31.2K
Downloads
331
Episodes
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
Monday Sep 15, 2025
Monday Sep 15, 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!
Monday Sep 08, 2025
Monday Sep 08, 2025
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:
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.
Friday Sep 05, 2025
Friday Sep 05, 2025
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:
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.
Monday Aug 25, 2025
Monday Aug 25, 2025
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!
Monday Aug 11, 2025
Monday Aug 11, 2025
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.
Monday Aug 04, 2025
Monday Aug 04, 2025
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!
Monday Jul 28, 2025
Monday Jul 28, 2025
That Solo Life, Episode 307: Media Under the Influence
Episode Summary
In this episode of That Solo Life, hosts Karen Swim, APR, and Michelle Kane tackle the significant and timely topic of "Media Under the Influence." Together, they explore how modern-day pressures, including governmental interference and financial constraints, are impacting media integrity. They examine the implications for public relations, the importance of preserving local journalism, and how a free press is integral to maintaining a democratic society. With their uniquely supportive yet candid approach, Karen and Michelle share their perspective as seasoned communication professionals and empower listeners with actionable insights for championing an independent media landscape.
Episode Highlights
- [00:12] Welcome and episode introduction by Michelle and Karen.
- [01:09] Introduction to the topic - What does "Media Under the Influence" mean?
- [01:31] The erosion of media integrity due to governmental and corporate influence.
- [02:14] Discussion on recent examples, including Stephen Colbert's show announcement and high-profile media lawsuits.
- [03:36] The crucial role of journalism in public relations and democracy.
- [06:34] A look at history - How stifling free press aligns with authoritarian regimes.
- [07:15] Encouragement to consume diverse information for balanced perspectives.
- [08:06] Reflection on diminishing local journalism and its ripple effects.
- [11:30] Empowering solo practitioners to support and advocate for a free press.
- [14:28] Final thoughts, inspiration for PR practitioners, and a message to protect media integrity.
Related Episodes & Additional Information
- Episode 301: The Need for Thoughtful Engagement in an Age of Clickbait
- Episode 298: PR Potpourri: A Look Back at Q1 2025
- Episode 242: Media, Mayhem and What Happens in a Small Town
Additional Resources
- Muck Rack Local Journalist Index
- Why Local News Matters
- How Local News Holds Governments Accountable
- PRSA Code of Ethics (scroll down for Provisions of Code)
Host & Show Info
That Solo Life is the go-to podcast for public relations, communication, and marketing professionals who are navigating the unique challenges of working independently or in small teams. Hosted by Karen Swim, APR, founder of Words For Hire and President of Solo PR Pro, and Michelle Kane, Principal of Voice Matters, the podcast delivers expert insights, encouragement, and actionable advice. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting your solo PR career, you'll find the support and empowerment you need.
Take action!
Enjoyed this episode? Don’t miss out on future insights!
- Don’t miss out on our upcoming lineup of great guests and topics! Subscribe to That Solo Life on your favorite podcast platform.
- Share this episode with your fellow PR pros and spread the word about protecting media integrity.
- Visit Solo PR Pro for additional resources tailored for solo practitioners.
- Leave us a review and tell us how this episode inspired you!
Monday Jul 21, 2025
Monday Jul 21, 2025
Title: Where the Wild Things Are - Rethinking Social Media in 2025
Episode Summary:
Social media platforms have changed dramatically, leaving many public relations and marketing professionals questioning their next steps. On this episode of That Solo Life, co-hosts Karen Swim, APR, and Michelle Kane explore the current state of social media and offer practical advice for staying relevant and strategic. They discuss the platforms worth keeping an eye on, how to align your presence with your client's audience, and the importance of balancing professional engagement with personal values. Whether you're an advocate of LinkedIn or wary of TikTok, you’ll gain clarity on the evolving landscape and actionable insights to guide your strategy.
Episode Highlights:
- [00:18] – Welcome! Karen and Michelle kick off with a relatable chat about unpredictable summer weather.
- [02:09] – Transition to the hot topic of managing professional social media strategies in a turbulent environment.
