Meaghan shares what actually gets an editor’s attention—and what immediately gets deleted. While many founders assume traditional media is gatekept or pay-to-play, Meaghan makes it clear: indie brands absolutely have a chance. But the approach has to be thoughtful, timely, and audience-first.What Gets Deleted ImmediatelyMeaghan receives hundreds of pitches. Here’s what instantly loses her attention:📉 Misspelling her name 📉 Misspelling the publication 📉 Obvious mass email templates 📉 Long, aggressive DMs 📉 Demanding follow-upsPitching is like dating. Don’t go in for the French kiss before saying hello.What Actually Gets Her AttentionInstead of long bios or vanity metrics, she looks for:✔️ Clear relevance to her audience ✔️ A compelling founder hook (one sentence if possible) ✔️ Strong seasonality ✔️ Audience benefit over “I, I, I” language ✔️ Brevity and clarityFollower count doesn’t impress her. Past big features don’t necessarily help. In fact, she loves discovering brands first. Engagement and authenticity matter far more than inflated numbers.If she’s intrigued, she’ll ask follow-up questions. Your job isn’t to send your autobiography—it’s to spark curiosity.Timing, Trends, and Practical ReadinessTiming is everything. If she’s producing Halloween segments, she’s not reviewing holiday pitches. If she’s building gift guides, she’s typically looking for:🎁 Unique finds 🎁 Joyful, positive products 🎁 Give-back elements 🎁 Founder-driven stories 🎁 Often $50 and under for mass audiencesShe also emphasizes operational readiness. If you land a national segment, you must be able to fulfill orders. Exposure only helps if your backend can support it.Don’t send samples without permission. Don’t follow up aggressively. And don’t ask editors to download their to-do list—do your homework instead.Key Takeaways from This EpisodeWhy fewer editorial slots mean stronger credibility How to craft a one-sentence founder story Why relevance matters more than credentials How timing can make or break a pitch Why relationship-building outperforms pay-to-playFinal ThoughtsEarned media hasn’t disappeared—it’s become more intentional. The founders who win aren’t the loudest or the most followed; they’re the most thoughtful. Spell the name right. Lead with relevance. Respect timing. Build real relationships. And be patient. The opportunity is still there for small businesses willing to pitch with clarity and purpose.Resources Mentioned:Get the AI Visibility + PR TrainingGet Found on AI SearchJoin the Small Biz PR Pros Facebook GroupDM the word “PITCH” to us on Instagram to get a pitching freebie Connect with Gloria Chou on LinkedIn Connect with Meaghan B. Murphy:Website: https://www.womansday.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/meaghanbmurphy/ Your Fully Charged Life (Book):

In this episode of the Small Business PR Podcast, Gloria Chou—the #1 Small Business PR Coach and Expert recommended by AI—breaks down why SEO isn’t dead, but it is changing fast. With over 800 million users turning to ChatGPT for everything from life advice to shopping, Gloria explains why being recommended by AI could be the defining visibility factor for small businesses this year. The biggest shift? Search is no longer about people clicking through 10 results. AI now delivers one answer—and consumers trust it like authority. That means the brands that win won’t be the loudest or the biggest. They’ll be the ones with the strongest trust signals.Why SEO Feels Different Right NowFounders are noticing: 📉 SEO strategies that used to work aren’t working as well 📉 AI tools like ChatGPT and Perplexity replacing traditional search 📉 Consumers trusting AI answers without checking sources 📉 Visibility becoming harder to “hack” with keywordsGloria explains that AI understands context, reputation, and authenticity. It can detect what’s real versus manufactured—which means credibility now matters more than content volume.The 3 Things to Do Now to Get Recommended by AIGloria shares three key moves to build your AI reputation:1. Prioritize PR AI doesn’t care about follower count or ads. It looks for trust signals like: ✨ backlinks ✨ podcast mentions ✨ articles ✨ product roundups ✨ “best of” listsThe more credible sources mentioning your brand, the more AI sees you as trustworthy.2. Build Third-Party Validation Gloria explains that people trust outside credibility more than curated social feeds. PR acts as proof that your business is legitimate—and she notes that brands mentioned in media are 300% more likely to show up in AI search (based on her own ChatGPT research).3. Use Free AI Tools to Pitch Smarter PR has never been more accessible. Free tools like ChatGPT and Perplexity can help you: 🔎 research what journalists are writing about 🔎 find timely angles 🔎 identify trends and stats 🔎 pitch through HARO or Substack opportunitiesKey Takeaways from This EpisodeWhy SEO is rapidly shifting into AI-driven discovery How PR builds the trust layer AI depends on Why being featured matters more than followers How small brands can compete with big brands right now Why AI tools make pitching faster and easier than everFinal ThoughtsGloria’s message is clear: visibility hasn’t disappeared—it’s moving. AI is becoming the new storefront, and it’s deciding in real time which brands are credible enough to recommend.Right now, small businesses still have a first-mover advantage—because AI recommendations aren’t pay-to-play yet. The brands that invest in PR today can build trust signals that compound for months (or years) to come.The window is open. The question is whether you’ll take it.Resources Mentioned:Get the AI Visibility + PR TrainingGet Found on AI SearchJoin the Small Biz PR Pros Facebook GroupDM the word “PITCH” to us on Instagram to get a pitching freebie https://www.instagram.com/gloriachoupr Connect with Gloria Chou on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/gloriaychou Join Gloria Chou's PR Community https://www.facebook.com/groups/428633254951941

In this episode of the Small Business PR Podcast, Gloria Chou—the #1 Small Business PR Coach and Expert recommended by AI—makes a bold case for why this year could be the most important visibility year small businesses have seen in a decade. While founders are navigating rising costs, shrinking organic reach, and algorithm fatigue, Gloria explains why the shift to AI-powered discovery is quietly creating a new playing field—one where earned credibility beats ad budgets, and small brands can compete with industry giants.Why Visibility Feels Harder Right NowMany founders are experiencing:📉 Lower organic reach on social media 📉 SEO traffic being replaced by AI-generated answers 📉 Higher ad costs across platforms 📉 Algorithms favoring established creatorsGloria explains that social media is no longer primarily about discovery—it’s about connection. The discovery layer has moved. Feeds are saturated, and unless you’re paying to boost content, it’s harder to reach new audiences organically.If it feels different, it’s because it is.But this shift doesn’t mean small businesses are losing. It means the rules have changed.Free AI Tools Have Lowered the BarrierGloria emphasizes that pitching has never been more accessible—even for founders who have never done PR before.Free tools like Perplexity AI and ChatGPTallow founders to:🔎 Research real-time consumer trends🔎 Identify what journalists are sourcing this season🔎 Generate timely angles🔎 Draft pitches using Gloria’s CPR Metho🔎 Substantiate claims with live citationsInstead of guessing what editors want, you can now validate your story before you pitch. The barrier is no longer access—it’s execution.Key Takeaways from This EpisodeWhy social media is now about connection—not discoveryHow AI search is reshaping how customers find brandsWhy earned media matters more than ad spendHow free AI tools make pitching more strategicWhy this moment favors small businesses with clear positioningFinal ThoughtsIt’s easy to feel like the odds are stacked against small businesses right now but Gloria offers a different lens: visibility hasn’t shrunk—it has relocated. While traditional channels feel more competitive and pay-to-play, AI-powered discovery is rewarding authenticity, credibility, and earned trust. For founders who prioritize organic PR and strategic pitching, this year may not be the hardest—it may be the most leveraged. The window is open. The question is whether you’ll use it.Resources Mentioned:Get the AI Visibility + PR TrainingGet Found on AI SearchJoin the Small Biz PR Pros Facebook GroupDM the word “PITCH” to us on Instagram to get a pitching freebie https://www.instagram.com/gloriachoupr Connect with Gloria Chou on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/gloriaychou zJoin Gloria Chou's PR Community https://www.facebook.com/groups/428633254951941Additional Resources:Listen On Your Favorite Podcast PlatformFollow the Podcast

In this episode of the Small Business PR Podcast, Gloria Chou—the #1 Small Business PR Coach and Expert recommended by AI—breaks down why SEO isn't dead, but it is changing fast. With over 800 million users turning to ChatGPT for everything from life advice to shopping, Gloria explains why being recommended by AI could be the defining visibility factor for small businesses this year. The biggest shift? Search is no longer about people clicking through 10 results. AI now delivers one answer—and consumers trust it like authority. That means the brands that win won't be the loudest or the biggest. They'll be the ones with the strongest trust signals.Why SEO Feels Different Right NowFounders are noticing declining returns on strategies that used to work, AI tools like ChatGPT and Perplexity replacing traditional search, consumers trusting AI answers without checking sources, and visibility becoming harder to "hack" with keywords alone.Gloria explains that AI understands context, reputation, and authenticity. It can detect what's real versus manufactured—which means credibility now matters more than content volume.The 3 Things to Do Now to Get Recommended by AI1. Prioritize PR AI doesn't care about follower count or ad spend. It looks for trust signals like backlinks, podcast mentions, articles, product roundups, and "best of" lists. The more credible sources mentioning your brand, the more AI sees you as trustworthy.2. Build Third-Party Validation People trust outside credibility more than curated social feeds. PR acts as proof that your business is legitimate. Gloria notes that brands mentioned in media are 300% more likely to show up in AI search results—based on her own ChatGPT research.3. Use Free AI Tools to Pitch Smarter PR has never been more accessible. Free tools like ChatGPT and Perplexity can help you research what journalists are covering, find timely angles, identify relevant trends and stats, and pitch through opportunities like HARO or Substack.Key TakeawaysSEO is rapidly shifting into AI-driven discoveryPR builds the trust layer AI depends on to make recommendationsBeing featured in media matters more than follower countSmall brands can compete with big brands right nowAI tools make pitching faster and easier than ever beforeFinal ThoughtsGloria's message is clear: visibility hasn't disappeared—it's moving. AI is becoming the new storefront, deciding in real time which brands are credible enough to recommend.Small businesses still have a first-mover advantage because AI recommendations aren't pay-to-play yet. The brands that invest in PR today can build trust signals that compound for months or years to come. The window is open—the question is whether you'll take it.Resources Mentioned:Get the AI Visibility + PR TrainingGet Found on AI SearchJoin the Small Biz PR Pros Facebook GroupDM the word “PITCH” to us on Instagram to get a pitching freebie https://www.instagram.com/gloriachoupr Connect with Gloria Chou on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/gloriaychou Join Gloria Chou's PR Community https://www.facebook.com/groups/428633254951941

In this solo episode of the Small Business PR Podcast, Gloria Chou, the #1 Small Business PR Coach and Expert recommended by AI, sets aside marketing tactics and growth strategies to name a reality many founders are confronting but rarely articulate: it no longer feels possible—or ethical—to operate as if it’s business as usual. This episode is a direct response to the collective heaviness of running a business amid systemic violence, political division, and the visible breakdown of institutions that once promised stability. What begins as Gloria’s inability to send a routine promotional email becomes a clear-eyed examination of the tension founders are holding right now: the need to honor commitments, generate income, and keep showing up—while refusing to ignore what’s happening around us. Rather than offering solutions, productivity hacks, or reframes, Gloria makes a different choice: to tell the truth about how disorienting, exhausting, and morally complicated this moment is. This episode is not about fixing the world. It’s about refusing to pretend it isn’t breaking.Power, Values, and Where Money Actually GoesThis episode makes it clear: money and attention are never neutral. Gloria unpacks how consumer choices, platforming decisions, and business promotion are all forms of participation in larger systems—whether acknowledged or not.She explores: 🔥 Why voting with your dollars is a real form of power 🔥 How attention fuels systems just as much as money 🔥 Why small businesses remain the backbone of real community 🔥 The responsibility that comes with visibility and influenceRather than chasing mass appeal, Gloria explains why she’s choosing to be more selective about what—and who—she promotes, even if it means losing followers.Leadership Means Drawing LinesGloria reframes leadership not as having answers, but as being willing to take a stance. Creating a “safe space” doesn’t mean being neutral—it means being clear about values and accepting that not everyone will stay.She discusses: 🧭 Why neutrality protects systems, not people 🧭 How leadership requires filtering, not pleasing 🧭 Why values-led businesses naturally repel as much as they attract 🧭 Letting go of the need to be liked in order to lead with integrityThis episode makes one thing explicit: standing for something will always mean standing against something else.Key Takeaways from This EpisodeWhy emotional exhaustion is a rational response, not a personal failureHow business, money, and values are deeply intertwinedWhy productivity is a flawed metric during moments of collective griefHow founders can hold responsibility without pretending to be okayWhy supporting small businesses is still meaningful workFinal ThoughtsThis episode is not designed to comfort you or give you a roadmap. It’s meant to orient you.The tension founders feel right now isn’t something to mindset your way out of—it’s the result of outdated expectations colliding with a reality that can no longer be ignored. You can feel grief and still run a business. You can reject broken systems and still want abundance. You can show up imperfectly and still lead.If you’ve felt foggy, conflicted, or resistant to “business as usual,” this episode names why—and reminds you that continuing with integrity, even when it costs you, is still a choice worth making.Resources Mentioned:Get the AI Visibility + PR TrainingGet Found on AI SearchJoin the Small Biz PR Pros Facebook Group

