That Solo Life: The Solo PR Pro Podcast

What You Need to Know to Become a Solo PR Pro in 2025

In This Episode

In this episode of That Solo Life, co-hosts Karen Swim and Michelle Kane dive into the evolving landscape of public relations and marketing for solo professionals. With the job market in flux, is starting a Solo PR Pro business realistic in 2025? Karen and Michelle tackle that question as they discuss the opportunities and challenges of making the leap to a Solo PR Pro career. 

The co-hosts discuss the various factors that might lead someone to make the leap into self-employment. They emphasize that while the media landscape has changed significantly, the core skills of communication and storytelling remain invaluable. They encourage listeners to think strategically about their unique skill sets and how they can serve clients effectively.

Michelle and Karen discuss the importance of having a solid plan before making the transition. They caution against jumping into entrepreneurship out of frustration and stress the need for thorough research on potential markets, industries, and client needs. The hosts highlight the value of maintaining steady employment while preparing to start a business, as it provides a financial cushion and the opportunity to learn and network without the pressure of immediate income.

Throughout the episode, the hosts share practical tips on how to cultivate business relationships that can yield valuable insights and potential leads. The hosts remind listeners that consulting opportunities can arise from job postings and that networking is key to planting seeds for future business.

As the discussion progresses, Karen and Michelle touch on the necessity of adapting to new technologies, such as AI, while still honing traditional skills like writing. The hosts emphasize that being a successful solo professional requires not just expertise in PR but also the ability to run a business effectively.

Michelle and Karen also reflect on the natural evolution of their own businesses, encouraging listeners to embrace change and remain flexible in their career paths. They remind us that starting a business is a journey filled with learning experiences, and it's essential to give ourselves grace as we navigate the ups and downs.

In closing, listeners are invited  to share the podcast with others who might benefit from our insights. With nearly 300 episodes under our belt, we are committed to providing valuable content for PR pros and marketers working independently. Join us as we continue to explore the world of solo entrepreneurship and empower each other to thrive in our careers. Thank you for tuning in to That Solo Life!

Episode Timeline

00:00:00 - Introduction to That Solo Life 

00:00:12 - The Journey of Solo PR Pros 

00:01:10 - Navigating the Changing Media Landscape 

00:02:00 - Opportunities for Solos in Today 's Market 

00:03:36 - Finding Your Niche: Fishing Where the Fish Are 

00:04:56 - The Importance of Planning Before Taking the Leap 

00:06:12 - Researching Your Market and Skills

00:07:21 - Networking and Building Relationships 

00:08:24 - The Value of Continuous Learning and Adaptation 0

0:09:42 - Embracing the Unknown in Your Solo Journey 

00:11:53 - Evolving Your Business Over Time

00:14:16 - Trusting Your Instincts and Making the Leap 

00:15:06 - Closing Remarks and Call to Action

Enjoyed the episode? 

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How to Find Joy and Make an Impact in PR

That Solo Life Episode 285: How to Find Joy and Make an Impact in PR

 

In This Episode

 

In this episode of "That Solo Life," co-hosts Karen Swim, APR and Michelle Kane dive into the chaotic start of the new year, reflecting on the challenges faced by solo and small agency PR professionals in 2025. The year has kicked off with an overwhelming amount of information and events happening both in the United States and global. As chaos reigns, it is important for public relations to stay grounded. 

Michelle and Karen explore the necessity of maintaining engagement in our work while also prioritizing our well-being. They highlight the significance of focusing on quality over quantity in our communications, especially in light of the evolving media landscape. The conversation touches on the importance of authenticity and truth in storytelling, particularly as misinformation continues to be a pressing issue in the public relations industry.

The hosts encourage listeners to step back from the emotional turmoil that can arise from constant engagement with social media and the news cycle. They advocate for finding joy in our work and innovating our approaches to communication. By fostering genuine connections within our communities—both for our clients and among ourselves—we can create a supportive network that helps us navigate these turbulent times.

Karen and Michelle also discuss the pitfalls of relying too heavily on social media platforms, reminding listeners that these platforms are not owned by us and can change at any moment. They stress the importance of building our brands on land we own, such as through email marketing and direct engagement with our audiences, rather than getting lost in the noise of social media.

