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True Story: The Public Relations Podcast (Whitney Lee)

Explore every episode of True Story: The Public Relations Podcast

Dive into the complete episode list for True Story: The Public Relations Podcast. Each episode is cataloged with detailed descriptions, making it easy to find and explore specific topics. Keep track of all episodes from your favorite podcast and never miss a moment of insightful content.

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Pub. DateTitleDuration
21 Oct 2024How She Went from a Corporate Job Managing 16 Agencies to Starting Her Own with Lindsay Kirsh, Founder and Chief Strategist, Slayer PR00:40:47

In this episode, Whitney Lee sits down with Lindsay Kirsh, Founder and Chief Strategist of Slayer PR, to dive deep into her incredible career transformation. From managing over 15 agencies at McDonald’s to building her own PR powerhouse, Lindsay shares the highs, lows, and lessons learned along the way. Discover the importance of trust in agency-client relationships, the perks of niche expertise, and what it truly takes to lead a successful team. Whether you’re curious about the agency vs. corporate world or want to hear strategic insights for long-term success, this conversation is packed with gems.

Don’t miss this inspiring episode with a true PR leader!

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Important Links:

⁠Slayer Public Relations⁠

⁠Lindsay on Instagram ⁠

⁠Slayer PR on Instagram ⁠

Whitney on Instagram

Whitney on LinkedIn

True Story Public Relations

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About Lindsay: For over 15 years, Lindsay has dedicated her career to strategic and crisis communications, representing Fortune 500 companies and several global brands across Food & Beverage, Consumer, Retail, Lifestyle, and Health & Wellness industries. When she started her career, she knew one day she would work for herself. Once she acquired the necessary skills in the corporate world learning from the greats, she did just that. Lindsay began her public relations career in Toronto, Canada working for Fleishman-Hillard International Communications. In 2015, inspired by a love for grunge music, Lindsay relocated to Seattle where she was able to marry her love for music and public relations. When asked how and why she went into business, the answer is simple: she wanted the freedom and autonomy to make her own decisions, have the creative freedom to create unforgettable PR campaigns, grow a great team of like-minded professionals and build something from the ground up.



16 Jan 2023Big News - Change for 202300:15:45

New Year, New Podcast! Welcome to True Story: The Public Relations Podcast, a space where we get a peek behind the scenes of brands and businesses that have a real story to tell. We want to support brands that aren’t afraid to show their true colors. Tune in to today’s episode to hear the lowdown on why Whitney decided to rebrand the agency and podcast, and what’s to come in 2023!

08 Jan 2024The Difference in PR Strategies for Personal Brands vs. Businesses00:44:13

For many influencers or experts in their fields, growing one's personal brand is integral to the growth of their business. If this is you, this episode is a must listen!

Today, Whitney is deep diving on a topic sent in by a listener - the difference between PR strategies for personal brands as opposed to those used by businesses and corporations.

There is knowledge for everyone in this episode. You won't want to miss it!

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Do you have any topics you'd like us to cover? Send your ideas to Whitney on Instagram @thewhitneylee.

27 Nov 2023How to Boost Sales During the Holiday Madness00:28:52

The holidays are here and it's no doubt that for many business owners, it can feel even more hectic. But did you know the holidays are the perfect time to drive even more business to your product or service?

Tune in for today's episode as Whitney spills her tips and tricks for boosting sales during the holiday madness. Whether you went into the season with a plan of action or you're late to the game, you'll want to take these tips and put them into play ASAP!

24 Jun 20245 Controversial Opinions on Marketing with Amy Colbourn, Managing Director of MONOGRAM Agency 00:37:11

Get ready for a round of hot takes as Whitney chats with Amy Colbourn, Managing Director of MONOGRAM, about controversial opinions on marketing. In this episode, two hospitality marketing and PR experts share their perspectives on hot topics, such as the effectiveness of using awareness as a marketing objective and whether the same strategies can be applied to marketing products and services.

About Amy: Amy Colbourn is a marketing executive and brand strategist who serves as the Managing Director of MONOGRAM. Headquartered in Las Vegas MONOGRAM is a brand agency, and a member of The Harkey Group of agencies, specializing in luxury hospitality and casino marketing.


Connect with Whitney on Instagram



MONOGRAM Agency



10 Apr 2023How One Man Runs Communications for a Member of the US House of Representatives with Eric Olsen 00:49:11

Today’s episode is the perfect example of how PR can look completely different across industries. Whitney has always said that politics and real estate are two industries her agency doesn’t work with. So today, she’s bringing in Eric Olsen to give listeners a peek of what PR can look like in a political setting. Eric Olsen is the Communications Director and Senior Advisor for a member of the US House of Representatives. Tune in for today’s episode to hear about how Eric landed in this position and what his day-to-day looks like! 


Connect with Eric on LinkedIn

Connect with Eric on TikTok

09 May 2022The Secret to Bring in New, Ideal Customers Without Spending a Penny00:18:57

Marketing is EXPENSIVE right? Traditional advertising, SEO, SEM, retargeting, buying lists, and social media ad campaigns can be a pricey method to gain new customers. But here’s another secret we utilize regularly, partnerships. Before you look at traditional marketing methods, tune in to our tips on cost-effective tools to grow your brand.

There are only two steps to start finding your perfect partnership match, analyze your business and what you can offer, then start looking for companies that match your needs and your goals.

  1. First, what can YOU offer someone? What do you bring to the table? Make sure to compile the following information to know where to start.
    1. Social following
    2. Website hits
    3. Subscribers on email
    4. Text
    5. App downloads
    6. Listeners (podcast)
    7. Where are you advertising
    8. Demographics of your audience - age, where they live, beliefs, income, etc - the more info the better.
  2. Now you're ready to start the search for a good partner opportunity. Use these suggestions to find the best partnership for you.
    1. Who reaches your people?
      1. If you are a business that is focused on women, who else reaches women?
    2. What other services does your target demographic use?
      1. This is a good place to start looking for connections that are mutually beneficial.
    3. Where does your target demographic shop?
      1. More potential partnerships lie where your target demographic is already looking!
  3. What is complimentary to your business? - Needs to be somewhat in the same realm
  4. Type of business - are you able to serve people virtually? If you’re a locally owned business you probably need someone local too!
  5. Look at businesses that are similar in size to your company to save yourself time. Don’t waste your time and resources pursuing a partnership that isn’t equal.
  6. Nonprofit support - Think about nonprofits that you can support in exchange for promotion for your business.
12 Sep 2022How to Set Up and Manage a Profitable Affiliate Marketing Program with Kelsey Eyers of Rexxy00:29:40

Affiliate programs are taking the marketing world by storm… and for good reason. Affiliate programs can be a powerful tool to leverage word-of-mouth recommendations while incentivizing loyal customers.  But, you need to be strategic in how you set up your affiliate program so that you attract the ideal affiliates that will remain actively engaged and help bring your business results. 