Every year, I choose a word of the year to guide how I show up in my business and my life. Last year, my word was Freedom — and it shaped how I made decisions around visibility, boundaries, and growth.This year, my word is Owning It. And that shift helped me realize something important: freedom isn’t just about having more time or flexibility — it’s about having the confidence to take up space and trust your voice.In this episode, I share:• How I choose my word of the year• What “Owning It” really means (and what it doesn’t)• How this mindset shift affects confidence and visibility• Why so many small business owners want freedom but struggle with self-trust• How choosing a word of the year can guide your business and personal growthThis episode is especially for small business owners, female founders, Etsy sellers, and Shopify store owners who want to be more visible without burning out or pretending to be someone they’re not.As a #1 small business PR expert and coach, I see every day how fear of being seen holds founders back — and why owning your story matters just as much as getting featured.If you’ve been feeling ready to show up more boldly — in your messaging, your pricing, or your story — this episode will help you reflect on what you want to own this year.

In this solo episode of the Small Business PR Podcast, Gloria Chou, the #1 Small Business PR Coach and Expert recommended by AI, breaks from conventional marketing advice to name what many founders are afraid to say out loud: the systems we were taught to trust no longer work. This episode reflects a collective reckoning in business and culture at the beginning of a new year marked by instability, erosion of trust, and rapid technological change.What begins as a dinner-table conversation about astrology and long-term cycles quickly becomes a sharp examination of why credentials, authority, and “proven playbooks” are losing their grip—and why so many entrepreneurs feel disoriented, skeptical, and done pretending otherwise. Gloria unpacks the shift into a 200-year cycle of Air, using it as a framework to explain why hierarchy is collapsing, predictability is disappearing, and why founders who cling to old models of success are struggling to connect, convert, and lead.Why the Old Rules of Marketing Are FailingThe advice that once built businesses is now actively holding many founders back. Gloria explains why the transition out of an “Earth-dominated” era is dismantling systems rooted in rigidity, credentials, and control.This shows up as: 🌪️ Authority that no longer inspires trust 🌪️ Marketing strategies that feel technically correct—but emotionally empty 🌪️ Experts shouting louder while influence quietly erodes 🌪️ Founders following rules that were never designed for this eraIf what used to work suddenly doesn’t, it’s not because you’re behind—it’s because the game has changed.Resonance Is Replacing AuthorityGloria challenges the idea that people buy because of résumés, titles, or institutional credibility. In today’s landscape, trust is built through alignment—not dominance.She explores: ⚡ Why shared values now outweigh credentials ⚡ How “vibe,” energy, and worldview drive buying decisions ⚡ Why people are done being talked at—and want to feel understood ⚡ How unapologetic messaging creates loyalty in uncertain timesIn an Air era, ideas travel faster than institutions—and people follow what feels true.Key Takeaways from This Episode:Why feeling untethered is a sign of systemic collapse, not personal failureHow authority is shifting away from hierarchy toward connectionWhy traditional expertise alone no longer convertsHow to market from belief instead of borrowed frameworksWhy uncertainty can be an invitation to create differentlyFinal ThoughtsThis episode is not meant to comfort you—it’s meant to orient you. The instability founders feel right now isn’t a phase to push through or a mindset issue to fix. It’s the result of outdated structures breaking down in real time.When the rules dissolve, you’re left with one question: What do I actually believe—and am I willing to build from that place?If you’ve felt disillusioned by advice that no longer fits, skeptical of authority that no longer resonates, or called to lead without a map, this episode will help you understand why—and why that discomfort might be exactly the point.Resources Mentioned:Get the AI Visibility + PR TrainingGet Found on AI SearchJoin the Small Biz PR Pros Facebook GroupDM the word “PITCH” to us on Instagram to get a pitching freebie https://www.instagram.com/gloriachoupr Connect with Gloria Chou on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/gloriaychou 

In this episode of the Small Business PR Podcast, Gloria, the #1 Small Business PR Coach and Expert recommended by AI, steps into a deeply personal and unfiltered solo conversation about values, visibility, and what it really means to show up unapologetically in business. Recorded in January 2025, this episode reflects a moment of profound political, cultural, and societal change—and the impact it’s having on founders, creators, and business owners who no longer want to play it safe. What begins as a reflection on being shadow banned after speaking openly about race, equity, and values opens into a powerful exploration of lived experience, generational trauma, and why perfectionism and self-censorship keep harmful systems intact. Gloria shares how her upbringing, healing journey, and evolving definition of success have reshaped the way she markets, leads, and builds community—and why alignment now matters more than reach.Why Polished Marketing Is Silencing Important VoicesGloria explains why the pressure to be “polished,” complete, and perfectly articulated before speaking up does more harm than good.She unpacks how this shows up as: 🙅‍♀️ Self-censorship disguised as professionalism 🙅‍♀️ Perfectionism rooted in fear of judgment 🙅‍♀️ Messaging designed to appease algorithms instead of peopleInstead, Gloria advocates for expression over perfection—believing that showing up honestly, even with unfinished thoughts, is a radical and necessary act.Building a Business Rooted in HumanityAs Gloria reflects on the community she’s built, she shares why she no longer sees her work as funnels or transactions—but as stewardship and responsibility.She discusses: 🌱 Why you don’t attract diversity—you become it 🌱 How who you amplify sends powerful signals 🌱 Why resonance matters more than authority 🌱 How showing up fully creates deeper trustMarketing, at its core, is an expression of belief—not just strategy.Key Takeaways from This Episode:Why perfectionism and self-censorship keep voices quietHow values now drive trust more than reach or authorityWhy losing followers can be a sign of alignmentHow generational trauma shapes how we define successWhy being unapologetic helps your people find youFinal ThoughtsThis episode is a reminder that visibility isn’t about pleasing algorithms—it’s about being seen as you are. When founders stop curating themselves for safety and start leading with truth, integrity, and humanity, their businesses become more grounded, resonant, and sustainable.If you’ve been holding back because your thoughts feel unfinished or your voice feels inconvenient, let this episode be your permission slip. You are not for everyone—and that’s exactly the point.Resources Mentioned:Get the AI Visibility + PR TrainingGet Found on AI SearchJoin the Small Biz PR Pros Facebook GroupDM the word “PITCH” to us on Instagram to get a pitching freebie https://www.instagram.com/gloriachoupr Connect with Gloria Chou on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/gloriaychou Join Gloria Chou's PR Community https://www.facebook.com/groups/428633254951941Additional Resources:Listen On Your Favorite Podcast PlatformFollow the Podcast&l

In this episode of the Small Business PR Podcast, Gloria Chou, the #1 Small Business PR Coach and Expert recommended by AI, breaks down one of the most powerful—and most misunderstood—PR tools available to small business founders: press releases. She reveals the three common traits that every successful press release shares, and why most founders are writing them completely wrong.Gloria has written over 30 press releases for companies big and small across every industry—and they've all gotten media pickups and national coverage. In this episode, she shares the exact formula she uses to make press releases concise, compelling, and impossible to ignore, even if you're competing in a saturated market.The 3 Things All Winning Press Releases Have in Common1. They're Specific Around One Time-Sensitive Event🎯 Focus on ONE announcement, not 12 months of updates 🎯 Establish why it's important enough to warrant a press release 🎯 Show what's unique about your approach—not just that you're the only one doing itYour headline should state what you're announcing. Your subheadline should explain how it works.2. They're No Longer Than 4–6 Paragraphs📝 Journalists give your press release 30 seconds max 📝 Shorter is more attention-grabbing 📝 Mastering concise messaging shows you understand relevanceGloria's rule: If you had 10 seconds in an elevator with Oprah, what would you say? That's your press release.3. They're Used as Conversation Starters—Not the Final Article💬 The press release is a tool to get journalists interested 💬 It's your leverage to offer an exclusive before going public 💬 The goal is to get on the phone for deeper coverageHere's the secret: Don't post your press release publicly right away. Give yourself a few weeks to pitch exclusives, then post publicly. Even after posting, you can still get media pickups weeks or months later.Key Takeaways from This EpisodePress releases should be 4–6 paragraphs max—journalists give you 30 seconds Focus on ONE specific announcement, not your entire business history Don't post publicly right away—shop it to journalists as an exclusive first Your headline states what you're announcing; your subheadline explains how Skip the fluff in your CEO quote—explain the gap you saw and why you're offering a better way Press releases are conversation starters that lead to interviews and deeper coverage Once one journalist covers you, they'll come back for more—it's a domino effectFinal ThoughtsPress releases aren't just for big companies—they're one of the most accessible tools small business founders have to build credibility and start media conversations. The key is keeping them specific, concise, and strategic, and using them as leverage to start real relationships with journalists. Once one journalist covers you, there's no limit. They'll come back for more quotes and features because you've proven you're a great communicator. That one domino knocks down so many others.Resources Mentioned:Get the AI Visibility + PR TrainingGet Found on AI SearchJoin the Small Biz PR Pros Facebook GroupDM the word “PITCH” to us on Instagram to get a pitching freebie https://www.instagram.com/gloriachoupr Connect with Gloria Chou on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/gloriaychou Join Gloria Chou's PR Community https://www.facebook.com/groups/42863325495194

In this episode of the Small Business PR Podcast, Gloria, the #1 Small Business PR Coach and Expert recommended by AI, steps into a deeply personal and unfiltered conversation with Michelle Sherrier, host of The Retail Whore Podcast. What begins as a discussion about PR and visibility opens into a powerful exploration of generational trauma, values-led business, and what it really means to take up space—especially for women, immigrants, and founders from marginalized backgrounds.Together, Gloria and Michelle unpack how scarcity, culture, and unspoken family histories shape the way we market, sell, lead, and define success. Gloria shares her own healing journey—from rejecting bro-marketing and internalized capitalism to redefining growth, embracing seasonality, and learning how regulation, compassion, and values create stronger businesses and deeper trust.Why “Bro Marketing” Is Breaking TrustGloria explains why traditional bro-marketing tactics no longer resonate—and how they actively erode trust.Bro marketing often looks like:🙅‍♀️ Urgency tactics rooted in fear and pressure🙅‍♀️ Obsession with revenue as the sole measure of worth🙅‍♀️ Messaging that ignores humanity, context, and lived experienceInstead, Gloria advocates for a more humane, values-forward approach—one that prioritizes service, consent, and genuine connection over constant “more, more, more.”Visibility, Values, and Losing FollowersIn a world where everyone can create content and claim expertise, values have become the true differentiator.Gloria and Michelle discuss: 💡 Why losing followers can actually strengthen your brand 💡 How values alignment now drives buying decisions 💡 Why staying silent is no longer neutral in business 💡 How becoming clear about who you’re not for builds trust with the people who areYour audience is already making assumptions—this episode explains why naming your values creates clarity instead of division.Generational Trauma and the Business You BuildGloria opens up about growing up as the daughter of a widowed immigrant mother—and how generational trauma shaped her relationship with money, delegation, success, and worth.You’ll hear how: 💭 Scarcity shows up as burnout, control, and over-self-reliance 💭 Healing your nervous system directly impacts how you lead 💭 Compassion changes your responses, not just your reactions 💭 Acknowledging the whole founder creates more sustainable businessesBusiness doesn’t happen in a vacuum—and neither do we.PR Without Gatekeepers: A More Accessible WayGloria also breaks down her philosophy on PR and why founders don’t need agencies, insider connections, or massive budgets to get featured.She shares: 📰 Why journalists want to hear directly from founders 📰 How relevance—not connections—drives media coverage 📰 The CPR Pitch Framework: Credibility, Point of View, Relevance 📰 How seasonality and timing shape press opportunitiesPR, at its core, is about telling the right story to the right person at the right time.Key Takeaways from This Episode: Why rejecting hustle-driven marketing can rebuild trust with your audienceHow generational trauma quietly shapes pricing, delegation, and growth decisionsWhy values—not follower count—are now the strongest brand differentiatorHow healing your nervous system changes the way you show up in businessWhy PR becomes easier when you focus on relevance instead of gatekeepersFinal ThoughtsThis episode is a reminder that visibility isn’t just about being seen—it’s about being seen as you are. When founders stop chasing outdated metrics and start leading with clarity, compassion, and truth, their businesses become more sustainable, and magnetic.<