As the episode wraps up, the hosts express their solidarity with fellow PR professionals, acknowledging the emotional toll the industry can take. They invite listeners to share their experiences and connect with the community, reinforcing the idea that we are all in this together. This episode serves as a reminder to prioritize our mental health, focus on meaningful connections, and continue to adapt in the ever-changing landscape of public relations.

Episode Timeline

00:00:00 - Introduction
The hosts introduce themselves and discuss the cold weather.

00:01:00 - Navigating Chaos
A reflection on the chaotic start to the year and the challenges faced by communications professionals.

00:02:30 - Staying True to Community
The importance of remaining connected to one's community amidst the chaos and misinformation.

00:04:00 - Finding Joy in Work
Advice on stepping back from emotional reactions and focusing on impactful work.

00:05:30 - The Reality of Misinformation
Discussion on the prevalence of misinformation and the need for authenticity in storytelling.

00:07:00 - The Role of Social Media
Exploring the dual nature of social media as both a tool for connection and a potential silo.

00:08:30 - Building True Community
Encouraging clients to engage directly with their audiences rather than relying solely on social media.

00:10:00 - Understanding Audience Segments
The importance of recognizing that not everyone will resonate with a brand or message.

00:11:30 - The Risks of Platform Dependency
A reminder that social media platforms are not owned by users and the risks of building a brand on them.

00:13:00 - Exploring Alternative Platforms
Highlighting the value of engaging on platforms like Reddit for genuine interactions.

00:14:00 - Staying Focused on Purpose
The need for PR professionals to filter out noise and maintain focus on their mission.

00:15:00 - Conclusion and Community Support
Wrapping up the discussion and encouraging listeners to connect and share their experiences.

Enjoyed the episode? 

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How PR Pros Can Use an Audit to Unlock Social Media Success

That Solo Life, Episode 284: How PR Pros Can Use an Audit to Unlock Social Media Success

In This Episode

Today’s podcast discussion focuses on the importance of conducting social media audits and targeting specific audience personas when developing marketing and communications strategies. Key takeaways from this episode  include:

• Conducting a social media audit can provide valuable insights to help organizations improve their social media presence and effectiveness, even if the audit process seems daunting at first.
  
  
• It is critical to deeply understand your target audience personas and tailor content and messaging accordingly, rather than trying to appeal to a broad, general audience.
  
  
• Focusing on the social media channels that are working best for your organization, rather than trying to be on every platform, can lead to more impactful results.
  
  
• This year presents a unique opportunity for companies and brands to build stronger, more engaged communities through social media by taking risks, experimenting, and being willing to learn from failures.

In this episode of That Solo Life, we are thrilled to welcome Nicole Castro, the principal of Nicole Lauren Consulting, to discuss the importance of social media audits and the power of targeted messaging in public relations and marketing. Public Relations professionals often face the challenge of effectively communicating our clients' stories and connecting them with the right audiences. Nicole brings her expertise to the table, sharing insights from a recent social media audit she conducted for a nonprofit client.

 

The conversation kicks off  by acknowledging the common stigma associated with the term "audit." Nicole emphasizes that while audits can seem daunting, they are essential for understanding what works and what doesn’t in a client’s social media strategy. She recounts how her client, after years of posting on social media, realized they needed to assess their efforts to ensure they were reaching their target audiences effectively.

 

Nicole highlights three key takeaways from her audit experience. 

• The importance of conducting a target audience exercise. This exercise allowed Nicole’s client to identify the diverse demographics they serve. By understanding their audience on a micro level, the organization could tailor their messaging to resonate with specific groups rather than adopting a one-size-fits-all approach.
• The capacity of your team. Nicole points out the common fear of missing out (FOMO) that leads organizations to spread themselves too thin across multiple social media platforms. She encourages clients to focus on the channels that yield the best results for them, rather than feeling pressure to be everywhere at once.
• Targeted messaging. Nicole emphasizes the significance of being targeted in messaging. She explains that specificity in communication not only helps in reaching the intended audience but also attracts others outside that persona. This targeted approach fosters clarity and effectiveness in messaging.

