Proof-of-PR

Welcome to Proof-of-PR: Your passport to the world of public relations for teams building onchain. I’m your host, Kelley Weaver, CEO of Melrose PR, a leading provider of crypto communications and PR strategy, and Founder of Bitwire, the modern newswire reimagined for today’s comms professionals. Get ready for an inside look into the future of finance, technology, and entrepreneurship from those driving innovation in the crypto space. Join us as we learn how they generate headlines, cut through the noise and grow their brand awareness through media placements, press mentions and thought leadership. These are the stories behind their success. This --- is Proof-of-PR.

Season 4 Episode 2: Creating Impactful Communication Strategies (ft. Kristyna Mazankova) 03/24/2026

Season 4 Episode 2: Creating Impactful Communication Strategies (ft. Kristyna Mazankova) On this episode of Proof-of-PR, Kelley Weaver is joined by Kristyna Mazankova, a seasoned PR and communications consultant with over a decade of expertise in crafting and executing impactful communication strategies. She is the former Head of PR for BTC Inc, where she led communication efforts for the largest and most influential media platform in the bitcoin space. To stay up-to-date on upcoming guests and news by following us on Twitter at @ProofOfPR. #PRtips #TheBitcoinConference #ProofofPR #MediaRelations ●▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬● ⏰ Timestamps: 0:00 | Intro 1:40 | Who is Kristyna Mazankova? 4:30 | How much has PR shifted the narrative of Bitcoin? 6:29 | Coordinating press for the Bitcoin Conference 10:42 | Challenges of Trump at Bitcoin 2025 conference 17:36 | Why Bitcoin comms strategies can be difficult 22:09 | 1st Bitcoin Major at a University 25:29 | BITWIRE AD 27:08 | PR strategy for BTC Inc 29:02 | Building real relationships with reporters 31:29 | Biggest PR mistake that founders make 35:25 | Why AI will NOT replace human PR professionals 38:30 | How to start a career in Bitcoin PR 41:51 | Don’t be scared to share your story 44:51 | What to expect at Bitcoin 2026 34:25 | Outro ●▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬● 🔗 Kristyna Mazankova Links: X: LinkedIn: 🔗 Melrose & PoPR Links: Website: YouTube: X: X: LinkedIn: ●▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬● 📢 Disclaimer: The content presented on the podcast Proof-of-PR is intended for informational and entertainment purposes only. It does not constitute legal, financial, or any other type of professional advice. The host(s) and guest(s) are sharing their own opinions and experiences. You should always consult with a qualified professional for advice relevant to your specific circumstances. Melrose PR and Proof-of-PR is not responsible for any actions taken based on the information provided in this podcast. /episode/index/show/cryptotokentalk/id/40608685

Season 4 Episode 1: Cutting Through the Crypto Noise (ft. Amanda Whitcroft) 03/24/2026

Season 4 Episode 1: Cutting Through the Crypto Noise (ft. Amanda Whitcroft) On this episode of Proof-of-PR, Kelley Weaver is joined by Amanda Whitcroft, the founder of Whitcroft PR, a communications agency specializing in crypto, blockchain, and emerging tech. She helps companies and investors cut through industry noise with strategic comms focused on credibility and clarity. Amanda also hosts "Get to the Point," a podcast featuring conversations with leaders across crypto, fintech, and policy, guided by the principle that "everyone is talking, but few people are actually saying something". To stay up-to-date on upcoming guests and news by following us on Twitter at @ProofOfPR. #WhitcroftPR #ProofofPR #Podcast ●▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬● ⏰ Timestamps: 0:00 | Intro 1:25 | Who is Amanda Whitcroft? 2:46 | Building credible narratives 3:44 | How the creator economy is reshaping communications 4:56 | Deciding company voice 5:50 | Client onboarding process 8:12 | “Get to the Point” Podcast 10:06 | Teach thought leadership to technical founders 13:56 | Why founders should use Substack 15:00 | Are LLMs reading what you publish online? 16:11 | BITWIRE AD 18:04 | Tips for founders before hiring a PR firm 21:26 | Which platforms to use for thought leadership 23:09 | Client transformation story 24:44 | Perfecting the elevator pitch 27:17 | Importance of repetition 28:36 | How to balance sudden life events with work 31:31 | Future of Crypto PR over next 5 years 34:25 | Outro ●▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬● 🔗 Amanda Whitcroft & Whitcroft PR Links: Website: X: LinkedIn: LinkedIn: Podcast: 🔗 Melrose & PoPR Links: Website: YouTube: X: X: LinkedIn: ●▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬● 📢 Disclaimer: The content presented on the podcast Proof-of-PR is intended for informational and entertainment purposes only. It does not constitute legal, financial, or any other type of professional advice. The host(s) and guest(s) are sharing their own opinions and experiences. You should always consult with a qualified professional for advice relevant to your specific circumstances. Melrose PR and Proof-of-PR is not responsible for any actions taken based on the information provided in this podcast. /episode/index/show/cryptotokentalk/id/40607010

