Shows
The Public Relations PodcastGuest: PR for personal branding in booksAre you getting your "goals" wrong?In the old days of book PR, your goal was to raise awareness in order to sell copies — but not anymore. There’s a new goal. It’s the same in many sectors, where the objective has shifted but people sometimes miss the change.Kourtney Jason is from Pacific & Court in Brooklyn, USA, an agency that specialises in book PR in 2025.They realised that books on their own are rarely "news" anymore, so they needed to focus instead on what was newsworthy. The answer was often the author t...
2025-05-0514 minThe Public Relations PodcastAI: The reality of AI in Public Relations – from someone building itIf you want the truth about where AI is taking PR — and what it’s already capable of today — this is the episode for you.In this episode, I talk to Jeroen Bos — a friend, technologist, and the man leading innovation at Pr.co, a well-known platform in the PR space.We talk about what Jeroen himself is trying with his team, what barriers they are coming up against, what’s working, what’s not, and how you can start preparing now.In this episode:Why AI can't replace PR pros — not from a “sa...
2025-04-2913 min
The Public Relations Podcast5 reasons why AI wont take you comms job... yet"BUT! We can just get AI to do our PR and comms? We can automate it?"It's an argument being put forward by a growing number of organisations — even if no one quite knows how to do that yet. And that’s the rub. Is it actually possible?Can you get AI — or perhaps a junior plus AI — replace experienced comms pros?That was one of the big questions I discussed with Komal Lath (founder of Tute Consult) and Tarunjeet Rattan (of Nucleus PR).I think we found 5 reasons why it’s not over yet...
2025-04-1412 minThe Public Relations PodcastINSIGHT: Why PR Still Gets Treated Like It's 1985 – and How To Fix ItWhy is PR still being treated like it's 1985 – and how do you fix it?If your clients or organisation still thinks PR is just about "media coverage”, then you are not alone. It's backed up by the new PR Agency Insight Survey 2025.In this full episode below (15 mins), I'm chatting with two PR leaders from India’s independent agency scene – Komal Lath (Tute Consult) and Tarunjeet Rattan (Nucleus PR).We talk about how they explain PR is more than press releases, we discuss ways of proving ROI to stakeholders who don’t get it...
2025-04-0714 minThe Public Relations PodcastTIP: "We need a quote in 30 minutes, or we're dropping the story." - Kayley Hamilton"We need a quote in 30 minutes, or we're dropping the story."The problem you have is that your client is in back-to-back meetings today.Do you tell the journalist you can't help and potentially lose a contact and possibly your client, or find another way? In this episode, award-winning former entertainment journalist turned PR agency founder Kayley Hamilton has been trying to find a solution and has discovered one. Kayley reveals not just the fact she's using AI, but how she does it. She also explains how to avoid genera...
2025-03-2414 minThe Public Relations PodcastGuest: How to prove the value of PREvery PR pro knows the struggle—proving ROI. You know your work has impact, but when your boss or client asks for hard numbers, the conversation gets awkward. In this episode, we challenge the idea that PR can't demonstrate return on investment.I talk to Liz Riley from NextPR, who says they have the answer. We break down:📊 The real way to track PR-driven traffic and leads (beyond vanity metrics)🎙️ Why podcasts might be a goldmine for credibility and client conversion📣 The mistake PR pros make when shifting between social media platforms
2025-03-1814 minThe Public Relations PodcastAI: Sentiment analysis in 2025 - Maha Global's DarwinPR professionals are under constant pressure to prove their value—but traditional sentiment analysis and media monitoring only scratch the surface. In this episode of The Public Relations Podcast, we dive deep into how AI is revolutionising PR measurement, helping comms teams move beyond ‘gut feeling’ to hard data that links PR efforts directly to financial impact. Joining me is Haider Nazer, CEO of Darwin, a platform designed to show PR teams where their reputations stand, what messaging will resonate, and how to measure the real-world impact of comms strategies on business performance. We explor...
2025-03-1014 minThe Public Relations PodcastAI: First chat with a developer for PRA quick update as I research AI tools and their potential benefits for PR and communications professionals. I highlight the limitations of traditional 'spray and pray' tactics and emphasize the need for personalized pitches to better connect with journalists and influencers. I share insights from my conversation with developers creating tools that automate and enhance press release personalization, making it easier and more affordable for resource-strapped agencies. But I'm also, interested in what you need.
2025-02-2804 minThe Public Relations PodcastTechnique: Using AI to pitch betterCan you get AI to take a long technical, scientific brief and use the same story to write a good pitch for a.....1) Women's magazine2) An online newspaper3) AND a sports writer?I tried using ChatGPT.I pasted copies of previous articles by these people into GPT and asked it to re-pitch the technical brief in a way that would resonate with them. This is what happened...... #pr#comms
2025-02-2507 minThe Public Relations PodcastQuestion: What do you need from AI tools?A quick question for you?What do you need from AI tools for PR and comms? What would make the difference for you?I'm talking to developers and I want you ideas to pass on to help them get it right when building tools for the industry. Let me know on LinkedIn by searching for "Richard Midson"
2025-02-2303 minThe Public Relations PodcastTip: When to follow up on a pitch?How long should you wait before following up on a pitch? Should you even follow up at all? I’m always surprised by how few people actually follow up with me—but on the flip side, some follow up way too many times on pitches that were never strong to begin with.So, how do you know if someone is actually interested? And when is the right time to chase, or just let it go? In this short episode, I share some key clues you can pick up from how people interact with your emails.I’d...
2025-02-1907 minThe Public Relations PodcastGuest: Reach the right people, not everyone in your PR - Liz BrooksIf you want to know how to pitch to podcasts, the best way is to ask the people who do it all day long.For years, podcasting has been called "the new media," but many clients still cling to traditional outlets, struggling to see its value. The biggest mistake? Treating podcasts like mass media.Podcasting isn’t about reaching the biggest audience—it’s about reaching the right audience. Too many clients say, “Put me on Joe Rogan,” assuming more listeners means better results. But, just...