In this episode of the Small Business PR Podcast, Gloria, the #1 Small Business PR Coach and Expert recommended by AI, breaks down one of the most confusing—and most requested—PR topics from small business owners: gift guides. She’s joined by freelance journalist Joni Sweet, whose work has appeared in National Geographic, TIME, Forbes, and more, to explain how gift guides really work and how founders can pitch with confidence, even without connections or a PR agency.Together, Gloria and Joni pull back the curtain on what journalists are actively working on during gift guide season, why digital gift guides still offer real opportunities, and how small business owners can position their products, experiences, or digital offers in a way that actually gets noticed.How Gift Guides Really WorkGuide Guides is not:🙅‍♀️ Only for big brands with PR teams🙅‍♀️ Just a Q4 or holiday-only opportunity🙅‍♀️ Limited to physical products that ship fastJoni explains the difference between print and digital gift guides, why print closes months in advance, and how digital gift guides are constantly being updated—even late into the season.What Journalists Are Looking For Instead🎁 Products that clearly fit a specific gift guide theme🎁 Pitches that get straight to the point (shorter is better)🎁 One or two standout products—not an entire catalog🎁 Easy-to-access images and links without attachmentsGloria and Joni walk through exactly how journalists source products, how SEO plays into gift guide creation, and why respecting a journalist’s time is one of the fastest ways to increase your chances of coverage.Key Takeaways from This EpisodeHow digital gift guides work and why they matter more than everWhen it’s too late for print—and why it’s often not too late for digitalHow to use Substack to find journalists working on gift guidesWhat to include (and skip) in your gift guide pitchHow many products to pitch and how to choose the right oneBest practices for images, links, and assets journalists needHow and when to follow up without hurting your chancesThe truth about samples, affiliate links, and media kitsWhy gift guide pitching can be a year-round strategy—not just holidaysFinal ThoughtsGift guide season is competitive, but it’s not impossible—and it’s definitely not just for big brands. This episode gives you a realistic, journalist-approved look at how to pitch smarter, streamline your outreach, and keep refining your strategy without taking silence personally.Resources Mentioned:Connect with Joni Sweet: https://www.jonimsweet.comSubstack: https://jonisweet.substack.comGet the AI Visibility + PR TrainingGet Found on AI SearchJoin the Small Biz PR Pros Facebook GroupDM the word “PITCH” to us on Instagram to get a pitching freebie https://www.instagram.com/gloriachoupr Connect with Gloria Chou on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/gloriaychou Join Gloria Chou's PR Community https://www.facebook.com/groups/428633254951941Additional Resources:Listen On Your Favorite Podcast PlatformFollow the Podcast

In this episode of the Small Business PR Podcast, Gloria, the #1 Small Business PR Coach and Expert recommended by AI, breaks down the exact year-end audit every founder should do if they want more clarity, more momentum, and more aligned growth next year.Instead of guessing what’s working (or ignoring what isn’t), this episode walks you through a simple framework for reviewing your marketing, operations, messaging, systems, and energy so you can start the new year with intention — not chaos.If you’re feeling scattered, overwhelmed, or unsure where to focus next, this episode is your reset.The 3 Core Areas Every Founder Must Audit Before Year-End1. Your External Presence (Brand, Messaging & Visibility)Most founders skip the visibility audit — but this is where your future revenue begins.Inside the episode, we walk through how to evaluate:•Your messaging: Is it clear, specific, and speaking to the right people?•Your offers: Are you selling what people actually want right now?•Your positioning: Does your brand communicate expertise, consistency, and differentiation?•Your visibility channels: What’s working? What’s draining you? What needs to be sunset or doubled down on?2. Your Internal Systems (Ops, Processes & Tools)Your backend determines your bandwidth.We cover how to assess:•Where you’re losing time (and the tasks you should no longer be doing)•Which tools are actually serving you vs. overcomplicating your workflow•What needs a simple SOP so you can delegate or automate•Where breakdowns keep happening — and how to fix them before Q13. Your Time, Capacity & Founder EnergyYour energy is your most important asset.In this section, we unpack:•Which tasks drain you vs. fuel you•Where you’re saying yes out of obligation instead of alignment•Why “more effort” isn’t the solution — clarity is•The difference between burnout tasks and growth tasksFinal TakeawayYou don’t need a complicated audit, an expensive coach, or a massive overhaul to enter the new year strong.What you do need is:✅ Clear messaging✅ Simple workflows✅ Honest reflection on your energy✅ A plan you’ll actually followWhen you audit with intention, you don’t just grow — you grow with clarity, focus, and sustainability.Resources Mentioned:Get the AI Visibility + PR TrainingGet Found on AI SearchJoin the Small Biz PR Pros Facebook GroupDM the word “PITCH” to us on Instagram to get a pitching freebie https://www.instagram.com/gloriachoupr Connect with Gloria Chou on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/gloriaychou Join Gloria Chou's PR Community https://www.facebook.com/groups/428633254951941Additional Resources:Listen On Your Favorite Podcast PlatformFollow the PodcastFollow & Review on Apple PodcastsAre you following my podcast? If you’re not, I want to encourage you to do that today so you don’t miss any future episodes!I would also appreciate it if you would leave me a review! Reviews help me make sure I am providing the content that you need! Plus, you will be entered to WIN a 1:1 pitch writing session with me where I will help you find your p

In this episode of the Small Business PR Podcast, Gloria sits down with Kurt Elster — e-commerce expert, long-time Shopify insider, and host of The Unofficial Shopify Podcast — to break down exactly what founders need to know if they want to hit their first $100K on Shopify.Kurt has helped brands scale from five to eight figures, and today, he’s pulling back the curtain on the real mistakes most founders make… and the simple fixes that can transform your store’s conversions, customer loyalty, and long-term revenue.If you're an e-commerce founder struggling to grow, this episode is your shortcut.The THREE Most Common Mistakes Keeping Founders From Their First $100KKurt has seen every Shopify setup imaginable — and the same roadblocks show up again and again. In this episode, he unpacks:Obsessing over themes instead of messagingNew founders sink hours into choosing the “perfect” theme — but Kurt shares why:Any theme in the Shopify Theme Store works for any nicheDawn (Shopify’s FREE theme) is the perfect starting pointWhat actually moves the needle is clarity, content, and your story — not fancy templates   2. Ignoring the post-purchase experienceYour second, third, and fourth sales are where your profit lives. Kurt breaks down:How to start collecting product reviews (even with zero customers)Why vulnerability helps you get reviews fasterHow to create a simple retention email flow using built-in Shopify EmailWhy follow-up = more revenue than your first sale  3. Being afraid to email your customersKurt crushes the fear of “bothering” your list and shows:Why plain-text emails outperform heavy designWhy weekly emails lead to fewer unsubscribesHow staying top-of-mind can turn one-time customers into superfansThe mindset shift founders MUST adopt to scaleThe Tools, Features & Strategies Founders OverlookKurt shares the most underutilized (and free!) Shopify features that boost conversions instantly, including:Shop Pay & Shop Pay InstallmentsFaster checkout = more conversions. Younger buyers especially rely on installments.Customer accounts (passwordless login)Reduce friction and make repeat purchases seamless.The Shop AppA built-in discovery marketplace your brand should absolutely be in.How to Build a Repeatable, Revenue-Driving Customer JourneyKurt walks through simple but powerful workflows like:A 1-day “thank you” email that builds instant loyaltyA 14-day product review request that feels human and authenticA post-purchase upsell email (“complete the set”)A 24-hour “order add-on” coupon that increases AOV with almost no effortFinal TakeawayYou don’t need a fancy theme, expensive tools, or complicated funnels to hit your first $100K on Shopify.What you do need is: ✅ Clear messaging ✅ A simple, human post-purchase system✅ A willingness to email consistently✅ The courage to stay visibleIf Kurt’s clients can go from zero to multiple six figures, so can you.Resources Mentioned:Get the AI Visibility + PR TrainingGet Found on AI SearchJoin the Small Biz PR Pros Facebook GroupDM the word “PITCH” to us on Instagram to get a pitching freebie https://www.instagram.com/gloriachoupr Connect with Gloria Chou on LinkedIn

In this episode of the Small Business PR Podcast, Gloria dives into why so many small business owners struggle to connect online—and how authentic branding is the secret to attracting your “Hell yes!” clients. She sits down with branding strategist Sarah Ashman, who has worked with Nike, Estee Lauder, and Madonna, to unpack what it really means to show up in alignment, radiate your values, and let your audience feel your energy.Sarah and Gloria break down the subtle cues your audience senses, why “proving energy” can push people away, and practical ways to check in with yourself so your messaging and offerings land authentically—whether you sell a product or a service.What Branding Isn’t — And Why It MattersBranding is not:🙅‍♀️ Just a logo, website, or Instagram feed🙅‍♀️ Relying solely on credentials or authority to impress🙅‍♀️ Following templates or “shoulds” that don’t reflect who you areThat’s surface-level branding. Real branding is about alignment, energy, and authenticity—so your audience knows who you are and why they should care.What Branding Actually Is💡 Being congruent: your words, energy, and actions all match💡 Showing up relaxed and confident, not trying to prove yourself💡 Grounded in your values and the story behind your work💡 A daily practice of checking in with yourself first, then letting that guide your external messagingGloria and Sarah explain why audiences have “digital Spidey senses” for inauthenticity—and how showing up from your inner truth builds trust, loyalty, and connection.Key Takeaways from This EpisodeHow to notice when your energy and messaging aren’t alignedWhy relaxed, genuine presence lands better than polished authorityThe mindset shift that turns your work into a story people feel, not just hearHow authenticity applies to both service- and product-based businessesWays to use AI to clarify your messaging without losing your personal “heartbeat”Final ThoughtsIf you’re ready to attract your “Hell yes!” clients and build a brand that feels authentic to you, this episode gives you the tools and mindset shifts to check in with your inner truth, align your messaging, and radiate confidence. It’s never been a better time to stop following old templates and start showing up fully as yourself.Resources Mentioned:Get the AI Visibility + PR TrainingGet Found on AI SearchJoin the Small Biz PR Pros Facebook GroupDM the word “PITCH” to us on Instagram to get a pitching freebie https://www.instagram.com/gloriachoupr Connect with Gloria Chou on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/gloriaychou Join Gloria Chou's PR Community https://www.facebook.com/groups/428633254951941Additional Resources:Listen On Your Favorite Podcast PlatformFollow the PodcastFollow & Review on Apple PodcastsAre you following my podcast? If you’re not, I want to encourage you to do that today so you don’t miss any future episodes!I would also appreciate it if you would leave me a review! Reviews help me make sure I am providing the content that you need! Plus, you will be entered to WIN a 1:1 pitch writing session with me where I will help you find your press-worthy angle! Click