 

As we delve deeper into the discussion, Nicole introduces the concept of "The Year of the Niche." She believes that brands and organizations will find success by honing in on their audience personas and building content that speaks directly to them. In a time when social media is evolving, she stresses the need for brands to engage in two-way conversations with their audiences, moving beyond mere promotional messaging.

 

Throughout the episode, we explore the idea of failure as a natural part of the growth process. Nicole encourages brands to take risks and try new things, reminding us that failure is not fatal but rather a stepping stone to success. We discuss the importance of measuring success through meaningful metrics that go beyond surface-level engagement.

 

As we wrap up the episode, we reflect on the exciting opportunities that lie ahead for brands willing to connect authentically with their audiences. Nicole leaves us with a call to action: to build a strong communications foundation and embrace the potential for growth through experimentation.

 

Join us for this enlightening conversation that will inspire you to rethink your approach to social media and client engagement. Don't forget to connect with Nicole on LinkedIn to continue the discussion! Thank you for listening to That Solo Life.

 

About Nicole Castro

Nicole Castro is the principal of Nicole Lauren Consulting. She has spent the last 10 years cultivating results-driven public relations and marketing experiences for nonprofit and for-profit clients. The agency’s main goal is  to help others tell their stories and connect clients with an audience that would truly benefit from their offering and mission. 

Specialty areas of focus include brand development, social media management, competitive benchmarking, multi-platform editorial and content solutions.

You can connect with Nicole via her website or LinkedIn.

Episode Timeline

00:00:00 - Introduction to That Solo Life Podcast
00:01:15 - Welcoming Nicole Castro
00:02:01 - The Importance of Social Media Audits
00:04:36 - Insights from a Recent Social Media Audit
00:06:09 - Key Takeaways from the Audit
00:10:05 - Understanding Target Audiences
00:12:08 - The FOMO of Social Media Presence
00:14:02 - The Year of the Niche
00:18:49 - Building Community Through Social Media
00:20:41 - The Value of Taking Risks
00:24:53 - Embracing Failure as Part of Growth
00:29:30 - Conclusion and Connecting with Nicole

Key takeaways from the einclude:

• Conducting a social media audit can provide valuable insights to help organizations improve their social media presence and effectiveness, even if the audit process seems daunting at first.
  
  
• It is critical to deeply understand your target audience personas and tailor content and messaging accordingly, rather than trying to appeal to a broad, general audience.
  
  
• Focusing on the social media channels that are working best for your organization, rather than trying to be on every platform, can lead to more impactful results.
  
  
• This year presents a unique opportunity for companies and brands to build stronger, more engaged communities through social media by taking risks, experimenting, and being willing to learn from failures.
  
  

Enjoyed the episode? 

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

Quality Over Quantity Will Drive PR In 2025

That Solo Life, Episode 283: Quality Over Quantity Will Drive PR In 2025

In This Episode

In this episode of That Solo Life, co-hosts Karen Swim and Michelle Kane dive into the critical topic of gaining access to the C-suite and the importance of building meaningful relationships within organizations. Communication professionals understand that their effectiveness hinges on the quality of information and insights they can gather from various levels of an organization, particularly from executive leadership.

The conversation kicks off by acknowledging the challenges communicators face in accessing the C-suite, often due to internal politics or organizational structures that can block our paths. The hosts emphasize the necessity of having a seat at the table, as it not only enriches engagements but also leads to better compensation. However, Karen and Michelle recognize that this access is not always straightforward, and discuss creative strategies to navigate these barriers.

One approach suggested is initiating dialogue with your primary contacts, such as the CMO, by asking pointed questions about their goals and recent developments within the organization. This step-ladder approach allows you to gradually build rapport and gain insights that can inform your strategies. Michelle and Karen also stress the importance of aligning your efforts with the broader business objectives and speaking the language of our marketing counterparts to foster collaboration.

Throughout the episode, the hosts highlight the shift in focus from quantity to quality in PR work. Listeners are encouraged to ask quality questions and engage in deeper conversations that matter to the business, rather than simply relying on traditional metrics.

As the episode wraps up, Karen and Michelle reflect on the importance of building trust—not only with your external audiences but also internally with clients. They emphasize that meaningful relationships are at the core of successful communication strategies, and challenge our listeners to prioritize this in their work moving forward.