2025-01-3014 minThe Public Relations PodcastPractice: Could you add some sparkle to this PR problem?You have found yourself working for a very different sort of employer, a "conjurers and magicians" association.But they have a problem: people think of magic as just for children.They need your help to get across a new message. What are you going to do?Have a listen to the episode and decide how you would approach this problem.
2025-01-2305 minThe Public Relations PodcastGuest: Predictions for In-house comms in 2025What is the future for in house PR people in 2025?This is something I've been privately discussing on LinkedIn with Lynn Kwek from ACI in Singapore. But we thought, why don't we record a podcast episode instead?We discuss everything from AI to the importance of authentic storytelling but not just from a point of view of a list of things but how to actually approach then in 2025.As you'll hear, we have some predictions, we have our ideas, but more importantly, as always, what are your ideas? Do you let me know?
2025-01-2214 minThe Public Relations PodcastTip: How to better manage journalist relationshipsI’ve been having some fascinating conversations recently about managing the relationship between PR professionals and journalists. These discussions have been especially relevant given the current debates in Hollywood, where legal battles between celebrities are dragging PR professionals into the spotlight.The situation raises an important question: What’s the most effective way to manage a relationship with journalists?There’s no shortage of opinions: Some say the key is simply to be nice to journalists. Others argue for a more aggressive approach to get journalists to do what you need...
2025-01-2014 minThe Public Relations PodcastComms Conundrum - The Museum CrisisImagine you've been given a new job.
You're no longer doing PR for your current place, you've been hired by a National Museum.
But....there's a big problem, and people are turning to you to solve it. What are you going to do?
Every week in The Public Relations Podcast newsletter, I have a comms conundrum, and I thought it would be fun to put one on Linkedin.
You don't have to answer it out loud. You can always direct message me if you like. What would you do in this...
2025-01-1706 minThe Public Relations PodcastGuest: Increasing the value of your PR role in 2025
I had a great chat the other day on how to raise the value of Public Relations in the eyes of clients in 2025.
It was with Elie Jacobs from Purposeful Advisors, who is a fascinating contact, not the least because he started his career working for former US President Bill Clinton.
One of the things he's found more recently is that instead of just talking about PR with clients, he actually works with the business to turn the business into a story. That's not through massaging the message, which can only go so far—it's by helping the business it...
2025-01-1614 minThe Public Relations PodcastPRBites: When the media won't cover youIf you can’t get your story into the media and don’t want to pay for ads, what *else* can you do?
It's a good question, and it dominates today's episode.
In short:- Just because you can't get traction doesn't mean you should give up.
The solution for many people is to reframe and deliver the story in different ways:-
- That includes building narratives in small parts, not one big announcement.
- It means building the same relationships with industry peers and influential people in your space as you did with journalists.
- It means pack...
2025-01-1314 minThe Public Relations PodcastGuest: Reach Different Audiences By Changing The Message
How do you craft messages that resonate with different audiences? Whether you're navigating the complexities of global PR campaigns or fine-tuning your outreach for niche markets, the ability to tailor your messaging is essential for success in 2025.
In this episode, we’re joined by Andrew Healy from Water & Wall (waterandwall.com), a leading financial PR agency based in New York, to explore the art and science of tailored communication in his work. Andrew shares real-world insights from campaigns that required rethinking approaches for diverse audiences—like adapting European ESG messaging for the American market—and why localisation and audience unders...
2025-01-0814 minThe Public Relations PodcastBites: Why momentum building will be essential in 2025....and more
Welcome to Season 8 of The Public Relations Podcast! 🎉 This episode kicks off 2025 with a bang as we dive into one of the most critical strategies for PR professionals and marketers in the year ahead: momentum building campaigns.
Are your campaigns falling flat or feeling like one-off efforts that don't build traction? Discover why momentum-driven campaigns are the secret to long-term success, how they can revolutionise your results, and practical steps to make them work for you.
In This Episode, You’ll Learn:
The key principles behind momentum building and why they matter in 2025.
How to break free from the trap...
2025-01-0514 minThe Public Relations PodcastHow to Craft Campaigns That Truly ConnectIn this episode of The Public Relations Podcast, we explore why the most impactful campaigns don’t pull audiences into their world—they meet them where they already are. Learn how to find your audience, uncover the psychology behind their frustrations, and craft relatable messages that build instant trust and rapport.
I’ll also tackle this week’s Comms Conundrum: how would you convince audiences that hotels offer more value than short-term rentals? Plus, we’ll dive into the step-by-step techniques to reflect your audience’s mindset, with practical tips you can implement right away.
As the year...
2024-12-1808 minThe Public Relations PodcastWhy Reports Win Headlines and How to Hook Hard-to-Reach AudiencesIn this episode of The Public Relations Podcast, we dive into how aligning your messaging with your audience’s mindset can lead to truly powerful results in PR-led marketing. Drawing from my experience as a journalist, I discuss how even the smallest shift in messaging can change the impact of a story—it's not about forcing a narrative but reflecting back what people already care about.
I also introduce something new: The Public Relations Podcast Premium. It's a “hack a week” series, where I break down a specific strategy or technique that’s working right now, and show you h...
2024-12-1610 minThe Public Relations PodcastPRBites - How Jaguar cars missed the point of modern commsMarketing has changed, but it doesn't seem that some people have.
Jaguar Cars came out with a new marketing campaign that was widely criticised. It turned the old brand on its head but used techniques that worked well 10 years ago.
It helps to highlight some of the ways that things have moved on, which we will look at in the podcast.
PLUS, your weekly Comms Conundrum. What would you do?
The Public Relations Podcast Website - thepublicrelationspodcast.com/
CommsQuestionTime - commsquestiontime.com/
Where you...
