In this minisode, Lexie Smith discusses five PR strategies that are actively yielding success for her agency, GROWTH MODE, and coaching clients at THEPRBAR Inc.

From pitching podcasts to landing TV segments, Influencer Marketing wins, and more, tune in to learn new PR strategies you can implement today!

Here’s What You’ll Learn:

• Discover why Pitchcraft is a valuable platform for lifestyle and hospitality PR professionals.
• Learn how pitching TV hosts, rather than producers, can increase media coverage and sales.
• Understand the benefits of founder-led outreach in influencer marketing to avoid large influencer fees.
• Explore how LinkedIn follow-ups with podcast hosts and producers can improve response rates.
• Get tips on utilizing the Quoted platform by responding quickly to PR queries.
• Hear insights on how being among the first to pitch in PR platforms can lead to higher success rates.
• Find out how TV appearances can impact sales and brand visibility within a short time frame.
• Learn creative ways to adapt your outreach when encountering email deliverability issues.
• Gain insights on building genuine relationships with influencers through personalized outreach.
• Explore how PR best practices evolve and why experimenting with new tactics is crucial for success.

• Sun Moon Rising Wine - the world's first astrology-inspired wine brand - is offering all Pitchin' and Sippin' listeners 10% off their first purchase. Visit sunmoonrisingwine.com and use promo code PITCHIN10 at checkout.

• Sign up For Lexie's Weekly Insider to Receive Insider Tips, Invites, & More at: https://theprbarinc.com/newsworthy/
• Ways you Can Work with THEPRBAR: https://theprbarinc.com/private-workshops/
• Learn about Growth Mode Agency: https://www.growthmodeagency.com/
• Connect with Lexie on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lexie-smith-pr/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theprbar_inc/
• Go back to the homepage

In this episode, Lexie Smith sits down with Marie Incontrera, a two-time TEDx speaker and founder of Incontrera Consulting. Marie Incontrera is the CEO and Founder of Incontrera Consulting, a digital marketing and thought leadership consulting agency; author, creative professional, and speechwriter. She works with thought leaders to leverage their online presence through social media, podcasts, and speaking. Her speaker clients have booked TED and TedX conferences globally and have talked on keynote stages worldwide. Her media clients have been booked on popular podcasts and radio stations such as The World’s Most Amazing People, Entrepreneur On Fire, and more. Marie authorizes the Amazon best-sellers Social Your Book Launch and Spread Your Idea. She is a two-time TEDx speaker and a keynote speaker.

Marie shares her journey from jazz musician to digital marketing expert and successful speaker coach, having placed over 100 clients on TEDx stages worldwide. Whether you’re a budding speaker or a seasoned pro, Marie’s insights will help you confidently navigate the TEDx application landscape.

Marie also discusses the broader speaking landscape, comparing TEDx to keynote opportunities. She provides valuable tips on creating a "speak to sell" strategy, focusing on identifying pain points for potential clients and leveraging speaking engagements for business growth. With a wealth of experience and a passion for empowering thought leaders, Marie offers actionable advice that can help anyone looking to elevate their public speaking game and make a lasting impact. Tune in to learn how to turn your ideas into powerful presentations and unlock new opportunities on the global stage!

Here’s What You’ll Learn:

• Learn the distinctions between TED and TEDx, including the application process and the types of talks allowed.
• Discover how to select a compelling and relevant topic that resonates with a global audience.
• Gain insight into the specific guidelines TEDx organizers look for, such as avoiding political or religious agendas.
• Understand the importance of providing clear, actionable takeaways that your audience can implement immediately.
• Learn effective strategies for applying to TEDx events, including preparing a strong video pitch and written blurb.
• Discover how to handle rejection and keep applying to different TEDx events until you find the right fit.
• Understand the distinction between TEDx talks and keynote speeches, including their formats and purposes.
• Explore how to structure your talk to effectively address audience pain points and promote your services.
• Learn how to maximize both paid and unpaid speaking engagements for business growth and networking.
• Get actionable advice on refining your message and presentation skills to captivate your audience and enhance your speaking career.

