That Solo Life: The Solo PR Pro Podcast
 

That Solo Life: The Solo PR Pro Podcast

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That Solo Life: Co-hosted by Karen Swim, founder of Words for Hire, LLC and owner of Solo PR Pro and Michelle Kane, founder of VoiceMatters, LLC, we keep it real and talk about the topics that affect solo business owners in PR and Marketing and beyond. Learn more about Solo PR Pro: www.SoloPRPro.com

Episodes

The Can Do Spirit of PR Practitioners Crosses Generations

6 days ago

6 days ago

That Solo Life Episode 299

Episode Title 

The Can Do Spirit of PR Practitioners Crosses Generations

Episode Summary 

The hosts, Karen Swim, APR, of Solo PR Pro, and Michelle Kane of VoiceMatters, discuss key findings from the USC Annenberg Global Communication Report for 2025, focusing on Gen Z’s growing presence in the workforce and what that means for public relations professionals. 

Key takeaways include:

  • Flexibility prioritized over pay: Nearly half of Gen Z employees value workplace flexibility more than higher salaries, suggesting shifting work-life balance priorities. 
  • Concerns over AI's impact: A significant portion of Gen Z is worried about AI diminishing entry-level job opportunities, highlighting the need for AI skills development. 
  • Generational perceptions: A fascinating generational divide exists regarding political and social awareness, with each group believing they are the most informed. 
  • Hybrid work benefits: The hosts advocate for hybrid work not only as a productivity tool but also as a way to encourage intergenerational mentorship and develop soft skills. 
  • The PR industry’s optimistic outlook: Despite challenges like evolving technology and the hybrid landscape, 74% of PR professionals report a positive outlook for the sector. 

Karen and Michelle also explore how these findings tie back to independent professionals, emphasizing the importance of flexibility, adaptation, and mentorship in today’s workforce. 

Episode Highlights 

1. Flexibility Over Pay: 

Gen Z is reimagining priorities, highlighting the value of flexible schedules over strictly financial incentives. Karen and Michelle explore how this impacts public relations and solo professionals. 

2. The AI Factor: 

The hosts discuss Gen Z's concerns about AI in the workplace, citing the importance of staying ahead of trends, acquiring new skill sets, and leveraging AI as a tool rather than fearing it as a replacement. 

3. Hybrid Work and Mentorship: 

Hybrid work models provide opportunities for not only business productivity but also intergenerational learning. Karen and Michelle explain how being physically present for mentorship can bridge generational gaps and help develop critical soft skills. 

4. Optimism in the PR Industry: 

Despite disruptions, PR professionals maintain an optimistic outlook. The hosts celebrate this shared resilience and problem-solving spirit that defines the PR community. 

Related Episodes & Additional Resources 

  • USC Annenberg Global Communication Report 2025 
  • Solo PR Pro resources for independent professionals here. 

Timestamps 

00:00:00 - Introduction to That Solo Life Podcast
00:00:28 - The Impact of Gen Z on the Workforce
00:01:41 - Workplace Flexibility and Generational Perspectives
00:02:53 - Balancing Work and Life: A New Approach
00:04:17 - The Hybrid Workplace: Benefits and Challenges
00:06:30 - AI's Influence on Job Opportunities for Gen Z
00:07:40 - The Importance of Mentorship Across Generations
00:09:35 - Generational Differences in Knowledge and Awareness
00:11:46 - Reflections on Past Experiences and Current Realities
00:13:06 - Optimism in the PR Industry's Future
00:14:15 - Conclusion and Resources

Host & Show Info

That Solo Life is a podcast for public relations, communication and marketing professionals that work as independent and small hosted by Karen Swim, APR and Michelle Kane. Karen is the founder of Words For Hire, a PR agency that specializes in B2B, Technology and Healthcare, and the President of Solo PR, a community dedicated to independent practitioners in public relations, communications and related fields. Michelle Kane is the Principal of VoiceMatters, a  company that offers PR, Communications Consulting, Editorial and Voiceover Services.

