Small Business PR

Are you tired of following Instagram formulas, tips, and tricks that no longer work? You’re not alone—and you’re not doing anything wrong.In this episode of Small Business PR, host Gloria Chou chats with Instagram strategist and content expert Shannon McKinstrie—an Instagram OG with over 270,000 organic followers. Together, they unpack what’s actually working on Instagram in 2025—and what outdated strategies to finally let go of.From embracing authentic storytelling to getting back to basics with commenting and engagement, Shannon shares the real, human-first Instagram growth strategies that are helping product brands, service providers, and creators stand out without burning out.What’s Actually Working on Instagram in 2025 (According to a 270K-Follower Pro)Why “how I” storytelling now beats “how-to” contentShannon’s 4 H’s Content Method: Heard, Helpful, Humor, and HappeningsA simple Instagram Stories hack that instantly boosts viewsHow commenting on popular accounts still drives organic growth in 2025Why your first 3 Stories matter more than everThe truth about how often you really need to postWhy unscripted, raw videos perform better than polished onesHow to combine growth, engagement, and conversion—all in one postThe outdated Instagram content tactics to stop using nowWhether you're a product-based business, personal brand, or service provider, Shannon shares how to simplify your content strategy, boost engagement organically, and make Instagram fun (and profitable) again—without having to post every day.You’ll learn why storytelling, casual videos, and simple Reels are outperforming polished content—and how to use Instagram as a genuine connection tool instead of just another sales platform.Product Businesses! Download my free HOW TO GET INTO A GIFT GUIDE/PRODUCT ROUND UP roadmap for free HERE to get more sales and traffic to your site this season.If you want to land your first feature for free without any connections, I want to invite you to watch my PR Secrets Masterclass, where I reveal the exact methods thousands of bootstrapping small businesses use to hack their own PR and go from unknown to being a credible and sought-after industry expert. Register now at www.gloriachoupr.com/masterclass.   Watch the #1 PR Secrets Masterclass to get you featured for free in 30 daysJoin the Small Biz PR Facebook Group to get the best PR TipsDownload the 10 ways to get free PR for your small businessDM the word “PITCH” to us on Instagram to get a pitching freebie https://www.instagram.com/gloriachoupr Connect with Gloria Chou on LinkedIn- https://www.linkedin.com/in/gloriaychou Join Gloria Chou's PR Community- https://www.facebook.com/groups/428633254951941Learn more about Shannon McKinstrie:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shannonmckinstrieWebsite: https://shannonmckinstrie.com/LinkedIn: 

Want to land media coverage without hiring a PR agency, paying for ads, or having industry connections? In this episode, PR expert Gloria Chou shares the exact framework that has helped thousands of small business owners get featured in Forbes, The New York Times, Marie Claire, and more—without spending a cent.You’ll discover the 3 C’s of cold pitching—Consideration, Compliment, and Confidence—and how to use them to write pitches that actually get opened, read, and responded to. Whether you're launching a product, pitching a story, or building brand visibility, these tips work—even if you're just starting out.✅ How to Pitch Journalists: Master the 3 C’s to Get Free Press and Stay on TrendHow to use the 3 C’s of pitching: Consideration, Compliment, and ConfidenceHow to find the right journalist for your niche using free PR toolsWhy subject lines matter—and how to write one like a headlineHow to use specific compliments to build journalist relationshipsHow to show up with confidence as a solution—not as someone begging for attention How to pitch seasonally and stay relevant with trending topicsYou don’t need ads, connections, or a blue check to get featured in top media. What you need is a PR strategy rooted in empathy, relevance, and confidence. In this episode, Gloria Chou reveals how to write cold pitches that convert—so you can land press, grow your brand, and get seen as the expert you are.Whether you’re launching a product or scaling a service, this episode gives you the tools to pitch smarter and win media coverage—without paying for PR.If you want to land your first feature for free without any connections, I want to invite you to watch my PR Secrets Masterclass, where I reveal the exact methods thousands of bootstrapping small businesses use to hack their own PR and go from unknown to being a credible and sought-after industry expert. Register now at www.gloriachoupr.com/masterclass (https://learn.gloriachoupr.com/masterclassbygloria) .     •  Watch the #1 PR Secrets Masterclass (http://gloriachoupr.com/masterclass?utm_source=small-business-pr&utm_medium=podcast&utm_term=&utm_content=masterclass&utm_campaign=masterclass)  to get you featured for free in 30 days  •  Join the Small Biz PR Facebook Group to get the best PR Tips  •  Download the 10 ways to get free PR for your small business  •  DM the word “PITCH” to us on Instagram to get a pitching freebie https://www.instagram.com/gloriachoupr   •  Connect with Gloria Chou on LinkedIn- https://www.link (https://www.linkedin.com/in/gloriaychou)  •  CPR Pitch Framework (Credibility, POV, Relevance) https://gloriachoupr.com/1  •  Source of Sources – HARO Alternative https://gloriachoupr.com/1  •  Perplexity AI – Journalist Research Tool http://perplexity.ai

