The Pocket-size PR Podcast

Joanna Feeley has her finger on the pulse. The founder and CEO of TrendBible, Joanna is also the author of the new book, Trend Leader. And as a trend forecaster, she sits down with host Charlotte Nichols to talk about why proactivity can be the magic formula for your PR. From the emerging trends that we are not paying enough attention to, to AI and, Joanna shares her wisdom and expertise for brands - and her top tip for PR professionals on how to stay ahead of the curve.

Having founded Newcastle Start-up Week, Paul Lancaster also runs the Platform events - with the events being staged everywhere from the North East to Edinburgh. He talks with host Charlotte Nichols about how he's helped multiple start-ups get up and running, as well as how PR helped to grow his own business. The pair also discuss the mistakes brands make when dipping their toe into PR, and why 'shock tactics' may not always be the best approach - and the sector that sometimes ignores the power of PR.

Pneuma Legal CEO Helen Lyne joins host Charlotte Nichols in the Pocket-Sized PR hotseat.And the pair take a deep dive into everything from the impact of AI in the law industry, how law shapes crisis comms and how NDAs can be a secret weapon for anyone launching a new brand.Helen also opens up about her experience of doing business in a co-working space, whilst she also gives her advice on how businesses can tackle the growing threat of misinformation.

Nic Redman is a big fan of using your voice.And the professional voice coach and director visits The Pocket-size PR Podcast to talk about doing just that - especially in an AI world.As Nic points out, increasingly, our voice is one of the few unique things left to us.And on this episode, she reinforces why that matters, along with how PR helps her as a solo business owner.

Chris Carroll turned to PR to help grow his new business.Barely a year after launching, The Resolved Group has done that - and more.International expansion. A projected £10m valuation by the end of the decade. And a stash of award nominations - including being named Teesside's best new business.In this episode, Chris sits down with host Charlotte Nichols to discuss the massive impact PR has helped in growing the company.From business gained via newspaper stories to securing award nominations which put him in the room with the 'right people', Chris' story is proof that PR really can help not just your brand - but your bottom line.

What a year 2025 has been.And on this special end of year episode, host Charlotte Nichols is joined by Harvey & Hugo's own PR Director, Ian Johnson, to reflect on the first year of The Pocket-size PR Podcast.The pair share their most memorable moments, their top PR tips and their thoughts on what 2026 could hold - from AI to top PR trends to look out for.Have a merry Christmas and a brilliant 2026!

Author, public speaker and Hollywood actor. Few have a CV like Dominic Colenso.In this episode, he talks about how PR has positively shaped his personal brand - whilst sharing some absolutely superb expert top-tips on speaking in public.To mark the recent launch of his new book, Cut Through, he sits down with host Charlotte Nichols to about why being yourself is crucial in PR - and ultimately, why nobody wants you  to fail on the mic.

A picture tells a thousand words.And for Angela Carrington, she knows just now much an image can transform a story.As a photographer and MD of The Bigger Picture Agency, she reveals how a striking snap can put an 'Okay' tale on the front page.She sits down with host Charlotte Nichols to turn about photography's underrated role in PR, an unforgettable canine cameo - and why giant cheque presentations are destined for the scrapheap.If you want your next press shot to do more than tick a box – and actually work hard for your PR – this episode is for you.

They say a picture tells a thousand words.It is a term that is close to Ellie Chapman’s heart.As founder of the visualisation agency Lim, Ellie uses imagery to help businesses bring their ideas to life.And on this episode of The Pocket-Sized PR Podcast, she sits down to talk with host Charlotte Nichols about the role imagery plays in PR, as the pair chat about everything from emojis to business meetings.

Jeni Smith is a fan of networking.As founder of NetKno, she’s spent almost 20 years helping people and businesses network with purpose.On this episode of The Pocket-size PR Podcast, Jeni sits down with host Charlotte Nichols to discuss everything from how the pandemic reshaped networking and why it is crucial why your real-life brand matches your digital one.And, as always, it is laden with juicy PR wisdom bombs!

Ocado. Innocent Drinks. Seeds. Conker milk. Carol Feeley has so far enjoyed an incredible career working in creative roles for some of Britain's biggest and best brands. From securing her "dream job" with Innocent Drinks, to working her way up to Head of Creative at Ocado. In this episode of The Pocket-Sized PR, she talks with host Charlotte Nichols about the power of PR and how a sincere apology can go a long way with your customers.