2024-12-0508 minThe Public Relations PodcastPRBites - Using information for leverageInside information that you can't easily find on Google is currency, and with information, you can buy access and favours.
So why don't many press releases include it?
Including inside information and insights magnifies the effectiveness of your pitches.
We look at some ways to gather it for your pitches.
And we look at some research on how to connect with Gen Z.
The Public Relations Podcast Website - thepublicrelationspodcast.com/
CommsQuestionTime - commsquestiontime.com/
Where you can find me - You'll find...
2024-12-0212 minThe Public Relations PodcastPRBites - Being honest about AIAfter generating an AI Christmas advert, Coca-Cola has found itself in an awkward situation. Some people are not happy about it. So, should they have made it clear it was generated by AI or shied away from it?
PLUS, what would you do in this situation when you're trying to protect the reputation of a furniture maker when a product is not up to standard? How much would you defend it, and how public would you go with your messaging?
The Public Relations Podcast Website - thepublicrelationspodcast.com/
...
2024-11-2708 minThe Public Relations PodcastThe Secret to Creating Trends: How to Make Your Story UnmissableWhat makes a story go from overlooked to irresistible?
In this episode, we’re diving into the art of creating trends—how to take your story, even if it’s not already trending, and position it as something everyone wants to talk about.
We’ll explore the psychology of FOMO, share real-world examples and give you practical steps to frame your story for maximum impact.
Whether you’re pitching to journalists, influencers, or building buzz on social media, this episode will show you how to make your story unmissable.
The Public...
2024-11-2516 minThe Public Relations PodcastPRBites - Two examples of authenticityWhat is authenticity? Is it just one thing or different things to different people?
In today's episode, I look at two very different politicians who are achieving authenticity with their audience and look at what comms pros can learn from it.
The Public Relations Podcast Website - thepublicrelationspodcast.com/
CommsQuestionTime - commsquestiontime.com/
Where you can find me - You'll find me here - LinkedIn / info@thepublicrelationspodcast.com
#PR #publicrelations #pragency #prtips
2024-11-2011 minThe Public Relations PodcastPRBites: Turning your PR into a "spectacle"What does it take to turn a story into a spectacle that people want to discuss and cover?
Last week, an event happened that summed up a lot of the approaches to doing this, and I discussed this in today's podcast.
The Public Relations Podcast Website - thepublicrelationspodcast.com/
CommsQuestionTime - commsquestiontime.com
Where you can find me - You'll find me here - LinkedIn / info@thepublicrelationspodcast.com
#PR #publicrelations #pragency #prtips
2024-11-1818 minThe Public Relations PodcastPRBites - A new threat to reputations from AIImagine your client was accused of a crime they didn't commit by an AI bot. How would you handle it?
Plus, a book mention, a tip and a comms conundrum to think about.
The Public Relations Podcast Website - thepublicrelationspodcast.com/
CommsQuestionTime - commsquestiontime.com/
Where you can find me - You'll find me here - LinkedIn / info@thepublicrelationspodcast.com
#PR #publicrelations #pragency #prtips
2024-11-1309 minThe Public Relations PodcastPRBites - Why you should do real time rebuttalsSpeed is everything in modern comms, so how do you handle a real-time rebuttal as it emerges?
In today's episode, I share some tips from my own experience and from what guests have shared with me.
The Public Relations Podcast Website - thepublicrelationspodcast.com/
CommsQuestionTime - commsquestiontime.com/
Where you can find me - You'll find me here - LinkedIn / info@thepublicrelationspodcast.com
#PR #publicrelations #pragency
2024-11-1115 minThe Public Relations PodcastPRBites - Should PR show a clear ROI?- Should PR demonstrate a clear ROI?
- Reacting to Comms Question Time
- This week's fictional scenario.
The Public Relations Podcast Website - thepublicrelationspodcast.com/
CommsQuestionTime - commsquestiontime.com/
Where you can find me - You'll find me here - LinkedIn / info@thepublicrelationspodcast.com
#PR #publicrelations #pragency
2024-11-0709 minThe Public Relations PodcastPRBites - Story pitching- How Much Are Micro-Influencers Really Earning?
- Getting AI to Deliver Exactly What You Need
- Story Pitching Tips
The Public Relations Podcast Website - thepublicrelationspodcast.com/
CommsQuestionTime - commsquestiontime.com/
Where you can find me - You'll find me here - LinkedIn / info@thepublicrelationspodcast.com
#PR #publicrelations #pragency
2024-11-0416 minThe Public Relations PodcastCQT1: Getting the public to care about what you doI'm sharing the first three pilot episodes of CommsQuestionTime on The Public Relations Podcast feed to see what you think.
In this first "pilot" episode of the new podcast, Comms Question Time, Richard Midson teams up with communication/PR experts Sonali Sokhal and Jim McCarthy to solve listeners' comms questions.
In this episode, they take questions from a non-profit heart health campaign struggling to gain media attention and from a local council struggling to get across their environmental efforts.
We also cover using personal stories, celebrity endorsements, social media, and community engagement in o...
2024-10-3145 minThe Public Relations PodcastCQT3: How to launch a business with PRI'm sharing the first three pilot episodes of CommsQuestionTime on The Public Relations Podcast feed to see what you think.
In the third "pilot" episode of Comms Question Time, the panel dives into two fascinating problems from listeners.
First, they offer guidance to a legal tech startup struggling to convince its target market to adopt a new client management system. Then, they tackle how a premium pet food brand, led by scientists, can stand out when their advertising and marketing efforts aren't hitting the mark.
On our panel today are Helen Barnett from the UK...
2024-10-3129 minThe Public Relations PodcastCQT2: Protecting your reputation with PRI'm sharing the first three pilot episodes of CommsQuestionTime on The Public Relations Podcast feed to see what you think.