Join us as we explore these themes and share insights that can help you navigate the complexities of working with clients and organizations in the ever-evolving landscape of PR and marketing. Don't forget to check out Solo PR Pro for community support and resources tailored for solo practitioners. Thank you for tuning in, and we look forward to connecting with you in our next episode!

Episode Timeline

00:00:00 - Introduction to That Solo Life 

00:00:12 - Accessing the C-Suite 

00:01:05 - The Importance of Influence 

00:02:03 - Navigating Internal Politics 

00:03:13 - Starting the Dialogue 

00:04:06 - Aligning Goals with Clients 

00:05:04 - Understanding Reporting Metrics

 00:06:57 - The Separation of Marketing and PR 

00:08:11 - Quality Over Quantity in Results 

00:09:38 - Shifting Focus in the Post-Pandemic Era 

00:10:47 - Building Meaningful Connections 

00:12:30 - The Importance of Thoughtful Engagement 

00:14:49 - Forging Trusting Relationships 

00:15:25 - Conclusion and Community Invitation

 

Enjoyed the episode? 

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

Trends, Trust And Technology - What's Ahead In 2025

That Solo Life, Episode 291: Trends, Trust And Technology - What's Ahead In 2025

In This Episode

Join us for Part Two of our PR Trends discussion In this episode of That Solo Life. Co-hosts Karen Swim  and Michelle Kane continue their discussion on the trends they believe will shape the public relations and communications landscape in 2025. We dive into analytics, trust, technology and the predicted trends that are still struggling to catch on. 

We kick off the discussion by emphasizing the need for PR professionals to harness data analytics more effectively. Drawing from our recent conversation with Lisa Gerber, we explore how metrics can guide us in crafting compelling narratives that resonate with the right audiences. We highlight the shift from merely reporting performance to using data to inform our storytelling strategies, ensuring that our content not only reaches but engages our target demographics.

Next, we address the critical issue of trust-building. In a world where skepticism is rampant, we stress the importance of transparency and authenticity in brand communications. We discuss how PR can play a pivotal role in fostering trust through proactive crisis management and consistent messaging that aligns with a brand's mission and values. 

As we transition into a discussion about technology, we reflect on the anticipated rise of augmented reality (AR) and immersive experiences. While we initially expected these innovations to be more prevalent by now, we acknowledge the human element—our innate desire for genuine interaction—that has tempered their adoption. We explore the barriers to embracing these technologies and the need for accessibility to drive widespread acceptance.

Throughout the episode, we encourage our listeners to think critically about the trends shaping our industry and to remain adaptable as we navigate the complexities of the modern communications landscape. We invite you to share your thoughts and insights, and as always, we appreciate your support in spreading the word about That Solo Life. Join us as we look forward to an exciting year ahead in PR and marketing!

Episode Timeline

00:00:00 - Introduction to Predictions for 2025

00:00:31 - Data-Driven Storytelling in PR

00:02:27 - Engagement Metrics and Quality Over Quantity

00:05:15 - The Importance of Trust-Building

00:09:17 - Transparency and Authenticity in Branding

00:10:00 - The Slow Adoption of AR and Immersive Experiences

00:12:12 - Human Behavior and Technology Adoption

00:15:51 - Conclusion and Call to Action

Resources:

• The Power of Storytelling in an AI World
• PRSA: Looking Ahead: 4 PR Challenges to Tackle in 2025 — and How to Prepare Now

Enjoyed the episode? 

Please leave a review here - even a sentence helps. Share and tag us (@SoloPR, @SoloPRPro) on social media so that we can thank you personally! Your support helps us keep bringing you insightful content every week. Thank you for tuning in!

What Lies Ahead For PR Pros In 2025

That Solo Life, Episode 281: What Lies Ahead For PR Pros In 2025

 

In This Episode

 

In this episode of That Solo Life, co-hosts Karen Swim and Michelle Kane pause to reflect on what trends will shape the landscape for PR professionals in 2025. 

 

The hosts kick off the discussion by addressing the importance of cross-cultural sensitivity, especially in light of recent setbacks in Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives. Despite the political climate and the dismantling of formal programs, they emphasize that the need for effective communication with diverse audiences remains critical. As communicators, we must advocate for inclusive brand guidelines and storytelling that resonates with all segments of our audience.