Season 3 Episode 10: Advice & Insights from Podcasting in Web3 (ft. Dylan Grabowski) 10/23/2025

Season 3 Episode 9: Building Authentic Communities in Crypto (ft. Erica Kang) 09/11/2025

Season 3 Episode 8: Managing Communications & Community for your Organization (ft. Tom Bruni) 08/28/2025

Season 3 Episode 8: Managing Communications & Community for your Organization (ft. Tom Bruni) On this episode of Proof-of-PR, Tom Bruni joins Co-host Eunice Hwangbo to discuss how he handles media publishers and the community at Stocktwits. Tom Bruni covers topics such as Direct-to-Audience social channels, becoming a spokesperson, remaining a valuable resource to reporters, and much more. Stay up-to-date on upcoming guests and news by following us on Twitter at @ProofOfPR. #ProofofPR #Podcast #Crypto ●▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬● Timestamps: 0:00 | Intro 2:15 | Who is Tom Bruni? 3:22 | Stocktwits 4:25 | How to remain credible as an expert 5:50 | What Tom learned from interviews with publishers 9:07 | Impact of Direct-to-Audience channels 11:45 | Managing Community expectations 13:41 | BITWIRE AD SEGMENT 14:30 | Balance representing Stocktwits and personal voice as an expert 16:26 | Tom Bruni’s blog 17:42 | How to become an organization's spokesperson? 19:56 | How to remain as a valuable resource to reporters 22:24 | Don’t overthink media interviews ●▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬● 🔗 Tom Bruni: Website: X: LinkedIn: LinkedIn: 🔗 Melrose & PoPR Links: Website: YouTube: X: X: LinkedIn: ●▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬● 📢 Disclaimer: The content presented on the podcast Proof-of-PR is intended for informational and entertainment purposes only. It does not constitute legal, financial, or any other type of professional advice. The host(s) and guest(s) are sharing their own opinions and experiences. You should always consult with a qualified professional for advice relevant to your specific circumstances. Melrose PR and Proof-of-PR is not responsible for any actions taken based on the information provided in this podcast. /episode/index/show/cryptotokentalk/id/38006150

Season 3 Episode 7: PR & Comms Insights from Melrose Professionals (ft. Alex Gil & Eunice Hwangbo) 08/14/2025

Season 3 Episode 7: PR & Comms Insights from Melrose Professionals (ft. Alex Gil & Eunice Hwangbo) On this episode of Proof-of-PR, Alex Gil & Eunice Hwangbo join Co-host Nikki Brown to discuss their PR and Comms insights from working with previous Melrose clients. Alex & Eunice cover topics such as how to educate clients on PR outcomes, the value of press releases in Crypto, client examples of how to announce company news and even insight into AI for comms professionals. To stay up-to-date on upcoming guests and news by following us on Twitter at @ProofOfPR. #ProofofPR #Podcast #Crypto ●▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬● Timestamps: 0:00 | Intro 1:23 | Who is Eunice Hwangbo? 3:43 | Who is Alex Gil? 5:18 | Differences in PR Support by Industry 8:10 | Eras of Crypto Media Cycles 12:10 | Educating clients on PR 17:28 | Value of Press Releases in Crypto 20:22 | Client example of Announcing News 24:28 | BITWIRE AD SEGMENT 26:15 | Building profiles for thought leaders 31:45 | AI for Comms Professionals 36:35 | Staying technically curious 38:55 | No better time to be in PR ●▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬● 🔗 Alex Gil & Eunice Hwangbo & Nikki Brown: LinkedIn: LinkedIn: LinkedIn: 🔗 Melrose & PoPR Links: Website: YouTube: X: X: LinkedIn: ●▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬● 📢 Disclaimer: The content presented on the podcast Proof-of-PR is intended for informational and entertainment purposes only. It does not constitute legal, financial, or any other type of professional advice. The host(s) and guest(s) are sharing their own opinions and experiences. You should always consult with a qualified professional for advice relevant to your specific circumstances. Melrose PR and Proof-of-PR is not responsible for any actions taken based on the information provided in this podcast. /episode/index/show/cryptotokentalk/id/37825535

