That Solo Life: The Solo PR Pro Podcast

Navigating the Noise: A PR Pro's Guide to Combating Misinformation

That Solo Life, Episode 317: Navigating the Noise: A PR Pro's Guide to Combating Misinformation

Episode Summary

In an era where online falsehoods can spread like wildfire, how can communications professionals protect their clients and their own brands? Hosts Karen Swim and Michelle Kane tackle the critical issue of misinformation and disinformation head-on. Triggered by a report revealing that nearly 45% of social media posts about the Cracker Barrel logo controversy were from bots, this episode explores the modern PR pro's responsibility in a world of digital deception. Karen and Michelle discuss the importance of fact-checking before reacting, the professional imperative to guide clients through online scams and brand misrepresentation, and why every communicator must become a savvy digital detective. Learn practical tips for verifying information, strategies for equipping audiences with the truth, and why taking a moment to "dig deep" is the most powerful tool in your communications arsenal.

Episode Highlights

• [01:45] The astonishing statistic that 44.5% of posts on X about the Cracker Barrel logo were from potential bots, highlighting the scale of online disinformation.
• [03:08] The "check your rage" rule: Why it's crucial for comms pros to pause and verify facts before sharing or commenting on hot-button issues.
• [04:41] Personal responsibility for your brand: Balancing timely commentary with the need for accuracy and skepticism.
• [05:24] The importance of continuous professional development in spotting fake images, videos, and out-of-context quotes.
• [06:52] A proactive approach for brands: Equipping your audience with tools to identify official communications and avoid scams.
• [07:41] The rise of sophisticated job scams on trusted platforms like LinkedIn and how to protect yourself and your clients.
• [09:51] The defensive role of a PR pro: Actively monitoring for brand misrepresentation and owning the narrative to squash falsehoods quickly.
• [11:47] The final word of advice for navigating online interactions: Always "dig deep" before trusting information or individuals you encounter on the internet.

Related Episodes & Additional Information

• PR Daily Article on Cracker Barrel Bot Activity (Note: Specific article link not provided in audio)
• FactCheck.org - A nonpartisan, nonprofit project of the Annenberg Public Policy Center.
• PRSA Voices for Everyone - Resources for combating misinformation and disinformation.

Host & Show Info

That Solo Life is a podcast created for public relations, communication, and marketing professionals who work as independent and small practitioners. Hosted by Karen Swim, APR, founder of Words For Hire and President of Solo PR, and Michelle Kane, Principal of Voice Matters, the show delivers expert insights, encouragement, and advice for solo PR pros navigating today’s dynamic professional landscape.

 

Did this episode resonate with you? Don't keep it to yourself! Share it with a fellow solo pro who needs to hear it. For more resources, community, and support on your solo journey, visit us at soloprpro.com. Be sure to subscribe to "That Solo Life" on your favorite podcast platform so you never miss an episode, and leave us a review—we'd love to hear from you

Gen Alpha's Surprising Influence on Your PR Strategy

That Solo Life, Episode 316: Gen Alpha's Surprising Influence on Your PR Strategy

Episode Summary

In this episode, hosts Karen Swim and Michelle Kane dive into a fascinating study about Generation Alpha—today's kids and teens aged 0-15. You might think your target audience is the adults with the wallets, but this new generation is wielding surprising economic power, influencing major family purchases from cars to technology. Karen and Michelle explore what this shift means for PR and communications professionals. They discuss how to adapt your messaging to acknowledge this younger, content-savvy audience without alienating the primary buyers. The conversation underscores the importance of crafting authentic, high-quality, and personal content that resonates with Gen Alpha's values, treating them as influencers rather than just children. Tune in to learn how to future-proof your PR strategy by understanding the decisive role this generation plays in today's purchasing decisions.