Still guessing that your customers are probably coming from Instagram? You’re not alone—and you might be missing critical insights that could transform your sales.In this value-packed episode, Gloria chats with Kelsey Silver, a licensed therapist turned data strategist, who specializes in making analytics feel empowering (not overwhelming). Kelsey breaks down how to track where your customers actually come from using simple tools like UTM links, QR codes, and even smart social media keywords.This is the episode every product-based business owner needs to finally stop guessing and start tracking what works—even if you’re allergic to spreadsheets.Understand Why Knowing Your Customer's Source Improves Marketing ROI🔗 How to use UTM links to track clicks and conversions from Instagram, podcasts, email & more📍 How to customize QR codes for in-person events like farmers markets and pop-ups📈 Why focusing on buyers, not just traffic, helps you grow profitably💬 Why asking “How did you find me?” can be the most powerful data point in your business🛠 How to keep your tracking simple, intentional, and totally doable (even with ADHD or zero tech skills)Tracking your marketing channels isn’t just for big brands with data teams—it’s a game-changer for small business owners who want to grow strategically. As Kelsey Silver explained, understanding where your customers come from helps you double down on what’s working and ditch what’s not.Before you invest more time in social media, email campaigns, or in-person events, make sure you’re tracking buyer behavior—not just traffic. Whether through UTM links, QR codes, or simple customer questions, having visibility into your customer journey is what separates guessing from growing.🎯 No matter if you’re just starting out or leveling up your ecommerce game, this episode equips you to track smarter, sell better, and optimize every marketing decision.🔗 Resources & Tools Mentioned:Google UTM Builder (Free Tool)Ready to track what really matters in your business? Grab Kelsey Silver’s free guide and discover the 15 key metrics top entrepreneurs use to grow smarter and sell more—without the overwhelm.Connect with Kelsey on Instagram: @kelseyesilver — DM her the word “Gloria” to start a convo and see how she does her own tracking!If you want to land your first feature for free without any connections, I want to invite you to watch my PR Secrets Masterclass, where I reveal the exact methods thousands of bootstrapping small businesses use to hack their own PR and go from unknown to being a credible and sought-after industry expert. Register now at www.gloriachoupr.com/masterclass.   Watch the #1 PR Secrets Masterclass to get you featured for free in 30 daysJoin the Small Biz PR Facebook Group to get the best PR TipsDownload the 10 ways to get free PR for your small businessDM the word “PITCH” to us on Instagram to get a pitching freebie https://www.instagram.com/gloriachoupr Connect with Gloria Chou on LinkedIn- https://www.link

