That Solo Life: The Solo PR Pro Podcast

That Solo Life, Episode 327: That Solo Life Looks Back at 2025 Episode Summary As 2025 comes to a close, it's the perfect time to reflect on the trends, challenges, and bright spots that defined the year for communications professionals. In this special year-end episode, hosts Karen Swim and Michelle Kane look back at their favorite moments from the podcast and the industry. They discuss the rapid evolution of AI from a shiny new object to a practical tool, highlighting the returning emphasis on the human element in communications. The conversation also addresses the rise of new social platforms like Threads, the power of community in overcoming adversity, and the growing trend of PR pros sharing their knowledge and experience more openly. Join them for a thoughtful recap of the year's key lessons and a hopeful look forward to what 2026 may bring for solo practitioners. Episode Highlights [02:18] The Evolution of AI: How perceptions of AI have shifted from a job replacement threat to a valuable tool that requires human intelligence and creativity. [04:24] Favorite Guest Moments: Remembering standout conversations with guests like Melissa Vela-Williamson on branding and bravery, and Jess Sato on finding your "big idea." [06:47] The Rise of Threads: Why Threads became a refreshing and rebellious bright spot in the social media landscape for communicators this year. [09:31] The Power of Community: A discussion on how challenges in 2025 strengthened professional and personal communities, leading to more connection and mutual support. [12:10] A Shift Towards Analog?: Observing a growing desire for in-person connection and tangible experiences in a digital world. [13:17] PR Pros on LinkedIn: Celebrating the trend of practitioners opening up, sharing processes, failures, and wins to help the entire industry learn and grow. [15:20] A Look Ahead to 2026: Carrying the lessons of connection and transparency into the new year. Related Episodes & Additional Information In this episode, Karen and Michelle mention several past guests who provided valuable insights throughout the year: That Solo Life, Episode 308: Branding, Bravery and Breaking Through with Melissa Vela-Williamson That Solo Life, Episode 296: The Big Idea with Jess Sato That Solo Life, Episode 284: How PR Pros Can Use an Audit to Unlock Social Media Success with Nicole Lauren Host & Show Info That Solo Life is a podcast created for public relations, communication, and marketing professionals who work as independent and small practitioners. Hosted by Karen Swim, APR, founder of Words For Hire and President of Solo PR, and Michelle Kane, Principal of Voice Matters, the show delivers expert insights, encouragement, and advice for solo PR pros navigating today’s dynamic professional landscape. Thank you for listening to our final episode of 2025! If you found value in our conversations this year, please help us grow by sharing this episode with a colleague. Don't forget to subscribe and leave us a five-star review on your favorite podcast platform. We'll be back in 2026 with more great guests and insights to help you thrive. Happy New Year

That Solo Life, Ep. 325: Why PR Pros Need To Master Telling Their Own Story Episode Summary In this episode, hosts Karen Swim and Michelle Kane dive into how the rapid rise of AI is transforming the PR landscape. They discuss why it’s more vital than ever for solo PR pros to assert their unique value and own their professional narrative. The conversation covers the importance of personal branding, communicating your actual impact to clients, and leveraging your expertise in an era when technology is reshaping the industry. Listeners will gain actionable advice on standing out, building authority, and telling stories that reflect the real depth of public relations work. Episode Highlights [00:25] Warm welcomes and setting the stage: the hosts share how positive routines and community set the tone for solo work. [01:25] Spotlight on AI in PR: How artificial intelligence is changing the game, what it means for solo pros, and why human expertise still leads. [03:30] The Value Conversation: Why PR pros must own their value and show how their work creates true impact beyond media placements. [06:33] Personal Branding Matters: The art of telling your own story, building authority, and becoming visible in a tech-focused era. [09:13] Elevating the Profession: Taking control of the PR narrative in the age of AI and why ethics and expertise should come from within the industry. [11:44] Action Steps: Practical ways to amplify your voice, claim your expertise, and connect with the clients who truly value your work. Like this episode? Don’t miss these popular episodes from That Solo Life: Episode 319: Succeeding at Business Development in a Tough Year Episode 322: The Rise of Rage Farms and Coordinated Disinformation Episode 312: Going Big by Going Small: Hidden Gold for PR Pros Host & Show Info That Solo Life is a podcast created for public relations, communication, and marketing professionals who work as independent and small practitioners. Hosted by Karen Swim, APR, founder of Words For Hire and President of Solo PR, and Michelle Kane, Principal of Voice Matters, the show delivers expert insights, encouragement, and advice for solo PR pros navigating today’s dynamic professional landscape. If this episode inspired you or gave you new ideas, we’d love to hear from you! Share your thoughts, stories, or questions by reaching out at SoloPRPro.com or connecting with us on social media. Don’t forget to subscribe to "That Solo Life," leave a review, and tell a fellow solo pro about the show—your voice helps build and empower our community!

