That Solo Life Episode 285: How to Find Joy and Make an Impact in PR
In This Episode
In this episode of "That Solo Life," co-hosts Karen Swim, APR and Michelle Kane dive into the chaotic start of the new year, reflecting on the challenges faced by solo and small agency PR professionals in 2025. The year has kicked off with an overwhelming amount of information and events happening both in the United States and global. As chaos reigns, it is important for public relations to stay grounded.
Michelle and Karen explore the necessity of maintaining engagement in our work while also prioritizing our well-being. They highlight the significance of focusing on quality over quantity in our communications, especially in light of the evolving media landscape. The conversation touches on the importance of authenticity and truth in storytelling, particularly as misinformation continues to be a pressing issue in the public relations industry.
The hosts encourage listeners to step back from the emotional turmoil that can arise from constant engagement with social media and the news cycle. They advocate for finding joy in our work and innovating our approaches to communication. By fostering genuine connections within our communities—both for our clients and among ourselves—we can create a supportive network that helps us navigate these turbulent times.
Karen and Michelle also discuss the pitfalls of relying too heavily on social media platforms, reminding listeners that these platforms are not owned by us and can change at any moment. They stress the importance of building our brands on land we own, such as through email marketing and direct engagement with our audiences, rather than getting lost in the noise of social media.
As the episode wraps up, the hosts express their solidarity with fellow PR professionals, acknowledging the emotional toll the industry can take. They invite listeners to share their experiences and connect with the community, reinforcing the idea that we are all in this together. This episode serves as a reminder to prioritize our mental health, focus on meaningful connections, and continue to adapt in the ever-changing landscape of public relations.
Episode Timeline00:00:00 - Introduction The hosts introduce themselves and discuss the cold weather.
00:01:00 - Navigating Chaos A reflection on the chaotic start to the year and the challenges faced by communications professionals.
00:02:30 - Staying True to Community The importance of remaining connected to one's community amidst the chaos and misinformation.
00:04:00 - Finding Joy in Work Advice on stepping back from emotional reactions and focusing on impactful work.
00:05:30 - The Reality of Misinformation Discussion on the prevalence of misinformation and the need for authenticity in storytelling.
00:07:00 - The Role of Social Media Exploring the dual nature of social media as both a tool for connection and a potential silo.
00:08:30 - Building True Community Encouraging clients to engage directly with their audiences rather than relying solely on social media.
00:10:00 - Understanding Audience Segments The importance of recognizing that not everyone will resonate with a brand or message.
00:11:30 - The Risks of Platform Dependency A reminder that social media platforms are not owned by users and the risks of building a brand on them.
00:13:00 - Exploring Alternative Platforms Highlighting the value of engaging on platforms like Reddit for genuine interactions.
00:14:00 - Staying Focused on Purpose The need for PR professionals to filter out noise and maintain focus on their mission.
00:15:00 - Conclusion and Community Support Wrapping up the discussion and encouraging listeners to connect and share their experiences.
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