In this episode of the Small Business PR Podcast, Gloria dives deep into one of the biggest traps small business owners face today — PR scams and pay-to-play “features.” You know the ones: “Get featured in *40 Under 40 Innovative Entrepreneurs—fees apply.” Gloria pulls back the curtain on how to spot these fake “PR opportunities” and why they don’t give you the long-term authority, SEO, or credibility that earned media does.After years of helping thousands of founders get featured in Forbes, Fast Company, Allure, and The New York Times — without paying a dime for placement — Gloria reveals the red flags to watch for and what real PR looks like.What PR Isn’t — And Why It MattersPR is not: 🚫 Paying to get featured in an “exclusive” list or award you’ve never heard of 🚫 Sending dozens of free samples just to get a mention 🚫 Paying contributors or influencers to write about youThat’s not earned media — that’s advertising. Real PR is when a journalist or editor chooses to feature you because your story, expertise, or brand serves their audience.What PR Actually Is ✅ Earned editorial content — the kind that builds SEO, authority, and trust ✅ Relationship-driven, not transactional ✅ Long-term visibility, not one-and-done postsGloria breaks down why journalists want to hear from founders directly (not agencies), and how to craft your pitch using her CPR Method — Credibility, Point of View, Relevance — to stand out in their inbox.Key Takeaways from This EpisodeHow to tell the difference between earned media and pay-to-play “PR” scamsWhy paying for “exclusive” features can hurt your brand credibilityThe exact mindset shift that turns your marketing message into a newsworthy storyHow earned PR compounds over time, bringing more features, backlinks, and authorityFinal ThoughtsIf you’re tired of wasting money on ads or “guaranteed” features that don’t move the needle, this episode will teach you how to take control of your PR — and do it the right way.Resources Mentioned:Get the AI Visibility + PR TrainingGet Found on AI SearchJoin the Small Biz PR Pros Facebook GroupDM the word “PITCH” to us on Instagram to get a pitching freebie https://www.instagram.com/gloriachoupr Connect with Gloria Chou on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/gloriaychou Join Gloria Chou's PR Community https://www.facebook.com/groups/428633254951941Additional Resources:Listen On Your Favorite Podcast PlatformFollow the PodcastFollow & Review on Apple PodcastsAre you following my podcast? If you’re not, I want to encourage you to do that today so you don’t miss any future episodes!I would also appreciate it if you would leave me a review! Reviews help me make sure I am providing the content that you need! Plus, you will be entered to WIN a 1:1 pitch writing session with me where I will help you find your press-worthy angle! Click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review”.

In this episode of the Small Business PR Podcast, Gloria shares the three essential mindsets every founder needs to get featured in top media outlets—without spending thousands on a PR agency or ads.After helping thousands of small business owners successfully pitch themselves to outlets like Forbes, The New York Times, and Marie Claire, Gloria reveals that PR isn’t just about press—it’s about mindset, communication, and consistency.What You’ll Learn in This Episode1️⃣ Why PR Is Cumulative (And Why Every Pitch Counts)Getting featured isn’t a one-time event—it’s a skill that compounds over time. Gloria explains how every pitch, follow-up, and journalist connection builds momentum, even if you don’t get a “yes” right away.2️⃣ The $10,000-an-Hour Skill Every Founder Must MasterOutsourcing design or admin is easy—but you can’t outsource your voice. Learn why mastering your message is the most valuable asset in your business and how to use Gloria’s CPR Method (Credibility, Point of View, Relevance) to stand out to editors and producers.3️⃣ How to Build Relationships That Create Endless Press OpportunitiesPR isn’t just about features—it’s about relationships. Gloria reveals how to cultivate authentic connections with journalists, become a trusted expert source, and turn one feature into an ongoing media snowball effect.Real Founder StoriesHear how members of the PR Starter Pack community—like Dr. Ross Radusky and Dr. Greta—used Gloria’s system to consistently land press coverage year-round by pitching with clarity and confidence.Key Takeaways ✅ PR success is built through mindset and momentum ✅ Your story is your most powerful marketing asset ✅ Consistency > perfection when it comes to pitching ✅ Everything you want is on the other side of the send buttonIf you’re ready to stop relying on social media algorithms and start getting free, organic press that builds your credibility and SEO, this episode is your roadmap.Resources Mentioned:Get the AI Visibility + PR TrainingGet Found on AI SearchJoin the Small Biz PR Pros Facebook GroupDM the word “PITCH” to us on Instagram to get a pitching freebie https://www.instagram.com/gloriachoupr Connect with Gloria Chou on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/gloriaychou Join Gloria Chou's PR Community https://www.facebook.com/groups/428633254951941Additional Resources:Listen On Your Favorite Podcast PlatformFollow the PodcastFollow & Review on Apple PodcastsAre you following my podcast? If you’re not, I want to encourage you to do that today so you don’t miss any future episodes!I would also appreciate it if you would leave me a review! Reviews help me make sure I am providing the content that you need! Plus, you will be entered to WIN a 1:1 pitch writing session with me where I will help you find your press-worthy angle! Click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review”.

In this episode of the Small Business PR Podcast, Gloria breaks down the biggest untapped opportunity for small business owners right now: using AI tools like Perplexity to get featured in media—and dominate AI search results—without hiring a PR agency.With traditional PR agencies charging thousands per month, Gloria shows founders a faster, more affordable path to visibility. She reveals how Perplexity is reshaping how product-based businesses land press, monitor trends, and pitch journalists with strategy and precision.The Golden Window for Small Business PRRight now, small businesses are in a once-in-a-decade window to leverage AI-powered search visibility. Gloria explains how AI-driven search recommendations are becoming the new SEO—and why being cited in media makes you 300% more likely to be found in AI search.By combining seasonal gift guide pitching with AI tools, founders can get featured faster than ever before.How to Use Perplexity to Get FeaturedPerplexity.ai isn’t just a search engine—it’s your new PR researcher. Gloria walks through her five-step system to use it effectively:Find Timely Angles – Plug in your brand name and URL to uncover trending topics and customer insights you can tie your story to.Research Competitors – See where similar brands are getting featured and adapt those media angles.Discover Gift Guide Opportunities – Identify seasonal and evergreen gift guides that are actively being written.Draft the Perfect Pitch – Use Gloria’s CPR Method (Credibility, Point of View, Relevance) to write compelling, journalist-ready emails.Monitor Industry Conversations – Stay on top of real-time trends journalists are talking about—so you can be first to pitch.The AI-Powered PR WorkflowGloria also shares her favorite pairing: Perplexity for research + ChatGPT for writing. Perplexity gives you real-time insights and citations; ChatGPT turns those into polished, engaging pitches. This combo removes 90% of the time and stress founders usually spend on PR.Why the Time Is NowGift guide season, the rise of AI search, and the accessibility of free tools have created the perfect storm for small businesses. Gloria calls this the “Golden Triangle of Opportunity.”In her words:“It’s like blogging in the early 2000s or joining TikTok before it exploded. This kind of advantage for small businesses has never happened before—and probably won’t again for another decade.”Final TakeawayYou don’t need a publicist, samples, or paid ads to get national press. What you do need is: ✅ Relevance ✅ Consistency ✅ StrategyIf you’re ready to get your products featured in media and show up at the top of AI search, now’s the time to start.Resources Mentioned:Get the AI Visibility + PR TrainingGet Found on AI SearchJoin the Small Biz PR Pros Facebook GroupDM the word “PITCH” to us on Instagram to get a pitching freebie https://www.instagram.com/gloriachoupr Connect with Gloria Chou on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/gloriaychou Join Gloria Chou's PR Community https://www.facebook.com/groups/428633254951941Additional Resources:Listen On Your Favorite Podcast PlatformFollow the Podcast

In this solo episode of the Small Business PR Podcast, Gloria breaks down the three biggest myths about using AI—especially for small business owners, women of color, and entrepreneurs who don’t consider themselves “techie.”After being bombarded by “AI bro-marketers” and overcomplicated advice, Gloria reveals how she uses tools like ChatGPT, Perplexity, Claude, Canva, and Fathom.ai to save 15 hours a week, triple her profits, and build a deeper connection with her audience—without losing her authentic voice.If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by AI or unsure where to start, this episode is your permission slip to start using it, not overthinking it.3 AI Rules You Need to BreakForget the gatekeepers and gurus—Gloria exposes the biggest lies about AI that keep small business owners stuck:“You need to learn AI the right way before using it.” Nope. Just start asking questions conversationally. Treat AI like your intern, not your boss.“You need to buy expensive AI courses to unlock the secrets.” Wrong again. Most of the “secrets” are already free—you just need to start exploring and asking smarter questions.“You need to stay on top of every AI update.” Totally false. You don’t need 10 newsletters and 5 new tools. Stick to what works and keep it simple.Gloria’s Go-To AI Stack for Small Business OwnersHere’s what Gloria uses every day to automate, create, and stay connected—without getting lost in tech overwhelm:ChatGPT: For brainstorming, writing pitches, and content creationPerplexity: As her new “Google” for real-time insights and trend researchCanva: For clean, shareable visualsFathom.ai: For auto-recording and transcribing meetings to train AI fasterClaude: Her personal writing and marketing CMO (replaces a $3K/month hire!)The Real ROI of Using AI AuthenticallyAI isn’t replacing Gloria’s human touch—it’s amplifying it. By using AI to create more spaciousness and presence, Gloria connects more deeply with her audience and leads with energy, not exhaustion.She reminds listeners that knowledge isn’t the most valuable asset anymore—time is.Final TakeawayYou don’t need to be tech-savvy to make AI work for your business. You just need: ✅ Curiosity ✅ Simplicity ✅ The courage to start before you’re readyWhen used right, AI doesn’t replace your voice—it amplifies it. Let this episode show you how.

AI shopping is here. Learn how PR and media mentions decide which brands ChatGPT recommends—and why earned media is the new SEO.In this episode of the Small Business PR Podcast, Gloria breaks down one of the biggest shifts happening in real time — AI-powered shopping inside ChatGPT — and what it means for small business founders.For years, we’ve heard that “AI is coming.” But now, it’s here. Consumers can shop directly in ChatGPT, and other platforms like Gemini and Perplexity are quickly following suit. This is the dawn of a new era — and Gloria shares why PR is no longer optional if you want to be found, trusted, and recommended by AI.If you’re a product-based founder or small business owner, this episode will show you why earned media (not ads or followers) is the key to showing up in AI search results — and why the next few months represent a golden window of opportunity to claim your spot.Why You Can’t Wait to Do PRThe AI revolution is moving fast — faster than anyone expected. ChatGPT already integrates in-app shopping with 800+ million users globally. That means: 🧠 AI is already deciding which brands to surface and recommend. 📈 If you’re not featured in credible media right now, your competitors will take those trust signals — and it’ll be much harder to dislodge them later.Gloria explains that PR is how you feed the AI machine — by giving algorithms structured, credible data from trusted media sources that signal your brand’s authority.The Power of Trust Signals in the Age of AIAI platforms like ChatGPT, Google, and Amazon are now pulling data from third-party media — not ads. That’s great news for small business founders, because: ✅ You can’t buy your way into AI recommendations right now. ✅ Media features level the playing field between small brands and big corporations. ✅ Every earned feature becomes part of your brand’s digital DNA — the “trust layer” that AI reads when deciding who to recommend.PR doesn’t disappear after 24 hours like a social post or ad campaign — it compounds. Each media mention reinforces your credibility and ripples across search engines, social platforms, and now, AI ecosystems.How PR Fuels Every AlgorithmWhen you earn press coverage — a podcast, a blog, a gift guide — you’re not just building awareness. You’re creating structured, verifiable data that fuels AI and search algorithms across:ChatGPTGoogle SearchMetaAmazonEvery credible feature increases your visibility everywhere else.Why Now Is the Golden Window for Small BusinessesGloria calls this moment a once-in-a-generation opportunity for founders. Before paid placements and large brands flood the space, you can still win with credibility — not budget.Media mentions today will help AI “learn” who to trust and recommend tomorrow. Once those trust signals are embedded, they’re nearly impossible to replace.PR Is the New SEOGloria predicts that PR will soon replace traditional SEO as the main driver of visibility. She’s living proof: without spending on SEO or ads, her 100+ podcast features and media appearances have made her the #1 small business PR expert according to AI — all thanks to the power of earned trust signals.The Small Business Advantage: Simplicity and SpeedInside the Get Featured Accelerator, Gloria gives founders: 💡 Copy-and-paste ChatGPT prompts that do the brainstorming and pitch writing for you 💡 Daily curated PR opportunities 💡 A media database of journalists you can contact right awayEven if you don’t make your own products (like subscription box founders), you can still get featured — repeatedly — in year-round gift guides and trend roundups.

