True Story: The Public Relations Podcast

Ever feel guilty for stepping away from work — even when you really need it? You're not alone.In this episode, Whitney sits down with Louise Oliver, founder of Peritus PR, to talk about what it really looks like to take a break as a business owner and why it's so dang hard. From the awkward re-entry after time off to the mind games we play with ourselves about worth and productivity, this conversation gets real about the emotional rollercoaster behind the scenes.Louise shares what she's learned since launching her own agency, how her leadership style has evolved, and the major mindset shifts that come with learning to actually delegate. Whitney and Louise also dig into what it means to build a sustainable culture, trust your team, and find your identity beyond your job title.If you've ever wrestled with burnout, boundaries, or the constant pressure to “do more,” this one's for you.--------Louise on Instagram Peritus PR on Instagram Peritus PR on LinkedinPeritus PR WebsiteWhitney on Instagram Whitney on LinkedinTrue Story PR Website

You've refreshed the website. You've posted to Instagram. You've sent the press release. And still… crickets.

Ever feel like you're throwing content into the void and hoping something sticks? Same. In this episode, Whitney Lee sits down with Jonathan Halley—owner, executive producer, and all-around badass at Big Slate Media—to talk about what actually moves the needle in the wild world of content and social.From mixing video production with social media strategy (hello, powerhouse combo) to managing sky-high client expectations, Jonathan pulls back the curtain on what it's really like to run a creative agency that gets it. He breaks down Big Slate's approach to building trust, the art of saying "no," and why “SNARF content” might be your new favorite marketing term.They also dive into:How to niche down without having a full-blown identity crisisWhy having a “wow factor” isn't optional anymoreThe truth about momentum on social (hint: it's not a one-and-done game)Educating clients without sounding like a condescending jerkIf you're in the agency world, leading a marketing team, or just trying to get your brand noticed without selling your soul, this one's a must-listen.

Thinking of buying a franchise? Listen to this first.In this episode, Whitney is breaking down everything you need to know before buying a franchise—because there's way more to it than picking a cool brand and cashing checks. From understanding hidden costs to figuring out what kind of support you'll actually get (spoiler alert: it varies), she's sharing the real talk no one else is giving you.We're diving into:How much owning a franchise really costsWhy your grand opening can make or break your successWhat kind of marketing help you can expect—and what you'll need to do yourselfRed flags and common mistakes people make when jumping into the franchise worldWhether you're just curious or already deep in the research rabbit hole, this episode is your go-to guide for making smarter moves in the franchise game.----------Connect with Whitney on LinkedInConnect with Whitney on InstagramTrue Story Public Relations Website

This one's for anyone who's ever had to manage a message—or rethink one. In this episode, Whitney Lee sits down with Ryan McCormick, co-founder of Goldman McCormick PR, for a conversation that challenges the typical PR playbook.From navigating high-stakes situations to balancing authenticity with strategy, Ryan shares hard-earned insights from his journey through the ever-evolving world of public relations. They touch on the ethical tightrope of mixing business with beliefs, the real meaning of “trusted advisor,” and why some moments in PR can truly change lives.Tune in to hear:• A behind-the-scenes look at crisis PR• Why authenticity matters more than ever• How to lead clients through chaos without losing your coolYou'll walk away thinking a little deeper about what PR really means and what it can do when done right.-------Connect with Ryan on LinkedInGoldman McCormick PR Website Connect with Whitney on LinkedInConnect with Whitney on Instagram True Story PR Website

Is your brand franchise-ready? Or maybe you're a franchisee wondering what it really takes to thrive. In this episode, Whitney Lee pulls back the curtain on the world of franchising—what works, what doesn't, and what most people overlook.From setting expectations to building marketing systems that actually scale, Whitney dives into the mindset shifts and operational must-haves for franchise success. Whether you're dreaming of expanding your concept or you're managing multiple locations already, this conversation is packed with real talk and actionable insights.-------------⁠Connect with Whitney on LinkedIn⁠⁠Connect with Whitney on Instagram⁠⁠True Story PR Website ⁠⁠TheWhitneyLee.com