Episode Highlights

• [00:56] Introduction to the PR News Online study on Generation Alpha's economic influence.
• [01:49] Discussion on how Gen Alpha is shaping B2C and even B2B purchasing decisions in areas like technology and vacations.
• [03:01] The challenge for communicators: How to craft messaging that appeals to Gen Alpha's interests without directly targeting them.
• [04:26] The fine line between being inclusive of younger audiences and creating "kid branding" that can quickly become a turn-off.
• [05:06] Why Gen Alpha prioritizes authentic, quality content over sheer fame, and what this means for brands and creators.
• [06:42] The importance of personalizing communications to feel like a "For You Page" (FYP) to connect with modern audiences.
• [08:11] How to balance your messaging to acknowledge the multiple influencers in a family's purchasing cycle, including kids who introduce parents to new brands.
• [09:43] The long-term benefit of building brand relationships with consumers from a much earlier age.
• [10:43] A look at the future: How Gen Alpha's focus on critical thinking and facts could reshape the communication landscape.

Related Episodes & Additional Information

• USC Annenberg and ACC Study. Gen Alpha: Mini, Mighty, and Market Ready

Host & Show Info

That Solo Life is a podcast created for public relations, communication, and marketing professionals who work as independent and small practitioners. Hosted by Karen Swim, APR, founder of Words For Hire and President of Solo PR, and Michelle Kane, Principal of Voice Matters, the show delivers expert insights, encouragement, and advice for solo PR pros navigating today’s dynamic professional landscape.

 

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Counting the Cost of Transparency in a Rage-Filled World

That Solo Life, Episode 315: Counting the Cost of Transparency in a Rage-Filled World

Episode Summary

In a world that demands brand transparency, is it possible to be too open? This week, Karen and Michelle discuss the complex landscape of modern communication, where the call for brands to be transparent can sometimes lead to backlash. They explore the challenges PR pros face in a culture lacking nuance, where every statement is scrutinized and outrage is just a click away. Learn how to advise clients on when to speak up, when to stay silent, and how to navigate the pressure to weigh in on every social issue. This episode provides strategic advice for helping brands remain authentic and effective without falling into the transparency trap, all while protecting your own mental health.

Episode Highlights

• [01:18] Introduction to today's topic: The cost of transparency for brands.
• [02:21] Why the trend of full transparency can be costly for organizations and individuals in today's culture.
• [03:37] Discussing the public's tendency to immediately question a brand's motives and the lack of critical thinking.
• [05:21] The heroic role of communicators in lowering the temperature and bringing rationality to volatile situations.
• [06:05] Navigating the communication challenges presented by different generational perspectives and expectations.
• [07:15] How social media algorithms profit from rage and how that impacts brand communications.
• [09:00] The importance of being strategic with personal and CEO branding—deciding what hill you want to die on.
• [10:06] The difference between having brand values and feeling the need to have a voice in every public conversation.
• [12:12] The dangers of "cancel culture" and the high personal stakes for individuals who share opinions online.
• [13:12] A reminder that brands are not entitled to 100% of your attention or required to comment on every world problem.
• [14:35] Shifting the focus from having an opinion to taking meaningful action that supports your audience, like providing resources during a crisis.
• [15:34] Why nuance and genuineness are replacing the era of full transparency.
• [16:43] The power of being helpful and honest, rather than feeling pressured to weigh in on everything.

Host & Show Info

That Solo Life is a podcast created for public relations, communication, and marketing professionals who work as independent and small practitioners. Hosted by Karen Swim, APR, founder of Words For Hire and President of Solo PR, and Michelle Kane, Principal of Voice Matters, the show delivers expert insights, encouragement, and advice for solo PR pros navigating today’s dynamic professional landscape.

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Communicating in the Era of Everyday is a Crisis

That Solo Life, Episode 314: Communicating in the Era of Everyday is a Crisis

Episode Summary

In today's highly charged environment, even the most innocent business decision can spark a public relations crisis. For solo PR practitioners, staying ahead of potential firestorms is more crucial than ever. In this episode, hosts Karen Swim and Michelle Kane discuss practical strategies for helping clients navigate the minefields of public perception. They explore why it's essential to be the "little black cloud" that keeps clients aware of current events and public sentiment, even when clients are siloed in their own industries. Learn how to proactively prepare for controversy, from price increases to rebranding efforts, by developing a playbook, using AI for efficient research, and maintaining open lines of communication with the C-suite. Discover how building a foundation of trust and community with your publics can be your greatest asset when a crisis inevitably hits.