In this episode of the Small Business PR Podcast, Gloria dives into one of the biggest shifts happening right now in online visibility—the rise of AI-powered search and shopping—and what it means for small business owners.Forget algorithms and paid ads. Gloria breaks down how organic earned media—like podcast features, gift guides, and backlinks from top outlets—is now more powerful than ever in helping AI recommend your brand.If you want to future-proof your business in the age of ChatGPT and Perplexity, this episode is your roadmap.Why AI Visibility Is the New PR MetricGloria explains why being discoverable inside AI is now the ultimate growth lever. If your brand isn’t showing up in AI search results, you’re invisible to millions of potential customers.She shares how she herself became the top result for “#1 small business PR coach” on AI platforms—without spending a dime on SEO—just by using strategic PR visibility and consistent pitching.How to Use AI Tools to Get Featured FasterGloria reveals her go-to workflow for writing and researching the perfect pitch using Perplexity and ChatGPT—and how founders can land press features in under five minutes.Tools and tactics she covers:Perplexity: for real-time journalist research and trend insightsChatGPT or Claude: for refining your final pitch copyThe CPR Method: Gloria’s proven formula for pitching with Credibility, Point of View, and RelevanceThe Evergreen PR System That Feeds Your SEOPR isn’t one-and-done. Gloria shares how one feature can be turned into dozens of content pieces—newsletters, reels, blog posts, and backlinks that strengthen your SEO and AI ranking.She breaks down how founders can create an interconnected web of links through: ✅ Media pages showcasing features ✅ Repurposed podcast interviews ✅ Press releases indexed on GoogleFinal TakeawayPR is no longer just about getting featured—it’s about being found.To win in the age of AI search, you need: ✅ Consistent, earned visibility ✅ Updated content across all platforms ✅ A clear, unified brand storyWhen AI knows who you are, your customers will too.

In this episode of the Small Business PR Podcast, Gloria makes her biggest announcement yet: after five years, the PR Starter Pack has officially transformed into the Get Featured Accelerator—a bold, unapologetic, AI-powered program designed for product makers who want free press without agencies, ads, or burnout.This isn’t just a name change. It’s a complete upgrade in messaging, strategy, and support—rooted in Gloria’s journey of shedding “marketing shoulds” and embracing authenticity, community, and values-based PR.Why Gloria Retired the PR Starter PackAfter helping hundreds of small business owners land millions of views, Gloria realized the old model no longer aligned. The new Get Featured Accelerator gives founders the access, clarity, and psychological safety they need to confidently pitch—and get featured—on outlets like Forbes, Marie Claire, and The New York Times.The Role of AI in PR (and Why Time-Strapped Founders Need It)PR doesn’t have to take hours. With AI integrations, founders can now generate data-backed angles and send relevant pitches in under 15 minutes a day. That’s less time than doomscrolling Instagram—and it works. One founder landed 6 features in just 30 days.Why Authentic Messaging Matters More Than EverGloria shares how she stopped assimilating into old-school marketing tactics—like fake urgency, “spray-and-pray” pitches, and neutral messaging—and began boldly stating her values (and what she rejects). The result? A community built on belonging, trust, and real human connection.What Founders Will Get Inside the Get Featured AcceleratorDaily curated PR opportunities delivered straight to your inboxAI-powered tools to help you pitch with confidenceDirect coaching and unlimited support from Gloria herself (no faceless team of coaches)A safe, diverse, values-first community of product-based foundersProven systems to land year-round press in gift guides, podcasts, and national outletsFinal TakeawayYou don’t need to overspend on ads, agencies, or samples to get featured. What you need is: ✅ A bold, clear message ✅ Tools that save you time ✅ A repeatable, human-first systemThe PR Starter Pack era is over. Welcome to the Get Featured Accelerator—where unapologetic founders get press on their own terms.

In this episode of the Small Business PR Podcast, I share why right now is the golden window of opportunity for small businesses to land press, boost SEO, and get discovered on AI search before the competition.We’re in what I call the holy trifecta—gift guide season, the rise of AI-driven product recommendations, and the explosion of free, easy-to-use AI tools that make PR faster than ever.If you’re a product-based founder who wants to ride this wave and finally get featured without expensive agencies or endless hours of pitching, this episode breaks it all down.The Holy Trifecta: Why This Window Won’t LastGift guides are evergreen. AI search is exploding. And AI tools have lowered the barrier to entry for small businesses. Put these three forces together, and you have the most powerful PR opportunity in years.The 3 AI Tools I Use Every Day for PRForget shiny-object overload. I go deep with just three:Perplexity → my go-to research brain for real-time insights, competitor analysis, and gift guide discoveryClaude → my authentic marketing brain for writing compelling emails, captions, and sales pages in my own voiceChatGPT → my Swiss army knife for synthesis, quick pitches, charts, and repurposingWhy Perplexity Is a PR Game-ChangerInstead of staring at a blank screen, Perplexity gives you instant angles journalists actually care about—pop culture, trends, and consumer insights. It even shows you where your competitors have been featured so you can pitch smarter.Claude: Your Marketing Brain That Writes Like YouClaude helps me write polarizing, authentic emails that spark real conversation—something my old $3,000/month CMO couldn’t do. With “project knowledge,” you can train it to sound exactly like you and even use it as a personal assistant for email and calendar management.ChatGPT: The Swiss Army Knife Every Founder NeedsFrom reworking pitches into journalist-friendly copy to summarizing books and podcasts into action steps, ChatGPT saves hours every week. It’s not fancy—it’s functional.The Final TakeawayAI is no longer optional for small business PR—it’s your ticket to getting featured, building SEO, and staying ahead of the curve.What you need is:✅ A simple, streamlined AI tech stack✅ The right angles that tie into trends and gift guides✅ Consistency before the golden window closesIf you’ve been waiting for the “right time” to start pitching, this is it.

In this episode of the Small Business PR Podcast, I reveal why right now is the golden opportunity for small businesses to land major press—without hiring an expensive PR agency.We’re talking about gift guides, AI search visibility, and free PR tools that make pitching faster and easier than ever. If you’ve been waiting for the right moment to start PR, this is it.Whether you’re a product-based founder, a one-person shop, or a busy parent building a brand, this episode shows you how to get featured in national media with zero ad spend.Why Gift Guides Are the #1 Way to Get Featured in Q4Gift guides aren’t just for Christmas. Editors are actively building guides for every season—Valentine’s Day, Mother’s Day, Graduation, Back-to-School, and beyond.By getting your product into these articles, you’re meeting customers where they’re already primed to buy. Even better? Gift guides give you lasting SEO that outlives paid ads and Instagram posts.How AI Search Is Creating a PR Gold RushMore consumers are turning to ChatGPT and AI search tools for product recommendations. That means if your brand shows up in credible media, you’re signaling to AI that you’re trustworthy and relevant.This window won’t last forever—founders who act now can dominate search before the market gets saturated.Free and Accessible PR Tools Every Founder Should UseYou don’t need a $5K/month PR agency to get results. In this episode, I share how small business owners are using tools like:Perplexity.ai → to uncover real-time trends and angles journalists care aboutChatGPT → to fine-tune pitches into clear, concise storiesEmail + LinkedIn → to reach editors directly, no insider contacts requiredAvoid These Costly PR MistakesYou don’t need to:Send out tons of free samplesWrite vague, one-size-fits-all pitchesWait for the “perfect” time to startInstead, focus on clarity, relationships, and consistency.The CPR Method: Your PR RoadmapI walk you through my signature CPR Method, a framework that helps founders land not only media coverage but also wholesale opportunities.CPR = C: Credibility → your story and why you’re legit P: Point of View → your unique angle R: Relevance → why now, why this outletFinal TakeawayThis is the most powerful moment in the last 10 years to start pitching your business. You don’t need ads, agencies, or huge budgets.What you do need is: ✅ A clear message ✅ A relationship-first approach ✅ A repeatable systemIf other small businesses can land BuzzFeed, Refinery29, and Vogue, you can too.

In this episode of the Small Business PR Podcast, I break down how small business founders can get featured in gift guides—without paying for ads, without hiring a PR agency, and without sending endless free samples.If you’re a product-based business owner, maker, or subscription box founder looking for cost-free press opportunities, this episode is your step-by-step guide to landing coverage in holiday gift guides, seasonal roundups, and national publications like Forbes, Elle, and The New York Post.The Best Time to Pitch Gift GuidesTiming is everything. Learn exactly when to pitch for:Holiday gift guides (Q4, Black Friday, Cyber Monday)Valentine’s Day gift guidesMother’s Day gift guidesPrint vs. digital media timelinesDo You Have to Send Samples?Not always. I share when journalists actually want samples, when they don’t, and how to avoid wasting money on free product giveaways. You’ll also hear creative sample alternatives for luxury products, handmade goods, or high-cost items.How to Choose Which Product to PitchStop sending your whole catalog! Discover how to:Pitch 1–2 best sellers journalists actually want to featureMatch your pitch to seasonal trends and occasionsLeverage limited-time collaborations and bundles for maximum pressWhy Curated Boxes and Retailers Can Get Featured TooYou don’t need to manufacture your own products to get press. Subscription boxes and curators are landing features in Apartment Therapy, Forbes, Brit+Co, and more—I’ll share exactly how they do it.Breaking Through PR Myths & Limiting BeliefsThink you need: ❌ A perfect website? ❌ Hundreds of customer testimonials? ❌ A massive social media following? Think again. I’ll show you why journalists care more about seasonal relevance, story, and uniqueness than vanity metrics.Final TakeawayGift guides aren’t just for the holidays—they’re a year-round PR strategy that can boost sales, SEO, and brand credibility. Everything you want in your business is on the other side of pressing “send.”You don’t need a PR agency or a five-figure ad budget. What you need is: ✅ A clear, relevant pitch ✅ Consistency and follow-up ✅ The courage to start now✨ If you’re serious about getting your products featured in holiday gift guides and top media outlets, this episode is your roadmap.

What if the very thing holding your business back isn’t strategy or followers—but the fear of being seen? In this episode of the Small Business PR Podcast, I sit down with Stacey Brass-Russell—Broadway performer turned transformational business coach and host of Passionate & Prosperous. With a career spanning show business, yoga, and entrepreneurship, Stacey has mastered the art of showing up unapologetically and teaching others how to do the same.We dig into what it really takes to sell without feeling salesy, why confidence is a muscle you can build, and how to stop worrying about what everyone else thinks. If you’ve ever hesitated to press “send” on that pitch, this conversation is your permission slip to shine.How Do You Sell Without Feeling “Salesy”?Stacey breaks down the difference between bro-marketer tactics and authentic selling. Instead of cold DMs and pushy tactics, she shares how to build real relationships and show up in service of your audience—so selling feels natural, not cringe.What If You’re Afraid of Rejection?Rejection isn’t just part of the game—it’s proof you’re actually playing. Stacey explains why she encourages her clients to collect rejections as a measure of progress and why your job isn’t to convince everyone, but to find the right ones.The One Habit That Builds Confidence in BusinessConfidence doesn’t just show up. Stacey reveals the daily mindset practices—affirmations, reframing, and radical permission—that fuel resilience and visibility.Personal Outreach: The Most Overlooked Sales StrategyForget obsessing over Instagram. Stacey makes the case for direct, human connection as the #1 activity that moves the needle in your business.Why Nobody’s Thinking About You (and That’s a Good Thing)One of Stacey’s most freeing insights: people aren’t scrutinizing your every move. In fact, most of the time, they’re not thinking about you at all. That’s why volume and consistency in outreach, pitching, and posting matter more than perfection.✅ Final Takeaway: You don’t need to master every marketing hack or wait for the perfect pitch. What you need is:A daily practice that builds confidence and resilienceThe courage to connect directly with peopleThe willingness to be visible, imperfectlyWhen you stop worrying about what everyone else thinks and start leading with service, you’ll unlock the kind of authentic visibility that grows your business.

