Pitch Live with Amy Summers

This episode of “Pitch Live with Amy Summers” podcast takes a look back at Kennedy Reed’s #internship #mentorship at Pitch Publicity® and the career-building experiences that helped shape her path from college student to communications professional. Kennedy joined Pitch Publicity in January 2022 and remained with the agency through her graduation from the University of Florida in spring 2023, earning both a bachelor's degree in public relations and a master's degree in mass communication with a concentration in digital strategy. During her time at Pitch Publicity, she completed the firm's intensive pre-professional training program, secured hands-on experience across multiple client campaigns and traveled to industry events and conferences that expanded her perspective on the profession. Today, Kennedy is a social media specialist at Proforma, a leader in print and promotional products, where she blends strategic thinking with creative storytelling to help brands build meaningful connections with their audiences. In this episode, Kennedy shares insights on the value of saying yes to new opportunities, how students and young professionals can position themselves for career success, and the lessons from mentorship, travel and real-world experience that continue to influence her work today. Key pitching/mentorship takeaways from Kennedy Reed on this episode of “Pitch Live”: When traveling for business, be dressed and ready to go—you never know what opportunity may come your way when you land. Networking becomes much easier when you focus on learning about other people instead of worrying about what to say next. Attend networking events with people you trust and have a plan for looking out for one another. If a conversation becomes awkward or unproductive, politely move on and always have an exit plan ready. Before starting a job search, make a list of your contacts and activate your network. Skip the mass applications. Research companies carefully and customize your resume and cover letter. To make in-office work more enjoyable, build relationships with your co-workers and take little breaks away from your desk throughout the day. Don't wait for teammates to ask for help—take the initiative and ask how you can support them. Join Amy Summers for #PitchLive with #PitchStar Kennedy Reed to be inspired by #mentorship and motivated to #pitch with success stories that prove the power of #ThePitch ☎️🤩 Connect: Follow and connect with Amy Summers: Instagram | Bluesky | TikTok | Facebook: @amysummersnyc X: @PitchAmy LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amysummersnyc Lift Your Leadership - Elevate Your Career: https://lifttolead.com Follow and connect with #PitchStar Kennedy Reed: Instagram: @kenn_reed and @kennedy.proforma X: @KennedyReedPR LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kennedyreedpublicrelations/ Follow and connect with Pitch Publicity #PitchStars Instagram and LinkedIn @pitchpublicity Follow and connect with #INICIVOX for #VirtualMentorship Instagram | Facebook | X | LinkedIn: @INICIVOX Website: www.INICIVOX.com Be sure to hit that subscribe button and give us a rating or review. Your feedback helps us plan future episodes. As a bonus, join us at www.INICIVOX.com where you can get motivated, hone your communication skills and binge as much mentorship as you want, whenever you need it.

This episode of “Pitch Live with Amy Summers” podcast takes a look back at Lisa Osborne’s #internship #mentorship at Pitch Publicity® and how it laid the foundation for her remarkable career in marketing and healthcare technology. While interning at Pitch Publicity®, Lisa earned dual degrees in Public Relations and International Studies from the University of Florida, later continuing her education with an Executive MBA from Emory University’s Goizueta Business School. Today, she serves as vice president of product marketing at Waystar (NASDAQ: WAY), where she leads go-to-market strategy and commercialization for the company’s AI-powered software. With more than a decade of leadership experience across both private equity-backed and public companies, Lisa previously served as vice president of marketing at Finvi, leading brand strategy, corporate communications, and demand generation. Lisa’s journey from intern to VP in under 10 years exemplifies how saying yes to new opportunities—and being prepared to rise to them—can accelerate career growth in extraordinary ways. Key pitching/mentorship takeaways from Lisa Osborne on this episode of “Pitch Live”: Show up with the confidence of who you want to become, not just who you are today. Don’t overlook what you may view as “boring” — they often offer the most unexpected opportunities. Always prepare before you pitch; research your audience and tailor your message. Be adaptable and adjust your pitch approach for different audiences and situations. Say “yes” to new challenges, even if you’re unsure how to do them — you’ll figure it out. Protect relationships; never burn bridges — they often lead to your next big step. Network before you need something — build genuine relationships first. When mentoring, be clear, kind, and honest — consistent truth helps others grow. Join Amy Summers for #PitchLive with #PitchStar Lisa Osborne to be inspired by #mentorship and motivated to #pitch with success stories that prove the power of #ThePitch ☎️🤩 Connect: Follow and connect with Amy Summers: Instagram | Bluesky | TikTok | Facebook: @amysummersnyc X: @PitchAmy LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amysummersnyc Follow and connect with #PitchStar Lisa Osborne: Instagram: @lisajardimosborne LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lisajardim Follow and connect with Pitch Publicity #PitchStars Instagram and LinkedIn @pitchpublicity Follow and connect with #INICIVOX for #VirtualMentorship Instagram | Facebook | X | LinkedIn: @INICIVOX Website: www.INICIVOX.com Be sure to hit that subscribe button and give us a rating or review. Your feedback helps us plan future episodes. As a bonus, join us at www.INICIVOX.com where you can get motivated, hone your communication skills and binge as much mentorship as you want, whenever you need it.

