Smart Talk Series
Welcome to the Smart Talk Series with your host Melissa Vela Williamson, award-winning/nationally syndicated PR Pro. This is the show for professionals, marketing, and communications solo practitioners and teams.
info_outline
Making Milestones Happen with Michael Klein
10/07/2025
Making Milestones Happen with Michael Klein
As we’ve learned this season, milestones don’t just appear. They come after brave actions, years, and sometimes decades of hard work and dedication. In the final episode of Season 10, Melissa interviews Michael Klein, Public Relations Manager at Ferrovial Construction, to discuss the career milestones he made possible by bravely asking for opportunities and taking action to bring them to life. About Michael: Mike Klein is a high-energy people person who began his career in television as a sports producer. Then changed career paths by becoming a public relations manager for one of the largest heavy civil construction companies in the world, Ferrovial Construction, and has found his calling in life. Connect with Michael on Topics covered: The value of making “the ask” Mike’s career milestone moments Navigating life-altering career milestones How to be adaptable in dynamic situations The importance of community relations Tips on cultivating a positive mindset Resources mentioned:
/episode/index/show/smarttalkseries/id/38480195
info_outline
Celebrating Organizational Milestones with Joseph Nespral and Casey Casseb
09/30/2025
Celebrating Organizational Milestones with Joseph Nespral and Casey Casseb
A major milestone in your organization is the perfect time to take stock of what you’ve achieved and chart a path for the future. In this episode, Melissa interviews President & CEO of Texas Organ Sharing Alliance Joe Nespral and TOSA’s Director of Communications Casey Casseb, to discuss celebrating 50 years of their organization’s important work in organ donation. About Joe: Joseph Nespral, MD, CPTC is the President & CEO of Texas Organ Sharing Alliance. Joe has been with TOSA since July 1997 and was promoted to CEO in October 2016. Joe has an extensive background in Organ Procurement Organization leadership in operations, restructuring, policy analysis, business development and quality improvement. About Casey: Casey Casseb has been creating and executing creative marketing, media, and events for unique brands for over 20 years. She has experience collaborating with Fortune 500 brands and is a strong advocate for personalized, committed, and exceptional service to all clients, both internal and external. Currently, she serves as the Texas Organ Sharing Alliance’s Director of Communications. Topics covered: Joe and Casey's career milestone moments Celebrating TOSA’s 50th anniversary Organ donation myths and misconceptions Joe and Casey’s favorite TOSA memories Insights on communicating sensitive topics Resources mentioned:
/episode/index/show/smarttalkseries/id/38382105
info_outline
Supporting Future Young Professionals with Emilia Williamson
09/23/2025
Supporting Future Young Professionals with Emilia Williamson
Today, Melissa is taking a break from talking to seasoned professionals by sitting down with a future young professional: her daughter, Emilia. Listen as Melissa and Emilia discuss how communication professionals can support and inspire Generation Z and beyond as they work to achieve milestones of their own. About Emilia: Emilia Williamson is a rising junior in high school who has “interned” in public relations and communications since she was a toddler. She is an honor roll student, award-winning theatre performer and cosplayer, aerial dance artist, and tenured Junior Intern at MVW Communications. She aspires to be an American Sign Language Interpreter, actor, and aerial performer who may advance the public relations profession in surprising ways. Topics covered: Emilia’s memorable milestone moment Life as a junior in high school Emilia’s journey to her creative endeavors How to navigate change in a smart way How to build trust and cultivate voice with students Resources mentioned:
/episode/index/show/smarttalkseries/id/38119240
info_outline
The Moments That Shape You with Hussein Al-Baiaty
09/16/2025
The Moments That Shape You with Hussein Al-Baiaty