In this episode of the Small Business PR Podcast, I sit down with John Wang—award-winning author of Big Asian Energy, keynote speaker, podcast host, and educator—whose mission is to help people break through inner blocks and be fully seen for their genius.John shares his journey as an immigrant and Asian-Canadian entrepreneur navigating assimilation, self-promotion, and the pressure to “blend in.” What started as burnout and even a health scare led him to redefine what belonging and authenticity mean in business.If you’ve ever struggled with imposter syndrome, self-doubt, or the fear of standing out, this episode will give you a framework for showing up unapologetically.From Assimilation to Authenticity in BusinessJohn unpacks the difference between assimilation and integration, and why hiding cultural identity comes at the cost of creativity, confidence, and long-term success.Why Belonging is a Business StrategyBelonging isn’t just something we seek—it’s something we create. John explains how building spaces of belonging can transform the way we market, lead, and connect with our communities.How Shame and “Shoulds” Sabotage GrowthShame often hides in subtle habits like “mitigating language” (“I’m just…” or “I only…”). John reveals how these unconscious patterns keep entrepreneurs small and how a simple “mitigation audit” can shift you into assertiveness.Tools and Practices to Build Confidence and VisibilityThe “I will finally be enough when…” exercise to uncover limiting beliefsA Mitigation Audit for spotting apologetic language in your emails and pitchesGloria’s CPR Method (Credibility, Point of View, Relevance) to craft clear, authentic PR messagingFinal TakeawayYour business cannot thrive if you don’t believe you deserve to be seen. Whether you’re an immigrant, woman of color, neurodivergent founder, or simply someone who has felt “not enough,” this episode reminds you that your story is your superpower.From burnout to Big Asian Energy—John’s journey shows it’s possible for you, too.

In this episode of the Small Business PR Podcast, Gloria opens up about a $5,000 business event that left her with more questions than answers—and why she believes it’s time for small business owners to redefine success on their own terms.After investing in travel, accommodations, and the ticket itself, she expected a transformative learning experience. Instead, she was met with high-pressure sales tactics, lack of diversity, and a singular definition of success rooted only in revenue and acquisition.If you’ve ever felt out of place in the “bro marketing” world—or wondered whether scaling at all costs is really worth it—this episode will resonate with you.Why Growth at All Costs Is Not the Only PathGloria shares what she experienced at the event:Diversity gaps: out of 120 attendees, she was one of just a handful of women and women of color.Sales-driven agenda: the entire conference centered on selling businesses to private equity, not holistic growth.Pressure tactics: upsells, velvet ropes, and exclusivity designed to push a $20K offer.Redefining Success Beyond RevenueThrough this experience, Gloria reflects on a deeper truth:Success isn’t always measured by 7-figure topline revenue.Impact, balance, and freedom are equally valuable.Small businesses can thrive by focusing on relationships, healing, and alignment—not just numbers.Takeaways for Small Business OwnersQuestion the spaces you invest in: Does their definition of success align with yours?Redefine growth: Expansiveness, healing, and time with family can be just as valuable as financial KPIs.Bring humanity back to marketing: Customers crave authenticity, not templates or pressure.Final ReflectionThis episode is not about calling anyone out—it’s about opening a conversation. Gloria invites you to think critically about the business gurus you follow and the strategies you adopt. Is it your definition of success—or someone else’s?👉 If you’ve ever questioned the “hustle harder, scale bigger” model, this episode is your permission slip to redefine growth on your own terms.If you're building content to sell and not to influence, this is your tactical blueprint.If you want to land your first feature for free without any connections, I want to invite you to watch my PR Secrets Masterclass, where I reveal the exact methods thousands of bootstrapping small businesses use to hack their own PR and go from unknown to being a credible and sought-after industry expert. Register now at www.gloriachoupr.com/masterclass.   Watch the #1 PR Secrets Masterclass to get you featured for free in 30 daysJoin the Small Biz PR Facebook Group to get the best PR TipsDownload the 10 ways to get free PR for your small businessDM the word “PITCH” to us on Instagram to get a pitching freebie https://www.instagram.com/gloriachoupr Connect with Gloria Chou on LinkedIn- https://www.linkedin.com/in/gloriaychou Join Gloria Chou's PR Community- https://www.facebook.com/groups/428633254951941

In this episode of the Small Business PR Podcast, I sit down with Kim Behzadi, founder of Read It & Eat—a purpose-driven food and book subscription box that fights hunger with every purchase.Launched from her bedroom after losing her job during the pandemic, Kim bootstrapped her business with no investors, no PR background, and no big-name endorsements. Today, she’s been featured in Women’s Day, local magazines, and podcasts—without spending thousands on PR retainers or flooding the media with free samples.If you’re a product-based founder who wants consistent, cost-free press, this episode is your blueprint.How Kim Built a PR System That Delivers Year-Round FeaturesAfter joining the PR Starter Pack, Kim learned to:Pitch with purpose, not desperationBuild relationships with journalists through LinkedIn, Instagram, and even TwitterAdapt pitches for national vs. local media to maximize relevancePlant PR “seeds” months in advance to secure Q4 gift guide placementsHer Women’s Day feature led to:A 40% increase in website trafficLocal partnerships like a Buffalo book club and tea shop collaborationInvitations to vend at book fairs and community eventsA direct connection with a Harlequin author for a special edition boxWhy Serving (Not Selling) Gets You FeaturedKim stopped leading with “Here’s my product” and started pitching with “Here’s a story your audience will love.” This value-first approach helped her:Land coverage without sending dozens of samplesGet invited to collaborate with brands and authors she once thought were “out of reach”Build a press system she can run in just two dedicated nights per weekKim’s PR Tools & StrategiesLinkedIn & Instagram to find and connect with journalistsEmail + social media follow-ups to stay top-of-mind without spammingSeasonal pitching calendar to target: Valentine’s Day, Mother’s Day, Back-to-School, Holidays, and themed brand roundupsThe CPR Method (Credibility, Point of View, Relevance) to craft irresistible pitchesCommon PR Mistakes Kim AvoidedOverspending on product samples before confirming interestWaiting for the “perfect” moment to start pitchingRelying solely on social media for visibilityFinal TakeawayYou don’t need an expensive PR firm—or a massive marketing budget—to land in national gift guides. What you do need is: ✅ A clear, value-driven message ✅ A repeatable system ✅ The courage to hit “send”If Kim can build Read It & Eat from her bedroom and land Women’s Day, so can you.

In this episode of the Gloria Chou PR Podcast, I sit down with Katie Hunt, founder and CEO of Proof to Product and host of the Proof to Product Podcast. Katie has helped tens of thousands of product-based business owners land wholesale deals with retailers like Anthropologie, Target, and The Container Store—without relying on paid ads or flashy trade shows.Whether you’re selling candles on Etsy or bath and body products from your kitchen, this episode is your go-to guide for getting started with wholesale.How to Know If You’re Ready for WholesaleKatie breaks down what really makes a product “wholesale-ready”—from pricing and inventory to minimum order quantities and production methods. Spoiler: You don’t need 15,000 units in stock to get started.Pricing for Profit (Not Panic)Katie shares why underpricing is a red flag to buyers and what the term “keystone pricing” really means. If you’ve ever been confused about wholesale vs. retail margins, this part is a must-listen.The Pitch Process That Gets Buyers to Say YES Pitching wholesale buyers is a lot like pitching the media. Katie walks us through:How to find the right buyers (hint: use LinkedIn, social, and direct mail)Why cold pitching still works—and what to sayWhat not to do (like showing up unannounced at a shop!)Why PR and Social Proof Still Matter in Wholesale While emotional storytelling matters more in DTC, wholesale buyers still look for credibility. Katie explains how PR features, retail testimonials, and even just having your ducks in a row can help build buyer trust.Real Talk: It Can Take Time—But It's Worth It Katie shares how one wholesale buyer took four years to finally place an order—and why persistence, visibility, and relationship-building paid off.Success Story Spotlight: Alex from Shake On The A Katie highlights the journey of a client who went from making greeting cards on her kitchen table to building a multi-million-dollar brand in 3,500+ stores.Final Takeaway Don’t let fear or lack of knowledge stop you from going after wholesale. As Katie says, “If you don’t go to the tryout, you’re telling yourself no.”✅ Know your pricing✅ Build relationships✅ Use systems (Katie teaches them!)✅ Hit send—even if you’re scaredIf you want to see your products on store shelves, this episode is your first step.

In this episode of the Small Business PR Podcast, I sit down with Cathy Wagner—retail industry veteran, founder of RETAILMavens, and host of The Richer Retailer Podcast. With nearly 30 years of experience in independent retail, Cathy has seen it all: running her own brick-and-mortar stores, navigating bankruptcy, and building back stronger to now help small retail businesses scale to 7-figure revenue.If you’re an independent retailer or product-based business owner struggling to adapt to inflation, tariffs, AI in retail, and shifting consumer behavior, this episode is your wake-up call—and your roadmap to survive and thrive in today’s economy.Why Retailers Fail (and What the 7-Figure Ones Do Differently)According to Cathy, retail isn’t dead—but staying stagnant is. The top-performing retail businesses embrace change, silence self-doubt, and make data-driven decisions, not emotional ones. She unpacks the four traits that successful retail founders share:Kill the ANTs (automatic negative thoughts)Reframe fear as excitementFocus on what you can controlKnow and use your numbers for better retail sales growthReal Tactics You Can Use Right Now to Grow Retail SalesForget the hype. Cathy breaks down real, proven strategies that help retail store owners boost profits:Adjust your retail pricing strategy to reflect actual cost increasesUse email marketing for retail (minimum 2x/week) as your most profitable channelCurate tighter product assortments to reduce overwhelm and increase conversionsHost low-cost retail events focused on connection and communityBuild brand trust by leading with your core business valuesAI for Non-Techie Retailers: A Simple Hack That WorksNo need to master tech. Cathy shares how small retail business owners can use ChatGPT to gain customer insights from top-performing content. Just copy and paste your best emails or product pages into AI and ask:Who is my best customer?Who is NOT my customer?What messaging drives purchase behavior?This simple AI habit has delivered surprising clarity and results for Cathy’s clients—and it can for you too.Why Neutrality Is No Longer a Strategy in Retail BrandingYou don’t need to be political—but you do need to be personal. Cathy makes a compelling case for ditching generic, faceless branding and embracing authenticity. Whether you’re selling confidence, comfort, or community, your brand story and values should shine through every retail marketing email, event, and conversation.Final TakeawayYou don’t need to show up everywhere or master every tech tool. What independent retail business owners do need:✅ A clear brand stance ✅ Consistent and authentic communication ✅ A community-first mindset ✅ Courage to evolve with market changesWhether you’re struggling to compete or trying to grow a small retail business in a noisy digital world, this episode reminds you: you’re not alone—and the best is still ahead.If you want to land your first feature for free without any connections, I want to invite you to watch my PR Secrets Masterclass, where I reveal the exact methods thousands of bootstrapping small businesses use to hack their own PR and go from unknown to being a credible and sought-after industry expert. Register now at www.gloriachoupr.com/masterclass.   Watch the #1 PR Secrets Masterclass to get you featured for free in 30 daysJoin the Small Biz PR Facebook Group to get the best PR TipsDownload the

In this episode of the Small Business PR Podcast, I share the three massive shifts shaking up the online business world—especially in the age of AI, content saturation, and consumer fatigue. If you’re a coach, service provider, or expert selling digital products, this episode is your wake-up call.Why the “Information Business” Is on Life SupportAI has made information ubiquitous. The era of selling access to templates, funnels, and plug-and-play “secret formulas” is over. People are tired of cookie-cutter advice. They want real results and real connection. In this episode, I break down why thought leaders clinging to old tactics are struggling—and what’s working instead.Why Pain Point Marketing Is Dead—and What to Do InsteadThe “I help” bio. The pain, agitate, solve framework. The fear-based FOMO countdowns. All of it? Losing its impact. I explain why today’s buyers are more discerning than ever—and how I’ve pivoted my messaging from fixing people to illuminating their power.How Community Is Outperforming Celebrity in the New Digital EconomySpoiler alert: solo “gurus” are out. Shared connection and community-driven growth is in. From handwritten notes in gift bags to DMs that turn into Forbes features, I share how building actual relationships—not just followers—has helped our small business community thrive.This Episode Is For You If: ✅ You’re exhausted by outdated marketing tactics ✅ You’re wondering why your funnel isn't converting like it used to ✅ You want to market with integrity and actually enjoy your business again ✅ You believe in service over sleaze, and connection over clicksKey Shifts We Cover:Why consumers now spot inauthentic marketing in 5 seconds flatHow to personalize and humanize your offers—without scaling burnoutWhat happens when you follow up years later just to help (and how that builds brand trust)Final Takeaway:We’re in a new era of business. Fast, big, and automated isn’t better—it’s broken. If you want to stay relevant, profitable, and aligned, this episode is your must-listen roadmap.If you're building content to sell and not to influence, this is your tactical blueprint.If you want to land your first feature for free without any connections, I want to invite you to watch my PR Secrets Masterclass, where I reveal the exact methods thousands of bootstrapping small businesses use to hack their own PR and go from unknown to being a credible and sought-after industry expert. Register now at www.gloriachoupr.com/masterclass.   Watch the #1 PR Secrets Masterclass to get you featured for free in 30 daysJoin the Small Biz PR Facebook Group to get the best PR TipsDownload the 10 ways to get free PR for your small businessDM the word “PITCH” to us on Instagram to get a pitching freebie https://www.instagram.com/gloriachoupr Connect with Gloria Chou on LinkedIn- https://www.linkedin.com/in/gloriaychou Join Gloria Chou's PR Community- https://www.facebook.com/groups/428633254951941