In the second "pilot" episode of Comms Question Time, the panel advises an entrepreneur importing Mexican drinking chocolate into Australia on how to stand out, and then discusses how an individual can protect their reputation after a former co-worker began working with the press on a story that could impact them.
On our panel today are Kathleen Lucente from Red Fan Communications and Jim McCarthy from CounterPoint Strategies.
Comms is the must-hav...
2024-10-3144 minThe Public Relations PodcastPRBites - Avoiding hyperbole in press releasesIn today’s episode, you’re in the driver’s seat as the head of PR for a major airline. A scandal breaks out after several passengers are stranded due to overbooking, and now it’s your job to manage the fallout. Do you take the high-profile approach or try to explain the complexities of running an airline?
Before we get into that, another couple of stories talking about the growing problem of exaggerated press releases—why using buzzwords like "groundbreaking" might actually hurt your chances of getting covered.
Plus, a qu...
2024-10-3009 minThe Public Relations PodcastPRBites - Managing your web of influenceIn this episode, we look at managing your web of influence when your organisation is under attack or when you are trying to get heard.
We also look at a couple of quick stories about why follower count is not a vanity metric and how people discover content.
Plus, more on the exciting launch of Comms Question Time, the brand-new spin-off show where PR experts tackle real-life questions from businesses and curious comms professionals. Details on how to tune in.
As always, it's practical PR you can apply in your PR efforts today.
2024-10-2815 minThe Public Relations Podcast5,000 attendees for something not even launchedHow do you get 5,000 people from around the world to travel for something that hasn’t even launched?
Discover how teasing the promise of something bigger can drive engagement, build a devoted community, and generate millions—all before the product is even complete.
In this episode, we break down the genius PR (and perhaps accidental genius) and marketing strategies behind one of the most funded games ever.
Curious how you can apply these techniques to your own campaigns? Tune in to find out.
2024-10-2116 minThe Public Relations PodcastWhy PR Strategy Will Be Essential for SEO in the AI Era🎙️ PR Bites: Why Your PR Strategy Will Be Essential for SEO in the AI Era
In this episode, Richard tackles the future of SEO and why traditional methods just won’t cut it anymore. With AI-driven platforms on the rise and Google’s organic search usage dropping, businesses will need more than just keyword strategies to stay visible.
Richard breaks down how PR will play a critical role in helping your organization become the trusted, authoritative source that AI prioritizes. 🚀
Why AI will only highlight a few highly credible sources—and how PR can make sure your...
2024-10-1610 minThe Public Relations PodcastPRBites - What SpaceX Can Teach Us About Narrative-Driven PR🚀 PR Bites: What SpaceX Can Teach Us About Narrative-Driven PR
In this episode of PR Bites, Richard breaks down the genius behind SpaceX’s latest PR success and why their narrative-driven approach is winning the public’s imagination, where NASA struggled for many years after their initial success. He shares actionable insights on how brands—from tech giants to local businesses—can adopt SpaceX’s storytelling techniques to build emotional connections with their audience.
Plus, learn how you can create a story around your product or service, even if it seems "unexciting" on the surface. Whether it’s...
2024-10-1409 minThe Public Relations PodcastPRBites - The threat of coded languageToday:
1) Is your organisation under threat from coded language
2) The Trojan Horse approach
3) A quick tip on keeping your boss or client onside.
The Public Relations Podcast Website - thepublicrelationspodcast.com/
Where you can find me - You'll find me here - LinkedIn / info@thepublicrelationspodcast.com
#PR #publicrelations #pragency
2024-10-0913 minThe Public Relations PodcastPRBites - incl. Generating a brand podcast with AI✅ TUESDAY'S FOCUS:
* Why you should treat social media platform's own advice with suspicion
* AI podcasts with AI voices
The Public Relations Podcast - Listen to the show
Where you can find me - You'll find me here - LinkedIn / info@thepublicrelationspodcast.com
#PR #publicrelations #pragency
2024-10-0815 minThe Public Relations PodcastPRBites - PR ideas from the games industry
✅ THURSDAY’S FOCUS:
- Why de-influencers could be a threat to your PR campaigns
- What the latest computer games industry trends can teach us about PR
- Why conferences may provide more opportunities for work
The Public Relations Podcast - Listen to the show
Where you can find me - You'll find me here - LinkedIn / info@thepublicrelationspodcast.com
#PR #publicrelations #pragency
2024-10-0311 minThe Public Relations PodcastPRBites - Good and Bad techniques this weekIt's PRBites, another quick round-up of ideas and observations from the comms world which demonstrates things to avoid and things to try.
Among the points today -
- What I think a car manufacturer has got wrong in their latest campaign and why a PR approach could have helped
- A quick tip on why you shouldn’t ignore micro-influencers
- And what to do if your CEO destroys your entire campaign
2024-10-0116 minThe Public Relations PodcastWhy you should be talking to sales teamsIf you’ve ever worked in sales, you know that cold pitching is among the most challenging things you can do.
Getting a meeting with someone who’s never heard of you—or your product—is tough, especially as the price tag goes up.
Yet many salespeople seem to be facing this every day, and it's stopping them from achieving more.
Even the slightest positive feeling among buyers could be opening more doors.
Kathleen Lucente from Red Fan Communications was chatting to some salespeople the other day who complained that they lacked "...
2024-09-2309 minThe Public Relations PodcastLeaning into a PR crisisIt's PRBites where I read aloud today's newsletter.
✅ THURSDAY’S FOCUS:
* Why the Search Engine Optimisation industry may need your help?
* Do people really want to hear celebrities on podcasts?
* How one firm leaned into a PR crisis.
2024-09-1915 minThe Public Relations PodcastPreparing your client or you for interviewsA quick special episode from The Public Relations Podcast.
This is a random collection of thoughts on how to be a good guest for podcasts and media interviews.
It covers things like how to prepare and how to present yourself (or train your client) for appearances.
There is so much you could say on each point and more points you could add but I hope this provides a few useful ideas and pointers.