In today’s episode Whitney Lee is talking with Kelsey Eyers, CEO of Rexxy, on how to set up and manage a profitable affiliate marketing program. 

Tune in to episode 29 to learn more about this marketing strategy that may have a huge impact on your business.

04 Jul 2022Easy SEO Hacks to Boost your Google Ranking Without Paying a Penny with Jess Bargenquast of Lady Changemakers00:35:48

Grab a pen and paper because this week, Whitney Lee and Jess Bargenquast are breaking down how you can alter your business strategy using search engine optimization (SEO) for beginners.  SEO is the single most important thing that you can do to drive traffic to your website and convert internet surfers to customers, and it's not as hard as you might think! Tune in to episode 19 of the Sociallee Relevant podcast to learn more about how you can boost your bottom line using SEO using Whitney Lee and Jess Bargenquast's approachable methods.

Jess Bargenquast is the founder of Lady Changemakers, a directory and marketplace for woman-owned businesses to gain exposure and sales. This easy and affordable platform connects conscious consumers to over 700 woman-owned businesses that can provide almost any product or service that they're looking for. This platform is just like Amazon, but for exclusively women-owned businesses!

18 Dec 2023The Missing Piece to Your Marketing Puzzle with Sherry Sutton00:25:12

Have you put tons of effort into curating perfection in your marketing plan and got minimal results? There may be a missing piece you aren't considering... YOU! The bottom line is that people connect with people.

Join us today as Whitney and Your Marketing Mentor Sherry Sutton chat about being authentic as a business owner and how that can change everything.

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Connect with Sherry

True Story Public Relations

08 May 2023How to Build a Six Figure Career as a Stylist with Patricia Nowakowski, Founder and CEO of Opulent Beauty 00:35:15

In the last two decades, Patricia Nowakowski has built a lucrative brand in the hair industry and gained extensive knowledge in business leadership. Join us for today's episode as Whitney chats with Patricia about her story and digs into actionable tips that others in the hair industry can implement to grow their own clientele.


Patricia owns 6 salon suites & Opulent Beauty Salon, a successful 8 chair commission salon. She is a skilled course creator for her second company, Opulent Beauty Pro, & has helped stylists across the United States & Canada work less & make more behind the chair.
Patricia is also a business coach that specializes in leadership, marketing & recreating salon culture. When working with Patricia, you can expect to walk away with a solid understanding of taking your business & team to the next level and a plan to get you there.

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Resources

Connect with Patricia on Instagram

Opulent Beauty on Instagram

Visit the Opulent Beauty Website

Opulent Beauty Salon Website


16 Oct 20235 Planning Tips to Make Your Biz Stand Out this Holiday Season00:28:28

Don't panic, but if you haven't started prepping your business or client for the holidays yet, you're behind!

If you're in that club (or if you just want to add in a little extra this holiday season), you'll want to tune in for today's episode.

Buckle up and get ready to rock the holidays as Whitney shares planning tips that will help your business stand out during the holiday season.

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Whitney on Instagram

Whitney on LinkedIn

True Story Website

19 Dec 2022Demystifying Your Marketing for 2023 with Carlyn Bushman00:35:22

If you have big goals for your business in 2023 (and you totally should) now is the time to make your roadmap of actions that will help you achieve those goals! During Q4 some clients try to push project planning into the new year, but don't make the mistake of underestimating the time it takes to effectively plan and execute your business initiatives. In today's episode, Whitney is chatting with Carlyn Bushman about the importance of planning ahead for 2023, identifying your business goals, sourcing support from an agency of professionals, and identifying actions that will push your business forward.

Carlyn is a mom, wife, lifelong learner, former corporate executive, and small business owner. Carlyn understands the complexities of starting and operating a business. She has climbed the corporate ladder and created and run several small businesses from the ground up. Through this, Carlyn has fine-tuned skills in the areas of: marketing, management, technology, and business financials. She is now sharing her vast knowledge base to accelerate small to medium sized women-owned businesses to create reliable, sustainable revenue streams.

10 Jul 2023Why the Press Isn't Picking Up Your Release00:22:13

Are you hearing crickets when you send out your press release? Nothing feels worse than praying for the media to pick up your piece and getting no response.


There are many common mistakes that businesses make when it comes to their PR plan, many of which are an easy fix! Tune in for today's episode as Whitney spills the tea on why the press may not pick up your announcement, and gives advice on what you SHOULD be doing.


Have a specific topic you want us to cover? DM your ideas to Whitney on Instagram @thewhitneylee.

04 Nov 2024Efficient vs. Effective - How Personalization Changes Everything in Sales + Marketing with Scott Russell, Partner at Dynamic Sales Solutions00:31:35

What does it take to stand out in a crowded, ever-evolving market? In this episode, Whitney Lee sits down with Scott Russell, a luxury hospitality veteran turned entrepreneur, who spills the secrets of navigating one of the most competitive industries out there. From his corporate days at the Ritz Carlton to building his own consulting and sales training business, Scott shares the bold moves and creative strategies that helped him thrive—especially during the uncertainty of the COVID-19 pandemic.

You’ll hear how Scott mastered the art of differentiation and personalization, why effective communication trumps efficiency, and how storytelling can transform a brand. Plus, he breaks down the powerful partnership between sales and marketing and reveals how adapting quickly can lead to game-changing innovations.

Looking to find out what really matters in business, how to build lasting client trust, and what leadership looks like in action? You’re in the right place. Tune in for an episode packed with practical takeaways and expert insights from Scott—and find out how collaboration can unlock your next big success!

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Scott on LinkedIn

Dynamic Sales Solutions

Whitney on Instagram

Whitney on LinkedIn

True Story Public Relations

TheWhitneyLee.com

14 Aug 2023What's the Best Time of Day to Post on Social Media?00:18:51

It's time to put our scientist caps on! Have you ever wondered what the best time of day to post on social media is? We're here to help you crack the code.


The bad news is that there's no one-size-fits-all answer. The GOOD news is that with some strategic thinking and experimentation, you can find when YOUR target audience is most likely to engage.


Tune in for today's episode as our OG social media master, Whitney Lee, shares tips and tricks you can use to find the best time of day to post your social media content.