In this no-fluff, straight-talking episode of Small Business PR, host Gloria Chou sits down with seasoned ads expert and agency owner Zach Spuckler of Heart, Soul & Hustle to answer one of the most common (and costly) questions small business owners face:“Should I hire a marketing or ads agency—or do it myself?”With over 10 years of experience, millions spent on ads, and hundreds of clients under his belt, Zach breaks down exactly when it makes sense to hire help—and when it’s a waste of money. From red flags to look for, to knowing your numbers, to building a business that’s sustainable without giving up control, this episode is a must-listen for any entrepreneur navigating growth.🔑 What You'll Learn in This Episode✅ Why most small businesses shouldn’t hire an agency too early🚩 The biggest red flags to watch for when hiring a marketing agency📊 The difference between traffic, leads, and sales (and why it matters)🔎 How to identify your most profitable, high-ROI tasks🧯 Why “doing all the things” is a dangerous myth in small biz culture💰 How to know if you’re financially ready to outsource your marketing🔁 What it means to build a long-term brand—not just chase viral trendsHiring a marketing or ads agency can be a powerful move—but only if your business is truly ready. As Zach Spuckler shared, the right agency can amplify what’s already working, but the wrong one can drain your time, budget, and momentum.Before you sign any contracts, make sure you have a proven offer, a repeatable sales system, and a clear understanding of your numbers. And if you're not there yet? That’s okay—there’s strength in DIY marketing when it’s done with strategy and intention.🎯 Whether you're scaling up, refining your marketing, or just getting started, this episode gives you the tools to make smarter decisions and avoid common pitfalls. Learn more about Zach Spuckler🌐 Zach’s Website – Heart, Soul & Hustle📲 Follow Zach on Instagram @ZachSpuckler🚀 Join Zach’s Ads BootcampIf you want to land your first feature for free without any connections, I want to invite you to watch my PR Secrets Masterclass, where I reveal the exact methods thousands of bootstrapping small businesses use to hack their own PR and go from unknown to being a credible and sought-after industry expert. Register now at www.gloriachoupr.com/masterclass.   Watch the #1 PR Secrets Masterclass to get you featured for free in 30 daysJoin the Small Biz PR Facebook Group to get the best PR TipsDownload the 10 ways to get free PR for your small businessDM the word “PITCH” to us on Instagram to get a pitching freebie https://www.instagram.com/gloriachoupr Connect with Gloria Chou on LinkedIn- https://www.link

Want your product featured in Mother’s Day gift guides but don’t know where to start? In this episode, I break down proven PR strategies to pitch journalists, stand out in a crowded inbox, and land free media coverage—all without hiring a PR agency. Learn how to craft the perfect pitch, find the right media contacts, and increase your chances of getting featured. Plus, I share real-life success stories and insider tips you can start using today!Crafting the Perfect PR Pitch for Mother's Day (and Beyond)Substack for finding journalist opportunities before publicationSource of Sources (replacing HARO) for daily journalist requestsResearch publication-specific gift guide parameters Focus on 1-2 standout items rather than your entire product lineUse email tracking software to monitor if journalists open emailsBuilding credibility to compete with larger brandsGetting featured in gift guides provides small businesses year-round visibility without expensive ads. Research publication opportunities, craft targeted pitches, and follow up strategically to secure media coverage—even with a single product. PR is a numbers game where persistence builds credibility. If you want to land your first feature for free without any connections, I want to invite you to watch my PR Secrets Masterclass, where I reveal the exact methods thousands of bootstrapping small businesses use to hack their own PR and go from unknown to being a credible and sought-after industry expert. Register now at www.gloriachoupr.com/masterclass.   Watch the #1 PR Secrets Masterclass to get you featured for free in 30 daysJoin the Small Biz PR Facebook Group to get the best PR TipsDownload the 10 ways to get free PR for your small businessDM the word “PITCH” to us on Instagram to get a pitching freebie https://www.instagram.com/gloriachoupr Connect with Gloria Chou on LinkedIn- https://www.linkedin.com/in/gloriaychou Join Gloria Chou's PR Community- https://www.facebook.com/groups/428633254951941