Social Links:

• Website: https://www.incontrera.com/marie-incontrera
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/marieincontrera/
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marieincontrera/

• Sun Moon Rising Wine - the world's first astrology-inspired wine brand - is offering all Pitchin' and Sippin' listeners 10% off their first purchase. Visit sunmoonrisingwine.com and use promo code PITCHIN10 at checkout.
• Sign up For Lexie's Weekly Insider to Receive Insider Tips, Invites, & More at: https://theprbarinc.com/newsworthy/
• Ways you Can Work with THEPRBAR: https://theprbarinc.com/private-workshops/
• Learn about GROWTH MODE Agency:

In this episode, Lexie Smith sits down with John Sampogna, the CEO and Co-founder of Wondersauce, an agency specializing in brand storytelling, paid media, e-commerce, and digital experiences. With over 15 years of experience in digital marketing and advertising, John has created and led work for a wide range of clients such as L’Oreal, Scott’s, Golf.com, and Subway, amongst many others. Featured early in his career in Business Insider’s “30 Most Creative People In Advertising Under 30”, John’s insights have been featured in numerous media outlets, including Glossy, Adweek, CNBC, Medium, Yahoo, and Digiday. Today, he manages a team of over 100 creatives, strategists, producers, and technologists at Wondersauce, and is well-regarded industry-wide for his innovative approach toward digital marketing and brand storytelling.

Lexie and John delve into the intricate dynamics of brand storytelling and media strategies. They explore the importance of crafting a cohesive brand narrative and discuss how brands can navigate the often complex landscape of both media strategies. John emphasizes that successful marketing today requires more than effective campaigns—it demands a thoughtful integration of top-of-funnel brand-building efforts and bottom-of-funnel performance tactics.

John also provides practical advice for businesses, whether they're just starting out or scaling up. He discusses how brands can effectively leverage paid media to generate earned media, stressing the importance of creating engaging content that resonates with audiences. This episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to refine their brand strategy and harness the full potential of both paid and earned media.

Here’s What You’ll Learn:

• Understand why a brand's content is a crucial reflection of its identity and how it can influence audience perception.
• Learn how to balance large-scale, brand-building campaigns with tactical, performance-focused marketing efforts.
• Discover how to use paid media not just for immediate results but to test and refine content strategies that can generate organic, earned media.
• Explore the potential of newer advertising platforms like connected TV for reaching audiences in innovative ways.
• Get insights into using paid media for AB testing to determine which messaging resonates best with audiences before full-scale deployment.
• Learn how partnering with influencers can be a cost-effective way to amplify brand stories and create engaging content.
• Understand how to create effective content strategies on a smaller budget and why foundational content development is crucial before scaling paid efforts.
• Emphasize the importance of knowing where your audience spends their time and tailoring content and advertising strategies accordingly.
• Find out how to identify and exploit niche market opportunities that can offer high rewards for brands willing to diverge from traditional tactics.
• Gain insights into effectively integrating paid and earned media strategies to maximize impact and drive brand success.

Social Links:

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/johnsampogna/
• Wondersauce: https://www.wondersauce.com/
  
  
  
• Sun Moon Rising Wine - the world's first astrology-inspired wine brand - is offering all Pitchin' and Sippin' listeners 10% off their first purchase. Visit sunmoonrisingwine.com and use promo code PITCHIN10 at checkout.
• Sign up For Lexie's Weekly Insider to Receive Insider Tips, Invites, & More at: https://theprbarinc.com/newsworthy/
• Ways you Can Work with THEPRBAR:

In this episode, Lexie Smith sits down with Jessica Booth, a freelance writer, former editor and a Commerce Writer for leading global media company BDG. She has written for a wide variety of outlets, including Refinery 29, Bustle, Elite Daily, Parents, Brides, What To Expect, The Knot, People, The Bump, Reviewed, The Daily Beast, Forbes, Insider, Cosmopolitan, She Knows, Romper, and Food & Wine. Jessica covers tons of different topics, but specializes in parenting and commerce writing.