- [03:04] – Is LinkedIn still the safe space for PR pros, or has its engagement also shifted?
- [05:55] – Exploring generational divides in media consumption and why multi-platform strategies are critical today.
- [07:35] – The surprising continued relevance of Facebook in niche and community-focused marketing strategies.
- [11:07] – Why emotional assessments are key when re-evaluating your social media presence mid-year.
- [12:08] – Karen and Michelle’s parting advice on standing by your values while staying adaptable for clients.
Key Takeaways
- Assess which social media platforms best align with your audience and professional values before committing your resources.
- Diversify your strategies—don’t rely solely on one channel to reach target audiences.
- Regularly re-evaluate your PR and marketing approaches in response to evolving platform dynamics and audience preferences.
- Community and connection are as important as algorithm-driven reach; prioritize authentic engagement.
- Balance professional obligations with personal ethics when working with or recommending specific platforms.
Related Episodes & Additional Information:
- Episode 284: How PR Pros Can Use an Audit to Unlock Social Media Success
- Hubspot: Social Media Trends Report
- Visit Solo PR Pro for tools and resources that help PR pros thrive.
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.
Subscribe and Share
Enjoyed the episode? Don’t miss out on future insights! Subscribe to That Solo Life wherever you listen to podcasts. If you loved today’s discussion, share it with your fellow solo PR pros and marketing peers. Visit Solo PR Pro for more resources, and connect with us to share your thoughts—because your voice matters!
Talk to Us
We’d love to hear your thoughts on AI’s impact on PR and how you’re adapting in your career! Connect with us through the following platforms:
Thank you for tuning in to this episode of That Solo Life! Stay connected to continue the conversation.
Monday Jul 14, 2025
Monday Jul 14, 2025
Episode 305: AI and the PR Profession: What You Need to Know to Future Proof Your Career
Episode Summary (00:00)
Join hosts Karen Swim, APR, and Michelle Kane as they explore the rapidly changing landscape of public relations in the age of artificial intelligence. This episode dives into AI's potential to reshape the PR industry, with insights from the World Economic Forum's "Future of Jobs 2025" report. Karen and Michelle discuss how PR professionals can stay ahead of AI-driven shifts by combining human creativity and critical thinking with evolving technological skills. Whether you're curious about where PR is heading or eager to future-proof your career, this episode has something for you.
Episode Highlights / Key Takeaways (02:30)
AI's Rapid Evolution (03:10)
AI developments are accelerating quickly, and organizations are prioritizing AI adoption to drive efficiency and innovation. The World Economic Forum's report highlights how AI will alter the job market, emphasizing skill adaptation across industries.
Opportunities for PR Professionals (06:00)
While AI can handle repetitive tasks like data entry or basic writing, the demand for human-driven skills like strategic thinking, problem-solving, and storytelling remains strong. PR pros can leverage AI to focus on high-impact work, such as reputation management and aligning communications with business goals.
Aligning with Industry Trends (09:15)
The blend of human and technological skills will be essential in the future. PR practitioners are encouraged to become tech-savvy, understand data analytics, and discover new ways to use AI as a tool to deliver deeper value to clients.
Reframing AI (12:30)
PR professionals should approach AI as a complementary tool, not a replacement. AI can empower professionals to deliver smarter, faster, and more strategic solutions, freeing them to focus on advancing their clients' objectives.
The Importance of Future Planning (15:50)
Karen and Michelle emphasize the need for independent practitioners to anticipate industry shifts. Solos can remain competitive and resilient by staying informed, continuously upskilling, and focusing on how to solve client needs in an AI-driven world.
Related Episodes & Additional Resources
Explore more episodes addressing tech and strategy in PR:
- Episode 293: Why It’s Time to Advance AI Discussions in PR
- Episode 279: The Power of Storytelling in an AI World
Additional Resources:
- World Economic Forum: Future of Jobs 2025 Report
- Under the Desk News (Instagram @underthedesknews): Insights from AI Conference (instagram)
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.