There are many moments in life, tragic and joyful, that can help create the person and professional you are today. In this episode, Melissa chats with Hussein Al-Baiaty, an author marketing strategist, about the past moments that shape us and the future moments we can manifest with the right mindset. About Hussein: Hussein Al-Baiaty is an author marketing strategist, author, and founder of Rising Authors, a platform that helps nonfiction writers grow their influence, income, and impact through powerful brand-building. As a refugee turned entrepreneur, Hussein combines storytelling, strategic marketing, and design to guide authors in turning their personal stories into thriving businesses. He also hosts The Rising Authors Experience podcast, where he interviews leaders and creators about resilience, purpose, and legacy. Follow Hussein on . Topics covered: Hussein’s milestone moments How becoming a father impacted Hussein Advice for navigating uncertain times Leveraging milestone moments to enhance your career Insights on advancing your professional position Resources mentioned:
/episode/index/show/smarttalkseries/id/38119150
info_outline
Leveraging Milestones for Social Change with Claudia Romo Edelman
09/09/2025
Leveraging Milestones for Social Change with Claudia Romo Edelman
With each milestone you reach, your career and reputation grow. What good can you do with that power? In this episode, Melissa sits down with Claudia Romo Edelman, a global mobilization expert, about how Claudia uses her voice and influence to help positively change the world. About Claudia: Claudia Romo Edelman is a global mobilization expert, catalyst for social change and marketer for social causes. She is a recognized speaker, activist, thought leader, author, and upcoming entrepreneur. Follow Claudia on . Topics covered: Claudia's milestone moments What inspired Claudia to elevate the US Latino narrative Key findings from the 2025 Hispanic Opportunity Toolkit Claudia’s tips on promoting visibility Resources mentioned:
/episode/index/show/smarttalkseries/id/38119050
info_outline
Celebrating Your Own Milestones with Karen Swim
09/02/2025
Celebrating Your Own Milestones with Karen Swim
Celebrating milestones as an entrepreneur can be difficult when you're trying to navigate a tough time or just busy serving your clients. In this episode, Melissa sits down with the President of Solo PR Pro, Karen Swim, to discuss how to leverage milestones as a business owner, the enduring spirit of solopreneurs, and how to take care of your well-being while leading the way in public relations. About Karen: Karen Swim, APR, is an accredited public relations professional, speaker, podcaster, author, and champion of independent by choice workers. She is the Founder of Words For Hire, a B2B, Technology and Healthcare PR and Marketing agency and the President of Solo PR Pro, a membership organization for independents and microagencies. In 2024, she also co-founded Data+PR, a collaborative with BlueRun PR that focuses on storytelling through data. Follow Karen on and Topics covered: Karen's milestone moments About the Solo PR Pro community What inspires Karen to lead her community Navigating uncertain times as a Solo PR Pro Leveraging milestone moments How to stop underestimating yourself Resources mentioned:
/episode/index/show/smarttalkseries/id/38002715
info_outline
Bonus Episode: Branding, Bravery and Breaking Through with Melissa Vela-Williamson, Karen Swim & Michelle Kane
08/19/2025
Bonus Episode: Branding, Bravery and Breaking Through with Melissa Vela-Williamson, Karen Swim & Michelle Kane
Enjoy a bonus conversation between Melissa and the hosts of That Solo Life: The Solo PR Pro Podcast, Karen Swim and Michelle Kane about Melissa's tips on cultivating a purposeful personal brand.
/episode/index/show/smarttalkseries/id/37773310
info_outline
Bonus: Thought Leadership for Agency Growth with Chip Griffin & Melissa Vela-Williamson
05/13/2025
Bonus: Thought Leadership for Agency Growth with Chip Griffin & Melissa Vela-Williamson
Enjoy a bonus conversation between Melissa and Chip Griffin about Melissa's unique journey in public relations and the importance of content creation.
/episode/index/show/smarttalkseries/id/36458035
info_outline
Bonus: Most Experts Stay Quiet—She Refused with Hussein Al-Baiaty & Melissa Vela-Williamson
04/29/2025
Bonus: Most Experts Stay Quiet—She Refused with Hussein Al-Baiaty & Melissa Vela-Williamson
Enjoy a bonus conversation between Melissa and author champion and publishing strategist Hussein Al-Baiaty on the Rising Authors podcast where they discuss how challenging it was for Melissa to "be" the author for her first book, "Smart Talk: Public Relations Essentials All Pros Should Know." And then, what it was like to inspire other Latina leaders to go down that path with her second, "Latinas in Public Relations: Shaping Communications, Communities, and Culture." Thanks to Hussein for having Melissa on her show to talk about her journey!