Is AI the key to getting your time—and your life—back?In this episode, Michael Sacca, CEO of Leadpages joins Whitney and breaks down the evolution of Leadpages from a simple landing page builder to a comprehensive marketing tool fueled by automation and AI. He and Whitney dive into the shifting landscape of agency life, the need for productization, and how AI is transforming the way we work—from task execution to high-level problem-solving.They also explore the changing nature of client relationships, the debate between niche vs. generalist approaches, and why staying adaptable is the key to thriving in a rapidly evolving industry.You won't want to miss this episode! ---------Connect with Michael on LinkedInLeadPages WebsiteConnect with Whitney on LinkedInConnect with Whitney on Instagram True Story PR Website TheWhitneyLee.com

You've probably heard the term “fractional CMO” floating around—but what does it actually mean? In this episode, Whitney breaks down the growing trend of fractional roles in business, with a deep dive into the role of a fractional Chief Marketing Officer (CMO).She's covering it all: what a fractional CMO does, how they can level up your marketing, and why more businesses are ditching the traditional full-time hire for a more flexible, high-impact approach. Whitney also busts some common myths, shares when it's the right time to bring one on board, and gives pro tips on finding the right fit.What You'll Learn:⚡ What a fractional CMO actually does (and why it's a game-changer)

What does it take to go from jobless to running your own thriving PR agency? In this episode, Whitney Lee sits down with Amore Philip, CEO and founder of Apples & Oranges Public Relations, to talk about her incredible journey from unemployment to building a powerhouse agency.Amore gets real about the evolution of her business, how she navigated the shift to remote work during the pandemic, and the lessons she's learned about managing client expectations. She also dives into the future of PR, from the impact of AI to why building a strong, connected team is more important than ever.PR isn't a quick win—it's a long game. Hit play and soak up Amor's wisdom on strategic planning, client management, and making PR work for the long haul.-----------Amore on InstagramApples and Oranges Public Relations WebsiteApples & Oranges Public Relations on Instagram Whitney on LinkedInWhitney on InstagramTrue Story PR on Instagram True Story PR Website

Ever feel like you're throwing money at marketing and getting nothing in return? You're not alone. In this episode, Whitney breaks down why so many businesses struggle to see results—and what to do about it.With over a decade in marketing and PR, Whitney has seen it all. She's spilling the biggest mistakes business owners make, why “more ads” isn't always the answer, and how to actually measure if your marketing is working. Plus, she's sharing her secret sauce.What You'll Learn:

What's the secret to a thriving business? It's not just great products or top-notch service—it's something way more powerful.In this episode, Whitney Lee sits down with Michelle Villatoro to talk about the one thing that can make or break your company: leadership. But we're not just talking about fancy titles or managing tasks—we're diving into what real leadership looks like and how it shapes everything from team culture to customer experience.Whitney and Michelle break down why emotional intelligence, human connection, and authenticity matter more than ever. They also get real about leadership mistakes, handling employee turnover, and why different generations expect different things from their workplaces.If you're leading a team (or want to), this episode is packed with the insights you need to create a culture where people want to stick around, grow, and give their best.

Is your business truly ready for PR? In this episode, Whitney Lee breaks down the key factors that determine whether your PR efforts will thrive—or fall flat. She explores the importance of defining your brand identity, setting realistic expectations, and ensuring your business is prepared to make the most of media opportunities.Whitney also uncovers common reasons companies waste money on PR, from lacking newsworthy content to overlooking the customer journey. Plus, she shares why PR is a long-term game and why success requires openness to new ideas and strategic shifts.What You'll Learn in This Episode:✅ The biggest mistakes businesses make when investing in PR✅ Why a strong brand identity is crucial before launching PR efforts✅ How to tell if your company has newsworthy content✅ The role of operational readiness in PR success✅ Why PR isn't just about media hits—it's about long-term impactResources & Links:Connect with Whitney on Instagram Connect with Whitney on LinkedInTrue Story Website TheWhitneyLee.com