Episode Highlights

• [00:51] How to help clients navigate decisions, from the mundane to the major, in a world where public perception is highly sensitive.
• [02:05] Recognizing that all sides of a polarized public are part of your audience and the challenge this presents for communicators.
• [03:51] Using AI and other tools to efficiently monitor trends and public sentiment without getting overwhelmed.
• [04:37] A practical tip: creating a weekly "pulse check" newsletter for clients to gauge their perspectives on trending topics and build a bank of potential responses.
• [06:13] The importance of knowing what's happening on social media to anticipate potential reactions to your client's actions.
• [07:22] Why it's critical for PR pros to have a direct line to the C-suite to proactively prepare for potentially controversial business plans.
• [07:49] A real-world example: how to start preparing now for a future price increase to mitigate backlash.
• [11:02] The power of de-escalation and nurturing community relationships on a daily basis, not just during campaigns.
• [11:44] Drawing lessons from the classic Tylenol case study on how establishing trust can pay dividends for decades.

Related Episodes & Additional Information

In this episode, Karen and Michelle discuss the importance of being prepared for any situation. While no specific resources were mentioned, staying informed is key. We recommend using tools like Google Alerts or other media monitoring services to keep a pulse on trends relevant to your clients.

Host & Show Info

That Solo Life is a podcast created for public relations, communication, and marketing professionals who work as independent and small practitioners. Hosted by Karen Swim, APR, founder of Words For Hire and President of Solo PR, and Michelle Kane, Principal of Voice Matters, the show delivers expert insights, encouragement, and advice for solo PR pros navigating today’s dynamic professional landscape.

Did this episode resonate with you? Don't keep it to yourself! Share it with a fellow PR pro who needs to hear it. Head over to SoloPRPro.com to join the conversation, and be sure to subscribe and leave us a review on your favorite podcast platform. Your feedback helps us grow and support more solo practitioners just like you.

Strategies for Securing New PR Business in 2025

That Solo Life Episode 313: Strategies for Securing New PR Business in 2025

Episode Summary

Karen and Michelle dive into optimistic data about the global growth of the PR industry and share strategic insights for solo practitioners looking to finish 2025 strong. Drawing from recent industry research, they explore emerging trends, niche specialization opportunities, and practical business development tactics that can help independent PR pros break through current market challenges and position themselves for future success.

Episode Highlights

• PR Industry Growth Statistics (02:10) - Discussion of global PR industry expansion and what it means for solo practitioners
• Content Creation as Core Offering (03:06) - 76% of PR agencies now emphasize content strategy and creation services
• The Rise of Niche Specialization (04:18) - 37% of agencies focus on specialized industries like fintech and health tech
• Strategic Industry Targeting (05:40) - Identifying high-growth sectors with future potential, including infrastructure and healthcare
• Pricing Psychology (09:25) - Why charging more can actually win you more business
• Networking Beyond PR Circles (10:28) - Breaking out of industry echo chambers to find new opportunities
• Local Government Connections (11:18) - Building relationships with municipal leaders and borough managers
• Overcoming Business Development Fatigue (12:47) - Managing exhaustion while staying proactive in challenging times

Key Takeaways

• The PR industry is growing globally, even if it doesn't feel that way locally
• Specializing in niche industries offers competitive advantages
• Infrastructure projects present untapped opportunities for PR pros
• Higher pricing often signals higher value to potential clients
• Networking outside the PR industry can yield unexpected opportunities
• Your skills are transferable across industries - don't limit yourself
• Small, consistent changes to your business development approach can yield big results

Related Episodes & Additional Information

Resources Mentioned:

• PR Lab: 150+ PR Statistics You Need to Understand the Industry in 2025
• That Solo Life, Episode 215: From Barriers to Bridges with Mary Ellen Miller  

Industries to Watch:

• Health technology and healthcare
• Financial technology (fintech)
• Infrastructure and public works
• Municipal and government communications

Host & Show Info

That Solo Life is a podcast created for public relations, communication, and marketing professionals who work as independent and small practitioners. Hosted by Karen Swim, APR, founder of Words For Hire and President of Solo PR, and Michelle Kane, Principal of Voice Matters, the show delivers expert insights, encouragement, and advice for solo PR pros navigating today's dynamic professional landscape.

