By thatsololife
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The podcast currently has 268 episodes available.
In episode 269 of “That Solo Life” podcast, Karen Swim, APR and Michelle Kane discuss the viral video of a customer receiving a mac and cheese order without the macaroni, and how the business handled the situation by responding with a humorous TikTok video. The hosts highlight the important lessons for PR and marketing professionals, including the value of social media monitoring and responding appropriately to negative sentiment. They also emphasize the importance of clear internal communication and ensuring employees understand the products and services they are representing.
The episode explores the importance of effective communication in the face of unexpected challenges. The hosts explore lessons from the brand’s quick response which was genuine and cheeky
Karen and Michelle talk about the significance of having a strong social media presence and the necessity of listening tools to monitor brand mentions and customer sentiment. They discuss how brands can miss opportunities to engage with their audience, especially when positive feedback is shared. By actively listening and responding, businesses can foster a sense of community and connection with their customers.
The hosts also touch on the internal communication lessons that can be learned from the incident, highlighting the importance of clarity in messaging. We share anecdotes about the need for employees to fully understand the products or services they represent, ensuring they can effectively communicate with customers.
Listeners are encouraged to reflect on the value of effective communication, both internally and externally, and to consider how they can apply these lessons in their own practices.
Episode Timeline:
00:00:00 - Welcome to That Solo Life
00:00:21 - Hello Fall!
00:00:47 - The Mac and Cheese Mishap
00:01:49 - Lessons in Crisis Communication
00:02:54 - Engaging on Social Media
00:04:16 - Investing in Listening Tools
The necessity of social media listening tools for brands to monitor sentiment.
00:05:52 - Understanding Client Needs
00:07:32 - Community Engagement
00:08:27 - Challenges for Smaller Brands
00:09:24 - The Importance of Clear Communication
00:10:10 - Responding with Humor
00:12:26 - Internal Communication Lessons
00:15:12 - Employee Training and Experience
00:17:08 - Closing Thoughts
Resources:
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In this episode of That Solo Life, co-hosts Karen Swim, APR and Michelle Kaen discuss the importance of media literacy and combating misinformation, particularly for public relations professionals. The hosts highlight how the rise of AI and deepfake technology has made it increasingly difficult to discern truth from fiction. They emphasize the responsibility of PR pros to educate their clients and the public on verifying information, monitoring for misuse of brand assets, and providing tools to fact-check claims. The discussion also touches on the role of social media platforms in addressing the spread of misinformation and the need for collective action by companies and organizations to curtail the problem.
The hosts reflect on the current media landscape, especially during an election year when the stakes are high, and the potential for misinformation is rampant. Today’s discussion highlights the responsibility we have as PR pros to not only stay informed ourselves but also to educate our clients and the public about the importance of media literacy. Misinformation can affect brands in both significant and subtle ways, and it is our duty to help our clients navigate this complex environment.
Throughout the episode, Karen and Michelle explore practical strategies for enhancing media literacy among clients and their audiences. This includes implementing robust monitoring systems to track brand mentions and ensuring that content produced is clearly marked to establish ownership and authenticity. The discussion includes the importance of equipping the public with tools to fact-check information, such as linking to credible sources and encouraging critical thinking.
As Michelle and Karen delve deeper, they address the psychological aspects of how people consume information, particularly how personal beliefs can cloud judgment regarding what is considered "true" or "fake." We share anecdotes about the impact of negative reviews and misinformation on local businesses, underscoring the real-world consequences of unchecked falsehoods.
The conversation takes a broader turn as they advocate for a collective effort within the PR industry to combat misinformation. Karen and Michelle envision a future where every brand provides resources to help the public discern fact from fiction, ultimately fostering a more informed society. They call on social media platforms to take a more proactive role in identifying and flagging misleading content, emphasizing that doing the right thing is essential for long-term success.
In closing, listeners are reminded that while the fight against misinformation can feel overwhelming, every small effort counts. PR professionals are encouraged to join this important mission, armed with their"teaspoons" and commitment to truth.
If you found value in our discussion, please share this episode and connect with us at soloprpro.com for more insights and past episodes. Thank you for tuning in to That Solo Life!