Often those in sales don't always see the benefit of PR.Not Tim Johnson.The Chief Revenue Officer for Salesfire believes it can be a massive asset when it comes to doing business.From the power of case studies to the benefit of being able to call yourself an award-winning business on that first call, Tim talks with host Charlotte about how PR has helped him in his career - and how it can help others unlock deals

In this episode of the Pocket-size PR Podcast, Charlotte sits down with the dynamic and insightful Kim Cattin, Managing Partner of SB1 Group, CEO of West Barn Co, aesthetic practitioner, and former celebrity makeup artist. Kim brings a fresh and fiercely honest perspective on the role of PR in today’s brand landscape, where trust, authenticity, and personal connection matter more than ever. Together, they unpack the reality behind going viral, the importance of sustainable brand-building, and how to create real influence by identifying who your audience listens to. From beauty to B2B, Kim’s “influence the influencer” strategy is a must-hear for anyone wanting to grow a business with impact. Whether you’re launching a new product, leading a clinic, or just trying to keep your brand visible in a noisy world, this episode offers a powerful reminder: People buy people. And those people are watching more closely than ever.

What does PR really mean for a business—and why is it so much more than just a glossy façade?In this episode of the Pocket-size PR Podcast, Charlotte sits down with Richard Bradley, Executive Chair at Dyer Engineering, to explore PR as “a window into the heart and soul of a business.” Richard shares his journey from a finance background - once skeptical of PR - to becoming a firm believer in its power to build trust, attract talent, and strengthen culture.They discuss:Why authenticity matters more than perfection in PR.The overlooked importance of internal communications in shaping brand reputation.How culture and everyday interactions can be as influential as marketing campaigns.Why relationships and consistency safeguard businesses when things go wrong.The balancing act of sustaining PR investment during tough economic times.Whether you’re a marketer, communicator, or business leader, Richard’s refreshing perspective will inspire you to see PR not as a cost, but as a vital connector between people, purpose, and performance.

Nadine Hudspeth has a degree in public relations. And even she admits it is a tough cookie to define. Having worked at Gateshead College for 24 years, she's currently the institution's director of brand and learning experience. And in this episode of Pocket-size PR Podcast, she sits down with Harvey & Hugo's Charlotte Nichols for a fascinating chat about the complexities of overseeing messaging for one of England's top-performing colleges. From the importance of culture to planning the 'perfect exam experience' (think music and smell), Nadine talks about the power of PR, brand and marketing - and her love of alliteration.

In this episode of the Pocket-size PR Podcast, Charlotte Nichols welcomes Jane Peverley, Head of Communications at Hays Travel Group, for a powerful conversation on the evolving role of PR in shaping modern business reputation.Jane shares how Hays Travel’s deeply embedded values guide internal and external communication, especially in times of change, like their acquisition of Thomas Cook branches just before the pandemic. With over 4,500 team members across the UK, Jane discusses how consistency, clarity, and compassion are key to impactful PR.From nurturing inclusive communications to navigating crisis messaging and the power of real-world advocacy, this episode is a must-listen for comms professionals and brand guardians who believe that reputation is everything.

In this episode of the Pocket-size PR Podcast, Charlotte chats with Liz Atkin – founder of Refreshing Comms, bestselling author, and TEDx speaker – about one of the most overlooked but powerful tools in any business leader’s toolbox: internal communication.Together, they unpack why great internal comms is more than just sending out emails, it’s a critical part of shaping your company’s reputation, strengthening your brand, and building lasting employee engagement. You’ll hear real talk on why poor communication creates chaos, how leadership mindset affects message delivery, and what to do when your workplace culture feels a bit disconnected.Plus, we dive into the double-edged sword of AI in communication, can it streamline processes without losing the human touch?If you’re a business owner, marketing professional, or team leader wanting to boost both internal and external PR impact, this episode is packed with honest insights, practical examples, and a few "why didn’t I think of that?" moments.