Ready to transform your solo practice? Don't let this episode's insights go to waste! Take action today by identifying one new industry or networking opportunity you can explore this month. Whether it's attending a targeted industry event or meetup, connecting with your local government officials, or raising your rates, small steps lead to significant breakthroughs.

Subscribe to That Solo Life on your favorite podcast platform and never miss an episode packed with practical strategies for independent PR professionals. Have questions or success stories to share? Reach out to the hosts at soloprpro.com - they'd love to hear from you!

Going Big by Going Small: Hidden Gold for PR Pros

Episode 312: Going Big by Going Small: Hidden Gold for PR Pros

Episode Summary

In this episode of That Solo Life, hosts Karen Swim, APR and Michelle Kane delve into the untapped potential of three underutilized and niche social media platforms that PR professionals may be overlooking. Drawing parallels to finding forgotten treasures in your closet, they discuss how platforms like Discord, Substack Chat, and other intimate community spaces offer quality engagement over quantity metrics. The hosts emphasize the power of niche communities, employee brand ambassadors, and micro-influencers in creating meaningful connections with targeted audiences.

Episode Highlights

[00:30-01:20] Setting the Stage: The Forgotten Gems

• Michelle introduces the concept of "rediscovering" overlooked social platforms
• The connection between finding forgotten items in your closet and discovering underused platforms

[01:40-02:18] The Problem with Major Platforms

• Discussion of why big social media platforms are becoming problematic
• The need to shift thinking toward smaller, more intimate spaces

[02:32-03:05] Platform Examples and Content Quality

• Specific mention of Discord and Substack Chat as underused platforms
• How Substack offers more substantive, content-based engagement

[03:27-04:39] The Power of Niche Communities

• Key statistics: 88% of Americans engage in niche communities
• 45% of Gen Z, Millennial, and Gen X feel more connected to niche communities than mainstream culture
• Focus on "niche over numbers" - quality interaction vs. quantity

[05:40-06:25] Case Study: Rooted Plant Company

• Example of how a plant company uses Discord to build community
• Establishing thought leadership through answering plant care questions

[06:38-08:29] Employee Brand Ambassadors Strategy

• Turning employees into internal influencers and brand ambassadors
• The importance of authentic employee engagement and internal communications
• Using tools like Slack's "random channel" for team connection

[10:29-11:29] Post-COVID Community Evolution

• How the pandemic shifted people toward smaller, more intimate gatherings
• The cultural need for building community and finding tribes

[11:36-12:34] Real-World Community Example

• Karen's experience with "Vegan Detroit" Facebook group
• How micro-influencers within niche communities drive business results

Related Episodes & Additional Information

• That Solo Life, Episode 306: "Where the Wild Things Are - Rethinking Social Media in 2025" 
• The Social Scene Podcast: "Navigating Social Media Strategies in 2025" 
• That Solo Life, Episode 301: "The Need for Thoughtful Engagement in an Age of Clickbait" 
• Episode 284: "How PR Pros Can Use an Audit to Unlock Social Media Success"

Additional Resources:

• Axios: "Gen Z's drive toward niche pushes brands to change strategy" 

 

Host & Show Info

That Solo Life is a podcast created for public relations, communication, and marketing professionals who work as independent and small practitioners. Hosted by Karen Swim, APR, founder of Words For Hire and President of Solo PR, and Michelle Kane, Principal of Voice Matters, the show delivers expert insights, encouragement, and advice for solo PR pros navigating today's dynamic professional landscape.

Ready to discover your next breakthrough platform? Don't let these valuable insights sit on the shelf! Subscribe to That Solo Life wherever you get your podcasts, and leave us a review to help other solo PR pros find the show. Have questions about niche platforms or success stories to share? We'd love to hear from you at soloprpro.com. Remember: sometimes the best opportunities are hiding in plain sight - just like that perfect piece of clothing you forgot was in your closet.