Season 3 Episode 6: Building Relationships & Founder Storytelling in Crypto PR (ft. Samantha Yap) 07/31/2025

Season 3 Episode 6: Building Relationships & Founder Storytelling in Crypto PR (ft. Samantha Yap) On this episode of Proof-of-PR, Samantha Yap, Founder & CEO of YAP Global joins host Kelley Weaver to discuss how she navigates relationships and obstacles in the crazy world of Crypto PR. Samantha covers topics such as helping founders to identify their brand story, navigating crisis management, developing strong thought leadership habits and much more! To stay up-to-date on upcoming guests and news by following us on Twitter at @ProofOfPR. #ProofofPR #Podcast #Crypto ●▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬● Timestamps: 0:00 | Intro 1:30 | Who is Samantha Yap? 3:47 | Journalism to Public Relations 5:24 | How Samantha started her own agency 8:27 | How has Crypto PR evolved? 10:42 | PR is a relationship business 11:55 | Most common messaging mistakes 14:40 | Helping Founders identify their brand story 16:36 | Navigating Crisis Management 19:53 | Strategies for helping brands stand out 22:15 | BITWIRE AD SEGMENT 23:37 | Importance of thought leadership 25:24 | Best channels for comms 27:35 | Having a strong point-of-view 28:10 | Work-life balance as a Mom 39:52 | Advice for NEW PR professionals 41:31 | Final thoughts from Samantha Yap ●▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬● 🔗 Samantha Yap & YAP Global Links: Website: X: X: LinkedIn: LinkedIn: 🔗 Melrose & PoPR Links: Website: YouTube: X: X: LinkedIn: ●▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬● 📢 Disclaimer: The content presented on the podcast Proof-of-PR is intended for informational and entertainment purposes only. It does not constitute legal, financial, or any other type of professional advice. The host(s) and guest(s) are sharing their own opinions and experiences. You should always consult with a qualified professional for advice relevant to your specific circumstances. Melrose PR and Proof-of-PR is not responsible for any actions taken based on the information provided in this podcast. /episode/index/show/cryptotokentalk/id/37617815

Season 3 Episode 5 - Elizabeth Olson, Former Head of Marketing - Bitcoin at Magic Eden 07/17/2025

Season 3 Episode 5 - Elizabeth Olson, Former Head of Marketing - Bitcoin at Magic Eden On this episode of Proof-of-PR, Elizabeth Olson, former Head of Marketing for Bitcoin at Magic Eden, joins Co-host Kelley Weaver to discuss her journey into the Bitcoin space and how others can get their career started in Bitcoin as well. Elizabeth covers topics such as brand building in Bitcoin, the marketing challenges nobody notices, the importance of AI optimization in search, her favorite type of Bitcoin events and much more! To stay up-to-date on upcoming guests and news by following us on Twitter at @ProofOfPR. #ProofofPR #Podcast #Crypto ●▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬● Timestamps: 0:00 | Intro 0:54 | Elizabeth Olson’s Story 8:04 | Approach to X Engagement 11:25 | Tips on getting started in Bitcoin 12:58 | Preferred AI tools 14:04 | Importance of AI Optimization 17:14 | How to approach brand building 20:58 | Marketing Challenges in Bitcoin space 24:05 | BITWIRE AD SEGMENT 27:27 | Most rewarding aspect of working in Bitcoin space 29:19 | Elizabeth’s favorite type of events 32:56 | Trends to keep an eye on 33:24 | How will the narrative of Bitcoin evolve over time? 34:10 | Final thoughts from Elizabeth Olson ●▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬● 🔗 Elizabeth Olson: Website: X: LinkedIn: 🔗 Melrose & PoPR Links: Website: YouTube: X: X: LinkedIn: ●▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬● 📢 Disclaimer: The content presented on the podcast Proof-of-PR is intended for informational and entertainment purposes only. It does not constitute legal, financial, or any other type of professional advice. The host(s) and guest(s) are sharing their own opinions and experiences. You should always consult with a qualified professional for advice relevant to your specific circumstances. Melrose PR and Proof-of-PR is not responsible for any actions taken based on the information provided in this podcast. /episode/index/show/cryptotokentalk/id/37438665

