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That Solo Life: The Solo PR Pro Podcast
thatsololife
100 episodes
4 days ago
That Solo Life: Co-hosted by Karen Swim, founder of Words for Hire, LLC and owner of Solo PR Pro and Michelle Kane, founder of VoiceMatters, LLC, we keep it real and talk about the topics that affect solo business owners.
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That Solo Life: Co-hosted by Karen Swim, founder of Words for Hire, LLC and owner of Solo PR Pro and Michelle Kane, founder of VoiceMatters, LLC, we keep it real and talk about the topics that affect solo business owners.
Show more...
Careers
Business,
Entrepreneurship
Episodes (20/100)
That Solo Life: The Solo PR Pro Podcast
The Power of Purpose-Driven Branding with Cat Holt
That Solo Life Episode 328: The Power of Purpose-Driven Branding with Cat Holt Episode Summary This week, Karen and Michelle are joined by Catherine "Cat" Holt, a seasoned marketing executive with over 25 years of experience building major US brands. Cat shares her journey from the corporate world to founding her own company, driven by a desire to help businesses create purpose-driven cultures. She offers a masterclass on aligning a company's internal values with its external brand message to build a strategic business asset. The conversation also explores how women in their 40s are reshaping their careers, the democratizing power of AI in communications, and the critical importance of women supporting each other to foster community and shared success. Episode HighlightsCa [01:12] From Corporate to Founder: Cat explains why she left a successful corporate marketing career in 2021 to start her own company. [03:51] The Great Reassessment: A look at the trend of women in their 40s reevaluating their priorities to seek more meaning and fulfillment in their professional lives. [08:06] Building a Purpose-Driven Culture: Cat breaks down the concept of purpose-driven branding and how to get started. [09:56] Aligning Inside and Out: Learn how to connect your company's internal culture and values with your external brand messaging for authentic impact. [10:24] Behind the Scenes of Dr. Rick: Cat gives an inside look at the creation of the famous "Dr. Rick" campaign, highlighting the power of honesty and relatability in advertising. [16:40] Brand as a Business Asset: Shifting the perspective from brand as a marketing function to a core strategic asset that drives growth. [27:37] AI as a Communication Equalizer: How artificial intelligence is democratizing brand management and communication, opening doors for solo practitioners. [30:31] Shaping the Future of AI: A call for more women to get involved in AI engineering to ensure the technology is inclusive and representative. [33:42] Finding Your "Female Posse": The undeniable value of women creating supportive communities and championing each other in the workplace. About Catherine Holt Cat Holt is the architect behind one of the most enduring and beloved campaigns in insurance history — Dr. Rick for Progressive Insurance. With a rare blend of strategic rigor and creative soul, Cat has helped legacy brands evolve, challenger brands emerge, and leadership teams navigate the unknown. Today, as President & CEO of Coologee, Inc., she brings that same clarity and courage to companies facing transformation, uncertainty, or opportunity. Connect with Cat on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/catkolodij/ Resources & Additional Information Cat Holt Website: Coologee, Inc. Cat Holt Newsletter: Brand is Business 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. Did this episode inspire you? If you found value in this conversation, please take a moment to leave us a review on your favorite podcast platform. Your feedback helps us reach more solo pros just like you! Don't forget to subscribe so you never miss an episode.
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4 days ago
37 minutes

That Solo Life: The Solo PR Pro Podcast
That Solo Life Looks Back at 2025
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
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1 week ago
15 minutes