Episode Timeline:
00:00:00 - Introduction to Media Literacy Discussion on the importance of media literacy in PR and marketing, especially during an election year.
00:02:00 - The Role of AI in Media Literacy Exploration of how AI advancements impact the discernment of truth and accuracy in media.
00:04:00 - Equipping Clients and Publics Strategies for PR pros to help clients monitor their brand and educate the public on fact-checking.
00:06:00 - The Challenge of Misinformation Discussion on the prevalence of misinformation and the responsibility of brands to combat it.
00:08:00 - Belief Systems and Information Consumption Analysis of how personal beliefs affect the perception of information and the importance of critical thinking.
00:10:00 - The Impact of Fake Reviews Examination of how fake reviews can harm brands and the need for consumers to discern authenticity.
00:12:00 - Ethics in PR and Media The ethical implications of spreading misinformation and the responsibility of PR professionals to advocate for truth.
00:14:00 - The Role of Social Media Platforms Discussion on the responsibility of social media companies to combat misinformation and protect users.
00:15:00 - Conclusion and Call to Action Encouragement for PR pros to contribute to the fight against misinformation and promote media literacy.
Resources:
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Please leave a review here - even a sentence helps. Share and tag us (@SoloPR, @SoloPRPro) on social media so that we can thank you personally! Your support helps us keep bringing you insightful content every week. Thank you for tuning in!
In this episode of That Solo Life, co-hosts Karen Swim, APR and Michelle Kane dive into the evolving landscape of public relations and marketing, particularly focusing on the value of strategic thinking in our professions. We kick off the conversation by reflecting on how the perception of PR has shifted over the years—from being seen as mere party planners to now being equated with the creation of visually appealing content, such as social media reels.
Michelle highlights the importance of recognizing the intent and expertise that goes into crafting effective communication strategies, emphasizing that beautiful outputs are often the result of meticulous planning and seasoned thought. Karen adds to this by discussing the challenges faced by PR professionals and marketers in a world where the demand for our skills is being eroded by the rise of multi-hyphenates and the casual approach some take towards our professions.
We explore the implications of this shift, particularly how it affects our livelihoods and the perception of our expertise. Both hosts share personal experiences, noting that many in the field have taken non-traditional paths to their current roles, which adds to the complexity of how our work is valued.
The discussion also touches on the role of AI and the allure of quick fixes in marketing and PR, contrasting these with the deep, analytical work that truly drives outcomes. We acknowledge the frustrations of journalists, especially in the political realm, as they navigate a landscape where content creators are gaining prominence.
As we reflect on the importance of our roles, we emphasize the need for PR professionals and marketers to elevate their own standards and educate others about the true nature of our work. We advocate for a collaborative approach within the industry, aiming to uplift the entire profession rather than create divisions between independents and those in traditional roles.
Throughout the episode, we stress that clients will always need skilled professionals to tell their stories effectively. We highlight the intricate thought processes that go into our work, from crafting headlines to managing crises, and the necessity of being recognized for the value we bring.
In closing, we encourage our listeners to take pride in their profession and to share this episode with others who may benefit from understanding the depth and complexity of what we do. Join us as we continue to champion the importance of strategic thinking in PR and marketing, and strive to preserve the integrity of our professions for future generations.
Episode Timeline:
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In this episode of "That Solo Life," co-hosts Karen Swim, APR and Michelle Kane delve into the complex and evolving relationship between artificial intelligence (AI) and the world of public relations (PR). The episode kicks off with a discussion about the recent controversy surrounding the NaNoWriMo project and its use of AI, sparking a broader conversation about the role of AI as a tool in the PR profession.
Karen and Michelle emphasize the inevitability of AI's presence in the industry and stress the importance of embracing and shaping its use rather than resisting it. They highlight the need for PR professionals to lead the way in defining ethical practices and addressing issues such as inherent biases and copyright protection in the context of AI-generated content.
The hosts acknowledge the potential benefits of AI in streamlining certain tasks, such as research analysis and content generation, but also caution against relying solely on AI without human intelligence and guidance. They emphasize the importance of critical thinking, fact-checking, and maintaining ethical standards in the face of AI's increasing influence on the media landscape.