Season 3 Episode 4: Importance of Founder Thought Leadership in Brand Strategy (ft. Keli Callaghan) 07/03/2025

Season 3 Episode 4: Importance of Founder Thought Leadership in Brand Strategy (ft. Keli Callaghan) On this episode of Proof-of-PR, Keli Callaghan, Partner at Arrington Capital, joins Kelley Weaver to discuss the importance of founder-led thought leadership in brand strategy. Keli covers topics such as thought leadership amongst founders, strategies for building communities, ways to make your brand stand out from the crowd and much more! To stay up-to-date on upcoming guests and news by following us on Twitter at @ProofOfPR. #ProofofPR #Podcast #Crypto ●▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬● Timestamps: 0:00 | Intro 1:00 | Who is Keli Callaghan? 4:50 | How has Crypto changed? 8:14 | Thought Leadership for Founders 11:13 | Community Building Strategies 13:33 | Recruiting from Universities 15:03 | BITWIRE AD SEGMENT 16:24 | How to make your brand stand out 18:27 | How to measure PR success 20:12 | PR Tools 21:59 | How PR professionals can get into the Crypto industry 25:14 | How to juggle being a Mom and a PR career 29:23 | Time-management Tips 31:10 | Future of Crypto-related Marketing 34:17 | Most fulfilling part of Keli’s job 35:28 | Final thoughts from Keli Callaghan ●▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬● 🔗 Keli Callaghan & Arrington Capital Links: X: X: LinkedIn: LinkedIn: Arrington Capital Website: 🔗 Melrose & PoPR Links: Website: YouTube: X: X: LinkedIn: ●▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬● 📢 Disclaimer: The content presented on the podcast Proof-of-PR is intended for informational and entertainment purposes only. It does not constitute legal, financial, or any other type of professional advice. The host(s) and guest(s) are sharing their own opinions and experiences. You should always consult with a qualified professional for advice relevant to your specific circumstances. Melrose PR and Proof-of-PR are not responsible for any actions taken based on the information provided in this podcast. /episode/index/show/cryptotokentalk/id/37268085

Season 3 Episode 3: The Key to Maximizing Visibility in Crypto Comms (ft. Kelsey Ruiz) 06/19/2025

Season 3 Episode 3: The Key to Maximizing Visibility in Crypto Comms (ft. Kelsey Ruiz) On this episode of Proof-of-PR, Kelsey Ruiz, Head of Comms at Aztec Network, joins Co-host Nikki Brown to discuss communications in Crypto and how to maximize visibility. Kelsey covers topics such as her achievements in Comms at Aztec, the value of placements within and outside of the Crypto industry, the difference in Comms vs PR, and much more! To stay up-to-date on upcoming guests and news by following us on Twitter at @ProofOfPR. #ProofofPR #Podcast #Crypto ●▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬● ⏰ Timestamps: 0:00 | Intro 0:58 | Who is Kelsey Ruiz? 4:25 | Visibility goals for Aztec 6:30 | Comms strategies for Aztec’s testnet launch 9:45 | Takeaways from successful testnet coverage 14:19 | Achievements in Comms for Aztec Labs 17:26 | BITWIRE AD SEGMENT 18:52 | Value of placements outside of Crypto 24:34 | Key differences in Comms vs PR 28:55 | Challenges of navigating Crypto comms 33:43 | Using social media to increase visibility 37:59 | How to use AI to enhance comms strategy 42:40 | Final thoughts from Kelsey Ruiz ●▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬● 🔗 Kelsey Ruiz Links: X: LinkedIn: Aztec Website: 🔗 Melrose & PoPR Links: Website: YouTube: X: X: LinkedIn: ●▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬● 📢 Disclaimer: The content presented on the podcast Proof-of-PR is intended for informational and entertainment purposes only. It does not constitute legal, financial, or any other type of professional advice. The host(s) and guest(s) are sharing their own opinions and experiences. You should always consult with a qualified professional for advice relevant to your specific circumstances. Melrose PR and Proof-of-PR is not responsible for any actions taken based on the information provided in this podcast. /episode/index/show/cryptotokentalk/id/37068440

