Description

That Solo Life Episode 321: What We're Reading for Focus, Laughs and Professional Development 
Episode Summary

For busy PR and marketing professionals, finding time to read—whether for professional development or pleasure—can be a challenge. In this episode, hosts Karen Swim and Michelle Kane open up their own "to-be-read" piles to share the books currently on their stacks. They discuss a fascinating mix of titles covering everything from the impact of AI on customer behavior and social media's effect on our minds to the art of writing a funny speech and the power of mindset. This episode is packed with recommendations that will inspire you to think more deeply, understand your audience better, and even find humor in the everyday. If you're a book lover looking for your next great read or need some motivation to start that book you bought months ago, this conversation is for you.

Episode Highlights

• (01:05) - Why PR pros often have a stack of books they intend to read but struggle to find the time.
• (02:26) - Michelle's first pick: Belonging: The Key to Transforming and Maintaining Your Success by Mark Schaefer, which explores how AI is changing customer behavior.
• (03:52) - Karen shares her first book, Stolen Focus: Why You Can't Pay Attention—and How to Think Deeply Again by Johann Hari, and discusses the importance of deep work.
• (06:47) - For a dose of humor, Michelle recommends How to Write a Funny Speech by Carol Leifer and Rick Mitchell, highlighting the intelligence behind good comedy writing.
• (08:27) - Karen’s second recommendation, The Chaos Machine: The Inside Story of How Social Media Rewired Our Minds and Our World by Max Fisher, and its relevance for communicators.
• (10:27) - Michelle discusses Inner Excellence: The Proven System for Empowering Your Habits, Overcoming Your Mental Blocks, and Raising Your Lasting Level of Performance by Jim Murphy, a book made famous by Philadelphia Eagles player AJ Brown.
• (12:22) - Karen's final book is Do the New You: 6 Mindsets to Become Who You Were Created to Be by Steven Furtick, a faith-based guide to personal transformation.
• (14:00) - The hosts reflect on the common theme of mindset in their book choices and its importance for solo professionals.

Resources & Additional Information

Books Mentioned in This Episode:

• How AI Changes Your Customers - Mark W. Schaefer
• Stolen Focus: Why You Can't Pay Attention—and How to Think Deeply Again - Johann Hari
• How to Write a Funny Speech... - Carol Leifer and Rick Mitchell
• The Chaos Machine - Max Fisher
• Do the New You: 6 Mindsets to Become Who You Were Created to Be - Steven Furtick
• Inner Excellence - Jim Murphy
• Kami Huyse - Follow Kami Huyse on LinkedIn for more great insights and recommendations.

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 Pro, 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.

 

What book are you currently reading or what’s at the top of your stack? We want to hear from you! Visit SoloPRPro.com to share your recommendations. And if you found value in this episode, please share it with a fellow PR pro and leave us a review on your favorite podcast platform. Your support helps us reach more listeners just like you