Have a specific topic you want us to cover? Send your ideas to Whitney on Instagram at @thewhitneylee

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True Story Public Relations Website

Whitney on Instagram

True Story Public Relations on Instagram

19 Feb 2024How This Legacy Travel Brand has Remained Relevant and Dominant for 74 Years with Amelie Brouhard of Club Med 00:41:31

As the original pioneer behind the all-inclusive experience, Club Med has mastered the art of staying relevant in the all-inclusive resort space for decades. Join us today as we dive deep with the VP of Marketing North America and USA Sales for Club Med, Amelie Brouhard.

Be prepared to take notes as Whitney and Amelie break down some of the strategies Club Med has used over the years to keep its brand identity strong and known.

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Learn more about Club Med

Club Med on Instagram

Club Med on LinkedIn


23 May 2022Are Hashtags Actually Stunting Your Growth?00:27:59

Hashtags previously were THE key in growing your following and reach on Instagram and Twitter - but the tide is changing!  In today’s episode, we’re breaking down hashtags on Instagram and Tik Tok. When used appropriately, hashtags grow your following, help establish your brand, and they are the easiest way to gather content from your customers. Tune in for advice on how you should now be utilizing hashtags in your business strategy.

The days of a million hashtags are over, there is a better strategy that you can use to grow your brand. At Sociallee, we start out by developing a core list of hashtags that we consistently use with their content. Make sure that this core list includes a branded hashtag for your business, this can be as simple as the name of your business. Next, find a list of industry specific hashtags. This isn’t for branding, but for other people to find your business among other like areas of your industry. Then, we add hashtags that are post-specific to the photos or content that we are sharing with our followers. From here, you can get even more specific with seasonal or holiday hashtags, location hashtags, relevant phrases, or even daily hashtags.

While you have the ability to use up to 30 hashtags on a post, that’s not always the best idea. There are a lot of variables that contribute to hashtag quality and quantity. If you have the time, ability, and resources to play with the amount of hashtags that you use, make sure to test posts with various hashtag quantities. We recommend one to three hashtags but 10 to 12 at the most. Be strategic about how you post them so it doesn’t take away from your content.

Listen in for more of Whitney Lee’s tips and tricks to utilize hashtags to boost growth for your business.

16 May 2022How to Write the PERFECT Response to Negative Reviews00:30:23

What do you do when someone writes something terrible? Negative reviews are never fun, but they are an important way to get feedback on your business. In this episode, I discuss the different types of negative reviews, my process and response to these comments, and next steps that you can take to prevent negative reviews online.

Here are our eight tips and tricks to formulate the perfect response to negative feedback:

  1. Don’t delete - This shows a lack of transparency. The ONLY time we delete anything is:
    1. Racial slurs
    2. Vulgar language
    3. Threats
  2. Before responding, find out details from operations or whoever the customer interacted with.
  3. Formulate a draft - make sure to thank the customer for their feedback.
  4. Address every single thing they say in their review.
  5. If you are truly at fault - admit it and apologize.
  6. If the person is sincerely lying, you can address it in a VERY PROFESSIONAL manner.
  7. Important to keep it very professional - never blame the customer! Your followers are watching to see how you handle the situation so make sure to take the high road.
  8. Try to keep the response short and to the point - ask them to take it offline by giving them a name and phone number to call.
05 Jun 2023The Key to Selling on Social Media00:33:50

Have you been struggling to see the sales you want from promoting on social media? There are some common practices that often prevent businesses from reaching their desired ROI. Luckily, Whitney has years of experience observing the things businesses do right and wrong when creating their social media strategy. Tune in for today's episode as she shares the things you should and shouldn't be doing to see the sales start rolling in!

06 Jun 2022The *NOT so new* social media platform that you SHOULD be paying attention to!00:22:52

Let’s talk about one of the most overlooked social media channels, LinkedIn! LinkedIn isn’t just for job seekers, it’s one of the best channels to drive leads, grow your audience, and expand your personal brand. And the best part is, decision makers are on LinkedIn, they aren’t floating around on Facebook and Instagram. There's so many ways to continue to promote your business and yourself using this not so new social media platform. Listen in for Whitney Lee’s complete breakdown of how you can boost your bottom line on LinkedIn.

12 Dec 2022What You Should Be Doing BEFORE 202300:25:22

Can you believe it is almost 2023? This time of year many people in business start to check out between the holidays and begin pushing stuff to next year. At Sociallee, we like to take this time when our client work may be a bit slower and use it for planning and to get prepared for the new year. So how can you take the next few weeks to really set your business up for success in 2023? Tune in to today's episode to learn our tips and tricks.

09 Jul 2024PR + HR - How Company Culture and Your Brand Intersect with James Ferguson of Wurzak Hotel Group00:32:54

Get ready to dive into the concept of confetti culture as Whitney explores the intersection of PR and HR with James Ferguson. James is the Director of Culture for Wurzak Hotel Group and is sharing how he used his passion for company culture to make his dream position a reality. 

Whether you are a business owner, work in HR, or have a goal on your mind, you can expect to leave this episode fired up and ready to take on any hurdle in your path. 

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The Confetti Culture Playbook

Connect with James on LinkedIn

17 Apr 20234 Reasons Why You Aren't Making Sales00:25:47

Scratching your head over why you aren’t making sales? On today’s episode, Whitney is getting raw and real about common reasons businesses could be missing out on sales. All of these problems are fixable, so gear up and get ready to take these tips and run with them to boost your sales. 


Want personalized help with making a strategic marketing plan? Text us today at truestorypr.co!

31 Oct 2022How Much Should I Pay an Influencer?00:13:23

When it comes to paying influencers for a brand deal, there is not a one-size-fits-all answer. Each influencer partnership will most likely differ based on several factors. In today's episode, we are going over four things you should consider to help you create an influencer partnership with appropriate compensation. Paying an influencer cash is not always the best option, and there are several other types of compensation that brands can offer.

27 Jun 2022How I Went From Freelancer to Agency Owner00:24:33

In today's episode, Whitney Lee shares her journey from leaving her cushy corporate job to becoming a solopreneur and now, an agency owner.  If you're trapped in a job without inspiration or creativity, or if you're looking for more freedom in your career, this episode is definitely for you.

It may seem out of reach, but hearing Whitney's story might make you realize that you are meant to be more than a freelancer and that there are other options for you if you're feeling stuck. Tune in to hear how Whitney made her decision to leave her corporate job and get her advice and top tips for starting a freelance career.

25 Mar 2024How to Know When it's Time to FIRE00:29:16

Knowing when it’s time to let an employee go can be a hard decision to make. In Whitney’s years of running the agency, she has had to face the difficult reality that some people simply aren’t a good fit for your team. 

Listen in for today’s episode as we share some factors to keep in mind when it’s not working out with an employee and how to decide when it’s time to let that person go. 

Want to hear our take on when it’s time to HIRE? Click here for the previous episode! 