That Solo Life, Episode 323: How to Identify, Land, and Retain Sponsorship Deals Episode Summary In this episode, Karen Swim, APR, and Michelle Kane welcome back Anetra Henry, founder of Anetra Henry Consulting. Anetra brings her expertise in nonprofit sponsorships to the table, guiding solo PR pros and communicators through each step of the sponsorship journey. The conversation covers the essentials: identifying aligned sponsors, developing sustainable strategies, managing relationships, and understanding the real costs and rewards of sponsorship. Whether you're new to sponsorship deals or want to deepen your approach, this episode is packed with insights, practical advice, and wisdom from the frontlines of nonprofit development and communications. Episode Highlights [01:13] Anetra shares her career update and the relaunch of Anetra Henry Consulting, focusing on helping nonprofits secure sustainable revenue through corporate sponsorships. [03:32] Adjusting sponsorship strategies in the face of industry shifts and navigating workforce and philanthropy changes. [04:39] Why most nonprofits overlook ongoing sponsor relationships and the pitfalls of only thinking about annual galas. [05:08] Viewing corporate sponsorship as a reliable stream of income and integrating it into long-term planning. [06:05] The communicator’s role in sponsorship: leveraging storytelling and impact reports to retain and nurture sponsors. [09:10] Managing PR crises and evaluating potential sponsors: assessing reputational risk and the importance of thorough vetting. [14:30] The four most common sponsor “personality types” and how to work effectively with each: The Fisher, The Decisive, The Egocentric, and The Infiltrator. [19:39] Understanding the true cost of sponsorship management for nonprofits and associations—what every dollar really takes to earn. [22:57] Are nonprofits embracing AI? The current landscape and smart ways to use AI for prospecting and admin without losing a human touch. [26:09] Balancing the heart and business of nonprofit work: reminders for communicators and PR pros who serve mission-driven organizations. [28:47] Anetra's advice for listeners: take care of yourself, know your value, and support nonprofits while maintaining sustainable business practices. [28:48] How to connect with Anetra: her website, LinkedIn, and book for practical guidance on sponsorship success. About Anetra Henry Anetra Henry is the founder of Anetra Henry Consulting, where she helps nonprofits and associations secure strategic, sustainable corporate sponsorships. With over 20 years of experience in nonprofit growth, sponsorship strategy, and communication, Anetra partners with organizations to develop actionable plans that bolster revenue and impact. She is also the author of the “Sponsorship Success Guide,” designed for purpose-driven teams seeking reliable funding and practical tools. Please connect with Anetra on LinkedIn. Related Episodes & Additional Information Get your copy of Anetra’s book: Sponsorship Success Guide Episode 254: The Work of Diversity, A Conversation with Anetra Henry Host & Show Info That Solo Life is a podcast created for public relations, communication, and marketing professionals who work as independent and small practitioners. Hosted by Karen Swim, APR, founder of Words For Hire and President of Solo PR Pro, and Michelle Kane, Principal of Voice Matters, the show delivers expert insights, encouragement, and advice for solo PR pros navigating today’s dynamic professional landscape. Enjoyed this episode? Let us know! Subscribe and leave us a five-star review on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite platform. Share this episode with your colleagues, connect with Anetra for more support, and help us empower more Solo pros to thrive in their businesses and communities.