Ever thought about writing a book but don't know where to start? Whether you're an expert looking to establish authority or have a story to tell, the path to publishing can feel overwhelming. In this episode, Whitney Lee sits down with Dan Gerstein, CEO of Gotham Ghostwriters, to demystify the world of ghostwriting and book publishing.Dan shares insights from his extensive career in writing and communications, explaining how Gotham Ghostwriters helps authors bring their ideas to life. He breaks down the differences between self-publishing and traditional publishing, the importance of understanding the ROI of writing a book, and how the publishing industry is evolving. If you're considering writing a book, this episode is packed with expert advice to set you up for success.What You'll Learn in This Episode:✅ How Gotham Ghostwriters helps authors turn ideas into books✅ The pros and cons of self-publishing vs. traditional publishing✅ Why writing a book is an investment—and how to measure its ROI✅ The evolving landscape of the publishing industry✅ Key steps to strategically plan your book for maximum impactResources & Links:

In this episode, Whitney Lee breaks down the real meaning of pitching and why it's more than just sending out press releases. Whether you're pitching a story, a campaign, or a brand partnership, Whitney shares how to communicate your ideas effectively, avoid common mistakes, and build genuine relationships that lead to real opportunities.Key takeaways:What pitching really means in PR and beyondHow to craft a pitch that gets attention (without being spammy)Why emails aren't enough—how direct conversations make a differenceCommon pitching mistakes and how to fix themIf you want to sharpen your pitching skills and turn conversations into opportunities, this episode is for you!----Whitney on LinkedInWhitney on InstagramTrue Story PR WebsiteTheWhitneyLee.com

Should you get a master's degree? In today's episode, Whitney shares her personal experience, diving into the motivations behind pursuing further education, the importance of internships, and the true value of the connections made in school. Whitney breaks down why a master's degree can be a great tool for some—but not always necessary for career growth. If you've been debating whether grad school is the right move for you, this episode will give you the clarity you need. ------------- Connect with Whitney on Instagram Connect with Whitney on LinkedIn True Story PR Website TheWhitneyLee.com

In an industry where it's common to keep your cards close to your chest, Jen Berson took the values of community over competition seriously in her PR agency. Instead of keeping her tips and tricks a secret, she created Jeneration Academy, an online educational platform for entrepreneurs that includes courses, resources, and an online community.  Join us today as Whitney and Jen dive into several hot topics including the top PR trends and predictions for 2024, how AI is impacting the PR industry, the NECESSITY for affiliate programs, and more!  ——— Connect with Jen on Instagram  Jeneration PR  Jeneration Academy  Join Powerhouse Pros Free Online Community ——— Connect with Whitney on Instagram Connect with Whitney on LinkedIn True Story PR Website TheWhitneyLee.com

In this episode, Whitney Lee discusses the significant shifts in marketing and PR strategies in 2025 emphasizing the move towards fractional CMOs, shorter planning cycles, and a more authentic approach to branding. She reflects on how the pandemic has changed the way businesses operate, particularly in terms of team structures and the increasing acceptance of remote work. The conversation highlights the importance of adapting to new trends in marketing, including the effectiveness of organic content over traditional polished imagery. ----------- Connect with Whitney on Instagram Connect with Whitney on LinkedIn True Story Public Relations Website TheWhitneyLee.com

Are you leveraging the full power of SEO in your PR strategy, or are you leaving potential untapped? In this episode, Whitney sits down with Jade Pruett to uncover the vital connection between SEO and PR—a must-know for any modern marketer. Together, they break down the challenges PR professionals face in navigating SEO and share actionable strategies to bridge the gap.

In this episode, Whitney shares a curated list of books that have profoundly influenced her personal and professional life. From productivity hacks to the power of love languages, Whitney highlights key insights from these impactful reads and explains how they've shaped her mindset and approach to life. Whether you're looking for your next great read or seeking inspiration for personal growth, this episode offers a roadmap to elevate your life and business through the wisdom of books. ------------ Connect with Whitney: LinkedIn Instagram True Story Website TheWhitneyLee.com