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Connect with Whitney on Instagram


04 Dec 2023Breaking the "Rules" of Social Media & Still Crushing It with Social Media Strategist, Chelsea Peitz00:36:21

Are you trippin’ over WHY your content isn’t getting THOUSANDS of views?

On this week's episode, we talk to social media strategist Chelsea Peitz. Whitney and Chelsea dive into topics such as: who are you serving when you create content? Do you know the difference between a tactic and a strategy? They also chat about meaningful metrics, and how they cannot be easily measured. Conversions may take time, as they are a long-term game. Being authentic is better than excessively curating your content to achieve a high return on investment (ROI). Serve your purpose, not the platform. 

You won’t want to miss these tips; they could elevate your social media presence from good to great.

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Connect with Chelsea on Instagram @chelsea.peitz.

18 Nov 2024How to Triple Your Podcast Pitching in a Day with Parker Olson, Founder of PodPitch00:35:28

Think podcasts are just a side hustle or hobby? Think again. In this episode, Whitney Lee chats with Parker Olson, founder of PodPitch, about how podcasts are becoming a PR powerhouse. They explore the art of customized pitches, the game-changing role of AI, and why podcasts are now key players in the media landscape. Parker shares his unconventional journey—from wild diets to living in nontraditional spaces—offering fresh insights on creativity and innovation. Discover how tools like PodPitch are enhancing PR efforts while preserving the human touch, and what this means for the future of the industry.

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PodPitch

Connect with Parker on Instagram

Connect with PodPitch on LinkedIn

Connect with Whitney on Instagram

Connect with Whitney on LinkedIn

True Story PR Website

TheWhitneyLee Website

10 Oct 20224 Social Media Trends You Need to Know with Arik Hanson00:30:12

Social media is ever evolving, so staying on top of trends is keys to maintaining an effective social media strategy. There may be social media tactics you're still using that worked in the past, but they're outdated now. 

Arik Hanson is a social media consultant for mid and large size companies, and he is covering trends for platforms like Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, and Twitter.  Don't worry, we aren't talking about the new dance craze that you need to jump on! These trends involve strategies to help businesses consistently show up in an effective way for their audience.

20 Jan 20253 Ways Businesses are Rethinking Their Marketing & PR in 202500:35:10

In this episode, Whitney Lee discusses the significant shifts in marketing and PR strategies in 2025 emphasizing the move towards fractional CMOs, shorter planning cycles, and a more authentic approach to branding. She reflects on how the pandemic has changed the way businesses operate, particularly in terms of team structures and the increasing acceptance of remote work. The conversation highlights the importance of adapting to new trends in marketing, including the effectiveness of organic content over traditional polished imagery.

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Connect with Whitney on Instagram

Connect with Whitney on LinkedIn

True Story Public Relations Website

TheWhitneyLee.com


06 Jan 20258 Books You Should Read To Level Up This Year 00:47:15

In this episode, Whitney shares a curated list of books that have profoundly influenced her personal and professional life. From productivity hacks to the power of love languages, Whitney highlights key insights from these impactful reads and explains how they’ve shaped her mindset and approach to life.

Whether you’re looking for your next great read or seeking inspiration for personal growth, this episode offers a roadmap to elevate your life and business through the wisdom of books.

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Connect with Whitney:

LinkedIn

Instagram

True Story Website

TheWhitneyLee.com


05 Feb 2024How to Build a Thriving Internship Program00:22:39

Offering an internship program is an incredible and rewarding tool for business owners. In today’s episode, Whitney is sharing how she built out the internship program for True Story Public Relations. 

Tune in as Whitney provides tips on what she looks for when bringing on interns and some lessons she has learned along the way!

Want to share something that has worked for you and your interns? Connect with Whitney on Instagram @thewhitneylee

10 Mar 2023How One Attorney Went from Fired to CEO with Andrea Sager of The Legalpreneur00:34:32

Andrea Sager made the biggest comeback when she became the CEO of her own company, The Legalpreneur, after getting fired from a law firm. The Legalprenuer is reinventing legal services for small businesses. Tune in for today's episode as Whitney chats with Andrea about the twists and turns of her journey and the "aha" moment when she decided to focus her efforts on assisting businesses. From a divorce, to getting fired, to making a huge comeback, Andrea is spilling all the tea.


Andrea on Instagram

Legalpreneur on Instagram 

True Story Public Relations on Instagram 

24 Jul 2024Special Announcement - TheWhitneyLee.com is LIVE00:13:54

Tune in today for a special announcement from Whitney Lee!

For the past several months, Whitney has been working on a new resource to support agency owners and we are ecstatic to announce that TheWhitneyLee.com is now LIVE!

Visit TheWhitneyLee.com/streamline to download the 4 Steps to a Streamlined Remote Agency! Applications for mentorship with Whitney are open with only two spaces available. Digital template downloads and roadmaps for remote agency owners will be available for purchase soon. We can't wait to support you in the process of streamlining and scaling your remote agency.

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Visit TheWhitneyLee.com for more information!

14 Nov 2022FAQ - Is All Press Good Press?00:07:46

Some people think that being in the media is always a good thing... even when the press is not so flattering. It really depends on who you are and why people are talking about you.  We've all seen bad press on high-profile figures, but it doesn't always have a largely negative effect on that person's career or quality of life. Meanwhile, some press gets people completely canceled. In today's episode we are sharing how even some very bad press can present an opportunity for people to grow and bounce back.

07 Aug 2023Our Easy 5 Step PR Process for Grand Openings00:31:42

The grand opening of your business can be a HUGE PR opportunity if done correctly. Unfortunately, many businesses make one common mistake. Spoiler alert: they spill the tea to the public too soon.


Today, Whitney is sharing her easy 5 step PR process for grand openings that almost anyone can implement. If you're getting ready to launch a new business or location, you won't want to miss this episode.


Have a specific topic you want us to cover? Send your ideas to Whitney on Instagram at @thewhitneylee

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True Story Public Relations Website

Whitney on Instagram

True Story Public Relations on Instagram

29 Aug 2022How to Start Blogging For Your Biz with Laura Holloway of Storyteller Agency00:34:49

If you think blogs are only written by influencers that want to share an online diary then you are totally WRONG.  What most people don't realize is that blogs are extremely valuable tools for businesses to have on their website, because they can greatly impact your Google ranking and increase your online reach.
Tune in to today's episode of Sociallee Relevant to hear blogging genius and owner of Storyteller Agency, Laura Holloway, as she sits down with Whitney Lee to explain how blogging can impact your business.


Laura is bringing awareness to how blogging strategy can help your business rank higher in Google results, how you should approach your blog topics, and how you can enhance your blog's results with links. Tune in to learn why you should invest in a blog for your website ASAP.