In this episode, Jessica delves into the intricacies of commerce writing, detailing her journey from editorial assistant to managing editor and now a key player in BDG’s dedicated commerce team. She explains how commerce writing often revolves around assignments rather than pitches and discusses the distinct roles of assignment-based and freelance commerce writing.

Jessica also shares insightful tips on what makes a pitch stand out, emphasizing the importance of clear, concise communication and relevant product information. She breaks down her process for evaluating products, highlighting the significance of personal experience and customer reviews. As the discussion turns to the impact of AI on journalism, Jessica expresses her concerns while also acknowledging the potential benefits. Whether you're a publicist looking to refine your pitch strategy or a journalist navigating the evolving media landscape, this episode offers valuable perspectives on pitching and product evaluation in commerce.

Here’s What You’ll Learn:

• Details about Jessica's extensive career from her beginnings as an intern at Redbook to her role as a freelance commerce writer for BDG and other prominent outlets.
• The nuances of commerce writing, including how Jessica manages assignments for different brands under BDG and the specific focus areas of her work.
• The difference between freelance commerce writing and in-house roles, including how product pitches are handled in each context.
• Insights into what makes a successful product pitch, including the importance of getting straight to the point and providing essential assets like product links and images.
• How assignments work in the commerce writing field, from how Jessica receives them to the creative liberties allowed in her roles.
• How holiday gift guide pitches are managed
• Jessica’s perspective on the potential impact of AI on the commerce writing industry and its effects on jobs and the writing process.
• Jessica’s preferences for receiving product pitches, including the type of information she values and how she likes to be approached
• How Jessica sources and evaluates products for inclusion in her articles
• How to connect with Jessica Booth for media and PR inquiries

Listener Links:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jboothyy
• Twitter: https://x.com/JBoothyy
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jessicabooth1031/

• Sign up For Lexie's Weekly Insider to Receive Insider Tips, Invites, & More at: https://theprbarinc.com/newsworthy/
• Ways you Can Work with THEPRBAR: https://theprbarinc.com/private-workshops/
• Learn about Growth Mode Agency: https://www.growthmodeagency.com/
• Connect with Lexie on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lexie-smith-pr/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theprbar_inc/

In this podcast episode, Lexie Smith dives into the evolving media landscape, challenging listeners to rethink the traditional media categories of paid, earned, and owned. Lexie introduces the "gray zone" – a hybrid media category that blends paid and earned media elements yet remains distinct from both. Through her insightful LinkedIn article, Lexie argues that this emerging category needs its own definition to reflect better the current media environment, where boundaries between these traditional categories are increasingly blurred. She provides compelling examples, such as awards programs and paid contributor networks, illustrating how this gray zone operates.

Lexie further explores how integrating this new category into media strategies can enhance credibility, visibility, and engagement. She emphasizes recognizing and leveraging these hybrid opportunities to fill gaps in traditional media approaches and drive more effective PR outcomes. Lexie calls on PR professionals and marketers to embrace this shift as the media landscape evolves, suggesting a collaborative effort to define and name this new category. Tune in to hear her call to action and discuss categorizing and utilizing this hybrid media approach.

Here’s What You’ll Learn:

• Learn about the emerging hybrid media category that blends paid and earned media elements.
• Understand the conventional media categories of paid, earned, and owned and how they currently shape PR strategies.
• Discover what separates this new category from traditional media types and why it needs a distinct definition.
• Explore real-world examples such as awards programs, paid contributor networks, and affiliate programs that fit into this hybrid category.
• Understand PR professionals' common resistance and confusion when integrating gray zone opportunities.
• Learn about the advantages of leveraging paid meets earned media, including enhanced credibility, increased visibility, and effective content creation.
• Find out how to incorporate gray zone opportunities into your overall media strategy for more comprehensive and impactful PR campaigns.
• Discover best practices for budgeting and preparing for gray zone media opportunities to maximize their effectiveness.
• Learn how to amplify gray zone media placements across owned media channels like social media, newsletters, and websites.
• Engage in the conversation about defining and naming this new media category, and contribute your thoughts on what it should be called.