Barcelona Principles 2025: What PR Pros Need to Measure Now (Episode 310)

Barcelona Principles 2025: What PR Pros Need to Measure Now (Episode 310)

Episode Summary

In episode 310 of That Solo Life, hosts Karen Swim, APR, and Michelle Kane break down the latest update to the Barcelona Principles and what it means for independent PR and communications pros. They cover the shift toward outcomes that matter to the C-suite, the stronger alignment with AMEC’s Integrated Evaluation Framework, the role of qualitative and quantitative data, and why leveling up in measurement and AI will separate thriving practitioners from the rest. You’ll walk away with practical next steps, resources, and a nudge to price your expertise for the true value you deliver.

Keywords: Barcelona Principles 2025, AMEC framework, PR measurement, qualitative and quantitative metrics, AI in PR, PR outcomes, stakeholder sentiment, media relations, solo PR pricing, communications strategy.

Episode Highlights

• 00:00 – 00:24 | Welcome back to That Solo Life
• 01:39 – 02:41 | What’s new in the Barcelona Principles (2025 update + AMEC alignment)
• 02:49 – 03:05 | AVEs aren’t it: Why outcomes beat output every time
• 03:28 – 04:24 | The business case: Tie PR to revenue, cost reduction, and executive priorities
• 05:01 – 05:23 | Quant + qual: Why both matter for effective evaluation
• 05:36 – 06:11 | From “audience” to “stakeholders”: Measuring sentiment and behavior change
• 06:12 – 07:11 | Stop fearing data: You already synthesize information—now measure it
• 07:01 – 07:11 | Two skills that will set pros apart: Measurement and AI
• 08:01 – 09:24 | Using AMEC’s resources to build a measurement-first practice
• 11:02 – 12:26 | Measure your time and value: Why low-fee retainers undermine real PR work
• 12:37 – 13:01 | Plan → act → measure: Strategy comes first
• 13:16 – 14:07 | Career fuel: Leveling up skills can reignite your passion for the work
• 14:09 – 14:30 | Parting encouragement and next steps

Highlights and takeaways:

• The Barcelona Principles update emphasizes business outcomes, not vanity metrics.
• Tie PR to revenue, cost of sales, risk mitigation, and reputation impact.
• Blend quantitative data (traffic, conversions, assisted revenue) with qualitative insights (sentiment, message pull-through).
• Use AMEC’s Integrated Evaluation Framework to plan from objectives to outcomes.
• Price for the strategic and labor-intensive nature of PR—measurement begins at planning.
• Invest in AI and analytics skills to future-proof your practice.

Related Episodes & Additional Information

Resources mentioned:

• PR News: Barcelona Principles 4.0: Reinventing PR Measurement for a New Era
• AMEC: Barcelona Principles
• AMEC: AMEC Integrated Evaluation Framework (plan, measure, and evaluate end-to-end)
• Solo PR Pro (training, community, and tools for independent practitioners)

Related episodes to queue next:

• The Measurement Strategy You Need to Grow

Note: Links are provided for educational purposes. Always adapt frameworks to your client’s specific goals, audiences, and market conditions.

Host & Show Info

That Solo Life is a podcast created for public relations, communication, and marketing professionals who work as independent and small practitioners. Hosted by Karen Swim, APR, founder of Words For Hire and President of Solo PR, and Michelle Kane, Principal of Voice Matters, the show delivers expert insights, encouragement, and advice for solo PR pros navigating today’s dynamic professional landscape.

Join us again!

• If this episode helped you, subscribe, rate, and leave a review—it helps more solo pros find the show.
• Share this episode with a colleague who’s rethinking their measurement approach.
• Visit Solo PR Pro to keep leveling up your practice.

Hits And Misses Of The Hot Mess Summer Of 2025 (Ep. 311)

Hits And Misses Of The Hot Mess Summer Of 2025 (Ep. 311)

Episode Summary

This week on That Solo Life, hosts Karen Swim, APR, and Michelle Kane unpack this“Hot Mess Summer”—the surprising, cringey, and cautionary moments that shaped the season for PR and communications pros. From return-to-office whiplash and AI overpromises to social media pile-ons, brand missteps, and the pursuit of excellence in a rush-first culture, they offer candid insights and practical takeaways for solo practitioners navigating constant change.