The conversation extends to the role of journalists and PR professionals in upholding integrity and accuracy in their work, amidst concerns about misinformation and unethical practices in the industry. Michelle and Karen underscore the vital role of media literacy and ethical decision-making in preserving the credibility and impact of journalism and PR.
As the episode concludes, the hosts encourage listeners to engage in civil discourse, share their insights, and consider joining the Solo PR Pro community for further professional development and networking opportunities. The episode serves as a call to action for PR professionals to navigate the evolving landscape of AI with integrity, critical thinking, and a commitment to ethical practices.
Episode Timeline:
AI Resources:
Enjoyed the episode?
Please leave a review here - even a sentence helps. Share and tag us (@SoloPR, @SoloPRPro) on social media so that we can thank you personally! Your support helps us keep bringing you insightful content every week. Thank you for tuning in!
It’s back to school season and for Solo PR Pros it’s a great time to refresh and reset. In today’s episode Karen Swim, APR and Michelle Kane dive into the topic of embracing a back-to-school mindset as solopreneurs. As the fall season approaches, they discuss the importance of self-care, professional development, and rejuvenation in order to stay sharp and serve clients effectively.
The hosts highlight the significance of taking time for personal growth, whether through workshops, online courses, or simply revisiting the basics of our profession. They emphasize the value of setting aside dedicated time for reflection and creative thinking, stressing the need for solopreneurs to prioritize mental well-being amidst the constant influx of information and responsibilities.
Karen and Michelle also touch on the idea of incorporating playtime and self-compliments into daily routines, drawing parallels between the joy of back-to-school shopping and the potential for a wardrobe refresh to boost energy and confidence. They encourage listeners to find small ways to infuse excitement and positivity into their work lives, even in the absence of traditional office interactions.
Throughout the episode, the hosts share personal anecdotes and insights, underscoring the challenges and rewards of working independently. They invite listeners to share their own back-to-school tips and experiences, fostering a sense of community and collaboration within the solopreneur space.
As the episode concludes, Michelle and Karen express their hopes for a successful end to the year, both professionally and personally. They encourage listeners to prioritize self-care and growth, reminding them that the freedom of solopreneurship allows for flexibility and choice in how they approach their work and well-being.
Listeners are invited to share their feedback and suggestions for future episodes, as the hosts look forward to continuing the conversation on navigating the solo professional journey. Tune in to "That Solo Life" for more insights, tips, and inspiration for thriving as a Solo PR Pro in today's dynamic landscape.
Episode Timeline
00:00:00 - Introduction and Back to School Theme
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Please leave a review here - even a sentence helps. Share and tag us (@SoloPR, @SoloPRPro) on social media so that we can thank you personally! Your support helps us keep bringing you insightful content every week. Thank you for tuning in!
In this episode of "That Solo Life," co-hosts Karen Swim, APR and Michelle Kane dive into the importance of year-end client conversations for PR professionals and marketers. As the final quarter of the year approaches, the hosts emphasize the significance of checking in with clients to ensure alignment, satisfaction, and strategic planning for the upcoming year.
The hosts discuss the necessity of conducting a health check with clients, focusing on both the health of the client's business and the effectiveness of the PR program. They stress the value of open and honest conversations, allowing for feedback and addressing any missed opportunities or areas for improvement.
Karen and Michelle highlight the importance of building strong relationships with clients beyond transactional interactions. They emphasize the role of PR professionals in supporting client growth, career development, and overall success.
As the conversation progresses, the hosts delve into the process of presenting year-end recaps and program recommendations to clients. They suggest incorporating a SWOT analysis to identify strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats, providing a comprehensive overview of the client's PR program.
Additionally, Michelle and Karen encourage PR professionals to confidently discuss budget increases with clients, emphasizing the need to align rates with the evolving costs of doing business. They stress the importance of demonstrating value, communicating achievements, and proactively addressing client needs to strengthen trust and foster long-term partnerships.