2024-09-1815 minThe Public Relations PodcastPRBites - What the royals can teach usPRBites for Tuesday 17th September
* Should you trust all media requests
* What the Royals can teach us about targeting the right people
* Why speaking to an organisation's sales team rather than CMO might get you comms clients or a job
* How would you handle this crisis at a restaurant chain
2024-09-1611 minThe Public Relations PodcastPRBites: Using TV techniques in PRIt's PRBites
* Modelling TV shows to increase the impact of PR
* The importance of a "new perspective" in pitches
* And how are you going to rejuvenate this academic institution?
2024-09-1210 minThe Public Relations PodcastGuest: Adapting PR Strategy to a Rapidly Changing World - Seth Linden - Dukas Linden PRThe world is changing, so how does PR need to adapt?
It's something I chatted to Seth Linden about last week and I'm sharing the recording below. Seth is from the top New York business services PR firm Dukas Linden Public Relations.
In this bite-sized chat (all of which is below) we covered:-
- How they have adapted and grown in one of the most intense cities on earth
- How society is influencing what they say and do and how...
2024-09-1114 minThe Public Relations PodcastPRBites - Why you must include a story
✅ TUESDAY’S FOCUS:
* How would you turn around the image of fast food?
* Something that was highlighted in a chat I had with a politician last night.
* Why story has made the Ultimate Fighting Championship so successful in the USA
Reach out at ThePublicRelationsPodcast.com
2024-09-0914 minThe Public Relations PodcastPRBites - Getting a new job or client and more✅ THURSDAY’S FOCUS:
* Why the press don't quote you when using your comments
* How I got offered two comms jobs
* Avoiding overconfidence in media interviews.
2024-09-0511 minThe Public Relations PodcastPRBites - What others are focusing on✅ TUESDAY'S FOCUS:-
- Turning mess-ups into PR opportunities.
- How one agency got a country onboard as a client
- What do you need to focus on as an agency next
- And what would you do when a national healthcare provider hits a comms crisis
ThePublicRelationsPodcast.com
2024-09-0313 minThe Public Relations PodcastHow Niche PR Agencies Can Win Big Against the GiantsMike Mejer has cornered a niche PR market in the United States with his firm GreenLaneCommunication.com
By doing so, he's made his agency a go-to agency on the topic, allowing him to compete with and beat major industry giants.
In this short episode, we get a taste of how he did it.
We also talk about the challenges of working in a highly regulated sector, the importance of knowing your audience deeply, and why being a specialist can be a powerful advantage in...
2024-08-1414 minThe Public Relations PodcastPRBites - Getting on Reddit?PRBites for Tuesday 13th August
✅ TUESDAY’S FOCUS:
- Getting on Reddit
- Nicheing to beat other major PR agencies
- Lessons from the Olympics
2024-08-1309 minThe Public Relations PodcastPRBites - Pitching PR services and moreDid you know PR reduces the risk in marketing?
In fact, according to one story I spotted, it hugely reduces the risks of spending money on the wrong things.
Also today
- Limiting who you are prepared to work for so you gain more clients
- And....our celebrity has got into trouble again!
2024-08-0811 minThe Public Relations PodcastPRBites - Making Things True✅ TUESDAY 6th Aug FOCUS:-
- Why did an athlete at the Olympics go viral?
- What film reviews and modern YouTube can teach us about truth "making"?
- What would you do with our fictional celebrity today?
More at ThePublicRelationsPodcast.com
2024-08-0614 minThe Public Relations PodcastPRBites - 1st Aug 24 - AI for YouTube
✅ THURSDAY’S FOCUS:-
- It seems CMOs need PR people but aren't calling it PR
- Can you use AI to create thumbnails for YouTube? I've tried it.
- And the power of "newsjacking"
More at ThePublicRelationsPodcast.com
2024-08-0111 minThe Public Relations PodcastJim MacCarthy Part 3 - No holds barred commsSo many of the comms conversations I read online are based on what we would like to be reality rather than what is reality.
Listening back to a conversation I had recently, I found myself drawn in by the bluntness of a chat.
This wasn't about textbook PR but about what this person's team are actually doing in difficult comms environments.
Jim works with clients whom the public zeitgeist is against, and it's here where the war of words is often a no-holds-barred contest.
The fluffy press releases go as attempts...
2024-07-3113 minThe Public Relations PodcastWhen the public turn against you - Part 2Do you stand and fight with every PR technique in the book, or release a watered-down statement when the public narrative goes against you?
In part 2 of my chat with Jim McCarthy from CounterPoint Strategies LTD, we discuss some of the ways organisations can fight back and how perceptions of "media" and the public are changing the options available to communicators.
This stuff, as usual with this podcast, is not theoretical. It’s the stuff Jim does straight after he finishes talking with his clients every day.
2024-07-2414 minThe Public Relations PodcastPR Technique - When the press turn against youIf you want good coverage, cosy up to reporters. That's the conventional wisdom in Public Relations, right? But what do you do when that's not working?
Jim McCarthy from CounterPoint Strategies LTD takes on clients where a negative narrative has often developed around them.
To understand Jim's approach, you need to see (or listen) to the two parts of this chat. But, in essence, Jim fact-checks the reporters and points out when they make assumptions based on narrative rather than data or when they get facts wrong from his c...
2024-07-1611 minThe Public Relations PodcastBONUS - 10th July - PR News RoundupAnother special episode of PR techniques, observations and news from the comms/PR with ideas you can use.
It seems my test episode the other day, where I read the 8th July 2024 edition of the "PRBites" Newsletter aloud, was really popular, so I thought I would do it again.
This is the 10th July edition.
If you would like the newsletter, you can get it here - https://thepublicrelationspodcast.com/subscribe-prbites/
Or, do you like this format? If so...