Talk to Us

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Thanks for listening! 🎙️ Have a topic you’d like us to cover? Drop us a line at Solo PR Pro. 

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PR Potpourri: A Look Back at Q1 2025

Monday May 05, 2025

Monday May 05, 2025

That Solo Life, Episode 298: PR Potpourri: A Look Back at Q1 2025

This podcast episode explores the challenges that PR professionals face in the current media and communication landscape. The discussion covers several key topics:

  • The struggles with PR tools and technologies, which often fail to keep up with the rapidly changing industry. This leaves PR practitioners having to "hack together" solutions to get the job done.

  • The broader cultural issues of overwork and lack of work-life balance in the PR and communications field, which contribute to fatigue and burnout.

  • The challenges of cutting through the "sensationalism" and "brain candy" that dominates much of today's media, and finding ways to effectively share meaningful, ethical, and responsible messaging.

The hosts emphasize the importance of PR professionals upholding their integrity and values, while also adapting to connect with audiences in creative and engaging ways. Overall, the conversation highlights the unique blend of skills and resilience required to succeed as a communicator in the current environment.

Episode Summary: 

Join co-hosts Karen Swim, APR, and Michelle Kane as they take you on a lively and insightful ride through the current state of public relations, pop culture, and the challenges of living the #SoloPR life in 2025. This isn’t just one topic; it’s a mix of everything that’s shaping the PR landscape today. From the highs and woes of PR tools to the emotional (and professional) toll of our 24/7 work culture, Karen and Michelle share their honest thoughts with moments of humor, empathy, and real-world advice.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode: 

  • An honest review of today’s PR tools, touching on media monitoring, analytics, and pitching databases. 
  • How the evolving media landscape and shrinking newsrooms are forcing PR pros to become more creative in their strategies. 
  • The societal fatigue impacting professionals across industries and how it weighs on productivity and expectations. 
  • Why sensationalism and aesthetics dominate public attention and what PR pros can do to create impactful, ethical, and relatable messaging. 
  • The power of storytelling in PR, regardless of how complex or mundane the topic may seem.

Key Quotes from the Episode: 

💬 "We have to focus on messaging and packaging it in a way that breaks through to an audience that really prizes aesthetics." – Michelle Kane 

💬 "I miss the days when PR tools gave us everything we needed for one price. Now? Higher prices, less functionality." – Karen Swim 

💬 "Public relations professionals are among the best of us. We’re not just serving our clients—we’re truly serving their publics." – Karen Swim 

Resources and Links Mentioned: 

About the Hosts: 

Karen Swim, APR, is the Founder and CEO of Words For Hire, a PR Agency and the Owner of Solo PR Pro, a community and resource hub that supports PR professionals working independently. Michelle Kane is the owner of Voice Matters, a company that offers branding and marketing, integrated content strategies, and measurable public relations.

Tune in and Stay Inspired! 🎙️

Connect with Us: 

Listen Now: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Solo PR

Enjoyed the episode? 

Please leave a review here - even a sentence helps. Share and tag us (@SoloPRPro) on social media so that we can thank you personally!

Join the Conversation 

Found this episode valuable? Share it with your network, and don’t forget to subscribe so you never miss a new episode! 

Tune in and learn how to become a trusted advisor to your clients in an increasingly tone-sensitive world.

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The Big Idea with Jess Sato

Monday Apr 28, 2025

Monday Apr 28, 2025

That Solo Life - Episode 296: The Big Idea with Jess Sato

Episode Summary 

This episode of That Solo Life dives deep into the world of business growth, messaging, and creating meaningful impact. Co-hosts Karen Swim, APR of Solo PR Pro, and Michelle Kane of Voice Matters are joined by special guest Jess Sato, a business growth and visibility strategist. Jess shares powerful insights on how purpose-driven entrepreneurs and thought leaders can identify their “big idea,” use it to stand out in a crowded marketplace, and create lasting change. Whether you’re looking to refine your messaging, grow your visibility, or tackle roadblocks on your entrepreneurial path, this episode offers actionable strategies and thought-provoking advice to move the needle in your work.

