True Story: The Public Relations Podcast

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. 💡 Discover the tools to craft messages that resonate and drive action. Tune in now! ------------ Connect with Drew on Instagram Connect with Drew on LinkedIn Sachs Media Website Sachs Media Instagram Connect with Whitney on LinkedIn Connect with Whitney on Instagram True Story PR Website TheWhitneyLee.com

🎙️ Is your marketing team set up for success, or are you unknowingly setting them up to fail? In this episode, Whitney takes a hard look at the challenges business owners face when hiring and managing young marketing talent. She reveals why simply hiring fresh faces isn’t enough—and what it takes to transform raw potential into real results. You’ll also hear how fractional CMOs are emerging as a smart, cost-effective solution for businesses that can’t afford a full-service agency but still need experienced leadership to drive strategy and execution. Whether you’re navigating the complexity of marketing or struggling to guide a young team, this episode will leave you with actionable insights to elevate your efforts. Why marketing is more complex than it seems—and how to set realistic expectations for young hires. The power of feedback, training, and structured plans to help young marketers thrive. How fractional CMOs can fill the gap when your business needs expert oversight without the hefty price tag. Practical strategies for balancing cost, quality, and collaboration in your marketing approach. Ready to build a marketing team that truly works for your business? Tune in now! ---------- Connect with Whitney on LinkedIn Connect with Whitney on Instagram True Story PR Website TheWhitneyLee.com

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. 🎧 Hit play and learn how to adapt, innovate, and make your mark in social media! -------- Mochee Website Connect with Amy on Instagram Mochee on Instagram Connect with Whitney on Instagram Connect with Whitney on LinkedIn True Story Website TheWhitneyLee.com

What if the secret to success wasn’t in finding a business partner? 🤔 In this episode, Whitney Lee shares her inspiring journey from leaving a corporate career at just 26 years old to building her own thriving business. She dives into how mentorship—both informal and paid—has been a game-changer in her life. Whitney reflects on the lessons learned, mistakes made, and the invaluable guidance she’s gained along the way. 💡 Key Takeaways You’ll Love: Start your mentorship journey sooner rather than later. Mistakes are inevitable—but mentors help you learn and avoid the big ones. Paid mentorship creates commitment and accountability on both sides. The right mentor can turbocharge your growth and confidence. Mentorship isn’t about making decisions for you; it’s about guiding you to the right ones. Invest in you—because you're worth it. Whether you’re at the start of your entrepreneurial path or looking to level up, this episode will inspire you to rethink your approach to personal and professional growth. Tune in to discover why finding a mentor could be the best investment you ever make! 🎧 ----------- Connect with Whitney on Instagram Connect with Whitney on LinkedIn TheWhitneyLee.com TrueStoryPR.co

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.