 

The conversation then shifts to the significance of enhanced internal communications. Karen and Michelle highlight how transparent communication fosters trust within organizations, especially in a hybrid work environment. Drawing from personal experiences, they stress the value of keeping employees engaged and informed, as this is essential for maintaining a cohesive and motivated workforce.

 

The hosts then  explore the evolving role of influencer partnerships in 2025. Influencers are here to stay, and Michelle and Karen discuss how they can bring creativity and authenticity to brand messaging. Michelle shares insights from a recent panel featuring local influencers, who expressed their commitment to ethical practices and delivering quality work for their clients. This creativity is something we hope to see more of in the coming year, as it can help break the monotony of corporate jargon and reinvigorate our communications.

 

The episode wraps us with  hope for a more optimistic and joyful 2025. The hosts acknowledge the challenges that lie ahead, including issues of trust and misinformation, but believe that these challenges will ultimately highlight the value of skilled PR professionals. Our goal as PR professionals is to help brands navigate these turbulent times and connect with their audiences in meaningful ways.

 

Thank you for joining us on this journey, and we look forward to continuing the conversation in our next episode!

 

Episode Timeline

 

00:00:00 - Introduction to Trends for 2025

00:00:18 - The Importance of Cross-Cultural Sensitivity

00:02:50 - The Need for Enhanced Internal Communications

00:05:00 - The Role of Trust in Organizations

00:07:30 - Influencer Partnerships and Creativity

00:10:15 - Looking Ahead with Optimism

00:11:28 - Conclusion and Call for Listener Engagement

Enjoyed the episode? 

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Magic Wands And Flying Carpets - The Myths And Realities Of PR

That Solo Life, Episode 280: Magic Wands And Flying Carpets - The Myths And Realities Of PR

In This Episode

 

The understanding about the role of Public Relations can vary widely from being a vanity function to having the ability to save a failing company. In this episode of That Solo Life, co-hosts Karen Swim, APR and Michelle Kane engage in a lighthearted yet serious discussion about the common misconceptions about public relations (PR) and the challenges faced by PR professionals and the businesses they serve.

There are things that PR simply cannot fix. Karen and Michelle share their experiences with clients who have high expectations, believing that PR can be a magic bullet for their failing businesses. While PR can certainly help, it cannot replace the need for a solid business foundation, infrastructure, and consistent effort. 

Karen highlights the issue of companies that underestimate the value of PR, especially during leadership changes. New CMOs may not recognize the critical role PR plays in maintaining brand reputation and driving customer trust. Without a partnership between PR and marketing, businesses risk losing out on valuable opportunities.

Michelle adds that PR cannot compensate for a lack of effort from clients. We need their input and collaboration to create effective strategies. The misconception that PR is a "set it and forget it" service leads to disappointment and missed opportunities. There must be open communication and consistent engagement to achieve the best results.

In addition to  navigating these challenges, Karen and Michelle express concern for the well-being of PR professionals who are feeling burned out and disillusioned. The lack of communication and feedback from potential clients can be disheartening, and listeners are urged to foster better communication practices.

In closing, we extend our heartfelt gratitude to our listeners for their support throughout the year. We encourage everyone to approach their PR efforts with an open mind and a clear understanding of how collaboration can lead to success. We wish everyone happy holidays and look forward to continuing this journey together in 2025, sharing insights, laughter, and valuable information. Thank you for tuning in to That Solo Life!

Episode Timeline 

00:00:00 - Introduction to That Solo Life

00:00:22 - The Holiday Season and PR Challenges 

00:01:01 - Things PR Cannot Fix: Failing Businesses

00:01:48 - The Misconception of PR 's Value 

00:03:46 - The Importance of Storytelling in PR

00:05:47 - The Need for Client Effort in PR

00:07:51 - Consistency is Key in PR Efforts 

00:09:44 - The Passion of PR Professionals 

00:10:49 - The Importance of Communication and Feedback 

00:12:22 - The Impact of Disillusionment in the PR Industry 

00:14:44 - Closing Thoughts and Holiday Wishes

Enjoyed the episode? 

