

Brand Rescue: Marketing + PR Guidance for Small Businesses
Whitney Lee
Welcome to Brand Rescue: Marketing + PR Guidance for Small Businesses — the show that cuts through the fluff and gives you real, tactical advice to grow your business. From paid ads and social media to press coverage and strategy, we make marketing simple and effective for small business owners like you. Each week, get practical insights, real-world examples, and behind-the-scenes truths on what it really takes to build visibility and grow your brand — with straight talk and support from Your Marketing Heroes.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Apr 15, 2025 • 42min
How to Buy Back Your Time with AI with Michael Sacca, CEO of Leadpages
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

Apr 11, 2025 • 39min
What PR Pros Need to Know About SEO with Jade Pruett, Owner & Founder of HelloSEO
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.💡 Here’s what you’ll learn: The art of acquiring backlinks and why guest posting still reigns supreme. How media coverage can amplify your SEO game. The value of tools like Google Analytics and Google Search Console for tracking success. Why transparency and accessibility are crucial in SEO practices. The role of AI in content creation and how to integrate it effectively. How social media platforms, including Pinterest, play into SEO strategies.Jade also shares inspiring success stories and practical tips to help local businesses thrive in the digital marketing space. Whether you're a PR professional, a marketer, or a business owner, this conversation is packed with insights to boost your online visibility and deliver measurable results for your clients.Tune in now to discover the strategies you need to dominate the digital marketing landscape!-----------Free SEO Report CardHelloSEO WebsiteJade on LinkedInJade on Instagram-----------Whitney on LinkedInWhitney on Instagram True Story PR Website TheWhitneyLee.com

Apr 7, 2025 • 38min
What is a Fractional CMO?
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)💰 How hiring one can save money and boost results🤯 The biggest misconceptions about fractional roles🚀 When your business is ready for a fractional CMO🔍 How to spot the right candidate for the jobIf your marketing needs strategic leadership—but not a full-time salary—this episode is a must-listen. Hit play and get the inside scoop on this fast-growing trend!----------Connect with Whitney on LinkedInConnect with Whitney on Instagram True Story PR Website TheWhitneyLee.com

Mar 31, 2025 • 35min
How I Restructured and Streamlined My Agency with Amore Philip, Founder and CEO of Apples & Oranges Public Relations
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

Mar 24, 2025 • 41min
Tried it ALL: What To Do When Your Marketing Isn't Working
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:🔥 The #1 reason most marketing plans flop🎯 How to define success (so you actually know if it’s working)🔍 Why skipping research is a costly mistake⚡ The power of adaptability in marketing💡 When it’s time to bring in the prosIf you’re tired of marketing that misses the mark, this episode is your wake-up call. Hit play and let’s get your strategy on point!--------------Whitney on LinkedInWhitney on Instagram True Story on Instagram True Story PR Website TheWhitneyLee.com

Mar 17, 2025 • 50min
This One Thing Can Make or Break Your Company with Michelle Villatoro, CEO of Just Think Hospitality
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.🔥 The #1 leadership mistake that’s hurting your business🔥 Why emotional intelligence is the secret weapon of great leaders🔥 How to keep employees engaged (and stop the revolving door of turnover)🔥 The key to leading different generations without frustration🔥 How to build a culture where people actually want to workLet’s Connect:Just Think Hospitality Website Connect with Michelle on LinkedInConnect with Michelle on InstagramConnect with Whitney on LinkedInConnect with Whitney on Instagram True Story PR Website TheWhitneyLee.com

Mar 3, 2025 • 41min
You're Wasting Your Money on PR If...
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

Feb 24, 2025 • 37min
Should You Write a Book? The TRUE ROI Behind Authorship with Dan Gerstein, CEO of Gotham Ghostwriters
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:📌 Gotham Ghostwriters Website📌 Connect with Gotham Ghostwriters on LinkedIn📌 Connect with Whitney on Instagram🎧 Hit play now and take the first step toward becoming a published author!

Feb 17, 2025 • 19min
Pitching Is for More Than Just Media (And This Is Why You’re Striking Out!)
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

Feb 12, 2025 • 48min
PR is Changing: How to Keep Up in an Industry that Continually Shifts with Adriana Sol, Founder of Wander PR
💡Is PR really just about getting media coverage? Think again.Today, Whitney Lee sits down with Adriana Sol, founder ofWander PR, to break down the biggest misconceptions about public relations and what it really takes to build a successful agency.Adriana shares her journey into PR, the impact of COVID-19 on her business, and how she’s navigated the challenges of leadership in a constantly evolving industry. She and Whitney explore why PR isn’t a one-size-fits-all strategy, the importance of measuring success beyond financial metrics, and how self-reflection plays a key role in effective leadership.They also dive into:The dynamics of client relationships and how to add real valueThe unique challenges of PR as a non-systematic fieldHow remote work culture has shaped agency growth and leadershipThe evolving role of PR professionals in today’s media landscapeIf you’re a PR professional, business owner, or someone navigating leadership, this episode is packed with insights on strategy, creativity, and building authentic connections.--------Wander PR on Instagram--------Whitney on LinkedInWhitney on InstagramTrue Story PR WebsiteTheWhitneyLee.com