In this episode, hosts Karen Swim and Michelle Kane open up their own ”to-be-read” piles to share the books currently on their stacks. They discuss a fascinating mix of titles covering everything from the impact of AI on customer behavior and social media’s effect on our minds to the art of writing a funny speech and the power of mindset.

In a challenging economic climate, consistent business development is more crucial than ever for solo PR and marketing professionals. Hosts Karen Swim and Michelle Kane dive into practical strategies to refresh your approach and build a strong pipeline for the coming year.

Hosts Karen Swim and Michelle Kane tackle the critical issue of misinformation and disinformation head-on. Triggered by a report revealing that nearly 45% of social media posts about the Cracker Barrel logo controversy were from bots, this episode explores the modern PR pro’s responsibility in a world of digital deception.

This week, Karen and Michelle discuss the complex landscape of modern communication, where the call for brands to be transparent can sometimes lead to backlash.

That Solo Life Episode 313: Strategies for Securing New PR Business in 2025 Episode Summary Karen and Michelle dive into optimistic data about the global growth of the PR industry and share strategic insights for solo practitioners looking to finish 2025 strong. Drawing from recent industry research, they explore emerging trends, niche specialization opportunities, and practical business development tactics that can help independent PR pros break through current market challenges and position themselves for future success. Episode Highlights PR Industry Growth Statistics (02:10) - Discussion of global PR industry expansion and what it means for solo practitioners Content Creation as Core Offering (03:06) - 76% of PR agencies now emphasize content strategy and creation services The Rise of Niche Specialization (04:18) - 37% of agencies focus on specialized industries like fintech and health tech Strategic Industry Targeting (05:40) - Identifying high-growth sectors with future potential, including infrastructure and healthcare Pricing Psychology (09:25) - Why charging more can actually win you more business Networking Beyond PR Circles (10:28) - Breaking out of industry echo chambers to find new opportunities Local Government Connections (11:18) - Building relationships with municipal leaders and borough managers Overcoming Business Development Fatigue (12:47) - Managing exhaustion while staying proactive in challenging times Key Takeaways The PR industry is growing globally, even if it doesn't feel that way locally Specializing in niche industries offers competitive advantages Infrastructure projects present untapped opportunities for PR pros Higher pricing often signals higher value to potential clients Networking outside the PR industry can yield unexpected opportunities Your skills are transferable across industries - don't limit yourself Small, consistent changes to your business development approach can yield big results Related Episodes & Additional Information Resources Mentioned: PR Lab: 150+ PR Statistics You Need to Understand the Industry in 2025 That Solo Life, Episode 215: From Barriers to Bridges with Mary Ellen Miller Industries to Watch: Health technology and healthcare Financial technology (fintech) Infrastructure and public works Municipal and government communications Host & Show Info That Solo Life is a podcast created for public relations, communication, and marketing professionals who work as independent and small practitioners. Hosted by Karen Swim, APR, founder of Words For Hire and President of Solo PR, and Michelle Kane, Principal of Voice Matters, the show delivers expert insights, encouragement, and advice for solo PR pros navigating today's dynamic professional landscape. Ready to transform your solo practice? Don't let this episode's insights go to waste! Take action today by identifying one new industry or networking opportunity you can explore this month. Whether it's attending a targeted industry event or meetup, connecting with your local government officials, or raising your rates, small steps lead to significant breakthroughs. Subscribe to That Solo Life on your favorite podcast platform and never miss an episode packed with practical strategies for independent PR professionals. Have questions or success stories to share? Reach out to the hosts at soloprpro.com - they'd love to hear from you!