Want to land media coverage without hiring a pricey PR agency? This episode breaks down the best free PR tools and media pitching strategies to help you connect with journalists, craft compelling pitches, and get featured in top publications. Whether you’re a small business owner, startup founder, or entrepreneur, these proven tactics will help you boost brand awareness, gain publicity, and build credibility—all without spending a dime!The Secret to Writing PR Pitches That Journalists Actually ReadUsing free tools like HARO (Help a Reporter Out) and Substack for press coverage.Crafting compelling pitches that get responses.How personal experiences can enhance media opportunities.Overcoming cultural barriers to self-promotion.Following up with journalists, responding quickly, and positioning as an expert.Finding unexpected PR opportunities in different industries.Maintaining relationships with journalists and leveraging past features.Securing media coverage doesn’t have to cost a fortune. By leveraging free PR tools like HARO and Substack, crafting compelling pitches, and strategically following up with journalists, you can land press features that boost your credibility and brand visibility. Remember, media success is about consistency, relationship-building, and positioning yourself as an expert in your field. Start implementing these tactics today, and watch your business gain the recognition it deserves—all without hiring an expensive PR agency!If you want to land your first feature for free without any connections, I want to invite you to watch my PR Secrets Masterclass, where I reveal the exact methods thousands of bootstrapping small businesses use to hack their own PR and go from unknown to being a credible and sought-after industry expert. Register now at www.gloriachoupr.com/masterclass.   Watch the #1 PR Secrets Masterclass to get you featured for free in 30 daysJoin the Small Biz PR Facebook Group to get the best PR TipsDownload the 10 ways to get free PR for your small businessDM the word “PITCH” to us on Instagram to get a pitching freebie https://www.instagram.com/gloriachoupr Connect with Gloria Chou on LinkedIn- https://www.linkedin.com/in/gloriaychou Join Gloria Chou's PR Community- https://www.facebook.com/groups/428633254951941 Looking for PR podcasters to listen to or for your outreach campaign to promote your brand or product? Our PR podcasters list is what you need podcast.feedspot.com/pr_podcasts/Learn more about Swapna Patel:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/style.remixx/Website: https://www.styleremixx.com/

Looking to grow your email list without spending on ads? PR expert Liz Wilcox reveals three powerful strategies to attract subscribers using media coverage and publicity. Learn how to turn press features into email sign-ups, boost brand credibility, and nurture long-term customer relationships. Don’t miss this episode—discover how strategic PR can fuel your email marketing success!How to Build Multi-Six-Figure Business Without Paid Ads Using Organic PR:Strategies to get noticed through podcasts, summits, and online networkingConvert PR exposure into email list growth with a strong call to actionCreate a PR pitch that captivates and convertsOptimize your website to capture leads from PR-driven trafficLeverage social media to amplify PR efforts and grow your email listBy securing media coverage, crafting a compelling call to action, and optimizing your website for lead generation, you can turn press features into a steady flow of email subscribers. Leveraging social media further amplifies your reach, boosts brand credibility, and keeps your audience engaged for long-term growth.If you want to land your first feature for free without any connections, I want to invite you to watch my PR Secrets Masterclass, where I reveal the exact methods thousands of bootstrapping small businesses use to hack their own PR and go from unknown to being a credible and sought-after industry expert. Register now at www.gloriachoupr.com/masterclass.   Watch the #1 PR Secrets Masterclass to get you featured for free in 30 daysJoin the Small Biz PR Facebook Group to get the best PR TipsDownload the 10 ways to get free PR for your small businessDM the word “PITCH” to us on Instagram to get a pitching freebie https://www.instagram.com/gloriachoupr Connect with Gloria Chou on LinkedIn- https://www.linkedin.com/in/gloriaychou Join Gloria Chou's PR Community- https://www.facebook.com/groups/428633254951941Learn more about Liz Wilcox: Website: https://lizwilcox.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thelizwilcox/

Discover the painful lessons I’ve learned, the hard truths I’ve faced, and the invaluable insights I’ve gained while growing my online business. From tackling digital marketing challenges and boosting social media engagement to building a sustainable business model, I share real-world experiences to help entrepreneurs avoid costly mistakes. Whether you're looking for growth strategies, marketing tips, or ways to scale your business online, this is your go-to resource for success.Essential Lessons for Scaling Your Business to $1 Million and BeyondLeverage existing platforms before building your own.Adapt and refine your business model to stay relevant.Address deep-rooted fears to unlock greater business potential.Surround yourself with experienced mentors and peers.Not everyone is your ideal client—clarify who you serve.Invest in tools, team members, and systems for efficiency.Stop relying on cookie-cutter marketing strategies.Scaling an online business is a journey filled with challenges, setbacks, and breakthrough moments. Stay committed, embrace innovation, and keep optimizing your strategies. Success in the digital world isn’t just about working harder—it’s about working smarter. Implement these proven tactics, and you'll be well on your way to building a profitable and sustainable online business.If you want to land your first feature for free without any connections, I want to invite you to watch my PR Secrets Masterclass, where I reveal the exact methods thousands of bootstrapping small businesses use to hack their own PR and go from unknown to being a credible and sought-after industry expert. Register now at www.gloriachoupr.com/masterclass.   Watch the #1 PR Secrets Masterclass to get you featured for free in 30 daysJoin the Small Biz PR Facebook Group to get the best PR TipsDownload the 10 ways to get free PR for your small businessDM the word “PITCH” to us on Instagram to get a pitching freebie https://www.instagram.com/gloriachoupr Connect with Gloria Chou on LinkedIn- https://www.linkedin.com/in/gloriaychou Join Gloria Chou's PR Community- https://www.facebook.com/groups/428633254951941