What does it take to thrive as a journalist in today's fast-paced, digital-first world? In this episode, Whitney Lee uncovers the secrets with freelance journalist and PR consultant Joni Sweet. From navigating the rise of AI to mastering the art of storytelling, this conversation is a must-listen for anyone curious about the future of media. Key topics include: The rise of Substack and its role in personal branding for journalists. How media monetization has changed over the years. The growing importance of SEO in modern storytelling. Best practices for pitching stories to journalists and crafting compelling narratives. The role of social media in amplifying media coverage. How AI is shaping the future of journalism and storytelling. Building community among journalists and overcoming the hurdles of remote networking. Joni also opens up about the differences between pitching stories and accepting assignments, offering listeners a candid look at the complexities of freelance writing in today's digital age. ---------- Connect with Joni on LinkedIn Connect with Joni on Instagram Joni's Website Joni's Substack Connect with Whitney on LinkedIn Connect with Whitney on Instagram True Story PR Website TheWhitneyLee.com

Ready to transform your business for the new year? In this episode, Whitney Lee reveals the marketing and PR strategies every business owner needs to navigate a rapidly evolving landscape. Whether you're struggling to stand out in a crowded market or looking to optimize your budget, these insights are your roadmap to success. Whitney Lee reflects on the transformative year of 2024, sharing invaluable lessons and strategies for businesses aiming to thrive amidst changing consumer behaviors. She explores the interconnected yet distinct roles of marketing and PR, highlighting how they work together to drive business forward. With post-COVID consumer behaviors shifting, Whitney delves into how businesses can adapt to these changes to stay relevant. She stresses the importance of finding and mastering a niche as a way to stand out and build a loyal audience. Additionally, Whitney underscores the value of strategic investments, from effective advertising to avoiding the pitfalls of hiring cheap help that can waste resources. She also explains why cutting your marketing budget during slow seasons is a critical mistake and advocates for maintaining year-round marketing efforts. Finally, she emphasizes the necessity of having a clear marketing budget to ensure both survival and growth. Whether you're a seasoned entrepreneur or just starting out, this episode is packed with actionable insights to help you make smarter, more strategic decisions in 2024. Tune in now to gain the insights you need to make 2024 your most successful year yet! ------------ Connect with Whitney on Instagram Connect with Whitney on LinkedIn True Story Public Relations on Instagram True Story Website TheWhitneyLee.com

How do you cut through the noise to tell stories that matter? In this episode, Whitney sits down with Drew Piers of Sachs Media to unpack the ever-evolving world of public relations, advocacy, and storytelling. From navigating political turbulence to driving nonprofit missions, this conversation dives deep into the power of authentic communication and the strategies that make it work. Drew shares his journey in public affairs, revealing how research and audience insights shape impactful campaigns. He and Whitney explore the nuances of leadership, the role of language in framing issues for diverse audiences, and the surprising dynamics of agency acquisitions. Whether you're a nonprofit leader, a PR professional, or just curious about how storytelling shapes public opinion, this episode is packed with insights on staying visible, relevant, and effective in today's fast-paced world. What You'll Learn: The secrets to authentic storytelling and why it's more critical than ever. How nonprofits can navigate uncertainty with strategic communication. The importance of understanding audience perspectives and using the right language. Insights into leadership, agency growth, and navigating generational shifts in PR.

Is social media still the Wild West of marketing, or has it grown into a strategic powerhouse? In this episode, Whitney Lee sits down with Amy Dang-Stojanovic, managing partner of Mochi, to explore the ever-changing world of social media and PR. They pull back the curtain on: The rise of authentic content and the shift away from polished perfection. Why smaller, nimble teams can outshine big-name agencies. The critical balance between engagement and calls to action in successful campaigns. How content creators and influencers play different but vital roles in modern marketing. Amy also shares her thoughts on navigating client expectations, staying profitable as a social media agency, and crafting innovative content strategies that keep brands ahead of the curve. Whether you're in the trenches of PR or just curious about the inner workings of this fast-paced industry, this conversation is packed with real talk and actionable takeaways.

What if the secret to success wasn't in finding a business partner?