23 Jan 2023How Two 20-Somethings Built One of NYC's Largest Social Media Agencies with Courtney Spritzer, CEO and Co-Founder of Socialfly00:32:58

Have you ever felt like you had to convince someone of your professional value just because of your age? Courtney Spritzer started growing one of NYC’s largest social media agencies in her twenties and is no stranger to this challenge.

Tune in to this week’s episode as Whitney interviews Courtney Spritzer of Socialfly on some of the trials she has overcome while building a social media agency with her partner, Stephanie Cartin.

Courtney is the Co-Founder and CEO of Socialfly, the #1 women-owned and operated social media agency in the world. Socialfly helps brands communicate and resonate with women on social media. Throughout Courtney's career, she has developed strategic social media plans for her clients and successfully implemented campaigns for 200+ companies and brands, including Discovery, WeTV, Conair, Girl Scouts, and Slimfast. Courtney is also the Co-Founder of Entreprenista Media, a media platform that provides resources to women entrepreneurs and business leaders and celebrates their success.

03 Oct 2022Looking for a Job in PR? Free Advice for You00:39:28

Working in PR may look like a glamorous job from the outside. However, the reality is that you have to be willing to get down and dirty to take on this job. There are many aspects of the job that are not glitz and glamor.   

In episode 32, Whitney is debunking any myths you may have about working in PR and giving you FREE advice on getting started in the industry. She goes over some tasks you may have if you score a job in PR, what she looks for when hiring for a position, and more!   

If you’re interested in working with Sociallee, visit besociallee.com/careers.

21 Nov 2022How to Maximize Paid Media + PR with Lynn and Mollie of BrandVerge00:41:23

Whether your goal is driving sales, gaining new customers, or increasing brand awareness, having an omni-channel strategy with both organic and paid media will help you reach your goals!  In today's episode, Whitney Lee is speaking with Lynn and Mollie, Co-Founders of BrandVerge. BrandVerge helps clients with their media strategy so they can get featured in paid media and optimize paid media for growing brands!


BrandVerge Website

Follow Sociallee on Instagram

27 Nov 2023How to Transform Your Toxic Work Environment + Crush Your Goals with Brand Culture Coach, Pam Nemec00:49:25

Drama. Stress. Turnover. If this describes the environment at your job, this episode is for you. 


On this week's episode of True Story: The PR Podcast we talk to Pam Nemec. Pam is the CEO of Inside Out, a leadership and communications agency focused on helping teams thrive! She shares stories from her 20+ year career at Whataburger, the benefits that come from telling the story behind the leader of large companies, human connection and so much more!

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Pam On Instagram

Pam Nemec Website




13 May 2024Females Who Film: How She Built a Multi-Media Company in a Male-Dominated Space with Carly Gilleland, Founder of The Good Vibe Media Co00:29:24

From raising $100k in 60 days to watching her idea for a multi-media studio come to life, Carly Gilleland is a pro at putting in the work and watching the hard-earned results unfold! Tune in today as we talk about the challenges of starting a creative business, working as a woman in a male-dominated industry, and chasing after your dreams! This episode will leave you fired up, ready to take the next steps toward your goal. 

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The Good Vibe Media is a woman owned and operated video production company, created in 2016. 

Founder, Carly Gilleland, was exposed to video production during her years attending Arcadia High School in Phoenix, Arizona. She created a short documentary about her sister who has special needs. After seeing the impact it made on her classmates, she quickly realized this is what she wanted to do for a living – tell people’s stories that have a positive impact. After attending film school in California, she moved back home to Arizona and slowly & organically built The Good Vibe Media to what it is today!

The Good Vibe Media is now a full-service video production company, serving clients in Phoenix, Los Angeles, Denver, Nashville and more! 

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The Good Vibe Media

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11 Dec 2023The Hardest Marketing Mystery to Crack00:23:20

Are you getting plenty of click-throughs, but no action? A lot of views, a lot of impressions, but no purchases?

On this week’s solo episode of True Story: The PR Podcast, Whitney discusses the mysteries in marketing and how to solve the hardest one: why are customers looking but not buying?

There are a few things to consider, such as competitive pricing and promotions, but the most important aspect to think about is your copy. 

Whitney gets to the nitty-gritty on how to curate copy that takes your customers from lurkers to converters. Don’t miss this week’s episode! 





04 Apr 2022The Biggest Misconception About PR00:36:01

Today talking about PR.

Many people want to work in this industry bc they think it’s “so fun” - think we just go to parties and sip martinis.

Samantha from Sex and the City made it look like so  glamorous and sexy.

But I have also noticed a lot of distrust in the PR world.

I first noticed this - I watch shark tank a lot -  and when people would ask for money for PR, the sharks would start to roll their eyes - or sometimes that was a deal-breaker for them. spending money on PR? Boom, they are out. But....WHY?

Also, last year Chris's mastermind - people told me of how they spent thousands of dollars with PR people and totally got BURNED. They used that word. BURNED?!

So…why? Why do people feel so burned by PR people? Bc people don’t understand what PR actually IS

So before talking about what PR IS. What is it not?

  1. Pr is NOT marketing. Marketing focuses on SALES. Bottom line.
  2. PR is not driven by immediate results or ROI. Many times it’s a long play.
  3. PR is not party planning or event planning. PR is more about getting the message OUT. But we are not party planners

What IS PR?

First, we’ll start with the traditional side:

  1. Media Relationspress releases

    Pitching for editorial coverageTradition media or event podcasts
    POC for media - answering questions, formulating responses.
    Building connections with media people in your area or within the niche of your clients. Why bc when they need someone or a story, they come to YOU first
  2. Reputation managementStrategizing when a crisis happens - what is the company’s response and message? In ALL challenges
    Monitoring everything - reviews, social media platforms etc. Reporting back to the CEO about what the public’s perception and response to our company’s actions are
    Proactive reputation management - not just waiting but planning Ideas and campaigns that show your company’s values
  3. ExposureCreating social media campaigns like the ice bucket challenge
    Celebs - making fake relationships
    Launch - event, new offerings
  4. PartnershipsFinding brands that align and create offerings together
    influencers
    Sponsoring an event or podcast
    Supporting a cause

Ads are what you PAY for - PR is what you pray for.

I think why they get burned - you can’t promise results. It’s all about ideas and outreach. Positioning, relationships and following up. So is PR hard? No. If you have the creative brain it’s not - but you better have the right words to say and the relationships in place or dedication to keep following up.

So if a PR person is promising you results… that’s a red flagggggg!