In conclusion, the hosts remind listeners to prioritize effective communication, strategic planning, and ongoing client engagement as they navigate year-end conversations and prepare for the new year ahead. They invite listeners to share feedback, engage with the Solo PR Pro community, and continue learning and growing in their solo PR and marketing endeavors.
Episode Timeline
00:00:00 - Introduction and Setting the Stage
00:05:30 - Importance of Health Check Conversations with Clients
00:17:48 - Conclusion and Call to Action
Enjoyed the episode?
Please leave a review here - even a sentence helps. Share and tag us (@SoloPR, @SoloPRPro) on social media so that we can thank you personally! Your support helps us keep bringing you insightful content every week. Thank you for tuning in!
In this episode of "That Solo Life," co-hosts Karen Swim and Michelle Kane are joined by the passionate and inspiring Kahshanna Evans, a senior strategist at Kissing Lions Public Relations. Kahshanna's expertise lies in community building through communication strategy, corporate social responsibility, and trauma-informed communications management.
Kahshanna shares her journey into the trauma management space, highlighting her background in fashion, film, and television before delving into transformational well-being studies. Her lightbulb moment came during a trauma-informed outreach program, leading her to focus on trauma-informed practices and awareness.
The conversation delves into the importance of trauma-informed communications in various sectors, including crisis communications, corporate social responsibility, and media literacy. Kahshanna emphasizes the need for a shift towards person-first language and humanizing narratives, especially in historically targeted communities.
The episode explores Kahshanna's community building communication strategy, which integrates trauma-informed practices, media literacy, and the empowerment of historically marginalized communities. The hosts discuss the role of solo PR professionals as activists and educators, advocating for change and inclusivity in the industry.
Listeners are encouraged to engage with Kahshanna through Kissing Lions' website or LinkedIn, and to join the solo PR community for further discussions and collaborations. The episode concludes with a call to action for professionals to embrace trauma-informed practices and work together towards transformative change in communications and beyond.
About Kahshanna Evans
Kahshanna Evans brings her passion for community building through communications strategy, corporate social responsibility (CSR), and uniting people through stories to her role of Senior Strategist at Kissing Lions Public Relations, Trauma Informed Resilient Communities Consultant—and as a New York State Trauma Informed Network and Resources Center (TINRC) Advisory Council Member. Kahshanna has been a leading strategic thinker in various industries, including wellness, communications, nonprofit, and professional services. During her tenure at a nonprofit that educates the public and private sector on PACEs science, Kahshanna served as a subject matter expert, organizational spokesperson, and facilitator of trauma-informed (TI) training for various communities. As a founding member of a Diversity, Equity, Belonging, Inclusion & Allyship (DEIB/A) committee at a wellbeing tech company, Kahshanna played a role in advocating for the creation of a culture of belonging.
Episode Timeline
00:00:00 - Introduction to Kahshanna Evans
Resources:
Enjoyed the episode?
Please leave a review here - even a sentence helps. Share and tag us (@SoloPR, @SoloPRPro) on social media so that we can thank you personally! Your support helps us keep bringing you insightful content every week. Thank you for tuning in!
Say Thanks to Kahshanna Evans!
If you liked this episode with Kahshanna, please say thanks on LinkedIn!
Listen to the episode on our website, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music, or on your favorite podcast platform. You can also watch the interview on YouTube here.
That Solo Life Episode 262: Establishing and Proving the Value of Public Relations
In this episode of "That Solo Life," co-hosts Karen Swim, APR and Michelle Kane discuss the ongoing challenge of establishing and proving the value of public relations work to clients. Independent PR professionals must navigate the complexities of demonstrating the impact of their efforts in a landscape where marketing, advertising, and PR often get lumped together.
The hosts discuss the importance of metrics and measuring the success of PR campaigns, especially in times of economic uncertainty where clients may be more focused on immediate revenue generation. They emphasize the distinction between PR and marketing, highlighting the nuanced ways in which PR professionals contribute to a company's bottom line.
Throughout the episode, Karen and Michelle share personal experiences and insights on how to effectively communicate the value of PR to clients. They stress the need for open and candid conversations about goals, success metrics, and the evolving needs of the client's business. The hosts acknowledge the challenges of navigating client expectations and the pressure to deliver tangible results in a competitive market.