Key Takeaways 

  • Defining the Big Idea: A “big idea” doesn’t have to be completely new. Instead, it’s an audacious or bold concept that challenges the status quo, demands attention, and inspires action. 
  • The Bolt Method Framework: Jess's Bolt Method helps clarify and amplify big ideas by focusing on four pillars - Bold, Original, Loud, and Tenacious. 
  • Living Your Passion: Entrepreneurs can align their personal passions with business objectives to create both purpose and profit. 
  • Overcoming Challenges: Common roadblocks like imposter syndrome, impatience, or messaging struggles can be overcome with introspection and strategy. 
  • The Power of Rebuilding: If your work no longer feels aligned, don’t be afraid to take the time to pause, reflect, and pivot to rediscover your authentic purpose.

About Jessica “Jess”  Sato

Jessica Soto is a business growth and visibility strategist who helps purpose-driven female entrepreneurs, thought leaders and change makers clarify their big ideas, amplify their message and create lasting social impact. In this podcast episode, she discusses her process for helping clients find their "big idea" - a bold, original perspective that challenges the status quo and inspires people to take action. Soto highlights common roadblocks her clients face, such as distilling complex expertise into a cohesive core message, and provides strategies for overcoming these challenges. She also advises on building a platform for thought leadership, evolving one's message over time, and the importance of authenticity and transparency with one's audience. 

 

Episode Timeline 

  • [00:00] - Introduction from co-hosts Karen Swim and Michelle Kane 
  • [00:32] - Welcoming guest Jess Sato and learning about her background in corporate strategy and leadership development 
  • [01:14] - Jess describes her transition to working with female entrepreneurs and social impact leaders 
  • [03:33] - The definition of a big idea and why it doesn’t have to be groundbreaking to be bold or impactful 
  • [05:12] - How passion, experience, and identifying audience needs converge to form a functional big idea 
  • [09:13] - Common roadblocks faced by entrepreneurs when refining and presenting their big ideas 
  • [13:03] - The Bolt Method explained and how it helps craft unique and powerful messaging 
  • [20:13] - Aligning your big idea with platforms, stages, and communication styles to amplify your message 
  • [26:02] - Evolving your message and giving yourself permission to pivot when your work no longer feels aligned 
  • [35:12] - What it means to create a lasting legacy through your work and voice 
  • [37:05] - How to connect with Jess Sato and closing thoughts from the co-hosts 

Resources & Links 

Connect with the Hosts 

Subscribe & Review 

Enjoyed this episode? Subscribe to That Solo Life on your favorite podcast platform and leave us a review! Your support helps us share inspiring conversations with solo PR pros and marketers everywhere. 

We hope you enjoy this conversation with Jess, Karen, and Michelle!

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Do They Know About Solos? Exploring Opportunities for Solo PR Pros

Monday Apr 14, 2025

Monday Apr 14, 2025

In This Episode

What exactly do Solo PR Pros do, and how do companies find and engage with them? Many businesses are on the lookout for talented professionals to help with marketing, communications, and PR, but they often don’t know where to start. This week, Karen and Michelle unpack how Solo PR Pros can make themselves more visible and connect with companies that need their services. From networking tips to leveraging LinkedIn and exploring industry forums, they discuss practical strategies to help you stand out.

Whether you’re a seasoned Solo or new to the game, this episode will inspire you to take actionable steps toward growing your business and increasing your visibility in a competitive market. Tune in and discover how to ensure that businesses not only know about solos—but understand the value you bring to the table.