Talk to Us
We’d love to hear your thoughts on AI’s impact on PR and how you’re adapting in your career! Connect with us through the following platforms:
Thank you for tuning in to this episode of That Solo Life! Stay connected to continue the conversation.
Subscribe and Share
Don’t miss an episode! Be sure to subscribe to "That Solo Life" on your podcast platform of choice. Love what you hear? Share the episode with your colleagues and friends, and leave us a review to help more listeners find the podcast. Engage with us on social media—we'd love to hear your thoughts!
Monday Jun 16, 2025
Monday Jun 16, 2025
That Solo Life Episode 304: The Powerful Insights Learned From Going Back To School
Episode Summary
Join hosts Karen Swim, APR and Michelle Kane as they welcome Veleisa Patton Burrell, an accomplished PR professional and educator. Together they explore the twists and turns of Veleisa's career—from solo entrepreneurship to agency life, and now as an adjunct professor guiding the next generation of communicators. This candid conversation covers career transitions, the evolving role of PR, the integration of AI in the workplace and education, and the importance of critical thinking. Prepare to be inspired by Veleisa's insights on mentorship, resilience, and finding balance in a challenging job market.
Episode Highlights
- Veleisa's 20-year career in PR and communications
- The decision to shift between solo work, agency life, and teaching
- How teaching has reignited her passion for storytelling and mentorship
- The role of AI in PR and education, and how to use it as a tool rather than a crutch
- The importance of curiosity, critical thinking, and learning from failure
- Encouraging the younger generation to be authentic and build meaningful careers
- Tips on setting boundaries for a healthy work-life balance
Episode Timestamps
[00:13] Introduction to the episode and Veleisa Patton Burrell
[01:37] Veleisa shares her career background and transition to solo work in 2017
[03:22] Teaching as an adjunct professor and rediscovering excitement for the field
[07:53] Inspiring the next generation through storytelling and shared values
[13:09] The impact of failure and fostering resilience in your career
[19:57] Insights on balancing work with personal boundaries and self-care
[21:17] Exploring the role of AI in education and PR, and critical thinking as a foundational skill
[28:00] Closing thoughts and where to follow Veleisa
About Veleisa Patton Burrell
Veleisa Patton Burrell is a trusted counselor to clients and peers alike, providing strategic guidance on integrated communications, including media relations, content development, digital communication and executive visibility. Her talents lie in detailing company values through owned storytelling consistently across mediums to earn media coverage and improve reputation with employees, partners, and clients and industry peers.
Most recently, as an executive for FleishmanHillard, a global PR agency, and Denny’s, a storied restaurant brand that is known as “America’s Diner,” Veleisa advised senior leaders on issues and crisis, developed media relations strategies and oversaw execution of thought leadership opportunities such as speaking engagements and interviews.
Side work as a mindfulness facilitator and yoga instructor keeps Veleisa’s mind and body strong and resilient. She graduated from Southern Methodist University in Dallas, Texas, with a bachelor’s degree in corporate communications and public affairs; she now teaches an undergraduate capstone course at the school as an adjunct professor. She later earned a master’s degree in communication studies from the University of Texas at Arlington. Veleisa was named to Public Relations Society of America Dallas inaugural 40 Under 40 list in 2021 and was previously a board director for the chapter.
You can connect with Veleisa on LinkedIn.
Related Episodes & Additional Resources
- Ragan: Denny’s Veleisa Patton Burrell on embracing tech and the changing comms landscape
- Nature: The effect of ChatGPT on students’ learning performance, learning perception, and higher-order thinking: insights from a meta-analysis
- World Economic Forum: Why AI literacy is now a core competency in education
- Forbes: Organizations Are Saving Millions By Embracing Curiosity—Here’s The Proof
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 Voice Matters, a company that offers PR, Communications Consulting, Editorial and Voiceover Services.
Talk to Us
Subscribe and Share
Don’t miss an episode! Be sure to subscribe to "That Solo Life" on your podcast platform of choice. Love what you hear? Share the episode with your colleagues and friends, and leave us a review to help more listeners find the podcast. Engage with us on social media—we'd love to hear your thoughts!