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The Power of Storytelling in an AI World

That Solo Life, Episode 279: The Power of Storytelling in an AI World

In this Episode

A dying man walks onto a stage and opens his talk with photos of his CAT scans and in seconds has the entire room in laughter. Professor Randy Pauch gave this TED Talk and it still serves as a powerful example of the power of stories. In this episode of That Solo Life, we welcome back story strategist, Lisa Gerber of Big Leap Creative to talk about storytelling and why it matters more than ever.

We kick off the conversation by discussing the power of storytelling in business. Lisa shares her insights on why leading with a story is crucial, emphasizing that stories set the tone and energy of any interaction. They capture attention and create emotional connections, which are essential for building relationships. Lisa explains how starting with a personal story can ease nerves for both the storyteller and the audience, making the experience more enjoyable and memorable.

As we delve deeper, we explore the barriers that prevent people from making emotional connections through storytelling. Lisa highlights the common misconception that personal stories should be avoided in professional settings. She encourages listeners to embrace their personal narratives, as they can foster deeper conversations and connections. We also touch on the importance of understanding the audience's perspective and tailoring messages accordingly, especially in a world where communication can often feel fragmented.

In light of the current polarized climate, we discuss the challenges communicators face when trying to connect with diverse audiences. Lisa emphasizes the need for curiosity and open-mindedness, urging us to seek to understand differing viewpoints rather than jumping to judgment. We reflect on the importance of acknowledging our cognitive biases and the role of storytelling in bridging divides.

Towards the end of the episode, Lisa shares exciting news about her upcoming book, The Power of Story, which aims to help individuals communicate in a relatable and impactful way. We also discuss her podcast, Breaking Trail , which features stories of leaders who are forging their own paths.

As we wrap up, Lisa leaves us with a powerful nugget of inspiration: to start sharing our personal stories in less risky environments to see how people respond. This practice can help us connect more authentically and stand out in our professional lives.

Join us for this enlightening conversation filled with valuable insights on storytelling, connection, and the importance of being true to ourselves in our professional journeys. Don't forget to check the show notes for links to Lisa's upcoming book and her website, where you can connect with her directly. Thank you for listening to That Solo Life!

About Lisa Gerber

Lisa Gerber is a story strategist and communications expert who works with purpose-driven leaders to help them communicate to connect. Through storytelling, leaders build trust, alignment, and understanding. With a storytelling habit, they become influential leaders. Lisa has been in PR and communications for the past 20+ years and has spent the past decade thinking about how stories help us be better at relationships in life and work. (Hint: it’s about being real, relatable, and riveting.) She is  the author of From So What? To So Funded: How nonprofits use story to create impact and change the world. Her latest book, released in December 2024 is The Power of Story.

You can book a consult with Lisa via her website or connect with her on LinkedIn.

Episode Timeline

00:00:00 - Introduction to That Solo Life Podcast Welcome and introduction of hosts and guest Lisa Gerber.

00:01:05 - The Power of Storytelling Discussion on the importance of leading with story in communication.

00:02:30 - Creating Emotional Connections Exploration of how storytelling fosters emotional connections in business.

00:05:24 - Barriers to Storytelling Identifying barriers that prevent effective storytelling and emotional connection.

00:06:40 - The Role of Personal Stories The significance of sharing personal stories in professional settings.

00:08:10 - Navigating Vulnerability Addressing the fear of revealing personal experiences in a professional context.

00:10:22 - Understanding Your Audience The importance of tailoring messages to meet the audience's needs.

00:11:52 - Communicating in Polarized Times Tips for storytelling in a fragmented and polarized environment.

00:14:59 - The Importance of Curiosity Encouraging open-mindedness and curiosity in conversations.

00:18:08 - The Role of Truth in Communication Discussing the necessity of truth in building relationships.

00:19:50 - AI and Human Connection The limitations of AI in creating genuine human connections through storytelling.

00:22:02 - Lisa 's Upcoming Book Announcement of Lisa's new book, "The Power of Story."

00:25:04 - Final Inspiration Encouragement to share personal stories and connect authentically.

00:26:20 - Lisa 's Podcast: Breaking Trail Information about Lisa's podcast and its focus on leadership stories.

00:28:06 - Closing Remarks Wrap-up of the episode and invitation for listener engagement.