Key Topics Discussed 

  • The demand for Solo PR Pros and the uncertainty many companies feel about finding and hiring them. 
  • Why some businesses are unaware of what Solo PR Pros do and how this creates opportunities for visibility. 
  • The importance of maintaining an active presence in industry forums, local chambers, and online networks like LinkedIn. 
  • Creative strategies for meaningful networking, from casual coffee chats to hosting workshops and community events. 
  • How solos can repurpose content and boost their own SEO to increase discoverability. 
  • The changing landscape of human connection and why face-to-face engagement still matters in a digital world. 

Why You Should Listen 

If you’ve been wondering how to better position yourself as a Solo PR Pro or how to find new opportunities despite economic uncertainty, this episode is packed with advice to help you put yourself out there. Karen and Michelle share personal anecdotes, practical tips, and motivational insights to empower you to take the reins and ensure companies know you exist—and understand the immense value you provide.

Resources Mentioned 

Get Engaged 

We want to hear from you! Have questions, comments, or ideas for future episodes? Reach out to us at soloprpro.com. 

If you found this episode helpful, please share it with your network. Your support means the world to us, and it helps us reach even more Solo PR Pros! 

Follow Us: 

Have thoughts on today's topic? Connect with us on social media and share your perspective.

Enjoyed the episode? 

Please leave a review here - even a sentence helps. Share and tag us (@SoloPRPro) on social media so that we can thank you personally! 

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National Days and Awareness Months and How to Manage in 2025

Monday Apr 07, 2025

Monday Apr 07, 2025

That Solo Life, Episode 294: National Days and Awareness Months and How to Manage in 2025

 

Summary:

This podcast episode discusses the abundance of "national days" and how PR professionals and marketers should approach aligning their client initiatives with these events. The key points are:

  • There is an overwhelming number of these "national days" which can become diluted and ignored by the public.

  • These days can be divided into two categories: awareness/educational campaigns vs. marketing-driven events.

  • For awareness months/days related to important causes, it can make sense to align content and messaging if it's relevant to the client's business. However, marketers should be cautious about aligning with more frivolous "national days" just for the sake of participation.

  • The most important factor is whether the client's news, announcement, or content is truly newsworthy and valuable, regardless of whether it aligns with a designated national day or month. Forcing an announcement to fit a particular calendar event is not advised.

  • PR professionals should set clear expectations with clients about which national days/months are worth aligning with versus when it may be better to simply focus on the strength of the news itself.

In This Episode

Are you overwhelmed by the never-ending list of national days, weeks, and months? From National Hot Dog Day to Domestic Violence Awareness Month, it feels like every moment in the calendar is claimed by something. But does your brand have to jump on every single one? 

In today’s episode, co-hosts Karen Swim, APR (Solo PR Pro) and Michelle Kane (Voice Matters) discuss how to strategically decide which awareness and marketing campaigns to align with (and when to pass). They share practical advice for PR pros, marketers, and business owners on how to cut through the clutter while staying authentic to your brand.

What We Discuss in This Episode:

  • The evolution of National Days and how their popularity has changed over time. 
  • The difference between awareness campaigns that educate (e.g., Autism Awareness Month) versus marketing-driven moments (e.g., National Ice Cream Day). 
  • Why staying true to your brand’s mission is key when deciding whether to participate. 
  • Evaluating client expectations and helping them decide if their campaigns align with specific days or months. 
  • How doing something outside of a marketing or awareness month can sometimes help your message stand out. 
  • Tips for advising clients on when their big news deserves attention at the right time. 

Key Takeaways:

  • Not every campaign is necessary. Assess whether a national day or awareness month is relevant and meaningful to your brand or clients before joining in. 
  • Awareness vs. gimmicks: Distinguish between educational campaigns that offer real value and marketing "fun" that may not add much. 
  • Timing is everything. Great news is great news, no matter what day you share it. Don’t feel tied to these campaigns if they don’t serve your goals. 