So I hope this has been helpful for you! I know we talked a little about influencers if you want to learn more download our 5 free tips to help identify influencers that will make you $$$$. link in the show notes or go to besociallee.com

05 Feb 2025Should You Get a Master's Degree?00:47:23

Should you get a master’s degree?

In today's episode, Whitney shares her personal experience, diving into the motivations behind pursuing further education, the importance of internships, and the true value of the connections made in school.

Whitney breaks down why a master’s degree can be a great tool for some—but not always necessary for career growth. If you’ve been debating whether grad school is the right move for you, this episode will give you the clarity you need.

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13 Jun 2022Looking for a job in PR? You NEED this skill!00:22:20

If you’re looking for a job in public relations, you may be interested in what it takes to be successful in the industry. Tune in to today's episode to learn Whitney Lee's number one skill that you need to hone in order to be the best PR professional that you can be. Make sure to listen to the end for a bonus tip!

18 Mar 2024100th Episode! Pros and Cons of Remote Agency Life00:40:31

Today, we’re celebrating our 100th podcast episode with a very special guest! Bri Taylor, the Director of Operations at True Story Public Relations joins Whitney for a deep dive into the pros and cons of remote agency life. 

Tune in as Bri and Whitney dive into the most awesome parts of working as a remote agency and some of the difficulties their remote team has faced along the way. 

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True Story Public Relations Website

11 Nov 2024The Tiny Shift that Changed Our Relationship with Every Client00:22:24

Ever wonder what it takes to go from a "yes person" to an authoritative leader in your field? In this episode, Whitney Lee shares her transformative journey from corporate life to freelancing, highlighting the mindset shifts that changed her career.

She talks about redefining client relationships, stepping into a strategist role, and the power of proactive communication. But that’s just the beginning—Whitney dives into how perception and PR can make or break your business.

Want more? Hit play and discover her secrets firsthand!

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15 Jan 2024Top PR Trends and Predictions for 2024 with Jen Berson of Jeneration PR00:50:14

In an industry where it’s common to keep your cards close to the chest, Jen Berson took the values of community over competition seriously in her PR agency. Instead of keeping her tips and tricks a secret, she created Jeneration Academy, an online educational platform for entrepreneurs that includes courses, resources, and an online community. 

Join us today as Whitney and Jen dive into several hot topics including the top PR trends and predictions for 2024, how AI is impacting the PR industry, the NECESSITY for affiliate programs, and more! 

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Connect with Jen on Instagram 

Jeneration PR 

Jeneration Academy 

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16 Jul 2023Creative Ways to use AI in PR with Steve Marcinuk of Intelligent Relations00:40:43

The topic of Artificial Intelligence can seem intimidating if you’ve never used it. While there are many things that can be unreliable about AI, the truth is that it is a part of our future! On today’s episode, Whitney is covering the positives AND negatives of Artificial Intelligence with Steve Marcinuk of Intellegent Relations. 


Tune in to learn specific ways you may be able to use AI to accelerate your Public Relations tasks and ways that you may want to steer clear of using this tool. 


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Stephen Marcinuk is a PR expert with over 10 years of experience. He is the Co-founder and Head of Operations at Intelligent Relations, where he is actively involved in all aspects of operations and growth for the company – this ranges from the generation of the AI PR technology for the platform, all the way across to client services.


Steve's always been passionate about finding solutions, which led to his fascination with AI’s role in the PR world. Fast forward several years, and Steve is now the driving force behind the company’s latest innovations such as AI-text generation models and journalism matchmaking tools.

23 Oct 20233 Mistakes to Avoid When Promoting a Controversial Business or Service with Aaron Thomas of Prenups.com 00:24:48

Getting a prenup doesn’t have to have a gross connotation to it. Family law attorney, Aaron Thomas, is changing the game and helping couples prepare for marriage and prevent money disagreements. 

As you can imagine, prenup preparation is not the most glamorous service to offer, which is why Aaron is sharing his three mistakes to avoid when promoting a controversial business or service. Tune in for today’s episode as Whitney and Aaron deep dive into prenups and how Aaron completely rebranded them to be something that couples WANT to do to better their relationship. 

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Aaron Thomas is a graduate of Harvard Law and spent 15 years practicing in Atlanta as a divorce lawyer to some of the biggest names in sports and entertainment. This experience led him to establish Prenups.com based on his fundamental belief that a strong financial foundation can prevent common arguments that lead to the breakdown of marriage.

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Prenups.com

Aaron on LinkedIn 

Whitney on Instagram 

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26 Jun 2023The Secret to Starting Over: From Rock Bottom to CEO and Sirius XM Radio Host with Nick Hiter00:33:31

Sometimes you have to hit rock bottom in order to grow to your greatest potential. That is exactly what happened for Nick Hiter, who is now a CEO and the host of Sirius XM Radio’s “Y’allternative” station. 


Get ready to be inspired and tune in for today’s episode, as we dive deep into Nick Hiter’s journey and growth. Whitney and Nick chat about how losing his safety net changed the trajectory of his life and helped him become the man he is today. 


Connect with Nick at nickhiter.com 


About Nick: 

Nick Hiter is the founder of Team Hiter, a business enterprise focused on helping entrepreneurs drive growth.


In his role as the Executive Vice President at RAC Financial, he oversees strategic partnerships for a leading 8-figure payment processing company. His work supports a network of 100+ strategic partners supporting major brands such as Planet Hollywood, Brio, and Buca di Beppo to name a few.


As a thought leader on entrepreneurship himself, Nick’s insights have been featured in major media such as CBS, NBC, FOX, The New York Times, and Yahoo to name a few. In addition, as the host of The Hitstreak podcast, he talks weekly with top performers to break down their playbook to success so his audience of over 200 thousand can get to that next level too. Nick is also the voice of SiriusXM’s “Y’allternative” radio station!


In his prior company, Nick launched over 150 insurance agencies that generated 100 million dollars in just over 5 years. His latest venture, dubbed “The Hitlab”, is focused on creating a physical space for thought leaders to come together, share, and distribute breakthrough ideas at scale.


Beyond business, Nick is a husband to Rhiannon, and father to Ethan and Ansleigh. Nick is a former pro athlete and gives back regularly to local philanthropic organizations in the Nashville area.

24 Oct 2022How to Get More Website Lurkers to Turn into Leads with Aaron Weiche of Leadferno00:33:38

Times are changing and so is the way that businesses communicate with their customers. In this episode, Whitney is deep diving with co-founder and CEO of Leadferno, Aaron Weiche, on how to convert website traffic into actual leads through the use of text campaigns.   

Texting with customers is changing the game, not only for the customer, but for the business. Get ready for actionable steps on how to create an incredible customer communication experience through texting.