Episode Highlights

• 00:12–01:08 | Welcome back: Setting up the “Hot Mess Summer” theme for PR and marketing pros 
• 01:29–02:32 | The world of work: RTO mandates, hiring freezes, and overestimating AI’s impact 
• 02:33–03:41 | Planning in uncertainty: How economic jitters ripple through day-to-day comms work 
• 03:53–05:04 | Social media fatigue: Declining nuance, instant outrage, and what it means for brands 
• 05:04–06:22 | The vigilante effect: Why some users treat negativity as a hobby—and how to respond 
• 06:32–07:17 | Slowing down to get it right: Replying with care in a rush-first culture 
• 07:48–09:10 | Over-curation vs. authenticity: Balancing audience feedback with sound business decisions 
• 09:16–10:12 | People-pleasing pitfalls: You can’t please everyone—stay true to mission and values 
• 09:31–10:11 | Event aesthetics vs. meaning: Designing for impact, not just Instagram 
• 10:12–11:05 | Community pile-ons: Why “take it to the business first” matters 
• 11:05–12:08 | Complication creep: Tech, AI, and unnecessary hurdles for communicators 
• 11:46–12:46 | Excellence still matters: How quality elevates audience experience 
• 12:47–14:05 | Brand name changes gone sideways: Lessons from high-profile rebrands 
• 14:39–15:53 | Risk hygiene: The case against bringing blankets to the movies (and other practical worries) 
• 16:00–16:22 | Looking ahead: Manifesting a calmer, more prosperous fall for solos 
• 16:19–16:35 | Join the convo: How to share your Hot Mess Summer stories

Related Episodes & Additional Information

• Episode 300: How To Manage Sticky Situations In PR
• Entrepreneur: How to Set Boundaries With Your Clients Without Losing Business

Host & Show Info

That Solo Life is a podcast created for public relations, communication, and marketing professionals who work as independent and small practitioners. Hosted by Karen Swim, APR, founder of Words For Hire and President of Solo PR, and Michelle Kane, Principal of Voice Matters, the show delivers expert insights, encouragement, and advice for solo PR pros navigating today’s dynamic professional landscape.

Share and Subscribe!

If this episode made you nod, laugh, or rethink your approach, don’t keep it to yourself—follow That Solo Life in your favorite podcast app, leave a 5-star review to help other solo pros find us, and share Episode 311 with a colleague. Got your own “Hot Mess Summer” story or a topic you want us to tackle? Send it to us at soloprpro.com. Your story might be featured in an upcoming episode!

When Being Great at PR Gets in the Way of Life

Episode Summary

In this episode of That Solo Life, hosts Karen Swim, APR, and Michelle Kane dive into the unique challenges PR professionals face when their exceptional skills at work start to interfere with their personal lives. From overthinking to overworking, they explore how these traits, while beneficial in the professional realm, can hinder personal growth and enjoyment. Karen and Michelle share personal stories, practical advice, and encouragement to help solo PR pros find balance and live a more fulfilling life.

Episode Highlights

• [00:18] Introduction: Karen and Michelle set the stage for today’s topic.
• [01:00] The double-edged sword of overthinking: How it makes PR pros great at their jobs but can complicate personal life.
• [03:16] Acknowledging the problem: The first step to overcoming overthinking and overworking.
• [04:41] Personal stories: Karen and Michelle share how they’ve learned to step back and prioritize fun.
• [08:10] The importance of taking breaks: Why PR pros need to take their foot off the gas routinely.
• [10:07] Finding intentionality: How being deliberate about work and personal time can lead to a healthier balance.
• [16:07] Learning to say no: Why “no” is a complete sentence and how it can protect your mental health.
• [17:22] The power of fun: How rediscovering joy can make you better at work and in life.
• [18:12] Final thoughts: Encouragement to put your PR tools away at the end of the day and live a full, rich life.