Think podcasts are just a side hustle or hobby? Think again. In this episode, Whitney Lee chats with Parker Olson, founder of PodPitch, about how podcasts are becoming a PR powerhouse. They explore the art of customized pitches, the game-changing role of AI, and why podcasts are now key players in the media landscape. Parker shares his unconventional journey—from wild diets to living in nontraditional spaces—offering fresh insights on creativity and innovation. Discover how tools like PodPitch are enhancing PR efforts while preserving the human touch, and what this means for the future of the industry. ----------- PodPitch Connect with Parker on Instagram Connect with PodPitch on LinkedIn Connect with Whitney on Instagram Connect with Whitney on LinkedIn True Story PR Website TheWhitneyLee Website

Ever wonder what it takes to go from a "yes person" to an authoritative leader in your field? In this episode, Whitney Lee shares her transformative journey from corporate life to freelancing, highlighting the mindset shifts that changed her career. She talks about redefining client relationships, stepping into a strategist role, and the power of proactive communication. But that's just the beginning—Whitney dives into how perception and PR can make or break your business. Want more? Hit play and discover her secrets firsthand! ------------ Apply for Mentorship with Whitney Connect with Whitney on Instagram Connect with Whitney on LinkedIn True Story Public Relations

What does it take to stand out in a crowded, ever-evolving market? In this episode, Whitney Lee sits down with Scott Russell, a luxury hospitality veteran turned entrepreneur, who spills the secrets of navigating one of the most competitive industries out there. From his corporate days at the Ritz Carlton to building his own consulting and sales training business, Scott shares the bold moves and creative strategies that helped him thrive—especially during the uncertainty of the COVID-19 pandemic. You'll hear how Scott mastered the art of differentiation and personalization, why effective communication trumps efficiency, and how storytelling can transform a brand. Plus, he breaks down the powerful partnership between sales and marketing and reveals how adapting quickly can lead to game-changing innovations. Looking to find out what really matters in business, how to build lasting client trust, and what leadership looks like in action? You're in the right place. Tune in for an episode packed with practical takeaways and expert insights from Scott—and find out how collaboration can unlock your next big success! ---------- Scott on LinkedIn Dynamic Sales Solutions Whitney on Instagram Whitney on LinkedIn True Story Public Relations TheWhitneyLee.com

Feeling overwhelmed by doing it all yourself? It's time to level up! In this episode, Whitney Lee reveals the secrets to successfully building and managing a team. Drawing from her own journey, she shares invaluable tips on hiring the right assistants, defining clear roles, and creating a structured system for task management. Whitney breaks down the critical difference between being a leader who trains and counsels versus just overseeing task execution. Plus, she dives into the nuances of working with employees versus contractors, giving you the tools to make the right choices for your business. Ready to stop wearing all the hats and start scaling your business? Tune in now—and don't forget to explore mentorship opportunities with Whitney herself! -------- Apply for Ongoing Mentorship TheWhitneyLee.com True Story Public Relations Connect with Whitney on Instagram Connect with Whitney on LinkedIn

In this episode, Whitney Lee sits down with Lindsay Kirsh, Founder and Chief Strategist of Slayer PR, to dive deep into her incredible career transformation. From managing over 15 agencies at McDonald's to building her own PR powerhouse, Lindsay shares the highs, lows, and lessons learned along the way. Discover the importance of trust in agency-client relationships, the perks of niche expertise, and what it truly takes to lead a successful team. Whether you're curious about the agency vs. corporate world or want to hear strategic insights for long-term success, this conversation is packed with gems. Don't miss this inspiring episode with a true PR leader! -------- Important Links: ⁠Slayer Public Relations⁠ ⁠Lindsay on Instagram ⁠ ⁠Slayer PR on Instagram ⁠ Whitney on Instagram Whitney on LinkedIn True Story Public Relations -------- About Lindsay: For over 15 years, Lindsay has dedicated her career to strategic and crisis communications, representing Fortune 500 companies and several global brands across Food & Beverage, Consumer, Retail, Lifestyle, and Health & Wellness industries. When she started her career, she knew one day she would work for herself. Once she acquired the necessary skills in the corporate world learning from the greats, she did just that. Lindsay began her public relations career in Toronto, Canada working for Fleishman-Hillard International Communications. In 2015, inspired by a love for grunge music, Lindsay relocated to Seattle where she was able to marry her love for music and public relations. When asked how and why she went into business, the answer is simple: she wanted the freedom and autonomy to make her own decisions, have the creative freedom to create unforgettable PR campaigns, grow a great team of like-minded professionals and build something from the ground up.