In this insight-packed episode of the Pocket-size PR Podcast, Charlotte Nichols is joined by Emma Thwaites, founder of Allegory and Director of Global Policy and Corporate Affairs at the Open Data Institute, for a compelling conversation that challenges conventional ideas about public relations, communications, and the evolving role of AI in our industry.With over 15 years of experience spanning journalism, civil service, and agency leadership, Emma shares a uniquely honest and practical view of what PR really is, not just media coverage, but a persuasive, conversational, and strategic tool that drives behaviour change.Together, Charlotte and Emma unpack how PR professionals can adapt in a digital-first world, what communicators need to do to cut through the “beige slop” of AI-generated content, and why real thought leadership must go beyond templated posts to deliver genuine value. They explore the rising pressure on junior comms teams, the blurring lines between marketing and PR, and how generative AI, from custom GPTs to deep research tools, is reshaping the creative workflow.Key themes in this episode include:• Defining PR in a multidisciplinary, digital landscape• The difference between AI hype and AI reality in communications• How to use generative AI (like ChatGPT) responsibly and effectively• Why thought leadership still matters — and how to do it right• The critical need for authenticity, trust, and truth in modern PR• How small agencies can level the playing field with big firms using smart tools• The future of early-career PR and comms professionals in the AI eraWhether you're a seasoned marketing leader, PR strategist, or just starting out in the communications industry, this episode offers unfiltered advice and fresh perspectives that will help you stay relevant, credible, and impactful.

In this must-listen episode of the Pocket-size PR Podcast, host Charlotte Nichols is joined by Jim Entwistle, Course Leader in Journalism and Sports Journalism at Teesside University, to explore how communications education is evolving in response to our fast-changing media and PR landscape. Whether you're a PR professional, marketing strategist, communications lecturer, or content creator, this episode delivers essential insights into what it takes to prepare the next generation of storytellers for careers that may not yet exist. Jim shares how he equips students with both hard and soft skills, from foundational communication techniques to the confidence to build human connections in an increasingly digital world. The conversation dives into the vital importance of face-to-face communication, media trust, and the ethics behind creating impactful content in a saturated space. Jim explains why relying solely on digital communication can weaken storytelling, and why picking up the phone is still one of the most powerful PR tools available. He shares real-world examples from his classroom, where he encourages students to embrace uncomfortable tasks like cold-calling and live reporting to build resilience and relevance. Jim shares his expert thoughts on:• How digital transformation has shifted the newsroom• The balance between click-driven journalism and editorial integrity• The growing role of entrepreneurial content creators and student-led news brands• Why local journalism still matters in a globalised world• The blurred line between journalism and public relationsHe also shares a powerful final PR tip: “Invest time in people. Human connection is where real opportunities begin.” This episode is packed with practical PR strategies, critical thinking around ethical communications, and tips on building credibility, confidence, and professional presence.  If you're looking to future-proof your brand, boost your PR effectiveness, or simply stay ahead of the curve in marketing and communications, this 20+ minute listen is well worth your time.

In this episode of the Pocket-size PR Podcast, host Charlotte Nichols speaks with Katelyn Young, founder of Juin, about redefining what it means to work in marketing today. With a career shaped by determination, critical thinking, and a deep respect for strategy, Katelyn brings a grounded perspective to the evolving role of marketing and communications professionals.She explores how PR shapes perception beyond media coverage, why authenticity must underpin every comms decision, and how young marketers are often set up to fail in environments that lack leadership, structure and strategic clarity. Katelyn also shares how she’s working to change that, through her agency, Juin, and her coaching role at Fabric.From her creative approach to early job applications (including a CV designed as a property listing) to her current focus on aligning marketing with business goals, Katelyn makes a strong case for embedding strategic thinking and performance metrics into every marketing function. She also discusses the importance of understanding stakeholder communication styles—and how the book Surrounded by Idiots helped sharpen her approach.Whether you're leading a team, building a brand, or mentoring the next generation of marketers, this episode offers practical insights on how to elevate marketing’s role from a service function to a strategic partner.

From farmer to fork, Laura Ryan's knowledge of the meat industry is second to none.Now Laura – CEO of Lavenpark and Chair of Meat Business Women – joins host Charlotte Nichols to explore how she's harnessed the power of PR to reshape perceptions, amplify women’s voices, and drive real change across the global agri-food sector.A Chartered Marketer and Executive Coach with over two decades of experience, Laura shares bite-sized insights on reputation building, personal branding, and the importance of strategic networking.In this episode of Pocket-size PR, she reflects on her proudest campaign, She Looks Like Me, and reveals how it led to a landmark event at the House of Lords. Tune in for expert tips, candid stories, and inspiration on how to turn content into credibility.