Are your product photos failing to convert casual scrollers into paying customers? In this episode, product photography expert Lyrik Fryer reveals must-know techniques for capturing attention, building brand trust, and showcasing your product’s value. Learn how to create high-converting product images that boost eCommerce sales, increase engagement, and drive conversions. Don’t miss these expert tips to make your eCommerce product photography work for you and turn views into revenue!Snap, Sell, Repeat: Fun & Easy Product Photography Tips to Boost Sales and Build Trust:Position your products to highlight key features and benefitsCreate consistent visual branding that builds consumer trustUse lighting techniques that make your products stand outCapture attention-grabbing images that stop the scrollOptimize product photos for various platforms and devicesWith these game-changing photography hacks, your product images become your 24/7 sales team—convincing shoppers to buy even while you sleep! 📸✨ Killer eCommerce photos build trust, stop the scroll, and make hitting that "buy" button irresistible. 🚀🔥If you want to land your first feature for free without any connections, I want to invite you to watch my PR Secrets Masterclass, where I reveal the exact methods thousands of bootstrapping small businesses use to hack their own PR and go from unknown to being a credible and sought-after industry expert. Register now at www.gloriachoupr.com/masterclass.   Watch the #1 PR Secrets Masterclass to get you featured for free in 30 daysJoin the Small Biz PR Facebook Group to get the best PR TipsDownload the 10 ways to get free PR for your small businessDM the word “PITCH” to us on Instagram to get a pitching freebie https://www.instagram.com/gloriachoupr Connect with Gloria Chou on LinkedIn- https://www.linkedin.com/in/gloriaychou Join Gloria Chou's PR Community- https://www.facebook.com/groups/428633254951941Learn more about Lyrik Fryer & WorkPlay Branding:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lyrikfryer/Website: https://workplaybranding.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lyrik.fryer/

Massive changes are reshaping email marketing in 2024! From evolving privacy regulations to Apple and Google’s new email categorization rules and stricter spam filters, these updates are directly affecting your email open rates, click-through rates, and sender reputation scores. If you rely on email for lead generation, customer engagement, or sales, you need to stay ahead of these critical shifts.In this must-listen episode, we break down the latest email marketing trends, how to improve your email deliverability, and actionable strategies to boost open rates and increase conversions. Don’t let these changes hurt your sales—learn how to optimize your email strategy today!The Power of Email Marketing in 2024: What You Need to KnowHow email marketing gives you full control over customer relationshipsThe 0.3% spam complaint rule and how to maintain a healthy email listWhy cleaning your email list regularly is more important than everSegmentation strategies that drive higher engagementThe right way to repurpose content without devaluing your email listHow AI Can Help Write Better Emails—If Used CorrectlyEmail marketing is evolving fast, and staying ahead of these updates is crucial for maintaining strong open rates, engagement, and revenue. Don’t let privacy regulations, new email categorization rules, or stricter spam filters derail your success! 🚀If you want to land your first feature for free without any connections, I want to invite you to watch my PR Secrets Masterclass, where I reveal the exact methods thousands of bootstrapping small businesses use to hack their own PR and go from unknown to being a credible and sought-after industry expert. Register now at www.gloriachoupr.com/masterclass.   Watch the #1 PR Secrets Masterclass to get you featured for free in 30 daysJoin the Small Biz PR Facebook Group to get the best PR TipsDownload the 10 ways to get free PR for your small businessDM the word “PITCH” to us on Instagram to get a pitching freebie https://www.instagram.com/gloriachoupr Connect with Gloria Chou on LinkedIn- https://www.linkedin.com/in/gloriaychou Join Gloria Chou's PR Community- https://www.facebook.com/groups/428633254951941Learn more about Michael J. Barber:Website: https://michaeljbarber.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaeljamesbarber/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/michaeljbarber/