Is following conventional wisdom really the best path for your agency or freelance journey? In today's solo podcast episode, Whitney dives into “The Worst Advice for a New Agency or Freelancer.” Get ready for some hot takes on the common pitfalls and misconceptions that could hold you back! Connect with Whitney on Instagram ⁠ ⁠Connect with Whitney on LinkedIn⁠ ⁠TheWhitneyLee.com⁠ ⁠True Story Website

Join us for an inspiring conversation with Carrie Kerpen, Founder and CEO of The Whisper Group, as she shares the journey of how she scaled and sold her agency. In this episode, Whitney and Carrie dive into strategies for success, the specific obstacles she overcame in building her agency, and the key insights she gained throughout her journey. Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur or a seasoned pro, you won't want to miss this episode! ------------- Connect with Whitney on Instagram Connect with Whitney on LinkedIn TheWhitneyLee.com True Story Website

Join us today as Whitney chats with Veronique Zayas, the creative force behind HatchMark Studio. Veronique shares her agency's exciting evolution to a full-service powerhouse. Together, they dive into how HatchMark Studio masters branding, visual systems, and helps clients stay on-brand across multiple platforms.

Get ready to dive deep into the world of marketing and PR with this insightful episode! Join Whitney Lee as she sits down with Lindsay Breitwieser, the mastermind behind CMO Lab, to tackle the real challenges regional agencies face and the often-overlooked friction between agencies and clients. Lindsay shares her expertise on crafting marketing strategies that truly align with business goals, all while balancing the data-driven and emotional aspects of marketing. Discover why managing client expectations is crucial, and learn the art of making bold adjustments when things aren't working. From the power of data to the value of failure and experimentation, this conversation is packed with actionable insights. Whether you're thinking about hiring a CMO or simply looking to refine your marketing approach, this episode is a must-listen! ------------- Visit The CMO Lab The CMO Lab on Instagram True Story on Instagram True Story PR Website

In a time of uncertainty, True Story Public Relations experienced remarkable growth in 2020. While some clients had to step back, others stepped up, expanding their services! Join us today as agency owner Whitney Lee shares how her agency managed to double during such a challenging year. Whitney will delve into the strategic steps she took, how global shifts influenced the business landscape, and the enduring practices that have continued to drive success well beyond 2020. Have a specific topic you want us to cover? Send your ideas to Whitney on Instagram @thewhitneylee. ------------- Connect with Whitney on Instagram Visit TheWhitneyLee.com Connect with Whitney on LinkedIn Visit TrueStoryPR.co

Whether you want to or not, EVERYONE has a personal brand. Join us today as Whitney chats with fellow agency owner, Lexie Smith! They're covering the ins and outs of building a personal brand as an agency owner. You won't want to miss this behind-the-scenes look at agency life.  ------- As seen in Entrepreneur.com, Business Insider, NASDAQ, Create & Cultivate, and more, Lexie Smith, is a PR & Business Coach, Founder & CEO of GROWTH MODE PR & Communications Agency, Founder of THEPRBAR inc., and Host of the Pitchin' and Sippin' Podcast. ------- Connect with Lexie on LinkedIn Connect with Lexie on Instagram Pitchin' and Sippin' Podcast

Tune in today for a special announcement from Whitney Lee! For the past several months, Whitney has been working on a new resource to support agency owners and we are ecstatic to announce that TheWhitneyLee.com is now LIVE! Visit TheWhitneyLee.com/streamline to download the 4 Steps to a Streamlined Remote Agency! Applications for mentorship with Whitney are open with only two spaces available. Digital template downloads and roadmaps for remote agency owners will be available for purchase soon. We can't wait to support you in the process of streamlining and scaling your remote agency. ------- Visit TheWhitneyLee.com for more information!