Related Episodes & Additional Information

Related Episodes:

• That Solo Life, Episode 299: The Can Do Spirit of PR Practitioners Crosses Generations That Solo Life, Episode 205:The Land of the Wounded: Mental Health and PR 

 

• Additional Resources:

• Dr. Tracey Marks: How to Stop Overthinking 
• Healthline: 14 Ways to Stop Overthinking

Host & Show Info

That Solo Life is a podcast created for public relations, communication, and marketing professionals who work as independent and small practitioners. Hosted by Karen Swim, APR, founder of Words For Hire and President of Solo PR, and Michelle Kane, Principal of Voice Matters, the show delivers expert insights, encouragement, and advice for solo PR pros navigating today’s dynamic professional landscape.

Join us next week!

If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe to That Solo Life on your favorite podcast platform and share it with your network. 

Branding, Bravery and Breaking Through with Melissa Vela-Williamson - Episode 308

That Solo Life, Episode 308: Branding, Bravery and Breaking Through with Melissa Vela-Williamson

Episode Summary: 

Tune in to this powerful episode of That Solo Life featuring Melissa Vela-Williamson, APR, Fellow PRSA, CDP,  an accomplished PR strategist, author, and advocate for inclusivity in communication. Hosts Karen Swim, APR, and Michelle Kane sit down for an intimate chat with Melissa, discussing her inspiring career and successful personal brand. Melissa shares why it is so important to be a little louder and how that benefits your career and lights the way for the next generation. Melissa does not hold back in sharing her challenges on the road to success and how she solves for fear and the expectations of others. Grab a group and listen to this episode together!

Guests: 

• Melissa Vela-Williamson, APR, Fellow PRSA, CDP, Founder of MVW Communications, Author, and Speaker 

Key Topics Covered: 

• [00:02:30] Melissa’s PR career path and her inspiration for writing two books. 
• [00:07:10] The importance of self-promotion and building a personal brand as a solo PR pro. 
• [00:13:45] Overcoming imposter syndrome to gain confidence and attract the right clients. 
• [00:20:40] Using storytelling and cultural intelligence (CQ) to connect on a deeper level. 
• [00:29:15] Applying PR strategies to amplify diversity and inclusivity in the industry. 
• [00:38:00] Melissa’s advice for staying consistent and authentic in your solo practice. 

About Melissa Vela-Williamson, APR, Fellow PRSA, CDP:

Melissa Vela-Williamson is an accredited, internationally recognized public relations strategist, national industry columnist, podcast host, and author. For over two decades, she has provided strategic public relations counsel, professional communication services, and shared leadership guidance with over 100 brands -- educating, equipping, and empowering diverse audiences ranging from children to CEOs. Melissa serves as a consultant, trainer, and account director at her boutique PR firm, MVW Communications. With unique experience in employee communications and DEI, Melissa leverages her PR expertise and acumen as a certified diversity professional to create social good. She represents only 750 PR professionals nationwide who have earned the elite PRSA College of Fellows credential. Her first book, “Smart Talk: Public Relations Essentials All Pros Should Know” was published Oct. 2022 and is an Amazon Bestseller. Her second industry book, “Latinas in Public Relations: Shaping Communications, Communities, and Culture” was published during Women's History Month 2025 and quickly became an Amazon Bestseller in three categories. She shares communication insights and advice through her podcast, “Smart Talk Series”, her Public Relations Society of America column,  and through her blog at mvw360.com. 

Resources Mentioned: 

• Visit Melissa’s website, MVW360.com, for more on her books, services, and resources. 
• Get Melissa’s books: Smart Talk: Public Relations Essentials All Pros Should Know and Latinas in Public Relations: Shaping Communications, Communities, and Culture.” 
• Connect with Melissa on LinkedIn at Melissa Vela-Williamson. 

Call to Action: 

Don't miss an episode of That Solo Life! Subscribe on your favorite podcast platform to stay updated. If you enjoyed this episode, leave a review and share it with your solo PR network. For more resources and insights, join the Solo PR Pro community at our website. Your next level in solo PR starts here!