In this episode, we dive into the real-world experiences of running your own business, the highs, the lows, and the lessons that come with it. Our guest, Linsey, shares her personal journey from corporate life to entrepreneurship, highlighting how creating a business that fits around your life, rather than the other way around, can lead to greater happiness, energy, and success.We explore the many pros of entrepreneurship, including the freedom to avoid the dreaded "Sunday night blues," the flexibility to choose ideal clients, and the ability to maintain a healthy work-life balance. Linsey discusses how every hour now has purpose, and how building a business aligned with personal goals, like spending more time with family and traveling, can redefine success.However, running your own business isn't without its challenges. We tackle the cons of entrepreneurship, such as the constant mental load, the difficulty in switching off, and the financial pressures that come with not earning during downtime. Linsey offers an honest look into the emotional resilience required, the importance of setting boundaries, and the struggle with balancing client expectations, especially in industries like PR and marketing where results aren't always instantly visible.A major theme of this episode is the crucial role that PR and marketing play in building brand trust and long-term business success. We discuss the frustrating but vital reality that PR is often the first thing businesses cut during hard times — despite being a key driver of brand value. Linsey explains why consistent, quality content tailored to your audience is more important than chasing the latest marketing trend.We also explore managing client expectations, the dangers of unrealistic goals in PR, and why building strong, authentic relationships is more effective than short-term tactics. Linsey’s top tip for anyone investing in PR? Focus on quality over quantity and always take the long-term view.This episode is packed with insights for entrepreneurs, small business owners, and marketing professionals who want to build a sustainable, purpose-driven business. If you're looking to better understand the real impact of PR and marketing on business growth, and how to create a business that works for your life,  this conversation is essential listening.For more information on how PR can transform your brand's credibility and trust, contact Harvey & Hugo today via harveyandhugo.com or email [email protected].

In this episode host Charlotte Nichols, is joined by Victoria Thompson, Marketing Manager at Ford Aerospace, to unpack the real-world application of PR in technical sectors, particularly manufacturing.Victoria shares her practical wisdom from decades in the industry, emphasising the importance of relationship-building, not only with customers but with internal teams, media contacts, suppliers, and global stakeholders. She discusses how public relations in manufacturing often demands discretion, deep technical understanding, and a long-term strategic view—especially when bound by NDAs or operating in confidential environments.Gain insights into navigating PR challenges such as restricted case studies, the underused power of white papers, and the essential role of PR during crises. From redundancy communication to managing last-minute event disasters (yes, even a collapsing roof!), Victoria highlights how honest communication, transparency, and empathy are the heart of effective crisis management.The episode also explores the differences between UK and international PR practices, the importance of aligning PR efforts with business objectives, and why staying curious yet focused is her top professional tip.Whether you're in B2B marketing, handling manufacturing communications, or looking for PR strategy tips that truly apply to real-life business situations, this episode is full of actionable advice and relatable anecdotes.Topics include:Strategic PR for the manufacturing sectorCrisis communications and compassionate leadershipMaking PR count beyond press releasesThe evolving role of metrics in PRCreating human-led content in technical industriesIf you’re a marketing manager, communications professional, or a business owner wanting to sharpen your PR game, this episode is not to be missed!