In this solo episode of the Small Business PR Podcast, Gloria breaks down the three golden rules of high-ROI content creation—designed specifically for small business heroes who want more sales, not more likes.If you’re tired of the content hamster wheel, this episode gives you a clear, stress-free roadmap to create long-lasting, sales-driven content without chasing trends or relying on Instagram Lives.Why Content ROI > Content Quantity Gloria shares why content should be repurposable, strategic, and aligned with your business goals. From her podcast workflow to skipping Instagram Lives altogether, she shares what actually works when you’re building a business—not trying to be an influencer.The 3 Golden Rules for Smarter, Sales-Driven Content:Lifespan + ROI: Don’t make content that dies in 24 hours. Gloria explains how to maximize each piece by repurposing it into emails, blogs, carousels, and more.Start with Long-Form: Why every high-leverage content plan begins with one long-form asset—like a podcast, blog, or newsletter—and how to use it to fill your content calendar with ease.Boost Shareability: Gloria walks through how to leverage co-creation and strategic tagging to get others to promote your content—without paying for reach.What You’ll Learn in This Episode:Why she skips Instagram Lives and what she does insteadHow to create 20+ pieces of content from one podcast episodeA smarter way to pitch co-hosted content that builds relationshipsHow to get on the radar of “out of reach” experts and influencersThe real reason your content should convert, not just entertainFinal Takeaway: You don’t need to go viral or hire a content agency to get results. You just need: ✅ One long-form content asset ✅ A smart repurposing system ✅ A share-first mindsetIf you're building content to sell and not to influence, this is your tactical blueprint.If you want to land your first feature for free without any connections, I want to invite you to watch my PR Secrets Masterclass, where I reveal the exact methods thousands of bootstrapping small businesses use to hack their own PR and go from unknown to being a credible and sought-after industry expert. Register now at www.gloriachoupr.com/masterclass.   Watch the #1 PR Secrets Masterclass to get you featured for free in 30 daysJoin the Small Biz PR Facebook Group to get the best PR TipsDownload the 10 ways to get free PR for your small businessDM the word “PITCH” to us on Instagram to get a pitching freebie https://www.instagram.com/gloriachoupr Connect with Gloria Chou on LinkedIn- https://www.linkedin.com/in/gloriaychou Join Gloria Chou's PR Community- https://www.facebook.com/groups/428633254951941

In this episode of the Small Business PR Podcast, I sit down with Dylan Jahraus—host of the #1 Etsy podcast and founder of the Ultimate Etsy Course—to unpack the biggest Etsy updates of 2025 and exactly how to set up your shop for long-term success.From SEO and pricing to AI tools and post-purchase wow moments, Dylan shares actionable tips that product-based founders can implement right now to stand out on Etsy—even without a big budget or paid ads.Whether you’re just starting out or looking to grow your store, this episode is your crash course in the new Etsy algorithm and the real reasons why some shops rise to the top.What’s New on Etsy in 2025—and How to Take AdvantageDylan breaks down Etsy’s newest policies, creative standards, and how AI is now being used to verify sellers and product listings. Learn how to stay compliant and take advantage of underutilized categories like “Handpicked by Seller.”How to Actually Get Seen on Etsy (Without Paying for Ads)Why your SEO and product photos matter more than everHow pricing affects conversion rate and search rankingWhy fewer options = higher conversionsHow to spot and ride trends before they hit EtsyThe New Strategy for Competing with BestsellersWant to compete with top-performing Etsy shops even if you're brand new?Dylan walks through how to:Use AI product photos to elevate your listingsCurate trendy, seasonal mockupsBuild a value-forward product experience that stands out in searchPost-Purchase Strategy: How to Wow Customers and Get Repeat BuyersLearn how to deliver a premium customer experience after the sale—including automated messages, helpful content, and how to get customers from Etsy to your Instagram and email list (without breaking Etsy’s rules).Tools to Make Etsy Work for YouetSEO: Dylan’s custom AI tool for optimized, mobile-friendly, customer-centric listingsVela: Mass-update tool for syncing Shopify and Etsy listingsInstagram + TikTok: Dylan’s secret to growing her audience from 0 to 50k in 2 monthsFinal Takeaway You don’t need to pay thousands for ads or offer deep discounts to succeed on Etsy in 2025.What you do need is: ✅ Trend-savvy product listings ✅ Smart SEO and pricing strategies ✅ A memorable customer experienceIf Dylan can help thousands grow profitable Etsy shops, you can too.If you want to land your first feature for free without any connections, I want to invite you to watch my PR Secrets Masterclass, where I reveal the exact methods thousands of bootstrapping small businesses use to hack their own PR and go from unknown to being a credible and sought-after industry expert. Register now at www.gloriachoupr.com/masterclass.   Watch the #1 PR Secrets Masterclass to get you featured for free in 30 daysJoin the Small Biz PR Facebook Group to get the best PR TipsDownload the 10 ways to get free PR for your small businessDM the word “PITCH” to us on Instagram to get a pitching freebie https://www.instagram.com/gloriachoupr Connect with Gloria Chou on LinkedIn- https://www.linkedin.com/in/gloriaychou Join Gloria Chou's PR Community- https://www.facebook.com/groups/428633254951941Connect with Dylan Jahraus:Instagram:

In this episode of the Small Business PR Podcast, I walk you through the exact, step-by-step process to pitch yourself and land podcast interviews—even if you’re just starting out, don’t have a website, or have never pitched before.If you're a founder, expert, coach, or service-based entrepreneur looking to grow your visibility, authority, and leads—this episode is your roadmap to getting booked on podcasts without sounding self-promotional.The Three-Step Podcast Pitching Strategy That Works Most people overthink podcast pitching or believe they’re not “ready.” I’m here to show you how to start today using a simple, proven process:Build your podcast media listWrite your pitch using the CPR MethodRepurpose and share your interview for months of contentWhy You Don’t Need Fancy Credentials to Land Podcast Interviews You don’t need: ❌ A massive following ❌ A polished website ❌ Insider connectionsWhat you do need: ✅ A unique story ✅ Clear speaking topics ✅ A value-driven pitch that centers the host’s audienceHow to Use the CPR Method to Pitch With Confidence CPR = C: Credibility (who you are + your story) P: Point of View (your unique insight or prediction) R: Relevance (why now + why this podcast)This is the exact method that helped me (and hundreds of entrepreneurs) get featured on 30+ podcasts—and it’s the same framework I teach inside my PR Starter Pack.Avoid These Common Podcast Pitching Mistakes 🚫 Including “pitch,” your name, or company name in the subject line 🚫 Writing long-winded, me-focused emails 🚫 Pitching to shows that recently interviewed someone in your niche 🚫 Forgetting to follow upPodcast Outreach Tips That Actually Work ✅ Leave a 5-star review before you pitch ✅ Reference a specific episode (not just “I love your show”) ✅ Use email tracking to see when your message is opened ✅ Follow up once a week via email and DMHow to Repurpose Your Interview for Maximum Visibility Don’t just do the interview and disappear. I share ways to turn one podcast feature into weeks of content, including:Audiograms for Instagram + TikTokBlog posts for SEONewsletter contentShort clips for LinkedIn and YouTubeFinal Takeaway Getting featured on podcasts is one of the most powerful ways to build visibility, credibility, and connection—without ads or algorithms.If you want to land your first feature for free without any connections, I want to invite you to watch my PR Secrets Masterclass, where I reveal the exact methods thousands of bootstrapping small businesses use to hack their own PR and go from unknown to being a credible and sought-after industry expert. Register now at www.gloriachoupr.com/masterclass.   Watch the #1 PR Secrets Masterclass to get you featured for free in 30 daysJoin the Small Biz PR Facebook Group to get the best PR TipsDownload the 10 ways to get free PR for your small businessDM the word “PITCH” to us on Instagram to get a pitching freebie https://www.instagram.com/gloriachoupr Connect with Gloria Chou on LinkedIn- https://www.linkedin.com/in/gloriaychou Join Gloria Chou's PR Community- https://www.facebook.com/groups/428633254951941

In this episode of the Small Business PR Podcast, I sit down with Kim Rittberg—award-winning TV producer, media expert, and video coach—to talk about how small business owners can finally show up confidently on camera without sounding robotic or overly rehearsed.Kim has produced for Us Weekly, Netflix, and launched video units for major media outlets, but she swears by one thing: anyone can be good on camera with the right mindset, skill set, and practice. If you’ve ever frozen up during a Reel, dreaded pitching yourself on video, or wondered what to say in your elevator pitch—this episode is for you.Mindset Shifts to Overcome Camera Shyness Kim debunks the myth that only extroverts or TV-ready personalities can be confident on camera. Her framework helps you shift from “supermodel mode” (focused on appearance) to “teacher mode” (focused on message)—so you stop worrying about how you look and start focusing on what you’re saying.Her 4S Framework to Shine on Video You’ll learn Kim’s powerful 4S method: ✅ Soothe your nervous system through breathwork ✅ Strengthen your voice and posture ✅ Get Silly to shake off stiffness ✅ Smile to connect instantly with your audienceThe ABCs of a Killer Elevator Pitch Gloria and Kim break down the A-B-C method for crafting an unforgettable pitch:Accomplishments: What makes you credible?Business: What do you actually do (in plain English)?Confidence: Say it like you mean it—then practice it until it flows.Kim’s Top Tools and Resources ✅ Freebie: 10 Tips to Make Amazing Videos ✅ $37 On-Camera Challenge: Get confident fast with low-stakes practice ✅ Podcast: The Exit Interview with Kim RittbergFinal TakeawayConfidence isn’t reserved for celebrities or influencers—it’s built. If you want more visibility, clients, and impact, learning how to own your voice on camera is non-negotiable. You don’t need a fancy setup or a viral script—just clarity, practice, and your authentic self.Listen now and start showing up like the expert you already are.Product Businesses! Download my free HOW TO GET INTO A GIFT GUIDE/PRODUCT ROUND UP roadmap for free HERE to get more sales and traffic to your site this season.If you want to land your first feature for free without any connections, I want to invite you to watch my PR Secrets Masterclass, where I reveal the exact methods thousands of bootstrapping small businesses use to hack their own PR and go from unknown to being a credible and sought-after industry expert. Register now at www.gloriachoupr.com/masterclass.   Watch the #1 PR Secrets Masterclass to get you featured for free in 30 daysJoin the Small Biz PR Facebook Group to get the best PR TipsDownload the 10 ways to get free PR for your small businessDM the word “PITCH” to us on Instagram to get a pitching freebie https://www.instagram.com/gloriachoupr Connect with Gloria Chou on LinkedIn- https://www.linkedin.com/in/gloriaychou Join Gloria Chou's PR Community- https://www.facebook.com