Listener Reminder:

We’re not throwing shade at National Donut Day (a very worthwhile occasion, honestly!), but don’t feel obligated to latch on to every trendy day in the calendar. Use these moments as tools—but only when they make sense for your brand! 

Mentioned in This Episode:

  • How to align content with National Days effectively without overwhelming your brand strategy. 
  • Examples of when leveraging awareness months like Domestic Violence Awareness Month can reinforce your brand’s values. 

Special Invite:

If you found value in today’s conversation, we’d love for you to share this episode with your network! Whether via audio or on YouTube (yes, you can see our fabulous faces there too!), your support helps us bring more tips to PR and marketing pros like you. And don’t forget to leave us a rating or review—we can handle it 😉

Thanks for listening to this episode of That Solo Life! Until next time! 

Follow Us: 

Have thoughts on today's topic? Connect with us on social media and share your perspective.

Enjoyed the episode? 

Please leave a review here - even a sentence helps. Share and tag us (@SoloPRPro) on social media so that we can thank you personally! 

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Why It's Time to Advance AI Discussions in PR

Monday Mar 31, 2025

Monday Mar 31, 2025

That Solo Life, Episode 293: Why It's Time to Advance AI Discussions in PR

In This Episode 

Join Karen Swim, APR and Michelle Kane  as they discuss how PR professionals can leverage AI to enhance productivity while maintaining ethical practices. From practical applications for tasks like research and content creation to addressing AI's challenges, this episode offers valuable insights into how professionals can integrate AI tools to work more efficiently. 

What We Cover in This Episode: 

  • MuckRack's "State of AI in PR" report and key takeaways 
  • Why PR pros need to move beyond basic AI usage (like content and journalist research) 
  • Practical examples of how to use AI to save time, like creating campaign templates, summarizing research, or simplifying technical content 
  • The importance of staying ahead with AI to offer strategic counsel to clients 
  • How to address misconceptions about AI and demonstrate your own value as a professional in a tech-driven world 
  • Ethical considerations and creating responsible AI use policies 

Why You Should Listen: 

AI is here to stay, and PR professionals must not only adapt but also lead the conversation in how this technology influences communication. Whether you're already using AI in advanced ways or you're hesitant to try, this episode addresses the need to learn to integrate AI into your workflows effectively and responsibly. 

Episode Highlights: 

  • “What we’re saying is to use AI to simplify repetitive tasks and preserve your expertise for what truly matters.” 
  • “AI isn’t a vending machine. It’s not magic. It’s only as good as what you input, but it’s a powerful assistant when used well.” 
  • “Helping clients craft AI use policies not only protects them but also establishes you as a forward-thinking, trusted advisor.” 

Key Points:

In this episode, Karen and Michelle  discuss the use of AI in public relations and communication practices. The key points are:

  • The PR industry has been slow to adopt AI, focusing on limited use cases like content creation and journalist research, rather than exploring more efficient and strategic applications.

  • AI can be a valuable tool for PR professionals, helping with repetitive tasks, research analysis, content writing, and developing campaign templates - freeing up time to focus on high-value, human-centric activities.

  • There are ethical considerations around AI usage that PR professionals should be aware of and address, such as developing AI use policies and monitoring for potential misuse or negative impacts.

  • PR professionals should make an effort to understand AI capabilities and how to leverage the technology responsibly, as it is an increasingly important part of the communication landscape.

Links and Resources Mentioned: 

Connect with Us: 

  • Visit our website: Solo PR Pro 
  • Share your thoughts and feedback: info@soloprpro.com 
  • Follow us on Instagram

Listen Now: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Solo PR

Enjoyed the episode? 

Please leave a review here - even a sentence helps. Share and tag us (@SoloPRPro, @KarenSwim) on social media so that we can thank you personally!

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Utilizing Zero Click Content for Better Engagement

Monday Mar 24, 2025

Monday Mar 24, 2025

That Solo Life, Episode 292: Utilizing Zero Click Content for Better Engagement

In This Episode

In this episode of That Solo Life, co-hosts Karen Swim, APR and Michelle Karen discuss zero click content, a concept that is gaining traction in digital marketing and public relations. 