That Solo Life: The Solo PR Pro Podcast
A Holiday Wish List for PR Pros
That Solo Life, Episode 326: A Holiday Wish List for PR Pros Episode 326 Summary As the year winds down, hosts Karen Swim, APR, and Michelle Kane take a moment for a lighthearted yet insightful discussion about what they’re wishing for all solo PR pros in the coming year. This isn't your typical list of gadgets and software; instead, it's a heartfelt collection of the intangible gifts that truly matter for independent practitioners. From the confidence to own your value and the assertiveness to stand your ground to a slate of clients who bring you joy, this episode is about setting the stage for a more fulfilling and successful year. Karen and Michelle also discuss the importance of rediscovering fun, embracing creativity without limits, and finding joy in your work. It's a dose of holiday cheer and professional encouragement wrapped into one, reminding every solo that they deserve to thrive. Episode Highlights [02:26] - Introducing the PR Pro's holiday wish list. [02:43] - Wish #1: Focusing on and communicating your value. [03:56] - Wish #2: Gaining the confidence to own your expertise and charge what you're worth. [04:47] - Wish #3: Cultivating assertiveness (not aggression) to stand up for your work. [06:09] - Wish #4: Attracting a slate of clients that brings you joy and fulfillment. [08:35] - Wish #5: Rediscovering the joy in your work after a challenging few years. [09:38] - Wish #6: Bringing more fun and wild creativity back into your professional life. [12:11] - Final thoughts on replenishing your creative energy and being good to yourself. Related Episodes & Additional Information As you reflect on these wishes, below are a few of our most popular episodes. We hope you find helpful hints to make your wishes a reality in the new year. Episode 307: Media Under the Influence Episode 323: Confidence, Capability and Why PR Needs More Collaboration Episode 300: How to Manage Sticky Situations in PR 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. What’s on your professional wish list for the upcoming year? Hit us up on social media and let us know. We’d love to hear from you!
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2 weeks ago
13 minutes

That Solo Life: The Solo PR Pro Podcast
Why PR Pros Need To Master Telling Their Own Story
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!
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3 weeks ago
13 minutes

That Solo Life: The Solo PR Pro Podcast
Celebrating and Leveraging Your Milestone Moments - Smart Talk Series Replay
That Solo Life, Episode 324: Celebrating and Leveraging Your Milestone Moments Episode Summary This special bonus episode of "That Solo Life" features a rebroadcast from the Smart Talk Series, where host Melissa Vela-Williamson interviews our very own Karen Swim. Dive into a powerful conversation about the importance of celebrating personal and professional milestones. Karen shares insights from her unique career journey, which started in healthcare and sales before she found her calling in public relations. The discussion explores how to reframe challenges, like the COVID-19 pandemic, as "Black Swan" events that can open doors to fresh starts and significant growth. Listeners will learn actionable strategies for building a solution-oriented mindset, the importance of self-promotion, and why every solo practitioner needs to recognize their own value. This episode is packed with real talk and practical advice for navigating your career with confidence and optimism. Episode Highlights (02:35) A Winding Path: Karen discusses her unconventional journey into the world of public relations. (07:43) The Power of Positivity: Learn why being solution-oriented and optimistic is crucial for business success. (08:29) Tuning Out Toxicity: Actionable tips for consciously curating the content you consume and protecting your mindset. (13:34) A Milestone Moment: How the COVID-19 pandemic became a catalyst for career transformation and new perspectives. (16:30) Embracing Black Swan Events: Turning unexpected challenges into opportunities for growth and reinvention. (21:46) Community for Indies: A look inside Solo PR Pro, the professional membership community for independent PR professionals. (37:47) Know Your Worth: The common tendency to underestimate abilities and the critical need for self-promotion. (39:05) Raise Your Rates: A direct encouragement for solo pros to charge what they are worth. (42:11) A Healthy Mindset: The importance of maintaining your mental, physical, and spiritual well-being to thrive as a professional. Related Episodes & Additional Information In this episode, Karen Swim was a guest on the Smart Talk series podcast, hosted by Melissa Vela-Williamson, M.A., APR, Fellow PRSA, CDP. To learn more about Melissa's work and discover other communication topics, visit mvw360.com. Check out the resources and community for independent PR professionals at soloprpro.com. Find Melissa Vela-Williamson's books on Amazon. 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. Did this episode resonate with you? Don't keep it to yourself! Share it with a fellow PR pro who needs to hear it. Subscribe to "That Solo Life" on your favorite podcast platform and leave us a review—it helps other professionals discover the show.
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1 month ago
46 minutes

That Solo Life: The Solo PR Pro Podcast
How to Identify, Land and Retain Sponsorship Deals
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.
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1 month ago
33 minutes

That Solo Life: The Solo PR Pro Podcast
The Rise of Rage Farms and Coordinated Disinformation
In this episode we explore how coordinated, anonymous online attacks are manufactured to create controversy, manipulate public opinion, and inflict real-world financial and reputational damage on brands.
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1 month ago
15 minutes