PR isn’t just for press releases and product launches — it’s the foundation of how your business is seen, trusted, and remembered.In this episode of the Pocket-size PR Podcast, host Charlotte Nichols is joined by Danielle Croce, Commercial Director at Intersight and Tees Businesswoman of the Year, for a conversation that strips PR back to its most powerful purpose: building real connection through clear, confident communication.Danielle reveals how PR has helped position Intersight as a trusted name in the tech and health & safety sectors, and why awards, storytelling, and personal brand have played a bigger role in that journey than you might think. She shares her honest thoughts on stepping into the spotlight, how she’s grown more comfortable with visibility, and why recognition matters — not for ego, but for credibility, culture, and growth.In this episode Charlotte and Danielle unpack:• The real reason awards matter (and how to choose the right ones)• Why PR in tech is all about demystifying and educating• How visual consistency builds trust across every brand touchpoint• Turning a Parliamentary mention into a PR campaign• Why personal branding isn’t just for influencers — and how it’s helping Danielle stand out in a male-dominated industryIf you’ve ever felt unsure about your PR approach, or you’ve dismissed awards or personal branding as “not for you,” this episode will change your mind. Danielle’s grounded, no-nonsense take on PR is packed with tips for businesses that want to grow — with purpose, personality, and pride.Whether you're running a startup, scaling a business, or leading a team — this one’s for you.🎧 Tune in for a 20-minute masterclass on using PR to build visibility, credibility, and a brand people connect with.

Join Charlotte Nichols and special guest Kirsten Donkin, Head of Communications at Double Eleven, on the latest episode of the Pocket Size PR Podcast as they explore the true value of public relations. They discuss the power of PR in crisis management, the critical importance of strategic planning, and why building genuine relationships and cultivating brand ambassadors can significantly influence your brand's reputation and business growth. Kirsten shares practical insights on measuring PR effectiveness, the essential differences between PR and marketing, and why authenticity in leadership is key to successful communication. Tune in to learn how PR can elevate your brand's credibility and long-term resilience.

What does PR look like in the future? And what happens when authenticity becomes the most valuable currency in communications?In this episode of Pocket-size PR, we dive into the real role of PR with Erica Marshall, Group Director of Marketing & Business Engagement at the Education Training Collective.Forget the clichés—PR isn’t just about press releases and crisis control. It’s about shaping reputations, building trust, and making meaningful connections. But where does PR end and marketing begin? And does PR actually make a difference, or is it just corporate window dressing?Host Charlotte Nichols and Erica explore why PR and marketing are more like competitive cousins than identical twins, how PR can transform businesses beyond just "good news stories," and why a strong communications strategy is essential in today’s world. They discuss whether PR works best in-house or outsourced, how organisations can stop seeing PR as a last-minute fix, and the reality behind the so-called glamour of the industry. If you work in PR, marketing, or run a business that depends on trust and credibility, this is one conversation you don’t want to miss.#PocketSizePRPodcast #PublicRelations #ReputationMatters #PRvsMarketing #TrustAndCredibility

Think PR is just about press releases and glamorous events? Think again!In this episode of the Pocket-size PR Podcast, host Charlotte Nichols sits down with Hannah Duggleby, Head of Marketing at Channel Studios and a marketing guest lecturer at Gateshead College. Together, they dive into the evolving world of PR, breaking down common misconceptions, the fine line between PR and marketing, and the overlooked strategies that businesses can leverage for greater impact.Hannah shares her insights from over 15 years in the travel and hospitality industry, managing international campaigns, and how PR plays a vital role in reputation building. She also discusses the latest PR trends, the growing importance of authenticity in the AI era, and why data-driven storytelling is an untapped goldmine for businesses.If you've ever wondered why PR isn’t just about press releases and glamorous events, this episode is for you! Discover the real power of PR and how it can drive visibility, trust, and long-term success.

In this episode of The Pocket-size PR Podcast, host Charlotte Nichols is joined by Dan Smith, Venture Director at Growth Capital Ventures, to discuss the powerful role PR plays in brand credibility, marketing integration, and business success.Dan shares his thoughts on why PR is a crucial part of the marketing mix, how the "Golden Thread" approach ensures brand consistency, the role of PR in building trust, especially in high-risk industries like finance, the evolving impact of AI on marketing. They also discuss the importance of internal PR alongside external efforts, and the key metrics to measure PR success.

Emily Bently is marketing and business development manager at Jackson’s Law as well as being a director of Tees Valley Business Club. Emily believes in the power of networking for your business, but you have to choose the right network carefully as well as allowing time to invest in it to see a return. She’s also a big advocate for outsourcing your PR needs to reap the full benefits and help grow your brand.

The first episode of the Pocket-size PR Podcast launches with podcast producer, host, trainer and studio owner, Ashleigh King. Hear Ashleigh’s take on PR, how podcasting is a vital PR element of today’s marketing mix and how a hat can help you in your PR efforts!