2024-07-1113 minThe Public Relations PodcastHow to get organisations to take crisis PR planning seriouslyToday, I'm bringing back Kathleen Lucente, a good friend and a favourite on the podcast, to share some invaluable insights into proactive crisis management.
Just before we started recording, Kathleen had just come out of a crisis communication workshop with clients in a healthcare startup.
Getting it right is crucial for a sector with so much regulation, as things can unfold quickly.
I asked her about how she had been teaching them, how she approaches teaching crisis management generally, and how she gets people onboard and involved with critical planning. For example, some...
2024-07-0814 minThe Public Relations PodcastSpecial - PR News RoundupA special episode of PR techniques, observations and news from the comms/PR with ideas you can use.
It's the 8th July 2024 edition of the "PRBites" Newsletter read aloud which you can get at - https://thepublicrelationspodcast.com/subscribe-prbites/
Do you like this format? If so, let me know if you want more audio versions of it.
2024-07-0813 minThe Public Relations PodcastHow to Navigate Taboo Topics in PR CampaignsI think India is fascinating for PR, not just because of the ideas there, but because of the environment comms people work in.
Just like Hollywood can teach us about narrative due to its intense focus, India can teach us how to handle topics in a diverse environment where getting it wrong can backfire badly.
Take women's health. For many, it was and still is a taboo topic there. So how do you then launch a women's health campaign within that context?
Sonali Sokhal...
2024-06-2414 minThe Public Relations PodcastCreating social movements behind your organisationHow do you create a social movement for your organisation?
It's something that we all try, but it doesn't always work.
In this episode, we're looking at two recent movements to see if we can reverse engineer them.
We'll look at the importance of a strong narrative, of a David versus Goliath story, of real-time feedback, and more.
THE PROJECT - www.commsbreak.com
Video and Audio links here - https://thepublicrelationspodcast.com/listen/
2024-06-1110 minThe Public Relations PodcastHow to ensure reporters come to an eventEvent PR - You tell journalists about the event and who is speaking, and then sit back.
Well actually no.
I was speaking to a journalist recently who said it's getting harder and harder to justify going to events, especially if they can't guarantee they will get lots of good stories.
The fact an event happened isn't a story. They are looking for launches, announcements, key new details being released, etc. They want angles for the business section, education, etc.
2024-06-0314 minThe Public Relations PodcastHow to Engineer Eco-Friendly PR Success - Ivan MartinToday... going behind the scenes of an environmental campaign that needed to be launched in a place where being eco-conscious is quite hard.
How do you do that?
Ivan Martin from PRSSWRKS.com lives on the island of Malta in the Mediterranean.
They have a big problem. When you have so little space, being environmental is hard due to the logistics.
So how did he help his client do that and get the message across?
I've been chatting to Ivan for more than a year after he moved from...
2024-05-2214 minThe Public Relations PodcastA growing threat to the Crisis Comms PR sectorAI has helped the rapid growth of misinformation online and the ability of less sophisticated groups to target organisations with devastating effects. But just how serious a threat is this?
In this episode, we look at the capabilities this new technology is bringing and some ideas on how to prepare for it.
I chat to Rafi Mendelsohn from Cyabra to....
Understand the Landscape: We learn about the technological advances that have allowed more people to easily manipulate public perception, making no company too small to be unaffected.
Actionable Strategies: We talk abo...
2024-05-0917 minThe Public Relations PodcastDo you send affiliate links with your media pitches?As you know, I'm always interested in the reality of the world of communications, not just what we might wish to believe.
That's why I was so pleased when April White from Trust Relations reached out recently to discuss their observations.
They've noticed that when pitching consumer products to outlets of nearly any size, including some sort of incentive has become essential.
Note, she specified consumer products. This focus is due to the challenge these products face in developing narratives that transcend blatant advertising.
Unless there's truly something innovative, or you...
2024-03-1214 minThe Public Relations PodcastWhy story trumps factsA couple of weeks ago a TV drama hit the headlines in the UK. It changed government policy.
It told the true story of how post office workers had been wrongly convicted of fraud by a faulty computer system. But the story wasn't new. Journalists had been trying to report on it for years.
So, why did it suddenly gain national attention now and more importantly what can professional communicators learn from this?
Helen Barnett was a national newspaper website editor for the Express Newspaper in the UK and saw both sides. She's...
2024-02-2912 minThe Public Relations PodcastEncouraging others to tell your story with Komall Lath, Tute ConsultingPR and its study human nature is of course global and so it was such a delight to finally welcome a true legend of PR in India, Komal Lath from Tute Consulting on the show.
Komal is someone with huge energy and tons of experience. We discussed her campaign with Minimalist, a skincare brand, and how they got influencers to tell the story of the brand.
We talk about whether 2024 is the year that organizations should be keeping quiet and avoiding speaking up. Spoiler - they shouldn't.
2024-01-0956 minThe Public Relations PodcastHow far can you push a PR stunt? and more!In this episode of The Public Relations Podcast I'm joined by Kathleen Lucente from Red Fan Communications.
One of the topics we focus on this week is the question of how far is too far to go with publicity stunts. Our goal as communicators is to get attention and generate conversations. To do that we have to be saying or doing something that stands out. But, what is too much?
We also talk about influencer fatigue, the role of authenticity, and the importance of integrating both internal and external communication strategies for brand success.
2024-01-0259 minThe Public Relations PodcastWhen people don't listen to the messageWhat do you do when people are just not listening to your message? Do you change it? Sit in a room and come up with some new ideas? Listen to industry experts?
In this episode, we use a declining sport as a case study for any organisation to see if we can suggest ways to turn it and bring back its glory days.
We look in detail at how technologists are engaging with public bodies like the military when it comes to products and services with TJ Ortega from...
2023-12-1952 minThe Public Relations PodcastHow to use timing for impactful PRAnother week discussing PR strategies for in-house teams and independent agencies with PR pros. This time I'm joined by the delightful Amanada Proscia from LightSpeedPR.