/episode/index/show/smarttalkseries/id/36215005
info_outline
Meet the Authors of "Latinas in PR": Irasema Romero and Lorraine Pulido
04/22/2025
Meet the Authors of "Latinas in PR": Irasema Romero and Lorraine Pulido
In today's episode, Melissa introduces two authors from the new anthology, "Latinas in PR", Irasema Romero and Lorraine Pulido. About Irasema: Irasema Romero is a seasoned internal communication advisor and leadership coach with more than 15 years of experience supporting leaders through transformative organizational changes. She currently leads internal communications at Gong, an AI-powered revenue intelligence platform, and has a leadership coaching practice, Ollin Growth, focused on supporting early-career leaders. Throughout her career, Irasema has worked with C-suite executives during key moments of growth, including major mergers and acquisitions, and has a track record of successfully navigating high-impact communication initiatives across companies like AT&T and Ancestry. About Lorraine: Dr. Lorena “Lorraine” Pulido, Ph.D. became the communications director for the San Antonio Independent School District (SAISD) in August 2024. She has thirty years of experience in the communications industry, previously serving as communications manager for VIA Metropolitan Transit and public relations manager for the City of San Antonio. She was elected the first female and first Latina chairperson to lead the Brooks Development Authority Board of Directors and as a trustee for Alamo Colleges District for District 4 in San Antonio, Texas. She is an award-winning PR professional and adjunct professor at Texas A&M University- San Antonio and has taught hundreds of students in her twenty- four years of teaching at various colleges. Topics covered: - How the authors got in Public Relations - What inspired them to share their story - A preview of each author's story - Advice for someone taking a step forward in their career - Resources mentioned: - - -
/episode/index/show/smarttalkseries/id/36214865
info_outline
Meet the Authors of "Latinas in PR": Rachel Benavidez and Lilly Cortés Wyatt
04/15/2025
Meet the Authors of "Latinas in PR": Rachel Benavidez and Lilly Cortés Wyatt
In today's episode, Melissa introduces two authors from the new anthology, "Latinas in PR", Rachel Benavidez and Lilly Cortés Wyatt. About Rachel: Rachel Benavidez is a former journalist turned public relations and marketing professional who brings more than 25 years of experience to her role as Vice President of Communications and Strategy for VIA Metropolitan Transit in San Antonio. The local PRSA Chapter named her PR Professional of the Year in 2023 and in 2024 elected her President, to lead in 2025. She's a Rio Grande Valley native who has lived in San Antonio since 2008, with roles as editor in chief at San Antonio Magazine and City Editor at the San Antonio Express-News. About Lilly: Lilly is the founder of SociosPR, an integrated communications firm known for its expertise in multicultural strategies and cultural competence. Drawing from her journalism background, Lilly leads a team with over a century of combined experience delivering tailored, human-centered communication solutions. With a commitment to diversity in thought and approach, Lilly offers insights that are intersectional, socially conscious, and environmentally aware, empowering clients to connect authentically with diverse audiences. Topics covered: - How the authors got in Public Relations - What inspired them to share their story - A preview of each author's story - Advice for someone taking a step forward in their career - Resources mentioned: - - -
/episode/index/show/smarttalkseries/id/36103910
info_outline
Meet the Authors of "Latinas in PR": Brenda Duran and Anais Biera Miracle
04/08/2025
Meet the Authors of "Latinas in PR": Brenda Duran and Anais Biera Miracle
In today's episode, Melissa introduces two authors from the new anthology, "Latinas in PR", Brenda Duran and Anais Biera Miracle. About Brenda: Brenda Duran is a seasoned media and communications specialist with over a decade of impactful service in Los Angeles County. Currently the Director of External Affairs for the LA County Justice, Care, and Opportunities Department, she has excelled in expanding social media presence, launching successful multimedia campaigns, and crafting strategic messaging for key public programs. With a journalism degree from USC's Annenberg School, Brenda's career spans government communications and print media, showcasing her expertise in driving outreach and innovation across diverse platforms. About Anais: Anais Biera Miracle has 20 years of experience in communications, with expertise in litigation public relations, crisis communications, and nonprofit leadership. Anais is the Chief Communications Officer for one of the largest, Latino-led nonprofit organizations in the United States. Anais lives in Austin with her husband and daughter. Connect with Anais on Topics covered: - How the authors got in Public Relations - What inspired them to share their story - A preview of each author's story - Advice for someone taking a step forward in their career - Resources mentioned: - - -
/episode/index/show/smarttalkseries/id/35875590