This episode of “Pitch Live with Amy Summers” podcast takes a look back at Daniela Restrepo’s #internship #mentorship at Pitch Publicity® and how it helped shape her path from student to standout marketing professional. While completing her degree in Public Relations at the University of Florida, Daniela was selected as a MAIP 2022 Fellow, collaborating with a team to research and develop a social media campaign for the prestigious Disney Dreamers Academy. Daniela then quickly made her mark in Chicago’s marketing scene—first at MSL, where she led influencer campaigns for Pampers, managing everything from vetting and negotiations to content performance, and later at FCB Chicago, where she oversaw gift and greeting card campaigns for USPS and supported large-scale creative initiatives. Today, Daniela is an account manager at Havas Chicago, a leading integrated marketing communications agency that blends an independent spirit with global scale to make a meaningful difference for brands, businesses, and people. With her courageous spirit and unwavering determination, Daniela shares how mentorship and hands-on experience can open doors to a purpose-driven career. Key pitching/mentorship takeaways from Daniela Restrepo on this episode of “Pitch Live”: Be consistent and persistent in pursuing opportunities. Strong writing skills will set you apart—sharpen them early. Don’t buy into the myth that agency life means no weekends—find balance. Company culture matters—always ask about it, including DEI efforts. Ask thoughtful questions at the end of every interview—it shows initiative. Mentorship isn’t about titles—lead and support others at every level. Build confidence through experience to silence imposter syndrome. Remember: rejection is just redirection. Join Amy Summers for #PitchLive with #PitchStar Daniela Restrepo to be inspired by #mentorship and motivated to #pitch with success stories that prove the power of #ThePitch ☎️🤩 Connect: Follow and connect with Amy Summers: Instagram | Bluesky | TikTok | Facebook: @amysummersnyc X: @PitchAmy LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amysummersnyc Follow and connect with #PitchStar Daniela Restrepo: Instagram: @danielaxrestrepo LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/danielarestrepo1/ Follow and connect with Pitch Publicity #PitchStars Instagram and LinkedIn @pitchpublicity Follow and connect with #INICIVOX for #VirtualMentorship Instagram | Facebook | X | LinkedIn: @INICIVOX Website: www.INICIVOX.com Be sure to hit that subscribe button and give us a rating or review. Your feedback helps us plan future episodes. As a bonus, join us at www.INICIVOX.com where you can get motivated, hone your communication skills and binge as much mentorship as you want, whenever you need it.