Is niching down the key to success? Will it help you get more of the right kind of clients? How niche is too niche? Join us today as Whitney cracks the code on whether or not niching down your agency is the right move.  ---------------- Have a specific topic you want us to cover? Connect with Whitney on Instagram @thewhitneylee. 

Get ready to dive into the concept of confetti culture as Whitney explores the intersection of PR and HR with James Ferguson. James is the Director of Culture for Wurzak Hotel Group and is sharing how he used his passion for company culture to make his dream position a reality.  Whether you are a business owner, work in HR, or have a goal on your mind, you can expect to leave this episode fired up and ready to take on any hurdle in your path.  ------------- The Confetti Culture Playbook Connect with James on LinkedIn

Get ready for a round of hot takes as Whitney chats with Amy Colbourn, Managing Director of MONOGRAM, about controversial opinions on marketing. In this episode, two hospitality marketing and PR experts share their perspectives on hot topics, such as the effectiveness of using awareness as a marketing objective and whether the same strategies can be applied to marketing products and services. About Amy: Amy Colbourn is a marketing executive and brand strategist who serves as the Managing Director of MONOGRAM. Headquartered in Las Vegas MONOGRAM is a brand agency, and a member of The Harkey Group of agencies, specializing in luxury hospitality and casino marketing. Connect with Whitney on Instagram MONOGRAM Agency

Getting fired by a client can feel incredibly disheartening, but it's an experience every agency faces sooner or later. The key is to learn and grow from it. In this episode, Whitney explores common reasons why agencies get fired and offers actionable tips to prevent it. If you're an agency owner or part of an agency team, this episode is packed with valuable insights to help you avoid common pitfalls and cultivate lasting, successful client relationships from the start. -------------- Have a specific topic you'd like us to cover? Connect with Whitney on Instagram @thewhitneylee.

Join us today for a front-row seat to real talk from two agency owners! Whitney is chatting with Susie Timm, Founder and CEO of Knife & Fork Media. The two agency owners give you the scoop on things that they LOVE about owning an agency, tips for freelancers looking to scale, and things that they had to learn the hard way so that you don't have to. If you're a freelancer on the verge of scaling and growing a team, you won't want to miss this episode! ---------------- Knife & Fork Media Founder, Susie Timm grew up in the land of cow, otherwise known as Wisconsin. In 1992 she moved to the Valley of the Sun and graduated from high school in Scottsdale and is a proud alumni of Arizona State University with her Bachelor's of Arts degree in Political Science.. Interestingly enough, she started a booming career as a banker in 2000 and was named the youngest Bank President in Arizona at the age of 27. Susie worked in that industry until it became “un-fun” in 2009. She found her true passion in the food industry mid-2009 when she co-founded a food events company. That business morphed into the full service PR agency we are today! Susie and her team manage a marketing portfolio of clients ranging in size and scope from food to entertainment to accounting. With over fifteen years of experience, her proven marketing, media and sales models have helped grow small and medium-sized companies all over Arizona and the United States. Susie won numerous achievement awards for her sales skills during her years as a corporate warrior. Additionally, she has been honored as a member of the Phoenix Business Journal's “40 under 40,” and “Women Leaders in Business,” the Phoenix New Times' “100 Tastemakers in Phoenix,” So Scottsdale's “24 Powerful Leaders Under 40,” and has served as a national trendspotter for the Specialty Food Association's Fancy Food Shows. Susie is a proud graduate of Scottsdale Leadership, Class 23. Susie has been a recurring featured guest on many local TV stations for her passionate take on gourmet food trends. Susie believes strongly in community stewardship and to that end, she has served as a board member with Scottsdale Leadership, the Leadership Council of Careers in Culinary Arts (C-Cap AZ), and has served three times as the Co-Chair of Taste of the Nation Arizona, an event that raises important funds to feed hungry kids in Arizona. She currently serves as Vice President of Les Dames de Escoffier, Phoenix Chapter and is a founding member of the One More Ball Foundation, dedicated to bringing tennis to underserved kids. For fun, Susie plays tennis 4-5 times a week, cooks, reads cooking magazines, sits in the Jacuzzi and spends too much time shopping online. ------------- Connect with Susie Knife & Fork Media Connect with Whitney