As the hosts explore zero click content, they discuss how this approach shifts the focus from merely driving clicks to fostering genuine engagement with your audience. Traditionally, the mantra has been to lead potential clients to our websites, but zero click content allows you to present valuable information in a more digestible format—whether through short text, videos, or engaging visuals—without the need for a direct call to action like "click here."

Karen and Michelle highlight the psychological aspect of this strategy, noting that it encourages potential clients to seek out more information on their own, thereby building trust and establishing your clients as go-to resources in their respective fields. This approach also allows PR pros to be creative in their communications. By telling compelling stories and using plain language, we can captivate our audience and encourage them to engage with our content.

Throughout the episode, Michelle and Karen discuss practical ways to implement zero click content, such as utilizing social media platforms creatively and producing engaging video content that doesn't require a formal setup. They also touch on the importance of adapting to the changing landscape of search engine optimization (SEO) driven by AI, where bite-sized, meaningful responses to audience questions are becoming increasingly vital.

Listeners are encouraged to experiment with their own content creation, using tools like CapCut and Animoto to produce engaging videos and infographics. 

Have you used zero click content? We would love to hear about your experiences so that we can all learn and grow. Drop us a line at info@soloprpro.com.

Don't forget to subscribe, like our content, and connect with us—we love hearing from you!

Episode Timestamps

00:00:00 - Introduction to That Solo Life Join hosts Michelle Kane and Karen Swim as they introduce the podcast and acknowledge the challenges faced by PR pros and marketers who work for themselves.

00:00:33 - Shout Out to Caregivers Acknowledge the multitasking nature of PR pros who also serve as caregivers, highlighting the chaos of balancing work and personal responsibilities.

00:00:54 - Introduction to Zero Click Content Discussion on the concept of zero click content and how it shifts the focus from driving clicks to fostering true engagement.

00:01:47 - Engagement Over Clicks Exploring the psychological aspect of zero click content and its role in building trust and establishing authority.

00:02:34 - Creativity in Content Creation How zero click content encourages creativity and storytelling, allowing for diverse formats like visuals and short videos.

00:03:45 - Adapting to Changing Search Trends The importance of adapting to changes in search algorithms and how zero click content can enhance visibility and engagement.

00:04:37 - Interactivity and Serialization Discussing the potential for interactivity in content and the benefits of serializing information to keep audiences engaged.

00:05:56 - The Importance of Bite-Sized Information Emphasizing the need for concise, meaningful responses that resonate with audiences and improve search results.

00:07:18 - Refocusing Content Priorities A reminder that shifting to zero click content is a small pivot rather than a complete overhaul, aimed at building awareness.

00:08:03 - Building New Skills Encouragement to embrace new content strategies as a way to stand out and improve communication with clients.

00:09:49 - Practical Tools for Content Creation Recommendations for tools like CapCut and Animoto to help create engaging video content and repurpose existing materials.

00:10:58 - Engaging with the Audience Invitation for listeners to share their experiences and tips on zero click content, fostering community interaction.

Resources / Links Mentioned: 

 

Listen Now: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Solo PR

Enjoyed the episode? 

Please leave a review here - even a sentence helps. Share and tag us (@SoloPRPro, @KarenSwim) on social media so that we can thank you personally!

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Personal And Professional Challenges Of Cybercrime

Monday Mar 17, 2025

Monday Mar 17, 2025

Episode Summary: 

Cybercrime is advancing at an alarming rate, impacting both personal lives and professional industries—including public relations. Karen Swim, APR of Solo PR Pro and Michelle Kane of Voice Matters explore the latest tactics scammers are using, from phishing emails to fraudulent links, and how PR professionals can protect themselves and their clients in this evolving digital landscape. 