info_outline
Meet the Authors of "Latinas in PR": Jill Casey Pintor and Marisol Vindiola
04/01/2025
Meet the Authors of "Latinas in PR": Jill Casey Pintor and Marisol Vindiola
In today's episode, Melissa introduces two authors from the new anthology, "Latinas in PR", Jill Casey Pintor and Marisol Vindiola. About Jill: Jill is a PR and communications professional with experience spanning more than two decades across several industries including television, nonprofits, entertainment and finance. She currently works as a financial content writer at StreetCred PR. Jill holds a bachelor's degree in communication from the University of Arizona and has served three terms as ethics chair on the PRSA Southern AZ Chapter Board of Directors. Jill is an Arizona native, raised in the border town of Douglas, and she resides in Tucson. Connect with Jill on . About Marisol: Marisol Vindiola is a Senior Business Development Manager in the multicultural space at Orange 142. She is passionate about public relations, relationship-building, marketing, tourism, and promotion of her heritage and culture. Her superpowers include being bilingual, binational, and bicultural—proud Latina. Connect with Marisol on . Topics covered: - How the authors got in Public Relations - What inspired them to share their story - A preview of each author's story - Advice for someone taking a step forward in their career - Resources mentioned: - - -
/episode/index/show/smarttalkseries/id/35814090
info_outline
Meet the Authors of "Latinas in PR": Jeannette E. Garcia and Paola Vargas-Strassner
03/25/2025
Meet the Authors of "Latinas in PR": Jeannette E. Garcia and Paola Vargas-Strassner
In today's episode, Melissa introduces two authors from the new anthology, "Latinas in PR", Jeannette E. Garcia and Paola Vargas-Strassner. About Jeannette: Jeannette is the Director of Communications at a San Antonio systems-change nonprofit organization, UP Partnership. In the past, Jeannette was a reporter with the San Antonio Business Journal. She has more than a decade of communications, public relations, and marketing experience, having led these types of efforts for places like the San Antonio Hispanic Chamber of Commerce and the City of San Antonio’s Economic Development Department. She has a bachelor’s degree in public relations with concentrations in Latino Media Studies and Business Foundations from the University of Texas at Austin. Connect with Jeannette on About Paola: Paola Vargas-Strassner, MPS, APR is a Strategic Communications and Public Affairs professional currently serving the Maryland State. She is a well-traveled, seasoned bilingual communications professional who specializes in the areas of public affairs, strategic planning, and digital media. Connect with Paola on Topics covered: - How the authors got in Public Relations - What inspired them to share their story - A preview of each author's story - Advice for someone taking a step forward in their career - Resources mentioned: - - -
/episode/index/show/smarttalkseries/id/35620230
info_outline
Meet the Authors of "Latinas in PR": Melissa Monroe and Olga Mayoral Wilson
03/18/2025
Meet the Authors of "Latinas in PR": Melissa Monroe and Olga Mayoral Wilson
In today's episode, Melissa introduces two authors from the new anthology, "Latinas in PR", Melissa Monroe and Olga Mayoral Wilson. About Melissa: Melissa Monroe, MA, APR has worked as a journalist for over 15 years and transitioned into PR in 2008. She works in the Marketing & Strategic Communications team at Northwest Vista College and stays busy in her community and with her family. Connect with Melissa on About Olga: Olga Mayoral Wilson, APR, Fellow PRSA sees herself as a service leader providing service where it may be mostly needed. She was born in Puerto Rico, a beautiful Island in the Caribbean which nurtured her to be whom she is today. She is the youngest of three girls and has always loved reading and learning about cultures, their people and customs. Through travel, education and being exposed to so many experiences and locations, her thirst for knowledge, teaching and mentoring is somewhat quenched. Connect with Olga on Follow Olga on Topics covered: - How the authors got in Public Relations - What inspired them to share their story - A preview of each author's story - Advice for someone taking a step forward in their career - Resources mentioned: - - -
/episode/index/show/smarttalkseries/id/35620080
info_outline
Meet the Authors of "Latinas in PR": Carmen Boon and Amelia Taurel Folkes
03/11/2025
Meet the Authors of "Latinas in PR": Carmen Boon and Amelia Taurel Folkes