This episode of “Pitch Live with Amy Summers” podcast takes a look back at Lauren George’s time at Pitch Publicity® in the company’s very early years and how those experiences helped shape her impressive career trajectory. Now serving as vice president of communications at Hilton Grand Vacations in Orlando, Florida, Lauren is an accredited public relations professional with nearly two decades of experience leading corporate communication strategies, enhancing brand reputation, and managing high-profile media relations. Since joining Hilton Grand Vacations in 2017, she has advanced through multiple leadership roles to oversee media relations, awards, CSR national partnerships, issues and crisis management, and executive visibility, while also serving on the board of the company’s foundation. Her career journey includes pivotal roles at Linda Costa Communications Group and the Children’s Home Society of Florida, along with her foundational start in public relations at Pitch Publicity®, all supported by her journalism degree from the University of Central Oklahoma. Lauren’s early experiences and mentorship not only gave her the tools to grow her career, but also shaped the thoughtful, strategic, and people-focused leader she is today. Key pitching/mentorship takeaways from Lauren George on this episode of “Pitch Live”: Ask: What’s the worst that could happen? Then prepare multiple solutions. Build relationships early so you have the right contacts when problems arise. In a crisis be a problem solver, bridge builder, and always be available. Visibility matters: Don’t just put your head down, speak up about your work. As a manager, check in proactively to ensure your team’s needs and career goals are being met. When letting someone go, lead with compassion — relationships outlast roles, and people always come first. Join Amy Summers for #PitchLive with #PitchStar Lauren George to be inspired by #mentorship and motivated to #pitch with success stories that prove the power of #ThePitch ☎️🤩 Connect: Follow and connect with Amy Summers: Instagram | Bluesky | TikTok | Facebook: @amysummersnyc X: @PitchAmy LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amysummersnyc Follow and connect with #PitchStar Lauren George: Instagram: @lizhyer LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/laurenhyer Follow and connect with Pitch Publicity #PitchStars Instagram and LinkedIn @pitchpublicity Follow and connect with #INICIVOX for #VirtualMentorship Instagram | Facebook | X | LinkedIn: @INICIVOX Website: www.INICIVOX.com Be sure to hit that subscribe button and give us a rating or review. Your feedback helps us plan future episodes. As a bonus, join us at www.INICIVOX.com where you can get motivated, hone your communication skills and binge as much mentorship as you want, whenever you need it.

This episode of “Pitch Live with Amy Summers” podcast takes a look back at Maureen Mooney’s #internship #mentorship at Pitch Publicity®, her very first internship, which helped launch her career in public relations. Today, Maureen is an account coordinator at PRESS PR + Marketing in Tampa, Florida, where she excels at turning great stories into headlines, pitching with precision, building strong media relationships, and securing top-tier placements in outlets like CNBC, FOX News, People Magazine and the TODAY show. A graduate of the University of Florida with a degree in public relations and a concentration in business, she continues to make her mark in the industry while also channeling her creativity and attention to detail into her passion for event planning, creating memorable experiences that make an impact, one great story at a time. Key pitching/mentorship takeaways from Maureen Mooney on this episode of “Pitch Live”: Apply for opportunities even if they feel out of reach and be yourself. Pick up the phone: some connections respond best to a call. Lean into your fear: push through discomfort to grow. Use LinkedIn proactively to network and request short introductory phone calls. Prioritize in-person interaction to build stronger, more collaborative relationships. Guide versus do: Encourage mentees to create and present their own solutions. Join Amy Summers for #PitchLive with #PitchStar Maureen Mooney to be inspired by #mentorship and motivated to #pitch with success stories that prove the power of #ThePitch ☎️🤩 Connect: Follow and connect with Amy Summers: Instagram | Bluesky | TikTok | Facebook: @amysummersnyc X: @PitchAmy LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amysummersnyc Follow and connect with #PitchStar Maureen Mooney: Instagram: @mp.mooney LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/maureen-mooney Follow and connect with Pitch Publicity #PitchStars Instagram and LinkedIn @pitchpublicity Follow and connect with #INICIVOX for #VirtualMentorship Instagram | Facebook | X | LinkedIn: @INICIVOX Website: www.INICIVOX.com Be sure to hit that subscribe button and give us a rating or review. Your feedback helps us plan future episodes. As a bonus, join us at www.INICIVOX.com where you can get motivated, hone your communication skills and binge as much mentorship as you want, whenever you need it.