Resources:

• Randy Pausch TED Talk: Really Achieving your Childhood Dreams
• Lisa’s latest book: The Power of Story
• Storytelling Workshop
• David Brooks Podcast: Aspen Ideas
• Podcast: Breaking Trail
• Heineken Ad: Worlds Apart

Enjoyed the episode? 

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

Key Lessons from Tiny Businesses that Made Big Moves

That Solo Life, Episode 278: Key Lessons from Tiny Businesses that Made Big Moves

In this Episode

In this episode of That Solo Life, co-hosts Karen Swim, APR and Michelle Kane welcome Elaine Pofeldt, an independent journalist and speaker specializing in entrepreneurship and careers. Elaine is the author of, The Million Dollar One-Person Business and Tiny Business, Big Money.

The conversation kicked off with a discussion about the evolving landscape of work, particularly the significant role that artificial intelligence (AI) is playing in the business today. Elaine shared her observations on how public relations professionals and marketers are increasingly embracing AI tools, likening this shift to the early days of cloud computing. She emphasized that AI is making business operations more accessible, allowing solo entrepreneurs to streamline workflows and reduce administrative burdens.

As we delved deeper, Elaine highlighted the importance of leveraging technology and outsourcing tasks to enhance productivity. She noted that successful tiny business owners often utilize contractors and standard operating procedures to maintain efficiency. This approach allows them to focus on their core competencies while ensuring that their businesses run smoothly.

Elaine also shared valuable insights gleaned from her interviews with successful entrepreneurs. She emphasized the significance of resilience, adaptability, and the willingness to pivot in response to changing market demands. Many of the entrepreneurs she spoke with have diversified their income streams and continuously reassess their business strategies to stay relevant.

The importance of mindset was a key theme of the episode. Elaine pointed out that the battles we face in business often begin in our minds. She encouraged our listeners to embrace a growth mindset, persist through challenges, and not let rejection deter them from pursuing their goals. The episode also touches on the necessity of building strong relationships and maintaining a network, as these connections can lead to unexpected opportunities.

Towards the end of the episode, we explored the concept of creating a sustainable revenue mix. Elaine advised our listeners to understand their financial needs and develop a clear picture of their baseline costs, both personally and professionally. She stressed the importance of cash flow management and the need for ongoing business development efforts.

In closing, we agreed that the journey of an independent professional is filled with ups and downs, but with the right mindset, tools, and community support, we can navigate these challenges successfully. Elaine's insights were not only inspiring but also practical, providing our audience with actionable takeaways to implement in their own businesses.

Episode Highlights

The key insights gleaned from the successful entrepreneurs that Elaine Pofeldt spoke with include:

• They don't do all the work of the business themselves, but leverage technology and contractors to handle tasks
• They have standard operating procedures documented to train others and streamline processes
• They consistently show up and do what they say they will do, even on difficult days
• They are resilient and not afraid to pivot, adapting their skills and services as demand changes
• They know their strengths and bring their personality to their business, rather than hiding behind a corporate facade
• They focus on building trust and collaboration with clients and media, rather than acting as an all-knowing expert
• They ensure they have a mix of recurring revenue and new business development to maintain a sustainable business through economic cycles

 

About Elaine Pofeldt

Elaine Pofeldt is an independent journalist and engaging speaker known for her expertise in entrepreneurship, freelance success, and the evolving landscape of the workforce.. She is the author of “The Million-Dollar One-Person Business” and “Tiny Business Big Money.”With a comprehensive background in journalism and a passion for exploring how individuals can thrive in their careers, she captivates audiences by sharing valuable insights and practical advice. Elaine's workshops and talks often focus on the importance of building sustainable business models and leveraging freelance opportunities in today's economy. Her approachable style and depth of knowledge resonate with professionals seeking to enhance their skills and navigate the complexities of modern work. You can book Elaine via her website or connect with her on LinkedIn.

Episode Timeline

00:00:00 - Introduction to That Solo Life Podcast Welcome and introduction of hosts and guest Elaine Pofeldt.

00:01:00 - The Importance of AI in Business Discussion on the growing trend of AI usage among publicists and marketers.