That Solo Life: The Solo PR Pro Podcast
What We're Reading for Focus, Laughs and Professional Development
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.
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2 months ago
14 minutes

That Solo Life: The Solo PR Pro Podcast
When You Feel Out of Sync with Your PR Career - Episode 320
In this episode, hosts Karen Swim, APR of Solo PR Pro, and Michelle Kane of Voice Matters discuss self-reflection. They explore the growing feeling among communications professionals that something is missing, even if they love their work.
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2 months ago
16 minutes

That Solo Life: The Solo PR Pro Podcast
Succeeding at Business Development in a Tough Year
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.
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2 months ago
15 minutes

That Solo Life: The Solo PR Pro Podcast
How the New Era of AI Search Impacts PR Pros - Episode 318
In this episode, hosts Karen Swim, APR, and Michelle Kane explore the latest shifts in search, focusing on how AI is creating a more personalized—and potentially limited—search experience.
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2 months ago
10 minutes

That Solo Life: The Solo PR Pro Podcast
Navigating the Noise: A PR Pro's Guide to Combating Misinformation
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.
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2 months ago
12 minutes

That Solo Life: The Solo PR Pro Podcast
Gen Alpha's Surprising Influence on Your PR Strategy
n this episode, hosts Karen Swim and Michelle Kane dive into a fascinating study about Generation Alpha—today’s kids and teens aged 0-15.
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3 months ago
13 minutes

That Solo Life: The Solo PR Pro Podcast
Counting the Cost of Transparency in a Rage-Filled World
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.
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3 months ago
17 minutes

That Solo Life: The Solo PR Pro Podcast
Communicating in the Era of Everyday is a Crisis
In this episode, hosts Karen Swim and Michelle Kane discuss practical strategies for helping clients navigate the minefields of public perception. They explore why it’s essential to be the ”little black cloud” that keeps clients aware of current events and public sentiment, even when clients are siloed in their own industries.
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3 months ago
13 minutes

That Solo Life: The Solo PR Pro Podcast
Strategies for Securing New PR Business in 2025
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!
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3 months ago
14 minutes

That Solo Life: The Solo PR Pro Podcast
Going Big by Going Small: Hidden Gold for PR Pros
In this episode of That Solo Life, hosts Karen Swim, APR, and Michelle Kane delve into the untapped potential of three underutilized and niche social media platforms that PR professionals may be overlooking.
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4 months ago
14 minutes