This week we look at a study showing TikTok is becoming the new Google when it comes to search for Gen-z. We discuss the way Sam Altman handled his departure and return to OpenAI from a Public Relations points of view and what we can learn from that. We look at working with politicians, how to translate complex tech messages to language the media and content creators will resonate...
2023-12-1247 minThe Public Relations PodcastHow to make a thought leaderKayley Hamilton, 2 times Emmy award-winning entertainment reporter (uplvlagency.com) and I discuss the latest strategies from the world of PR this week.
We take a deep dive into how thought leaders are created focusing on the strategies that have turned Neil Degrass Tyson from a scientist to a global name.
We also look at framing stories when pitching to journalists of different ages and backgrounds. We look at the power of influencers, at the techniques of people like Taylor Swift as well as the economics of influence engagement and how any organisations can take part.
2023-12-1047 minThe Public Relations PodcastValue, Events and StorytellingDavid Barkoe joins me this week on the show to discuss the latest strategies in PR.
We focus on conferences and events this time, looking at what any independent agency or in-house PR comms pro should be thinking about when setting up stands at events. We talk about what it takes to get noticed by journalists and give some practical experiences we've had on both sides as journalists and PRs.
We also talk about the role of influencers in pharmaceutical marketing again and any industry that has a negative perception.
David Shares how...
2023-11-0759 minThe Public Relations PodcastUnique ways to get journalists attentionAnother episode packed with discussion about PR techniques this week in The Public Relations Podcast.
In this episode, we're talking with Jon Woodroof from Twotone.
We discuss why mass press releases are very much out now and targeted outreach is in and how to do it. We talk about how to become a go-to resource for journalists and how to build lasting personal relationships in the industry.
Among the discussion are unique ways to engage your audience, from hosting tattoo parties to crafting newsletters that actually get read. With the changing landscape in...
2023-10-3152 minThe Public Relations PodcastBarbie and Public Relations - The Pink Episode
Barbie has dominated the headlines this year.
How did PR people, communicators and toy makers take advantage of it? What were the challenges and rewards?
I had a good chat with Heather Wagner Reed of Juice Consulting (https://juiceconsulting.com/) about this. We searched for ideas we liked and discussed how it was a great opportunity (for about a month) for Public Relations professionals.
We discussed a lot more though from political PR moments to AI tools for PR pros and answered some questions about influencers and working with the traditional press.
As usual, we've tried to give our...
2023-10-1655 minThe Public Relations PodcastSeason 6 Premiere - Targetting the right audience and lots moreWelcome back to the first full episode of the new format of The Public Relations Podcast.
Today, we look at the work Twitter/X are doing to try to rehabilitate their brand with their most important target audience, their advertisers. We look at the importance of deep research in crafting compelling narratives, how to improve responses from press releases, how to work with influencers in the tech space and the importance of listening to the public and looking for opportunities in what they are saying.
And we're looking for your ideas too. To take part...
2023-10-0958 minThe Public Relations PodcastThe Future of PR : Jeroen Bos pr.coThere are just 2 more episodes to go in this interim series 5.5 of The Public Relations Podcast.
This series has the bits of interviews we never got to run in series 5 of the show.
Today it's the final bits from the chat I had with Jeroen Bos from PR.co
If you heard the original chat you'll know it was a fascinating one because Jeroen is a real forward thinker about the industry.
In this un-released section, we discuss AI, it's ability to handle press releases and even chat with itself between...
2023-08-2209 minThe Public Relations PodcastTech, PR and Crisis with Alexandra Annable of TechfugeesSign up to the newsletter at ThePublicRelationsPodcast.com
Welcome back to series 5.5 of The Public Relations Podcast, a series of "parts" of chats which were never or only partly used in the previous shows due to lack of time.
In this one we chat to Alexandra Annable from the non-profit "Techfugees", and shed light on the interplay between technology, the refugee experience and PR.
In the previous episode, where Alexandra first appeared, she shared some of the strategies and techniques she uses in her work but today we get the bigger picture.
2023-08-0617 minThe Public Relations PodcastWhy PR is changing with Matt Holmes - PoemWe're back for a season 5.5 and if you don't know why it's called 5.5 then you haven't signed up to the newsletter yet at ThePublicRelationsPodcast.com!
In this thought-provoking episode, Matt Holmes from Poem (an international PR agency in Australia) challenges the traditional approach to public relations, stressing the need for data-driven insights and consumer psychology to steer strategies, rather than relying on gut feelings.
We talk about the evolution of the industry and the importance of a two-way conversation with consumers. The conversation further delves into the importance of...
2023-07-1817 minThe Public Relations PodcastShould your organisation have an opinion and learnings from South KoreaIn this episode, journey with me into the heart of Seoul, South Korea, as I discuss global public relations, cultural insights, and an impactful conversation on how to voice an organization's opinion on social and political issues without alienating your audience.
I'm sharing some of what I learned from my dinner conversation with a local freelance TV reporter who navigates both journalism and PR fields, revealing valuable insights into how to become part of conversations already happening and how to leverage timeliness to turn a dull story into an engaging narrative.
Also in this episode, we hear from James Wright...
2023-05-2418 minThe Public Relations PodcastDisaster Fatigue: PR in Humanitarian CrisisIn this eye-opening episode of The Public Relations Podcast, I chat with Alexandra Annabelle, the lead PR from techfugees.com to discuss the challenges and strategies of promoting humanitarian causes in a world plagued by disaster fatigue.
Discover how Alexandra and her team use human stories, meaningful relationships, and collaboration with other organizations to get the message across.
We also talk about what her approach says about the role of PRs and how it's evolving to be much more than just about talking to journalists or influencers.
If you are not already a...
2023-04-1714 min
The Public Relations PodcastAnnouncement: The future of the showSPECIAL ANNOUNCEMENT EPISODE
This show has reached a bit of a turning point. I either need to grow it or scale it back.