Aaron Weiche on LinkedIn

Leadferno Website

11 Sep 2023Taking Your Big Idea and Turning it into a Best Selling Book with Jake Kelfer 00:28:57

Do you consider yourself to be a professional at something? Writing a book might be your next big step.

In today's episode, Whitney is chatting with Jake Kelfer, a 4x best-selling author and founder of "Big Idea to Best Seller."

Jake will coach you through finding your why and what you can expect when it comes to writing a book. If the idea of becoming an author has been sitting in the back of your mind, tune in for today's episode and let it push you into action!

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30 Oct 2023Getting 100+ Emails a Day? My Productivity Hack00:21:03

How does an agency owner manage their workload when they’re receiving HUNDREDS of emails a day? 

On today’s episode, Whitney is getting into the nitty-gritty of her productivity flow and sharing hacks that you can implement into your day-to-day. 

If you’re ready to up-level your productivity game, you do not want to miss this episode! 

Have a specific topic you want us to cover? Send your ideas to Whitney on Instagram @thewhitneylee. 

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Whitney on Instagram 

True Story on Instagram 

True Story Website 

02 Oct 2023How to Sell Tickets to a First Year Event00:40:57

Launching a new event can be a challenge. Where do you start? How do you get the public's eyes on what you're trying to do? How do you know people will buy tickets?

Whitney has supported multiple organizations in launching first-year events and today she's sharing her secrets on what to do and what NOT to do when launching an event. If you're thinking of launching a new event, you won't want to miss this episode!

Have a specific topic you'd like us to cover? Send your ideas to Whitney on Instagram @thewhitneylee.

24 Apr 2023How a Small Town Reporter Made Her Way to QVC, TODAY Show, and Property Brothers with Jill Bauer00:50:07

If there's anything we know, it's that hard work and connections pay off. That's exactly how Jill Bauer made her way to QVC, TODAY Show, and Property Brothers. Join us for today's episode as Whitney chats with Jill about her journey from small town reporter to being a personality on nationwide television.


Jill Bauer is a national television personality and lifestyle expert. For over 25 years, Jill worked

as a program host on QVC. When she started her career at QVC, at the age of 25, she was

the youngest host QVC had ever hired. This caught the attention of Rolling Stone Magazine,

who featured her among other 20 somethings who were finding cool careers in the changing

world of technology. In her 30’s Jill was the cover story for Main Line Today as one of their “40

under 40 to watch” in Philadelphia. The New York Times featured Jill, calling her “the girl with

the 10000 watt smile.” Jill worked as the executive producer/host and product designer for her

QVC show, You’re Home With Jill. The show ran for over 19 years and was one of QVC’s top

branded programs. Jill left QVC in 2019 to start justjill.com, her home and lifestyle blog. She is

also a regular contributor on the TODAY show and is the national brand ambassador for HGTV’s

Property Brothers, Drew and Jonathan Scott. Jill has been featured in both local and national

media, including, Good Morning America, Good Housekeeping, Country Living, the New York

Times, Good Day New York, New York One and has written articles about home lifestyle for

various magazines and books. Jill has been a featured speaker at the Philadelphia Flower

show and the Dallas Design Market. In 2021, she expanded the Just Jill brand to include

justjillshop.com, a curated e-commerce site with Jill’s friendly, girl next door touch. Jill lives in

Pennsylvania with her husband, 2 children and BIG dogs, Brosky and Minnie.


JustJill.com


30 May 2022Red Flags to Watch for When Hiring An Agency00:17:50

Are you ready to start digging into the marketing and public relations efforts for your business? That’s great! It might be time for you to start looking for a marketing or PR agency that can help you boost your bottom line. During your search, make sure you’re keeping an eye out for these three red flags in a marketing or PR agency.

  1. An agency that promises results
    1. If an agency is making big promises about results, it may be a good idea to walk away. An agency should be able to promise deliverables, not a result. There are too many factors in our world that make promising a result not feasible for an agency.
  2. An agency that won’t show you their clients
    1. An agency should be proud of the clients that they are working with. An agency that is transparent about their clients and the work that they are doing is an agency that is worth working with. Always be sure to check out other clients to see if the agency is the right fit for you.
  3. An agency that has cookie-cutter packages.
    1. Marketing strategy for every business is different. An amateur agency might be pushing a package that might not meet all of the unique needs of your brand. It’s important to find an agency that will listen to your marketing successes, failures, and goals to create a holistic plan that will make a difference for your business.
27 Mar 2023How a Cancer Diagnosis Created a Medical Practice with Dr. Erin Ellis of Hope Natural Health00:33:50

Every entrepreneur has a story of how they decided to start their business. For Dr. Erin Ellis of Hope Natural Health, it was a cancer diagnosis. Dr. Ellis has found her passion helping women fix crappy periods, helping with hormone imbalances and addressing the root cause of why people are running on empty. Join us for today’s episode as Whitney and Dr. Ellis chat about her inspiring journey to helping others through her medical practice. 


Whitney on Instagram

True Story Public Relations Website

Dr. Ellis on TikTok

Dr. Ellis on Instagram

Hope Natural Health Website

10 Jun 2024OWNER CHAT: Real Talk on Agency Ownership - the Good & the Bad with Susie Timm, Founder of Knife & Fork Media00:33:43

Join us today for a front-row seat to real talk from two agency owners!

Whitney is chatting with Susie Timm, Founder and CEO of Knife & Fork Media. The two agency owners give you the scoop on things that they LOVE about owning an agency, tips for freelancers looking to scale, and things that they had to learn the hard way so that you don't have to.

If you're a freelancer on the verge of scaling and growing a team, you won't want to miss this episode!

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Knife & Fork Media Founder, Susie Timm grew up in the land of cow, otherwise known as Wisconsin. In 1992 she moved to the Valley of the Sun and graduated from high school in Scottsdale and is a proud alumni of Arizona State University with her Bachelor’s of Arts degree in Political Science.. Interestingly enough, she started a booming career as a banker in 2000 and was named the youngest Bank President in Arizona at the age of 27. Susie worked in that industry until it became “un-fun” in 2009. She found her true passion in the food industry mid-2009 when she co-founded a food events company. That business morphed into the full service PR agency we are today! Susie and her team manage a marketing portfolio of clients ranging in size and scope from food to entertainment to accounting. With over fifteen years of experience, her proven marketing, media and sales models have helped grow small and medium-sized companies all over Arizona and the United States. Susie won numerous achievement awards for her sales skills during her years as a corporate warrior. Additionally, she has been honored as a member of the Phoenix Business Journal’s “40 under 40,” and “Women Leaders in Business,” the Phoenix New Times’ “100 Tastemakers in Phoenix,” So Scottsdale’s “24 Powerful Leaders Under 40,” and has served as a national trendspotter for the Specialty Food Association’s Fancy Food Shows. Susie is a proud graduate of Scottsdale Leadership, Class 23. Susie has been a recurring featured guest on many local TV stations for her passionate take on gourmet food trends. Susie believes strongly in community stewardship and to that end, she has served as a board member with Scottsdale Leadership, the Leadership Council of Careers in Culinary Arts (C-Cap AZ), and has served three times as the Co-Chair of Taste of the Nation Arizona, an event that raises important funds to feed hungry kids in Arizona. She currently serves as Vice President of Les Dames de Escoffier, Phoenix Chapter and is a founding member of the One More Ball Foundation, dedicated to bringing tennis to underserved kids. For fun, Susie plays tennis 4-5 times a week, cooks, reads cooking magazines, sits in the Jacuzzi and spends too much time shopping online.