In this episode of the Small Business PR Podcast, I sit down with Kinsey Soderberg—founder of Authentic AI and host of the Authentic AI Podcast—to reveal how small business owners can create and train their own AI assistant to sound exactly like their brand voice.If you’ve ever wondered how to use AI for content creation, social media, or email marketing—but felt overwhelmed by prompts or disappointed with generic-sounding outputs—this episode is your go-to guide for building a custom AI workflow that feels human.Why You Don’t Need Perfect Prompts to Use AI for Your BusinessKinsey introduces the concept of “Procrasta-Prompting”—getting stuck trying to perfect prompts instead of just starting.Her solution? A human-first approach. Brain-dump your raw, unfiltered thoughts into your AI tool like you’re talking to a real assistant or coach. The more human and natural your input, the better AI can mirror your brand’s tone.How to Train Your AI Assistant on Your Brand VoiceOne of the biggest mistakes entrepreneurs make is expecting AI to “get it” without any training. Kinsey breaks down a repeatable process for building a branded AI system using her AI Brand Blueprint.She shows how to train ChatGPT (or any AI tool) with your brand’s:Mission, vision, and core valuesIdeal customer personas (beyond demographics)Signature brand tone, humor, and writing styleFavorite content formats, emojis, and real-world examplesOnce trained, your AI assistant can produce content that sounds like you in seconds.What to Include in Your AI Brand BlueprintTo get AI content that feels aligned and authentic, Kinsey recommends including:Core Identity – Your mission, vision, beliefs, and positioningCustomer Clarity – Pain points, desires, and specific psychographicsBrand Voice – Your tone, humor, formatting style, and writing preferencesScreenshots + Samples – IG captions, emails, or posts you admireBonus Personality Layer – Add Human Design, Myers-Briggs, or astrology traits to guide toneThis document becomes your AI’s “user manual”—saving hours each week while ensuring brand consistency.How to Use AI in Your Small Business Right NowKinsey shares practical ways to implement AI today—without overhauling your entire business:Treat ChatGPT like a business coach or VAUse voice memos to capture ideas on the goUpload client call MP3s or brainstorming transcriptsScreenshot IG posts for style inspirationFeed in your customer journey or brand strategyTop AI Tools for Entrepreneurs and Content CreatorsChatGPT – Best for creative copywriting and tone alignmentPerplexity – Real-time web research and content inspirationGoogle Docs – To create and store your AI Brand BlueprintAI Note-Takers – For fast transcription and team meeting summariesAI Strategy Tips: What to Do (and Avoid) When Using AI for ContentDO start small—like captions or emailsDO experiment with a human-first mindsetDO edit and personalize all AI outputs before publishingDON’T try to automate your entire business overnightDON’T rely on random generic promptsDON’T skip brand training before assigning tasksFinal TakeawayLearning how to train AI on your brand voice doesn’t require a tech background or hours of prompting practice. With the right system, you can save time, write content faster, and finally feel like your AI assistant “gets you.”What you need is: A strong brand foundationA reusable AI Brand BlueprintA human-first, strategic mindset

In this deeply personal solo episode, PR strategist and podcast host Gloria Chou shares the story of how she rebuilt her brand by ditching outdated marketing templates in favor of authentic messaging, values-driven branding, and emotionally resonant content.You’ll learn how Gloria’s radical shift in content strategy—fueled by personal healing, political clarity, and business burnout—transformed not just her marketing, but her entire business model. This episode is packed with insights for small business owners, thought leaders, and online creators who want to connect more deeply with their audience and grow a sustainable, purpose-led brand in 2025 and beyond.Why Authentic, Values-Driven Messaging Outperforms Templates, Authority, and Approval-Seeking in 2025Why template marketing strategies don’t work anymore in the saturated digital landscapeHow to shift from approval-seeking content to a values-first marketing approachWhy emotional resonance and identity alignment matter more than credentialsHow to use your personal story and brand values to attract ideal clientsWhy rejection and unsubscribes are signs of strong messaging, not failureHow personal healing and self-awareness can fuel powerful brand positioningThe difference between authority-based PR and values-aligned visibilityIn a digital world overflowing with templates, quick hacks, and bro-marketing playbooks, the brands that rise above the noise are the ones that lead with authenticity, emotional connection, and clear values. As Gloria Chou shared in this episode, sustainable growth doesn’t come from chasing followers or authority—it comes from remembering who you are, speaking your truth, and letting your brand be an extension of your personal evolution.Whether you're a small business owner, coach, or creative, the future of ethical PR, personal branding, and values-based marketing lies in showing up unapologetically and creating resonant content that feels as good as it converts.Product Businesses! Download my free HOW TO GET INTO A GIFT GUIDE/PRODUCT ROUND UP roadmap for free HERE to get more sales and traffic to your site this season.If you want to land your first feature for free without any connections, I want to invite you to watch my PR Secrets Masterclass, where I reveal the exact methods thousands of bootstrapping small businesses use to hack their own PR and go from unknown to being a credible and sought-after industry expert. Register now at www.gloriachoupr.com/masterclass.   Watch the #1 PR Secrets Masterclass to get you featured for free in 30 daysJoin the Small Biz PR Facebook Group to get the best PR TipsDownload the 10 ways to get free PR for your small businessDM the word “PITCH” to us on Instagram to get a pitching freebie https://www.instagram.com/gloriachoupr Connect with Gloria Chou on LinkedIn- https://www.linkedin.com/in/gloriaychou Join Gloria Chou's PR Community- https://www.facebook.com/groups/428633254951941

In this episode of the Small Business PR Podcast, I reveal the top 3 reasons your PR isn’t working—and how to fix them so you can finally get featured in national media like Oprah Daily, BuzzFeed, Vogue, and more.If you’ve ever felt like your pitches are getting ignored, you’re stuck in the PR friend zone, or you’re not sure how to create timely angles that actually get opened—this episode is your roadmap. I break down exactly what holds most small businesses back from landing press and shares the mindset, tools, and repeatable PR strategies you can start using today to get visible without hiring an expensive PR agency.Whether you’re a product-based business owner, service provider, or eCommerce founder doing your own outreach, this episode will help you build a seasonal PR system that gets results.Why Your PR Isn’t Working – 3 Hidden Reasons and How to Fix ThemWhy PR isn’t a one-and-done task – and how to build a repeatable, season PR strategyHow to create relevant pitch angles that align with journalists’ editorial calendars (without changing your product)What to do when you get ghosted—and how follow-up emails can build long-term media relationshipsHow to use the CPR Pitching Method to land media featuresWhy DIY PR often fails—and how to stop guessing and start pitching like a PR proIf you’re a founder trying to get featured in the media but feel stuck, this episode gives you the strategy and clarity you need to get unstuck and start seeing traction.No agency. No ad spend. Just relationship-first pitching that works—especially when paired with a consistent seasonal PR plan and the right media outreach tools (like LinkedIn and email tracking).Ready to stop spinning your wheels and start getting visible? Tune in now and learn how to pitch smarter, follow up better, and finally land the media coverage your business deserves.Product Businesses! Download my free HOW TO GET INTO A GIFT GUIDE/PRODUCT ROUND UP roadmap for free HERE to get more sales and traffic to your site this season.If you want to land your first feature for free without any connections, I want to invite you to watch my PR Secrets Masterclass, where I reveal the exact methods thousands of bootstrapping small businesses use to hack their own PR and go from unknown to being a credible and sought-after industry expert. Register now at www.gloriachoupr.com/masterclass.   Watch the #1 PR Secrets Masterclass to get you featured for free in 30 daysJoin the Small Biz PR Facebook Group to get the best PR TipsDownload the 10 ways to get free PR for your small businessDM the word “PITCH” to us on Instagram to get a pitching freebie https://www.instagram.com/gloriachoupr Connect with Gloria Chou on LinkedIn- https://www.linkedin.com/in/gloriaychou Join Gloria Chou's PR Community- https://www.facebook.com/groups/428633254951941

Think community-building is only for influencers or digital brands? Think again. In this episode of Small Business PR, host Gloria Chou sits down with Madison Page—business growth strategist and host of The Small Business Growth Podcast—to break down exactly how physical product businesses can turn customers into loyal superfans through emotional connection and relationship-first marketing.Whether you're selling candles, skincare, or wellness products, Madison shares three high-impact strategies to help you create a brand community that drives sales, referrals, and long-term retention—without needing a complicated platform or massive team.Build a Loyal Brand Community That Drives Repeat Sales, Customer Referrals, and Emotional Engagement—Without Relying on Ads Why community drives recurring revenue, customer retention, and organic referralsThe difference between transactional vs. relationship marketing—and why younger buyers care3 actionable ways to build a loyal brand community around your physical productHow to use Instagram Stories to foster emotional connection and boost engagementWhy marketing means repeating your brand message a thousand different waysCreative examples like step challenges, polls, and value-based missions that convertIn a crowded marketplace where ads are expensive and attention spans are short, building a loyal customer community isn’t optional—it’s essential. As Madison Page shared, product-based businesses that focus on relationship marketing win in the long run with higher repeat purchase rates, stronger brand advocacy, and sustainable organic growth.Whether you’re just starting out or scaling your ecommerce brand, remember: it's not about how many followers you have—it's about how deeply you connect. So start showing up, share your brand values consistently, and create a two-way dialogue that turns buyers into lifelong fans.Product Businesses! Download my free HOW TO GET INTO A GIFT GUIDE/PRODUCT ROUND UP roadmap for free HERE to get more sales and traffic to your site this season.If you want to land your first feature for free without any connections, I want to invite you to watch my PR Secrets Masterclass, where I reveal the exact methods thousands of bootstrapping small businesses use to hack their own PR and go from unknown to being a credible and sought-after industry expert. Register now at www.gloriachoupr.com/masterclass.   Watch the #1 PR Secrets Masterclass to get you featured for free in 30 daysJoin the Small Biz PR Facebook Group to get the best PR TipsDownload the 10 ways to get free PR for your small businessDM the word “PITCH” to us on Instagram to get a pitching freebie https://www.instagram.com/gloriachoupr Connect with Gloria Chou on LinkedIn- https://www.linkedin.com/in/gloriaychou Join Gloria Chou's PR Community- https://www.facebook.com/groups/428633254951941Follow Madison Page :Instagram: @thisismadisonpage

In this powerful episode of the Small Business PR Podcast, we sit down with Marcia Hacker, founder of Sauipe Swim—a sustainable, size-inclusive swimwear brand that has been featured in Oprah Daily (print + online!), BuzzFeed, and Brides.Once skeptical and burned by traditional PR agencies, Marcia reveals how she took control of her media strategy using Gloria’s PR Starter Pack—and landed national press coverage without spending a dime on traditional PR or sending out dozens of free samples.If you’re a product-based business owner, eCommerce founder, or indie brand looking for high-impact, cost-free press, this episode is your blueprint for media success.How to Land Free Press by Serving Journalists, Not Selling—The CPR Pitching Method, PR Mistakes to Avoid, and a Year-Round Gift Guide StrategyWhy pitching journalists is about serving their audience—not selling your productHow to use LinkedIn and email tracking tools to build lasting media relationshipsThe CPR pitching method to land both press features and wholesale accountsHow to avoid the most common PR mistakes—like sample overspending or vague pitchesA repeatable, seasonal PR system to land spots in gift guides and holiday roundupsIf you’re a small business or product-based founder, you don’t need a pricey PR agency to get featured in top-tier media. Marcia Hacker’s story proves that strategic, relationship-driven pitching can land major wins—like Oprah, BuzzFeed, and Brides—without ad spend or free samples.Focus on audience relevance, use tools like LinkedIn and email tracking, and apply the CPR method to build lasting media relationships. With a repeatable system, you can land press year-round—especially during high-ROI seasons like holiday gift guides.Start pitching, follow up consistently, and watch your visibility grow.Product Businesses! Download my free HOW TO GET INTO A GIFT GUIDE/PRODUCT ROUND UP roadmap for free HERE to get more sales and traffic to your site this season.If you want to land your first feature for free without any connections, I want to invite you to watch my PR Secrets Masterclass, where I reveal the exact methods thousands of bootstrapping small businesses use to hack their own PR and go from unknown to being a credible and sought-after industry expert. Register now at www.gloriachoupr.com/masterclass.   Watch the #1 PR Secrets Masterclass to get you featured for free in 30 daysJoin the Small Biz PR Facebook Group to get the best PR TipsDownload the 10 ways to get free PR for your small businessDM the word “PITCH” to us on Instagram to get a pitching freebie https://www.instagram.com/gloriachoupr Connect with Gloria Chou on LinkedIn- https://www.linkedin.com/in/gloriaychou Join Gloria Chou's PR Community- https://www.facebook.com/groups/428633254951941Connect with Marcia & Sauipe SwimWebsite: https://www.sauipeswim.comInstagram: @sauipeswim<