In today's episode, Melissa introduces two authors from the new anthology, "Latinas in PR", Carmen Boon and Amelia Taurel Folkes. About Carmen: Carmen Boon, M.A. serves as the Vice President for Public Affairs at Food Bank For New York City, amassing decades of experience in crafting strategic communication strategies and spearheading social impact and advocacy initiatives. As a first-generation immigrant from Venezuela and a Fulbright scholar, Carmen has contributed to various New York City government agencies, tackling outreach challenges and managing crisis communications that provide critical services to millions. Her efforts in social impact communications within the nonprofit and public sectors have garnered her and her teams numerous recognitions, including the Shorty Impact and PR Week Purpose Awards. Carmen is an alumna of both The New School in New York City and Universidad Católica Andrés Bello in Caracas. About Amelia: Amelia Taurel Folkes, MPS, APR is an accredited PR professional and strategic communicator with a vision and passion for helping brands position themselves for growth. She has more than 18 years of experience in public relations and thought leadership supporting a variety of clients in the fields of technology, government, B2C and B2B, financial services, and non-profit sectors. Topics covered: - How the authors got in Public Relations - What inspired them to share their story - A preview of each author's story - Advice for someone taking a step forward in their career - Resources mentioned: - - -
/episode/index/show/smarttalkseries/id/35443640
info_outline
The Story Behind "Latinas in PR"
03/04/2025
The Story Behind "Latinas in PR"
Season premiere! For the first episode of season nine, Melissa reads the introduction from her new anthology, "Latinas in Public Relations: Shaping Communications, Communities, and Culture." Topics covered: - What inspired Melissa to go on this new book journey - The introduction of "Latinas in Public Relations” Resources mentioned: - - -
/episode/index/show/smarttalkseries/id/35443535
info_outline
Avoiding Performative Acknowledgements with Charlene Ostbloom and Angela Gonzalez
10/08/2024
Avoiding Performative Acknowledgements with Charlene Ostbloom and Angela Gonzalez
This season, we've learned that cultural strategy is essential, but approaches can feel hollow and performative without collaboration and authentic engagement with the cultures being recognized. In this season finale, Melissa speaks with Charlene Ostbloom, the founder of Bloom Communications and Angela Gonzalez, the communications manager for Chugachmiut, a tribal consortium. They dig into bridging cultures between business and Native communities, the missteps around Cherokee Barbie, and the incorporation of Native Land Acknowledgements. About Charlene: Charlene Ostbloom, founder of Bloom Communications, is dedicated to bridging cultures between businesses and Alaska Native communities. With decades of experience and deep roots in Nulato (noo-LA-Toh), Alaska, she offers Corporate Culture Camps, training, coaching and facilitation services. Charlene is also developing Native Women RISE, an innovative program that will celebrate the unique professional journeys of Indigenous women. About Angela: Angela Gonzalez is Koyukon Athabascan originally from Huslia, Alaska, and lives in Anchorage, Alaska. She is a communications professional, writer, and bead artist living in Anchorage, Alaska. She is currently the communications manager for Chugachmiut, a tribal consortium. Visit Bloom Communications' Connect with Charlene on . Read Angela's . Follow Angela on . Follow Angela on . Follow Angela on . Topics covered: - Learning from Mattel's missteps from the Cherokee Barbie - Creating representation with Fish Camp Barbie - Native Land Acknowledgements - How Native Land Acknowledgements can be problematic - How to increase respect for Native cultural expressions and practices Resources mentioned: - - - - - - - - - -
/episode/index/show/smarttalkseries/id/33290457
info_outline
Implementing Cultural Strategy with Ben Finzel and LaTricia Harper Woods, APR
10/01/2024
Implementing Cultural Strategy with Ben Finzel and LaTricia Harper Woods, APR
Creating a cultural strategy is not enough. Effectively implementing your strategy is the first step to enacting real change. Listen as Melissa talks with Ben Finzel and LaTricia Harper Woods, APR of The Change Agencies about activating cultural strategy in today's society. About Ben: Ben Finzel is president of RENEWPR, a Washington, DC-based public relations firm. Ben and his team of seven independent PR professionals provide advice, counsel and outreach on strategy, messaging, media and partnerships to clients tackling energy, environmental and equity issues and opportunities. Ben is one of two founders of The Change Agencies, the national network of inclusive PR firms focused on changing the way business and organizations communicate across cultures. About LaTricia: LaTricia Woods is an award-winning, accredited public relations professional with more than 29 years of industry experience. She is the Founder and CEO of Mahogany Xan Communications, where she leads a talented team of professionals and serves a national client portfolio. She is also the founding principal of The Change Agencies. Follow The Change Agencies on .Follow The Change Agencies on . Topics covered: - The current state of cultural competence in comms - Key drivers for the creation of The Change Agencies' cultural strategy - Embodying the cultural nuances of different target audiences - Implementing cultural strategy in today's political climate - Avoiding cultural appropriation - Staying ahead of cultural trends and adapting strategies Resources mentioned: - - -
/episode/index/show/smarttalkseries/id/33131002
info_outline
Inclusive Insights with Jessica Broome, Ph.D.