 

What You’ll Learn: 

  • Personal tips to guard against scams like phishing texts, spoofed calls, and fraudulent emails. 
  • Why vigilance is key for protecting private information and financial assets. 
  • How PR professionals can ensure their campaigns and communications build trust and avoid looking suspicious to audiences. 
  • Tools and best practices for managing online safety, such as masking your email and avoiding suspicious links. 
  • Insight into building trustworthy client relationships in a world full of online threats. 

Memorable Moments: 

  • Michelle’s bank fraud story: How trusting her instincts helped her avoid a scam. 
  • Karen’s best advice: “Never answer unknown numbers. Call back the verified line instead.” 
  • Top tip for PR pros: Ensure your links and downloads are hosted on client websites to build credibility and assure safety. 

Episode Timestamps

  • 00:00:00 - Introduction to Online Fraud 
  • 00:00:42 - Personal Experience with Scams 
  • 00:01:40 - Best Practices for Handling Unknown Calls 
  • 00:02:40 - The Rise of Cyber Attacks 
  • 00:03:40 - Protecting Your Personal Information 
  • 00:04:40 - The Importance of Trust in Communication 
  • 00:05:40 - Navigating Links and Downloads Safely 
  • 00:06:40 - Building Trust with Your Audience 
  • 00:07:40 - Avoiding Scams in Promotions 
  • 00:08:40 - Vigilance in Everyday Life 
  • 00:09:40 - Resources for Staying Informed 
  • 00:10:40 - Conclusion and Call to Action

 

Resources / Links Mentioned: 

Have you or your clients been affected by cybercrime? Share your experiences in the comments or on social media to help others stay one step ahead. And if you found this episode helpful, don’t forget to share it with your colleagues and fellow PR professionals. 

Listen Now: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Solo PR

Enjoyed the episode? 

Please leave a review here - even a sentence helps. Share and tag us (@SoloPRPro, @KarenSwim) on social media so that we can thank you personally! 

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The Good, The Bad, and The Ridiculous of Wordplay

Monday Mar 10, 2025

Monday Mar 10, 2025

Summary:

Words have power, and as PR pros and marketers, we know just how to wield them. But what happens when wordplay goes awry? Join Michelle Kane and Karen Swim in this enlightening and entertaining episode as they break down the dos and don'ts of clever messaging. Discover how the right wordplay can resonate with your audience, when it’s best avoided, and how intention matters more than you might think.

Key Takeaways:

  • Wordplay as a Connection Tool: Learn how effective wordplay can draw in and unify your audience by balancing the familiar with a fresh twist.
  • Intent Is Everything: Messaging should always prioritize kindness and respect, avoiding divisiveness or harm.
  • The Fine Line Between Clever and Confusing: Not all wordplay lands well—find out how to avoid messaging that alienates or baffles your audience.

In This Episode

In this episode of That Solo Life, co-hosts Karen Swim and Michelle Kane chat about the use of wordplay in communication and marketing. They cover examples of effective wordplay, such as the Nike and Apple ads, as well as instances of problematic wordplay, like renaming the Gulf of Mexico or a steak cut. The discussion highlights include:

  • Wordplay can be an effective communication tool when used strategically to engage the audience and build familiarity.

  • However, wordplay should not be used as a "weapon" to divide audiences or make a political statement.

  • Communicators should be mindful of the intent and potential impacts of their word choices, and aim to communicate in a spirit of kindness and unity.

  • It's important for communicators to maintain credibility and avoid actions that could undermine trust.

Resources/Links Mentioned:

Why Wordplay Works in Communications - Wylie Communications 

Enjoyed the episode? 

Please leave a review here - even a sentence helps. Share and tag us on social media (@SoloPRPro, @KarenSwim, @VoiceMattersLLC) and let us thank you personally!