Social Links:

• Link to Article: https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/grey-zone-its-time-define-fourth-pillar-media-coverage-lexie-smith--mpt8c/?trackingId=mH%2BGVqr4R%2B2ksLkcBaCk1g%3D%3D
• Sign up For Lexie's Weekly Insider to Receive Insider Tips, Invites, & More at: https://theprbarinc.com/newsworthy/
• Ways you Can Work with THEPRBAR: https://theprbarinc.com/private-workshops/
• Learn about Growth Mode Agency: https://www.growthmodeagency.com/
• Connect with Lexie on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lexie-smith-pr/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theprbar_inc/

In this episode of Pitchin’ and Sippin’, Lexie Smith sits down with Emily L. Foley, a prominent journalist, TV personality and expert trendspotter. Emily, whose career spans beauty, fashion and lifestyle journalism, shares her insights into the ever-evolving world of trendsetting and trendspotting. A former magazine editor, her writing has appeared in publications such as Allure, Marie Claire, Glamour, US Weekly and Instyle.com, and she specializes in beauty, fashion, lifestyle and entertainment topics.

Emily talks about the symbiotic relationship between social media and traditional journalism, revealing how platforms like TikTok have reshaped the way trends are identified and reported.

Emily also discusses the challenges and rewards of juggling multiple roles, including her work with QVC and various editorial assignments. She offers valuable advice on pitching strategies, emphasizing the importance of relevance and timing in reaching out to journalists. Tune in to discover Emily's approach to staying ahead of trends and her tips for efficiently managing the myriad responsibilities of a multifaceted media career. Whether you're a budding trendspotter or simply curious about the industry's inner workings, this episode is packed with actionable insights and behind-the-scenes stories.

Here’s What You’ll Learn:

• About Emily’s journey from a speech major with a passion for politics to a multi-platform journalist and TV personality specializing in beauty, fashion, and lifestyle.
• How Emily transitioned from print journalism to television
• How freelancing has allowed Emily to juggle multiple roles and projects
• Strategies for spotting trends, including the importance of observing shifts in fashion and beauty and leveraging social media insights.
• Why TikTok is crucial for trendsetting and how it surpasses other platforms like Instagram in influencing trends and consumer behavior.
• Preferences for receiving pitches, including the best days and times for outreach and the impact of timely and relevant follow-ups.
• How Emily integrates social media into her journalism, using platforms like Instagram and TikTok to enhance her storytelling and trend analysis.
• How to balance a demanding career with family life
• How to build important relationships with publicists and brand representatives and stay informed about emerging trends and opportunities.

Social Links:

• Website: https://emilylfoley.com/
• Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/emilylfoley

• Sun Moon Rising Wine - the world's first astrology-inspired wine brand - is offering all Pitchin' and Sippin' listeners 10% off their first purchase. Visit sunmoonrisingwine.com and use promo code PITCHIN10 at checkout.
• Sign up For Lexie's Weekly Insider to Receive Insider Tips, Invites, & More at: https://theprbarinc.com/newsworthy/
• Ways you Can Work with THEPRBAR inc.: https://theprbarinc.com/the-bar-menu/
• Connect with Lexie on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lexie-smith-pr/
• Learn about Growth Mode Agency: https://www.growthmodeagency.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theprbar_inc/
• Go back to the homepage

In this episode, Lexie Smith talks with Peter Shankman, a 6x best-selling author, speaker, and entrepreneur. In the world of media he is best known for founding HARO; an online service for journalists to gather feedback from the public, and a newer service called Source of Sources. Additionally, Peter is a marketing expert for several national and international news channels, including Fox News, CNN, and MSNBC, and is frequently quoted in major media and trade publications, including The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, The Los Angeles Times, The New York Daily News, The Associated Press, Reuters and USA Today.

Peter's conversation delves into the core principles of SOS, highlighting its simplicity and efficiency in connecting reporters with knowledgeable sources. He shares insights on how SOS improves upon its predecessor by incorporating the immediacy and directness that made HARO a game-changer in the PR world. Peter also offers valuable tips for crafting effective pitches, stressing the need for brevity and relevance. Tune in to discover how SOS is setting a new standard in media sourcing and learn from Peter’s extensive experience in both journalism and entrepreneurship.