I've been giving advice to people privately, interviewing, making show notes, etc. It's amazing fun but as most of you know I also have a full-time job. So I've been trying to work out what to do.
What I'm proposing is to build a tool that accompanies the show and I want to see if there is enough interest before I do it.
Here is the idea. Imagine...
2023-03-0704 minThe Public Relations PodcastThe lecture : A.I. and PRIt may not have been delivered in a lecture theatre but it's a comprehensive look at how artificial intelligence may impact public relations over the coming years.
This is an extended special episode in which I read aloud the article that is sent out to all new newsletter subscribers.
It covers a lot of different implications for PR people from legal issues to what is possible with A.I. (especially ChatGPT) and what we need to watch out for.
If you would like a hard copy of this talk, sign up to the...
2023-03-0230 minThe Public Relations PodcastGet clients to realise the value of PRIn this episode of the Public Relations Podcast, we explore the nuanced approach to convincing clients and bosses about the value of PR.
While there are certain things you can say and data you can share, getting a client or boss on board with PR requires a more nuanced approach.
In this episode we hear from Kaylee Hamilton, owner of Kaylee Media, who believes that getting a client on board actually starts with them, and that interviewing a potential client (or boss) before signing on the dotted line is crucial.
We also recap som...
2023-02-2707 minThe Public Relations PodcastGet media attention: Challenge narrativesA common question people ask as I've run this podcast is how do you get the attention of journalists.
In this episode, I talk about "narrative challenging" and how powerful it can be. It's a technique anyone can do abd it's mostly about just taking a different mindset to your pitch.
For the show notes, head to https://thepublicrelationspodcast.com/courses/
2023-02-1414 minThe Public Relations PodcastA.I. for Public Relations part 2In part 1 we talked about what A.I. is and how it could affect crisis public relations.
In part 2 today, we're talking about what it will cost and who might use A.I. in PR, whether it will affect people's jobs who build relationships with the public and more.
Plus there is a short guide in the show on how to explore A.I. yourself. For the full article though head to ThePublicRelationsPodcast.com and click on the "PR Manual" option in the menu. Then search for AI on the page.
2023-02-0615 minThe Public Relations PodcastBITESIZED: An A.I. update for PR prosThere have been a few developments I want to share with public relations folks that raise some more questions about using A.I.
It's over A.I. image generators.
If you would like the full article which currently comes in at 2600 words, then it's free. Subscribe at thepublicrelationspodcast.com/subscribe
2023-02-0202 minThe Public Relations PodcastHow to use A.I. and ChatGPT for public relationsFor the detailed guide based on this chat and other research make sure you are signed up for the newsletter at - thepublicrelationspodcast.com/subscribe or go to the "PR Manual" on the website and look for the AI section.
Public Relations is about to change because of AI.
Over the next couple of years, almost every aspect will be touched by this emerging technology.
So, what do you need to know? How do you use it and what are the implications?
Dr Mark van Rijmenam is someone who speaks on AI...
2023-01-3113 minThe Public Relations PodcastCan organisations fight back - Sailing La VagabondeIs it ever good to fight back when people criticise what your organisation does?
What can we learn from influencers who stand their ground when the critics lay into them.
As always lots more at www.ThePublicRelationsPodcast.com
2023-01-0412 min
The Public Relations PodcastSeries 3 - FinaleI'm taking a 4-week break. The Public Relations Podcast will return in late September for Series 4.
If you missed any of the last 32 episodes in series 3 then there is a tonne of content sitting in your podcast app feed right now waiting for you.
I'll be announcing the return in the newsletter so if you are not already signed up, head to www.ThePublicRelationsPodcast.com
Speak soon.
2022-08-2201 minThe Public Relations PodcastDoes your messaging need to change?Are you sure you are getting your PR and comms messaging right? Are you sure the target audience you identified last year is the same today?
There are plenty of examples of organizations that thought they knew their market and failed.
So what can you do? What are other firms doing to stay up to date with their audience?
In this episode, I share some stories, examples, and a little exercise to reflect on all this.
It's The Public Relations Podcast. More at www.ThePublicRelationsPodcast.com
2022-08-1311 min
The Public Relations PodcastHow to make photos that work for PRHow a grainy photo is helping a British Royal develop his brand.
How French politicians this week are using words to capture interest and why your mantra when you take photos for your organization should be "show don't tell".
Oh, and I need your help to help me get across what you need to the tech industry.
There is so much in this week's episode.
Get the newsletter at www.thepublicrelationspodcast.com
2022-06-1216 minThe Public Relations PodcastHow to use influencer techniques ourselvesWhat can we learn from the world's best influencers? We've got 3 diary dates to plan for, news about the future of the show and a light-hearted item on what we can learn from William Shakespeare and his PR efforts in 15th century England, that turned him into a global brand.
Sign up for the newsletter at www.thepublicrelationspodcast.com
2022-04-2516 minThe Public Relations PodcastWill Smith's slap and lots moreWhat we can learn from the Will Smith slap, how to generate a connection with someone this week, more on "experiential" marketing and it's "Hug a Plumber" day.
For more head to www.ThePublicRelationsPodcast.com
2022-04-1813 min
The Public Relations PodcastHow to be more environmental, video projects and moreIn this episode, how to make your organisation more environmental in time for Earth Day on April 22nd.
How to make a mini-documentary about your organisation.
and how to decide when to use PR or advertising.
Lots more in the newsletter which you can sign up to at www.ThePublicRelationsPodcast.com
2022-04-1112 minThe Public Relations PodcastImprove your "relationship" with customersThe Public Relations Podcast is back after 3 years!
In this episode, how to use April Fools day for PR. An idea from a car manufacturer that anyone could copy and what is all this fuss about "experiential" marketing and should you care?
The newsletter is at ThePublicRelationsPodcast.com
2022-03-2514 min