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The New Challenges in Managing Brand Reputation

Monday Mar 03, 2025

Monday Mar 03, 2025

That Solo Life, Episode 289: The New Challenges in Managing Brand Reputation

Summary

This episode of "That Solo Life" podcast explores the challenges PR professionals manage when brands are faced with crises, particularly serious situations like allegations of child abuse. The hosts, Karen Swim, APR and Michelle Kane discuss the importance of building trust with audiences, maintaining authenticity and integrity, and providing nuanced responses rather than knee-jerk reactions. They emphasize the need for civility, context, and an understanding that not every mistake or misstep warrants an extreme public backlash. The hosts also acknowledge the difficulty of navigating these issues as PR professionals who are also impacted by the toxicity and chaos in the broader society.

In This Episode

 

Karen Swim, APR and Michelle Kane discuss the modern complexities of reputation management and proactive crisis management in Episode 289 of That Solo Life. The internet has created a tinderbox that can quickly ignite a spark of discord into a firestorm of crisis. 

Today’s  discussion kicks off with a real-life example of a local business facing severe allegations of child abuse linked to previous ownership. Michelle and Karen explore the challenges that new ownership faces as they attempt to distance themselves from the past while managing public perception. They emphasize the importance of effective messaging and the need for PR professionals to guide brands through these turbulent waters.

Karen highlights the broader context of how society has shifted towards a more polarized viewpoint, where nuance and reasoned thinking seem to be in short supply. The hosts discuss the tendency for public opinion to swing dramatically, often overlooking the complexities of individual situations. They stress the importance of context in evaluating a brand's response to crises, noting that not every misstep warrants immediate condemnation.

As the conversation unfolds, Karen  and Michelle reflect on the pressures brands face in the digital age, where the loudest voices often drown out the majority who may hold more moderate views. They point out that while brands must be authentic and true to their values, they also need to build trust with their audiences over time. This trust becomes crucial when navigating crises, as it can help mitigate backlash and foster understanding.

The episode also touches on the rapid spread of misinformation and the consequences it can have on brand reputation. The hosts share a recent example involving a soda company that faced backlash over a marketing campaign, illustrating how quickly narratives can spiral out of control without proper context.

In closing, Karen and Michelle encourage PR professionals to remain steadfast in their values and to continue making ethical decisions, even amidst chaos. They express hope for a return to civility and nuance in public discourse, emphasizing that by doing the right thing, we can collectively contribute to a more informed and understanding society.

Listeners are invited to share their thoughts and experiences, and the hosts encourage feedback on topics they would like to see covered in future episodes. As always, they thank their audience for tuning in and remind them to check out the resources available at SoloPRPro.com.

Resources:

Episode Timestamps

00:00:00 - Introduction to That Solo Life Welcome to the podcast for PR pros and marketers who work for themselves.

00:00:30 - Celebrating Love and Black History Month Discussion on the significance of February as a month of love and Black History Month.

00:01:00 - Navigating PR Nightmares Exploring how brands can handle serious allegations and public relations crises.

00:02:30 - The Weight of Brand Reputation Understanding how public opinion can impact brands, especially in severe situations.

00:04:00 - The Challenge of Nuanced Thinking Discussing the loss of reason and nuance in public discourse and its effects on brands.

00:06:00 - The Extremes of Public Opinion How the loudest voices often overshadow the majority who are more moderate.

00:08:00 - The Importance of Context Emphasizing the need for context in evaluating situations and brand responses.

00:10:00 - Building Trust Through Authenticity The significance of making deposits of trust with audiences over time.

00:11:30 - The Role of Ethics in Crisis Management How ethical behavior and integrity can help brands navigate crises effectively.

00:13:00 - The Impact of Misinformation Examining how misinformation spreads quickly and affects brand perception.

00:15:00 - The Human Element in PR Acknowledging the challenges PR professionals face in a chaotic environment.

00:17:00 - The Call for Civility and Nuance A hopeful message about the potential for change in public discourse.

00:18:00 - Conclusion and Call to Action Encouragement to share the podcast and engage with the community.

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