Here’s What You’ll Learn:

• Discover how Peter transitioned from a journalism major and fashion photography student to a successful entrepreneur and media expert.
• Understand the origins and evolution of Help A Reporter Out (HARO), the revolutionary platform for connecting journalists with sources.
• Learn about SOS, Peter's latest venture designed to improve and simplify the way journalists find sources, and how it builds on his previous work with HARO.
• Explore how Peter built trust over his career and why it is crucial for successful PR and media relations.
• Discover why the immediacy of email communication was a key factor in HARO's success and how SOS maintains that principle.
• Gain insights into how Peter's personal network and interactions have contributed to his success and the growth of SOS.
• Learn about the strategic partnership between SOS and Muck Rack, and how it enhances the value of both platforms for journalists and sources.
• Understand the common pitfalls in PR and media relations, such as off-topic pitching and unnecessary preliminary information requests.
• Hear Peter's advice on how PR professionals can make journalists' lives easier and the broader impact of creating valuable, respectful relationships in media.

Social Links:

• Website: https://www.shankman.com/
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/petershankman/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/petershankman/?hl=en

• Sun Moon Rising Wine - the world's first astrology-inspired wine brand - is offering all Pitchin' and Sippin' listeners 10% off their first purchase. Visit sunmoonrisingwine.com and use promo code PITCHIN10 at checkout.
• Sign up For Lexie's Weekly Insider to Receive Insider Tips, Invites, & More at: https://theprbarinc.com/newsworthy/
• Ways you Can Work with THEPRBAR: https://theprbarinc.com/private-workshops/
• Learn about Growth Mode: https://www.growthmodeagency.com/
• Connect with Lexie on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lexie-smith-pr/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theprbar_inc/

Journalist and communications pro Imani Bashir joins Lexie to talk about when to pitch a freelancer and how to create measurable content strategies. Imani Bashir is a media professional with over 13 years in the field of communications. She began her career in sports broadcasting, covering collegiate sports and in 2015 made the decision to move abroad. Imani has lived in five countries and has written for some of the most prestigious publications worldwide, including The New York Times, Forbes, Glamour Magazine, Travel + Leisure, and more. In 2021, she was the recipient of Adweek's "Shine 'A' Light Award" for her dynamic voice as a journalist and content within the travel industry. Today, in addition to being a freelance journalist, she serves as the Director of Communications of BEAM (The Black Emotional and Mental Health Collective).

In this first episode of season 7, Imani Bashir recounts how her experiences, from launching a luggage company during the pandemic to navigating the complexities of her current role, have shaped her approach to creating impactful content. Imani emphasizes the importance of aligning content with an organization’s mission and measuring its effectiveness through both quantitative metrics and qualitative feedback.

The conversation also explores Imani’s process for pitching and managing freelance assignments. She discusses the balance between cold pitching and responding to incoming opportunities, highlighting the importance of understanding the unique needs of each publication and editor. Whether it’s crafting a compelling story from a PR pitch or ensuring that content resonates with its intended audience, Imani offers valuable insights into the art of effective communication and strategy.

Here’s What You’ll Learn:

• How Imani Bashir got her career start
• Best practices for pitching freelancers effectively.
• Strategies to create content that delivers measurable results.
• Insights into the evolving role of freelancers in the media landscape.
• Tips for crafting compelling pitches that capture attention.
• Imani Bashir's experiences and lessons from working with top publications.
• Key factors that contribute to successful content strategies.
• More about BEAM and their experiential learning style
• And more!

Guest Social Links:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sheisimanib/
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/imanibashir/
• Website: https://sheisimanib.com/about-me
  
  
• Sign up For Lexie's Weekly Insider to Receive Insider Tips, Invites, & More at: https://theprbarinc.com/newsworthy/
• Ways you Can Work with THEPRBAR: https://theprbarinc.com/private-workshops/
• Learn about Growth Mode Agency Here: https://www.growthmodeagency.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theprbar_inc/
• Connect with Lexie on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lexie-smith-pr/