Transparency and clear communication are key when starting a relationship with a potential client. By asking this one question, you can help prevent confusion and set realistic expectations for deliverables and the working relationship! Tune in today for a valuable episode that will help you when growing your clientele! -------------------------- Connect with Whitney on Instagram

Get ready to make your brand twerk! Today we're talking all things branding with Lisa Boettcher, Founder and Creative Brand Strategist of LB Creative Studio. Buckle up for tips you can implement immediately to make your brand look legit and things you should be avoiding from a branding perspective!  ——————————— Lisa Boettcher is a Creative Brand Strategist and mom of 4. Lisa's career is built on her strong sense of strategy and the intuitive, futuristic approach she takes to her work, some of which has been featured on Target, in Forbes and Vogue. Lisa founded, bootstrapped and sold a niche accessory fashion brand in under 5 years and with over a decade of experience helping female-founded brands scale through strategy, story, visuals, community building, product design and development, she's now guided by her desire to share creativity and the inner workings of identity and transformation with her community, whether through experiential offerings, with clients or on her social channels. ——————————— Connect with Lisa on Instagram Connect with Lisa on LinkedIn Connect with Whitney on Instagram

Today's episode is a real, raw message from an agency owner directly to influencers! If you're an influencer, buckle up for tips and etiquette for working with brands and agencies. You may be surprised by how much these simple adjustments can impact your work with agencies and brands.  -------- Have a specific topic you'd like us to cover? Send your ideas to Whitney on Instagram @thewhitneylee.

From raising $100k in 60 days to watching her idea for a multi-media studio come to life, Carly Gilleland is a pro at putting in the work and watching the hard-earned results unfold! Tune in today as we talk about the challenges of starting a creative business, working as a woman in a male-dominated industry, and chasing after your dreams! This episode will leave you fired up, ready to take the next steps toward your goal.  ---------- The Good Vibe Media is a woman owned and operated video production company, created in 2016.  Founder, Carly Gilleland, was exposed to video production during her years attending Arcadia High School in Phoenix, Arizona. She created a short documentary about her sister who has special needs. After seeing the impact it made on her classmates, she quickly realized this is what she wanted to do for a living – tell people's stories that have a positive impact. After attending film school in California, she moved back home to Arizona and slowly & organically built The Good Vibe Media to what it is today! The Good Vibe Media is now a full-service video production company, serving clients in Phoenix, Los Angeles, Denver, Nashville and more!  ---------- The Good Vibe Media Connect with Carly on LinkedIn ---------- Connect with Whitney on LinkedIn Connect with Whitney on Instagram

The world of public relations may seem mystical, but once you learn how to tackle some of the most common hurdles, you will be on the track to making brands truly known.  Today, Whitney Lee is spilling the biggest challenge of working in PR and how to troubleshoot it. Don't miss out on this episode if you've been hitting public relations roadblocks for you and your clients. Have a topic you'd like us to cover? Send your ideas to Whitney on Instagram @thewhitneylee.

Is your business missing the mark when it comes to branding and PR? In today's episode, we hear from Sara Chambers on how her agency has mastered the perfect blend of strategy and branding to help propel businesses forward. Tune in for tips that you can apply to your business! -------- Elly and Nora Creative Connect with Sara on Instagram Connect with Sara on Linkedin Connect with Whitney on Instagram

Good leaders make mistakes too! Hear from the principal of True Story Public Relations herself as Whitney Lee dives into mistakes she's made and what she has learned from them. Tune in to today's episode to learn more about embracing vulnerability and growing from setbacks. Remember, even the greatest leaders stumble, but it's how they rise that defines their legacy.  ----------- Have a specific topic you want us to cover? Connect with Whitney on Instagram @thewhitneylee.

Join us for today's episode as we dive into the inspiring journey of Barnabas Carrega, CEO and Founder of The GR8 Experience, as he shares how he built this empire at just 22 years old. From tennis buff to CEO, Barnabas shares how his journey led him to build custom dream experiences for his clients. --------- Connect with Barnabas on Linkedin The Gr8 Experience True Story Public Relations Website Connect with Whitney on Instagram