09/24/2024
Inclusive Insights with Jessica Broome, Ph.D.
Sometimes the audiences that are the easiest to reach are not the ones that you need to hear from. In today's episode, Melissa sits with Jessica Broome Ph.D., the founder of Southpaw Insights about what inclusive insights are and how they can benefit every communicator. About Jessica: Dr. Jessica Broome is a survey methodologist and insights professional. She founded Southpaw Insights in 2008 to conduct meaningful, human-centered research that helps organizations make smart decisions and connect with audiences. Southpaw does qualitative and quantitative research to help clients understand what people think, feel, and do. Email Jessica at jessica@southpawinsights.com. Connect with Jessica on . Follow Southpaw Insights on . Topics covered: - The importance of inclusive insights - Findings from niche audiences - Challenges when communicating with hard-to-reach audiences - The future of inclusive insights - Findings from studies on women and self-promotion - How communicators can utilize inclusive insights Resources mentioned: - - - -
/episode/index/show/smarttalkseries/id/32810592
info_outline
Communicating with International Audiences with Daniel Marin
09/17/2024
Communicating with International Audiences with Daniel Marin
Soccer brings together people of all cultures around the world. With a large audience that comes from so many backgrounds, how do you best communicate with each? Tune in to an engaging conversation with the Executive Director of Public Relations for the FIFA World Cup 2026™ Daniel "Danny" Marin about how to communicate with an international IQ. About Danny: Daniel Marin is the Executive Director of Public Relations for the FIFA World Cup 2026™ where he leads all communications strategies for what will be the biggest sporting event in history. For two decades Daniel has held a range of comms roles within some of the biggest brands around, from UPS to Netflix, and most recently led communications for Amazon’s Prime Video division across Latin America, Canada, Australia & New Zealand. He’s a native of Miami, FL where he currently resides, and holds an MBA from Florida International University. Connect with Danny on . Topics covered: - PR for the world's most popular sport - Managing external communications - The importance of incorporating both English and Spanish languages in communications - Communicating with diverse cultural groups - Internal vs. external communications Resources mentioned: - - - -
/episode/index/show/smarttalkseries/id/32810407
info_outline
Staying WOKE as a Communications Professional with Gabriel Reyes
09/10/2024
Staying WOKE as a Communications Professional with Gabriel Reyes
Culturally relevant communication is powerful, especially when it's created with knowledge, empathy, and solidarity. In this episode, Melissa talks to Gabriel Reyes, the president and founder of Reyes Entertainment about his new book and efforts to inform and educate the industry pros about the need for cultural competence. About Gabriel: Gabriel Reyes is considered one of the pioneers of Hispanic marketing in the Entertainment Industry. He has led Reyes Entertainment, a boutique PR agency based in Hollywood for over two decades. In 2023, Reyes was honored by the Public Relations Society of America L.A. Chapter (PRSA-LA) with its Sunrise Honors Award in recognition of his work promoting Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in the Public Relations field. Follow Reyes Entertainment on . Follow Reyes Entertainment on . Follow Reyes Entertainment on . Follow Gabriel on . Topics covered: - The importance of cultural competence for communicators - The state of U.S. media - Defining implicit bias - How PR pros can elevate marginalized communities - How communication professionals can make a positive difference Resources mentioned: - - - - - - -
/episode/index/show/smarttalkseries/id/32810267
info_outline
The Pressures Latinas Face and Leveraging Research with Sahana Mukherjee
09/03/2024
The Pressures Latinas Face and Leveraging Research with Sahana Mukherjee
Join us this season as we focus on Cultural Strategy! Melissa kicks off Season 8 with Associate Director of Race and Ethnicity Research at Pew Research Center, Sahana Mukherjee. Listen as they discuss the important role research plays when crafting cultural strategy. About Sahana: Sahana Mukherjee is Associate Director of Race and Ethnicity research at Pew Research Center. She is an expert on issues of race relations, culture and identity, and immigration in American and Asian contexts. Sahana has published extensively in academic and non-academic outlets and has received multiple research awards from universities and professional societies in recognition of her work. Access all of Pew Research Center reports on their . Topics covered: - Using research findings to inform communications strategy - Findings from Pew Research Center's new report "A Majority of Latinas Feel Pressure To Support Their Families or To Succeed at Work” - Unique pressures Latinas face - Life satisfaction for Latinas Resources mentioned: - - -
