Real connection is still the secret to real visibility, especially in a more AI-obsessed world.

In this episode of The Real Connect Podcast, Tamika Carlton sits down with Brett Farmiloe, CEO of Help a Reporter Out (HARO) and Featured.com, to talk about relationships, PR, and the power of simple conversations. Brett shares how HARO works behind the scenes, why connection accelerates every startup, and how he balances being a founder, husband, and dad of three while leading a team.

They get into the realities of AI-generated pitches, what journalists actually want from sources, and how to use tools like HARO and Featured without losing your voice. Brett also talks about the RV road trip that shaped his whole philosophy on business, why he still believes in walking meetings, and how being the “dumbest person in the room” is his favorite advantage.

What You Will Hear About:

1. How Help a Reporter Out (HARO) really works for journalists and sources

2. The role of authentic connection in PR, thought leadership, and startup life

3. The percentage of AI pitches that are AI-generated and what that means for trust

4. What makes a great pitch

5. How Brett manages his stressors

🔗 Watch, subscribe, and share this episode if it reminded you that relationships still sit at the center of every opportunity.

Connect with Brett at Help a Reporter Out: https://www.helpareporter.com or at Featured: https://www.featured.com or on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brettfarmiloe/

Connect with Tamika on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tamika_carltonjbp

Join The Connect—a free weekly newsletter with real insights on everything relationships! https://www.tamikacarlton.com/newsletter

Visit Tamika's: https://www.tamikacarlton.com to stay connected.

00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome

00:36 Balancing Family and Career

01:44 Journey to Arizona and Family Life

02:22 Introduction to Help A Reporter Out (HARO)

04:11 Reviving HARO: Challenges and Successes

07:08 The Importance of Connections

11:09 AI in Journalism and HARO

16:56 Future of AI and Customer Insights

19:25 The Power of HARO: Connecting with Anyone

19:58 Behind the Scenes: Query Approval Process

21:15 Optimal Timing for Query Submission

23:40 Handling Stress as a Founder

26:15 Future Prospects for HARO

27:49 The Shift in Media and Thought Leadership

32:40 Rapid Fire Questions with Brett

35:21 Conclusion and Contact Information

#TheRealConnectPodcast #TamikaCarlton #HelpAReporterOut #HARO #PRTips #MediaPitching #Podcasting #ThoughtLeadership