Season 3 Episode 2: From Marketing & Comms, to Corporate Leadership at Centrifuge (ft. Bhaji Illuminati) 06/05/2025

Season 3 Episode 2: From Marketing & Comms, to Corporate Leadership at Centrifuge (ft. Bhaji Illuminati) On this episode of Proof-of-PR, CEO of Centrifuge Bhaji Illuminati joins host Kelley Weaver to discuss stepping into her new leadership role and how her expertise in marketing helped her get there. Bhaji talks about the evolution of her leadership philosophy, the importance of communication externally and internally, why you should always be transparent with your community and how she manages to balance her career and family on top of it all. To stay up-to-date on upcoming guests and news by following us on Twitter at @ProofOfPR. ●▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬● Timestamps: 0:00 | Intro 0:55 | Bhaji Illuminati’s background in marketing 2:50 | From marketing to leadership at Centrifuge 8:58 | Transparency with your community 9:24 | Evolution of Bhaji’s leadership philosophy 10:55 | Creating the RWA Summit 17:27 | Advice for balancing family & career 20:21 | Keeping up with the market narrative 22:13 | AI tools for aggregating news & information 24:16 | Centrifuge website & socials ●▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬● Bhaji Illuminati & Centrifuge Links: Website: X: LinkedIn: LinkedIn: Melrose & PoPR Links: Website: YouTube: X: X: LinkedIn: ●▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬● Disclaimer: The content presented on the podcast Proof-of-PR is intended for informational and entertainment purposes only. It does not constitute legal, financial, or any other type of professional advice. The host(s) and guest(s) are sharing their own opinions and experiences. You should always consult with a qualified professional for advice relevant to your specific circumstances. Melrose PR and Proof-of-PR are not responsible for any actions taken based on the information provided in this podcast. /episode/index/show/cryptotokentalk/id/36858965

Proof-of-PR Season 3 Episode 1: The Secret behind Engaging Op-eds in Crypto (ft. Cath Jenkin) 05/22/2025

Proof-of-PR Season 3 Episode 1: The Secret behind Engaging Op-eds in Crypto (ft. Cath Jenkin) On this episode of Proof-of-PR, Opinion Editor for Cointelegraph Cath Jenkin joins Co-host Nikki Brown to discuss journalism in the crypto industry. Cath dives into what makes good Op-eds, the importance of a human perspective in the world of AI, the value structure gives opinion pieces, tips for PR professionals engaging with journalists and so much more! To stay up-to-date on upcoming guests and news by following us on Twitter at @ProofOfPR. #ProofofPR #Podcast #Crypto ●▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬● ⏰ Timestamps: 0:00 | Intro 0:38 | Who is Cath Jenkin? 6:30 | Positivity & excitement of the Crypto industry 10:06 | What makes a good opinion piece? 18:11 | Importance of the Human Perspective (Not AI) 21:09 | How to properly leverage AI in journalism 23:30 | Value of structure in opinion pieces 24:23 | Opinions vs Facts 29:27 | Value in Expert Opinions & Advice 32:45 | Tips for PR professionals on working with journalists 40:10 | Purpose of Crypto is to make life better 41:56 | Final thoughts from Cath Jenkin ●▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬● 🔗 Cath Jenkin Links: X: LinkedIn: Cointelegraph: 🔗 Melrose & PoPR Links: Website: YouTube: X: X: LinkedIn: ●▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬● 📢 Disclaimer: The content presented on the podcast Proof-of-PR is intended for informational and entertainment purposes only. It does not constitute legal, financial, or any other type of professional advice. The host(s) and guest(s) are sharing their own opinions and experiences. You should always consult with a qualified professional for advice relevant to your specific circumstances. Melrose PR and Proof-of-PR is not responsible for any actions taken based on the information provided in this podcast. /episode/index/show/cryptotokentalk/id/36675020