This episode of “Pitch Live with Amy Summers” podcast takes a look back at Havana Gazlay’s #internship #mentorship at Pitch Publicity® and how it helped set her up for a successful public relations career in real estate. With roots in Florida and a degree in Public Relations from the University of Florida, Havana has risen to Account Director at BerlinRosen, carving out a niche at the intersection of urbanism, media strategy, and high-stakes storytelling—leading campaigns that shape the skylines of New York and beyond. From navigating luxury condo launches in South Florida to national rollouts of multifamily properties, her career is proof that mastering the pitch early can open unexpected doors. Havana shares the behind-the-scenes moments that defined her journey and how a foundation built at Pitch Publicity® continues to influence her every move. Key pitching/mentorship takeaways from Havana Gazlay on this episode of “Pitch Live”: Mastering how to pitch is essential—every aspect of your career depends on it. Choose your workplace and leaders wisely; the right mentorship can shape your path. Clearly communicate your career goals with your manager at every stage of growth. Proactively ask for opportunities to lead—like running a meeting or taking on more responsibility. Learn how your team members best receive feedback, then tailor your support to help them succeed. Mentorship is a daily practice—how you show up sets the example for others. Join Amy Summers for #PitchLive with #PitchStar Havana Gazlay to be inspired by #mentorship and motivated to #pitch with success stories that prove the power of #ThePitch ☎️🤩 Connect: Follow and connect with Amy Summers: Instagram | Bluesky | TikTok | Facebook: @amysummersnyc X: @PitchAmy LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amysummersnyc Follow and connect with #PitchStar Havana Gazlay: Instagram: @havanagaz LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/havanagazlay Follow and connect with Pitch Publicity #PitchStars Instagram and LinkedIn @pitchpublicity Follow and connect with #INICIVOX for #VirtualMentorship Instagram | Facebook | X | LinkedIn: @INICIVOX Website: www.INICIVOX.com Be sure to hit that subscribe button and give us a rating or review. Your feedback helps us plan future episodes. As a bonus, join us at www.INICIVOX.com where you can get motivated, hone your communication skills and binge as much mentorship as you want, whenever you need it.

This episode of “Pitch Live with Amy Summers” podcast takes a look back at Melody Stampley’s #internship #mentorship at Pitch Publicity® and how it helped launch her multifaceted career rooted in purpose. Melody earned her bachelor’s in Public Relations from the University of Florida and completed her master’s in Communication from Florida International University. In 2020, Melody found her true calling when she paid off nearly $25,000 in debt and became a certified Ramsey Solutions Master Financial Coach and a certified Connect Financial Ministries Financial Coach. Now the founder of Centsible Finance, she’s on a mission to empower individuals and families—especially future generations—with smart, faith-based financial guidance. As a Certified Educator in Personal Finance®, Melody empowers others to take control of their money, invest in themselves, and build a debt-free life rooted in purpose. Key pitching/mentorship takeaways from Melody Stampley on this episode of “Pitch Live”: Set clear remote work boundaries so expectations are managed from the start. Speak truth and purpose into others—people often rise to meet the potential you reflect back to them. Avoid comparison—“keeping up with the Joneses” leads to unnecessary debt (spoiler alert: the Joneses are broke too). Your current situation isn’t permanent—change is always possible. Keep your day job while building your business to give yourself financial stability and flexibility. There’s no perfect moment to launch a business —start where you are and plan wisely. Mentors come in all forms—older, younger, peers. Let mentorship grow naturally. Don’t just save money—start investing early to build long-term wealth. Join Amy Summers for #PitchLive with #PitchStar Melody Stampley to be inspired by #mentorship and motivated to #pitch with success stories that prove the power of #ThePitch ☎️🤩 Connect: Follow and connect with Amy Summers: Instagram | Bluesky | TikTok | Facebook: @amysummersnyc X: @PitchAmy LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amysummersnyc Follow and connect with #PitchStar Melody Stampley: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/melckerr/ Website: https://youmakecents.com/ and http://www.4centsiblefinance.com Follow and connect with Pitch Publicity #PitchStars Instagram and LinkedIn @pitchpublicity Follow and connect with #INICIVOX for #VirtualMentorship Instagram | Facebook | X | LinkedIn: @INICIVOX Website: www.INICIVOX.com Be sure to hit that subscribe button and give us a rating or review. Your feedback helps us plan future episodes. As a bonus, join us at www.INICIVOX.com where you can get motivated, hone your communication skills and binge as much mentorship as you want, whenever you need it.