00:02:30 - Leveraging AI for Business Efficiency How tiny businesses are utilizing AI to streamline workflows and improve productivity.

00:04:30 - AI Tools for Content Creation Exploration of various AI tools and their applications in content creation and marketing.

00:11:00 - Insights from Successful Entrepreneurs Key takeaways from interviews with entrepreneurs featured in Elaine's books.

00:12:30 - Common Traits of Successful Entrepreneurs Discussion on the habits and mindsets that contribute to the success of independent business owners.

00:16:00 - Adapting to Economic Changes How entrepreneurs can create sustainable businesses amidst economic fluctuations.

Resources:

• The Million Dollar, One Person Business; Purchase the Book on Amazon
• Elaine Pofeldt speaker website
• Tiny Business, Big Money
• New course on writing for major publications 
• Live pitch-the-media workshops

Enjoyed the episode? 

Please leave a review here - even a sentence helps. Share and tag us (@SoloPR, @SoloPRPro) on social media so that we can thank you personally! Your support helps us keep bringing you insightful content every week. Thank you for tuning in!

Say Thanks to Elaine Pofeldt

If you liked this episode with Elaine Pofeldt please say thanks on LinkedIn!

Listen to the episode on our website, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music, or on your favorite podcast platform. You can also watch the interview on YouTube here.

That Solo Life Episode 277: Quick Things to Check Off Before the Year Ends

That Solo Life, Episode 277: Quick Things to Check Off Before the Year Ends

In This Episode 

In this episode of That Solo Life , Karen Swim, APR and Michelle Kane discuss a few simple tasks that solo business owners need to consider as the year comes to a close. 

The co-hosts kick off the discussion with information about the Corporate Transparency Act and the necessity for business owners to complete their BOI filing. Karen emphasizes the ease of the process, sharing her own experience and encouraging listeners not to overlook this important legal requirement. Karen and Michelle also touch on the significance of health insurance during this time of year, urging our audience to consult with insurance brokers to find better plans that suit their needs and potentially save them money.

Transitioning into broader industry discussions, they address the noticeable decline in viewership for major news outlets and the cultural shift towards mental self-care. The co-hosts explore how this trend impacts PR professionals and the challenges they face in reaching audiences who are increasingly disengaged from traditional media. Karen highlights the need for creativity and agility in our communication strategies, suggesting that we look beyond conventional methods to connect with our clients and their audiences.

In the episode, Michelle and Karen also discuss the importance of community building in our marketing efforts. With people feeling more isolated than ever, they emphasize the value of creating spaces for connection and engagement. Whether through local events or user groups, listeners are encouraged to think about how they can foster community.

The episode wraps up with a reminder of the actionable steps you can take before the year ends, including completing your BOI filing and securing appropriate health insurance. Listeners are invited to share their thoughts and ideas for future topics, reinforcing the sense of community within the solo PR profession.

Join us for this insightful conversation as we navigate the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead in 2025 and beyond. Don't forget to check out Solo PR Pro for more resources and support in your solo journey!

Episode Timeline

00:00:00 - Introduction to That Solo Life Podcast Join Michelle Kane and Karen Swim as they kick off the episode, discussing the countdown to the end of the year.

00:01:00 - Corporate Transparency Act and BOI Filing A discussion on the importance of the BOI filing under the Corporate Transparency Act and tips for completing it efficiently.

00:03:30 - Health Insurance Tips for Solopreneurs Karen shares insights on the benefits of working with an insurance broker to find better health insurance plans.

00:06:30 - The Impact of News Consumption on PR Exploration of the decline in news viewership and its implications for PR professionals in reaching audiences.

00:09:30 - Challenges in Media Engagement Discussion on the difficulties of engaging audiences who are tuning out traditional media sources.

00:12:00 - Creative Approaches to Storytelling The importance of storytelling in PR and how to connect with audiences on a personal level.

00:15:00 - Building Community and Engagement Strategies for creating community connections and engaging customers beyond traditional marketing methods.

00:17:30 - Conclusion and Call to Action Wrapping up the episode with reminders for listeners to complete their BOI filing and health insurance tasks, and encouraging community engagement.

Resources:

• Beneficial Ownership Information - Online quiz and filing
• Health Care information for the self-employed: Healthcare.gov

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