That Solo Life: The Solo PR Pro Podcast

Professional pet peeves. We all have them. Listen to today’s episode to see if Karen and Michelle mention one of yours.

It’s the fourth quarter – time for pumpkins, making plans for 2023, and thinking about putting the year to bed. Join Karen and Michelle for a conversation about motivating ourselves to end the year strong.

From colleagues to vendors to client contacts, today’s work environment has representatives from nearly all generations. Boomers, Generation Jones, Generation X, Millennials, Gen Zs - we all bring our talents and different experiences, work styles, and expectations. In this episode we talk about honoring our differences, learning from each other, and working together toward success.

Quiet quitting. It’s the phrase of the moment. In today’s episode we talk about what it means for solos as business owners and what it means for our clients. Are you experiencing quiet quitting? Tell us about it at www.soloprpro.com .  

In today's episode, we discuss working with clients who are new to PR. Should you take them on? What are the red flags to be aware of?  What steps can you take to make sure it is successful? Share your experience with us at www.soloprpro.com . Also - check out the new release from Karen Swim: Your Journey to Entrepreneurship.    

A little clarity goes a long way. In today’s episode, Karen and Michelle talk about how taking the time to communicate proactively can help prevent issues or confusion in the future We always want to know what you think. Tell us at www.soloprpro.com .

If it feels like Google is always making changes, well, you’re right. That’s why we’ve asked Jordyn Slocum of BeMarketing to join us in today’s episode to talk about the latest updates. Keep up with Jordyn on social media: Instagram: jordypop_10 Facebook LinkedIn What’s your latest Google discovery? Tell us at www.soloprpro.com .

Today we are joined by Chauniqua Major-Louis, but everyone calls her Major. Major is the founder of Whatever's Good PR and Major’s Project Pop Popcorn . In this episode, we discuss her approach to her purpose and passion in her work and life. Keep up with Major via the links above or at MajorCreates.com . Find her on social media: Instagram: @majorcreates Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/majorc...

In today’s episode, we’re joined by Blake Hutchison, CEO of Flippa to discuss how Solo PR Pros can create assets that they can sell. As Blake shares with us, “running a business changes you...selling a business makes you.” Tune in to learn how you can sell, scale, or possibly retire! Keep up with Blake on Twitter @Flippa and on LinkedIn . After you’ve listened, share your business dream with us at...

How do we know what we see and hear are real? Mis-, mal- and disinformation are the biggest challenges communicators and society as a whole are facing today. On today's show, Axel Ebermann, a guest lecturer with a long career in visual storytelling, leads us through his research on Deep Fakes and Synthetic Media, a growing subcategory of misinformation. Listen to learn more about his research and...

With all of the current economic uncertainties, Solos have every right to be on edge. Today we check in with Andrew Shapowal on hot button financial topics such as retirement, kids going to college and how to keep your head above water when prices keep rising. Andrew Shapowal is a Senior Accountant and Digital Asset Specialist with Canon Capital Management Group. He is a Certified Public Accountan...

Today Karen and Michelle discuss a few of the changes in the wide, wacky world of social media. Changes in platforms, algorithms, what’s working, and what isn’t working right here right now as we manage social media for our clients and our own businesses. What’s new in social media that has you excited or exasperated? Tell us about it at www.soloprpro.com .

Karen and Michelle discuss what’s new in social media with Rebecca Goodman, Director of Communications with beMarketing . What social media tactics are currently most successful for your clients? Share with us at www.soloprpro.com .

This time of year in the US we celebrate the birth of American independence. However, those who are self-employed have reason to celebrate daily. In this episode, Karen and Michelle discuss the freedom of flying solo. Having trouble using this freedom to schedule some time off? Check out this blog post at SoloPRPro.com: How to Take Time Off When You Run Your Own Business . How do you enjoy the fre...

In today’s episode Karen and Michelle take a look at how PR pros are portrayed on TV and in the movies - the good, the cringeworthy, and the downright funny. What are your favorites? Tell us at www.soloprpro.com .  

Authenticity and transparency. These traits and practices are at the heart of effective communication and, well, just being a person of integrity. They are also qualities that lead to ethical decision-making. Today Karen and Michelle talk about recent events within the PR industry and beyond - where ethics, authenticity, and transparency were anywhere but top of mind.  We want to know what you thi...

On this episode, Connie Steele , author of "Building the Business of You" joins Karen and Michelle to discuss the groundbreaking ideas in her book. Connie will share a modern perspective on how we think about and manage our careers and how to align passion and growth with your own career mashup. We want to know what you think. Tell us at www.soloprpro.com .

It’s one thing to have a carefully crafted crisis communications plan. It’s another hurdle to get it right in the moment, especially when you factor in the immediacy of social media. In this episode, Karen and Michelle discuss creating a solid crisis communications plan and how to be as prepared as possible should you ever need to put it into practice. What tips do you have for communicating in a...

It's almost here! The hazy, un-lazy days of summer for PR Pros. While client work often slows the pace for many PR pros, we spend the time working on the business, preparing for the remainder of the year, learning new things, and squeezing in a little fun in the sun. How do you switch gears in your business over the summer? Share with us at www.soloprpro.com .  

Change is a constant but it feels like it’s happening faster than ever these days. In many cases it’s accompanied by emotion and intensity. What changes do our clients need to make in the way they communicate? In the stands they take? In today’s episode Karen and Michelle talk about how to help clients navigate thorny topics and times of rapid change. What has been your experience? Tell us at www....

While not as dramatic as the fictionalized TV show, Scandal, public relations pros know where the proverbial bodies are buried. We ask clients to tell all so that we can do our jobs but we protect our client's confidences long after engagements have ended. But, is there ever a time to tell it all? On today's episode we take a page out of reality and take a look at the secrets you keep and the ones...

Get your rulers and tape measures! In today's episode, we tackle why public relations pros need to get smarter about measurement along with practical tips and tricks to do just that. How do you measure your PR efforts? Share with us at www.soloprpro.com .  

The dreaded awkward conversation. We’re not talking about making small talk at a networking event. In this episode of That Solo Life, Karen and Michelle discuss how to handle difficult client conversations. Whether you’re dealing with a difficult personality, a delicate topic - or both - we have tips on how to handle these situations with ease. How do you handle challenging business conversations?...

Working as a Solo PR Pro gives freedom in so many ways. Not only does it allow us to choose how much we work and who we work with, but we can also choose where to work. For some of us, it’s the occasional co-working space or coffee shop to break things up. For others, like our friend and fellow Solo Jennifer Donovan of Nova Communications , it means becoming a legit digital nomad. Join us as Jenni...

We know that health is critical to business owners. Jessica D'Angelo, founder of Shine Yoga in Perkasie, PA provides simple tips to keep you healthy and calm.  Whether or not you are a yoga aficionado, Jessica encourages intentional movement, simple stretches, and hydration. In this episode, Jessica describes a few easy movements as well as a 4-step breath process that will have you relaxing in no...