/episode/index/show/smarttalkseries/id/32809732
info_outline
Producing Your Own Talk Show with Ernie Zuniga
05/07/2024
Producing Your Own Talk Show with Ernie Zuniga
Season finale! Celebrate the end of Season 7 with an insightful discussion between host Melissa Vela-Williamson and Ernie Zuniga the host of "Pickup Lines". Ernie shares about taking the leap from being a TV morning news anchor on traditional media, to developing a self-produced show with a unique format. About Ernie: For almost 18 years, Ernie Zuniga helped to wake up San Antonio area residents bright and early every weekday as the anchor and co-host of FOX San Antonio’s highly-rated morning show, “FOX News First”. Ernie has stayed very busy, trying his hand at podcasting and going 'all-in' on the digital talk show he created six years ago inside his own car, called "Pickup Lines". Follow Ernie on Connect with Ernie on Follow Ernie on Subscribe to Ernie's Listen to Pickup Lines on Topics covered: - The format of "Pickup Lines" - Securing sponsorships - The best and worst part of creating and hosting your own show - Using audience feedback to improve - Advice for pivoting in your career Resources mentioned: - - - - - -
/episode/index/show/smarttalkseries/id/30753698
info_outline
Creating Content for Niche Audiences with April Monterrosa
04/30/2024
Creating Content for Niche Audiences with April Monterrosa
When you see a lack of representation in media, sometimes the best way to address it is to create the type of publication you're craving. In today's episode, Melissa sits down with April Monterrosa, the publisher and editor-in-chief of Live From The Southside Magazine, to talk about creating content for a niche audience and an insider's look into becoming a community influencer. About April: April Monterrosa, a native of San Antonio, Texas, is an entrepreneur, author, speaker, and business mentor. She’s the publisher and editor-in-chief of Live From The Southside Magazine, the first woman-owned publication in Southside San Antonio. Her entrepreneurial journey commenced at 12 when she assisted with various responsibilities within her father’s plumbing contracting company, Greg Galindo Plumbing. This early exposure laid the foundation for her journey into business ownership. With over 20 years of hospitality and spa industry expertise in the corporate world, April thrived as the proprietor of her esthetic and wellness business before her media career. Follow Live From The Southside on Follow Live From The Southside on Follow Live From The Southside on Topics covered: - An insider's look at Live From The Southside - The evolution of Live From The Southside - Advantages from focusing on a hyper-local area of the city - The effects of becoming an influencer - Radio in today's world - Advice on creating content for a niche audience Resources mentioned: - - -
/episode/index/show/smarttalkseries/id/30753418
info_outline
B2B Communications and Events with Erika Bradbury
04/23/2024
B2B Communications and Events with Erika Bradbury
You don't have to be a subject matter expert to help create an engaging event for professionals in a certain sector. You just have to be an expert at creating events. In this episode, Melissa talks with Erika Bradbury, an editorial and event content strategist about creating successful events and communications for business-to-business (B2B) audiences. About Erika: Erika Bradbury is an editorial and event content strategist. For more than 15 years, she has worked cross-functionally to create and activate B2B content. This has included writing for both print and digital publications, as well as programming large and small conference agendas. Event programs have included Social Shake-Up, IAB Annual Leadership Meeting, IAB Mixx, the Direct Brand Summit and Fashion Digital. She has worked on partner programs for Cannes and Mobile World Congress, as well as produced programs and managed talent at Podcast Upfronts and Newfronts West. Connect with Erika on Email Erika at erika.s.bradbury@gmail.com Topics covered: - Focusing on business-to-business (B2B) communications and events - Creating content and experiences for a profession - Topics that impact how we practice PR - Creating content and events for social media - Managing events for professionals - Advice for pros looking to work for a trade publication Resources mentioned: - - - -
/episode/index/show/smarttalkseries/id/30752908
info_outline
Trade Journalism with John Elsasser