As the conversation unfolds, the hosts encourage PR professionals to hone their measurement skills, delve into data analytics, and craft compelling narratives that showcase the impact of PR efforts on business outcomes. They underscore the importance of continuous learning, adaptation, and proactive communication to build trust and credibility with clients.
In conclusion, Karen and Michelle urge listeners to stay resilient, proactive, and focused on delivering value in a rapidly changing industry. They invite feedback and shared experiences from the audience, emphasizing the collective learning and growth within the PR community. The episode serves as a reminder of the ongoing journey to elevate the role of PR professionals and demonstrate their indispensable contribution to business success.
Episode Timeline
Enjoyed the episode?
Please leave a review here - even a sentence helps. Share and tag us (@SoloPR, @SoloPRPro) on social media so that we can thank you personally! Your support helps us keep bringing you insightful content every week. Thank you for tuning in!
That Solo Life Episode 261: On the Edge of Ethics
Has being edgy gone too far? In today’s episode of That Solo Life podcast, Karen Swim, APR and Michelle Kane discuss the controversial topic of sensationalized headlines and the impact they have on the dissemination of accurate information. The hosts discuss the fine line between grabbing attention and misleading the audience, especially in today's media landscape where clickbait headlines are prevalent.
Karen and Michelle discuss a recent example of the Olympics and the false narrative surrounding a boxer from Algeria to highlight how sensationalized headlines can lead to misinformation and even incite hatred towards individuals. They emphasized the ethical responsibility of PR professionals and journalists to present accurate and fair information to the public.
Public Relations professionals should all be concerned about the current trend of compromising truth for entertainment value in news reporting. The hosts reflected on the implications of this trend on future generations, particularly in an era where social media and instant information sharing can lead to the rapid spread of misinformation.
This episode also touched on the importance of self-reflection and avoiding biases in communication strategies, urging Solo PR Pros to stay honest and forthright in their work.
Overall, this episode served as a thought-provoking discussion on the evolving landscape of media, the importance of ethical journalism, and the role of PR professionals in upholding truth and accuracy in communication.
Episode Timeline
Please leave a review here - even a sentence helps. Share and tag us (@SoloPR, @SoloPRPro) on social media so that we can thank you personally! Your support helps us keep bringing you insightful content every week. Thank you for tuning in!
That Solo Life Episode 260: How To Break In or Out of Being a Solo PR Pro
Do you want to make the leap to being a Solo PR Pro? Or are you a Solo longing for the steady rhythm and challenge of an in-house job? In today’s episode of "That Solo Life," co-hosts Karen Swim, APR and Michelle Kane discuss diving in or out of being a Solo P Pro.
Life is not stagnant and that applies to your PR career. We all navigate different seasons of life and our career aspirations and capacity may evolve to fit that season. Decades ago, consulting or freelancing was seen as a temporary measure between jobs. Today, it is rightly recognized as a legitimate career path offering control and flexibility. This shift in the perception of solo work makes it easier to move in and out of working for yourself and working n-house.
In the episode, Karen and Michelle discuss the factors to consider when contemplating a shift between solo work and traditional employment. Michelle emphasizes the need for self-motivation, financial preparedness, and a clear understanding of market demand when venturing into solo work. Karen stresses the significance of intentional networking and skill development for those considering a return to in-house positions.
Throughout the episode, the hosts emphasize the importance of aligning work with personal fulfillment and the freedom to pursue different paths based on individual needs and desires. They encourage listeners to share their experiences and questions, inviting engagement and feedback for future episodes.
Listeners are encouraged to visit the soloprpro.com website to connect with the hosts and share their stories. The episode concludes with a call to action for sharing and reviewing the podcast to support its growth and reach.
The episode is a great reminder that public relations professionals can build a career customized to their needs and aspirations, adjusting it along the way to fit the fluidity of their lives.
Episode Timeline
Enjoyed the episode?
Please leave a review here - even a sentence helps. Share and tag us (@SoloPR, @SoloPRPro) on social media so that we can thank you personally! Your support helps us keep bringing you insightful content every week. Thank you for tuning in!
The podcast currently has 268 episodes available.
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