That Solo Life: The Solo PR Pro Podcast
Barcelona Principles 2025: What PR Pros Need to Measure Now (Episode 310)
Barcelona Principles 2025: What PR Pros Need to Measure Now (Episode 310) Episode Summary In episode 310 of That Solo Life, hosts Karen Swim, APR, and Michelle Kane break down the latest update to the Barcelona Principles and what it means for independent PR and communications pros. They cover the shift toward outcomes that matter to the C-suite, the stronger alignment with AMEC’s Integrated Evaluation Framework, the role of qualitative and quantitative data, and why leveling up in measurement and AI will separate thriving practitioners from the rest. You’ll walk away with practical next steps, resources, and a nudge to price your expertise for the true value you deliver. Keywords: Barcelona Principles 2025, AMEC framework, PR measurement, qualitative and quantitative metrics, AI in PR, PR outcomes, stakeholder sentiment, media relations, solo PR pricing, communications strategy. Episode Highlights 00:00 – 00:24 | Welcome back to That Solo Life 01:39 – 02:41 | What’s new in the Barcelona Principles (2025 update + AMEC alignment) 02:49 – 03:05 | AVEs aren’t it: Why outcomes beat output every time 03:28 – 04:24 | The business case: Tie PR to revenue, cost reduction, and executive priorities 05:01 – 05:23 | Quant + qual: Why both matter for effective evaluation 05:36 – 06:11 | From “audience” to “stakeholders”: Measuring sentiment and behavior change 06:12 – 07:11 | Stop fearing data: You already synthesize information—now measure it 07:01 – 07:11 | Two skills that will set pros apart: Measurement and AI 08:01 – 09:24 | Using AMEC’s resources to build a measurement-first practice 11:02 – 12:26 | Measure your time and value: Why low-fee retainers undermine real PR work 12:37 – 13:01 | Plan → act → measure: Strategy comes first 13:16 – 14:07 | Career fuel: Leveling up skills can reignite your passion for the work 14:09 – 14:30 | Parting encouragement and next steps Highlights and takeaways: The Barcelona Principles update emphasizes business outcomes, not vanity metrics. Tie PR to revenue, cost of sales, risk mitigation, and reputation impact. Blend quantitative data (traffic, conversions, assisted revenue) with qualitative insights (sentiment, message pull-through). Use AMEC’s Integrated Evaluation Framework to plan from objectives to outcomes. Price for the strategic and labor-intensive nature of PR—measurement begins at planning. Invest in AI and analytics skills to future-proof your practice. Related Episodes & Additional Information Resources mentioned: PR News: Barcelona Principles 4.0: Reinventing PR Measurement for a New Era AMEC: Barcelona Principles AMEC: AMEC Integrated Evaluation Framework (plan, measure, and evaluate end-to-end) Solo PR Pro (training, community, and tools for independent practitioners) Related episodes to queue next: The Measurement Strategy You Need to Grow Note: Links are provided for educational purposes. Always adapt frameworks to your client’s specific goals, audiences, and market conditions. 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. Join us again! If this episode helped you, subscribe, rate, and leave a review—it helps more solo pros find the show. Share this episode with a colleague who’s rethinking their measurement approach. Visit Solo PR Pro to keep leveling up your practice.
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4 months ago
14 minutes

That Solo Life: The Solo PR Pro Podcast
Hits And Misses Of The Hot Mess Summer Of 2025 (Ep. 311)
This week on That Solo Life, hosts Karen Swim, APR, and Michelle Kane unpack this“Hot Mess Summer”—the surprising, cringey, and cautionary moments that shaped the season for PR and communications pros.
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4 months ago
16 minutes 33 seconds

That Solo Life: The Solo PR Pro Podcast
When Being Great at PR Gets in the Way of Life
Episode Summary In this episode of That Solo Life, hosts Karen Swim, APR, and Michelle Kane dive into the unique challenges PR professionals face when their exceptional skills at work start to interfere with their personal lives. From overthinking to overworking, they explore how these traits, while beneficial in the professional realm, can hinder personal growth and enjoyment. Karen and Michelle share personal stories, practical advice, and encouragement to help solo PR pros find balance and live a more fulfilling life. Episode Highlights [00:18] Introduction: Karen and Michelle set the stage for today’s topic. [01:00] The double-edged sword of overthinking: How it makes PR pros great at their jobs but can complicate personal life. [03:16] Acknowledging the problem: The first step to overcoming overthinking and overworking. [04:41] Personal stories: Karen and Michelle share how they’ve learned to step back and prioritize fun. [08:10] The importance of taking breaks: Why PR pros need to take their foot off the gas routinely. [10:07] Finding intentionality: How being deliberate about work and personal time can lead to a healthier balance. [16:07] Learning to say no: Why “no” is a complete sentence and how it can protect your mental health. [17:22] The power of fun: How rediscovering joy can make you better at work and in life. [18:12] Final thoughts: Encouragement to put your PR tools away at the end of the day and live a full, rich life. Related Episodes & Additional Information Related Episodes: That Solo Life, Episode 299: The Can Do Spirit of PR Practitioners Crosses Generations That Solo Life, Episode 205:The Land of the Wounded: Mental Health and PR    Additional Resources: Dr. Tracey Marks: How to Stop Overthinking  Healthline: 14 Ways to Stop Overthinking 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. Join us next week! If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe to That Solo Life on your favorite podcast platform and share it with your network. 
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5 months ago
19 minutes 8 seconds

That Solo Life: The Solo PR Pro Podcast
That Solo Life: Co-hosted by Karen Swim, founder of Words for Hire, LLC and owner of Solo PR Pro and Michelle Kane, founder of VoiceMatters, LLC, we keep it real and talk about the topics that affect solo business owners.