04/16/2024
Trade Journalism with John Elsasser
No matter what field you're in, there's probably a publication that is created for professionals like you and covers stories that are relevant to your area of work. This is called trade journalism. In today's episode, Melissa is joined by John Elsasser, the editor-in-chief of PRSA's Strategies & Tactics for a discussion about the evolution and importance of trade journalism. About John: John Elsasser is an experienced director of publications with a demonstrated history of working in the public relations and communications profession. He's an accomplished writer and editor with a Bachelor’s Degree in Journalism from The Ohio State University. Connect with John on Email John at john.elsasser@prsa.org Topics covered: - John's path to PRSA - The evolution of the PRSA publication - Writing for evolving attention spans and platforms - Advice for students and pros interested in trade journalism Resources mentioned: - - - - - - -
/episode/index/show/smarttalkseries/id/30698303
info_outline
The Magic of Authorship with Jacqueline Ruiz
04/09/2024
The Magic of Authorship with Jacqueline Ruiz
As PR pros, we excel at helping clients tell their stories, but when it comes to telling our own, we sometimes find it difficult to "land that plane". Melissa talks to Jacqueline Ruiz, a social entrepreneur (and a real-life pilot) about how the magic of hybrid publishing can help you tell your story. Thought about becoming an author? Listen in! About Jacqueline: Jacqueline Ruiz is a visionary social entrepreneur who has created an enterprise of inspiration. With more than 20 years of experience in the marketing/public relations and publishing industry, she has created two successful award-winning companies, established two nonprofit organizations, published 33 books, the largest collection of Latina stories in a book anthology series in the world, and held events in four continents. She has received over 40 awards for her contributions and business acumen. She represents the 1.6% of women entrepreneurs with over seven figures in the United States. Being a two-time cancer survivor activated her sense of urgency to serve others and live life to the fullest. Jacqueline is one of the few Latina sports airplane pilots in the United States and founder of Latinas in Aviation global brand. She recently collaborated with College Park Aviation Museum to create the historic first-ever exhibit in the world to honor Latinas in Aviation. Connect with Jacqueline on Follow Jacqueline on Topics covered: - Defining hybrid publishing - The author selection process - Creating anthologies with Latina professionals - Common stories featured in anthologies - Advice for future authors Resources mentioned: - - - - -
/episode/index/show/smarttalkseries/id/30569783
info_outline
Opinion Journalism with Ruben Navarrette
04/02/2024
Opinion Journalism with Ruben Navarrette
Join us this season as we focus on The Future of Mass Communication! Melissa kicks off this season with nationally syndicated columnist, Ruben Navarrette. Listen as they discuss the importance of thought leadership in comms, the role of opinion editorials (op-eds), and how to navigate controversial issues as communicators. About Ruben: Ruben Navarrette is a nationally syndicated columnist with The Washington Post Writers Group, writer of the Navarrette Nation newsletter at Substack, regular contributor to Spectrum News 1 in Los Angeles, a contributor to The Daily Beast (on the left) and Newsmax Magazine (on the right), feature writer for Latino Magazine, member of USA Today’s Board of Contributors, host of the podcast “Ruben In The Center,” regular contributor of video commentary to Omaha-based Straight Arrow News, author of “A Darker Shade of Crimson: Odyssey of a Harvard Chicano” (Bantam), founder & CEO of “The Navarrette Sonic Podcast Network,” and a communications coach specializing in personal brand development and the creation of media projects for individuals, companies and non-profit organizations. Subscribe to Ruben's Follow Ruben on Follow Ruben on Topics covered: - Refining your opinion as a columnist - Picking topics to cover or pitch - What PR professionals should know about the immigration debate - Preparing communication during a presidential election year Resources mentioned: - - - - -
/episode/index/show/smarttalkseries/id/30533073
info_outline
Tickets on Sale Now: Ethics and Copyright Law in an AI-Excited World
12/19/2023
Tickets on Sale Now: Ethics and Copyright Law in an AI-Excited World
Learn Copyright Law do's and don'ts of AI from public relations author Melissa Vela-Williamson and media law attorney Alicia Calzada on January 18. Tickets are on sale now: . Resources mentioned:
/episode/index/show/smarttalkseries/id/29079613