The Future of Public Relations: Leveraging AI and Authenticity with We Feature You PR's Zachary Bernard

In a recent episode of The Thoughtful Entrepreneur, host Josh Elledge sat down with Zachary Bernard, founder of We Feature You PR, to explore how AI and storytelling are reshaping the public relations landscape. Zachary shared his passion for authentic communication and offered valuable insights into media strategies, podcasting, and the future of earned media. If you’re a founder or business leader seeking organic growth through meaningful visibility, this episode is a must-listen.

Redefining PR: Strategic Storytelling, AI, and Founder Visibility

Zachary’s approach to public relations is rooted in earning trust, not just attention. He emphasizes that effective PR isn’t about buying exposure—it’s about earning it through strategic placements in publications that matter to your audience. Rather than chasing broad media hits, he advises founders to prioritize niche outlets and tailored storytelling that speaks directly to decision-makers. This shift away from generic, high-volume PR toward targeted and authentic media engagement is where long-term brand value is built.

The conversation also tackled the rising role of AI in public relations. Zachary clarified that while AI tools can help with research and ideation, they’re no replacement for human authenticity. In fact, as synthetic content becomes more prevalent, people will crave real human voices and experiences more than ever. He encourages businesses to use AI to refine messaging, but always pair it with emotional intelligence and human connection—especially when pitching to journalists or appearing as a podcast guest.

Speaking of podcasts, Zachary sees them as one of the most powerful tools for founder visibility today. Unlike traditional media, podcasting allows for longer-form, authentic conversations that build trust with listeners. He offered tactical advice for those new to guesting, including researching your target shows, tailoring pitches, starting with smaller podcasts to build confidence, and promoting your episodes after they air. These simple but effective strategies can dramatically increase your PR success and position you as a credible expert in your field.

About Zachary Bernard

Zachary Bernard is the founder of We Feature You PR and host of The Entrepreneur’s Logbook podcast. With a focus on earned media and organic brand growth, he helps founders and executives gain visibility through strategic PR and podcast features.

About We Feature You PR

We Feature You PR helps founders and business leaders earn media placements and podcast features that build credibility and organic authority—without relying on paid ads.

Links Mentioned in this Episode

• We Feature You PR Website
• Zachary Bernard on LinkedIn

Episode Highlights

• Why earned media beats paid advertising for long-term brand credibility
• How AI is reshaping PR—and where human authenticity still wins
• Tactical steps to pitch yourself as a podcast guest
• The difference between broad vs. niche PR strategies
• Why storytelling is the foundation of any successful PR campaign

Conclusion

This episode with Zachary Bernard makes one thing clear: the future of PR lies in authenticity, precision, and trust-building. From leveraging AI the right way to showing up on podcasts with intention, Zachary’s insights are a playbook for founders ready to grow through connection, not clicks.

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