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Knife & Fork Media

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22 May 2023How to Level Up Your Career and Personal Brand with Jessica Papineau, Founder of Customized Styling by Jessica00:42:28

Imagine being able to walk into your closet and have a curated selection of clothing that you love. That's exactly what Jessica Papineau does for her clients. Through customized styling, Jessica has helped entrepreneurs feel like their most confident, authentic self. Join us for today's episode as Whitney chats with Jessica about her journey to starting her own business and things she's learned along the way.


Jessica Papineau is the owner and founder of Customized Styling by Jessica, a styling concierge company. With a love of style and creativity from a young age, combined with a background in Fine Arts, she has spent over 20 years as a high performing sales manager servicing hundreds of clients at high-end boutiques in Canada and Florida. These experiences shaped Jessica to perfect her craft of creating, styling and consulting with women from head to toe in fashion and beauty.


Visit Customized Styling by Jessica

18 Apr 2022Setting up FB Ads - What You Need to Know to Get Started00:18:54

This episode is a follow-up to episode 2, where Whitney shared how boosting your Facebook posts is a trap. So if you’re now diving into Facebook Ads Manager and feeling overwhelmed, this is for you! In this episode, Whitney shares the first (and most important) step in setting up an ad within Facebook Ads Manager.

03 Apr 2023How to Market Your Restaurant00:40:36

Looking for ways to market your restaurant? You don’t need complicated campaigns to see growth. Tune in for today’s episode as Whitney shares simple yet effective marketing tactics any restaurant can implement! 

08 Apr 2024A Secret Killer of Remote Teams00:17:12

Managing a remote team has a slew of positive benefits. From lower operating expenses to having more flexibility, remote work can be a good fit for many teams, but it also comes with its challenges.

Through years of adapting to work-from-home life, our team has experienced the ups and downs and learned from every experience. 

Tune in to today's solo podcast episode as we spill the secret killer to remote teams and how to keep your people on track.

Have a specific topic you'd like us to cover? Connect with Whitney on Instagram @thewhitneylee.

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05 Dec 2022How to Find Media Contacts without Expensive Software00:19:49

If you’ve listened to episode 34, you already know how to write the perfect pitch. Not everybody has access to the expensive software when they’re getting started. So how do you find the media contacts to pitch to without it? In this solo episode, Whitney is spilling all of her secrets. Be prepared to get into the nitty gritty of how to build your media list through time and research!

30 Jul 2024Building a Personal Brand as an Agency Owner with Lexie Smith, Founder of Growth Mode Agency & The PR Bar Inc.00:44:04

Whether you want to or not, EVERYONE has a personal brand. Join us today as Whitney chats with fellow agency owner, Lexie Smith! They’re covering the ins and outs of building a personal brand as an agency owner. You won’t want to miss this behind-the-scenes look at agency life. 

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As seen in Entrepreneur.com, Business Insider, NASDAQ, Create & Cultivate, and more, Lexie Smith, is a PR & Business Coach, Founder & CEO of GROWTH MODE PR & Communications Agency, Founder of THEPRBAR inc., and Host of the Pitchin' and Sippin' Podcast.

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Pitchin' and Sippin' Podcast


13 Feb 2023How to Make Your Marketing Assistant More Productive00:27:59

While we truly believe in the value of hiring an agency, it is not rare for business owners, especially small business owners, to opt for an in-house marketing assistant. Some go down this path in an attempt to cut costs, while others truly believe they need someone physically in their office.  

Unfortunately, many business owners that choose this path find themselves expelling more energy trying to coach and bring ideas to their marketing assistant when it should be the other way around! On today's episode, Whitney is covering actionable tips to make your marketing assistant more productive. 

If you have found yourself in a similar boat, True Story Public Relations offers Fractional CMO services! As your Fractional CMO, we take all of that off your plate and help train and oversee your marketing assistant to make them a productive asset to your team. You see results and have one less team member to manage. It’s a game changer! Visit our website to learn more.

11 Jul 2022This Strategy Seals The Deal When Pitching New Clients00:11:40

Are you a freelancer or agency owner that is ready to take the next step for your business? Finding new clients is a vital step to grow your company and the key to sealing the deal with new clients comes from a customized proposal and one very special tip.  Tune into episode 20 of the Sociallee Relevant podcast to learn how Whitney Lee converts potential clients to loyal customers.

28 Mar 2022How we generated over $33,000 with 6 Unpaid Influencers00:27:32

Giving free stuff to influencers??? *Insert eye roll* So many businesses are jaded by influencers who ask for free services and products but the business never sees any tangible results from their posts. In this episode, Whitney gives tangible advice on how to get influencers to actually produce sales and/or show results that matter. You’ll hear how her agency, Sociallee, took six unpaid influencers and turned it into $33,000+ in room night revenue for a resort. If your business ever considered influencer marketing or wondered whether it would be worth your time and money, this episode is for you. You’ll learn how collaborating with influencers can expand your audience reach, attract new followers, and be the most cost effective form of advertising out there.

26 Sep 2022How I Scored 2,000+ Podcast Interviews with Erik Jacobson of Lemonpie and Hatch00:34:19

Podcasts are a powerful tool for business owners to generate multiple forms of content, and they can also present huge opportunities for businesses to expand their reach to their target audience through podcast interviews.

Podcast interview features are emerging as a leading form of earned media, which means that podcast hosts are getting pitches from potential guests more often. So how do you stand out as a valuable podcast guest during your pitch?

In episode 31 of Sociallee Relevant, Whitney Lee is chatting with Erik Jacobson, Founder of Lemonpie and Hatch, on how you can appeal to podcast hosts during your pitch and how you can deliver value that will make a powerful impact on listeners.

As the Founder of Lemonpie, a podcast PR agency, Erik helps business leaders land interviews on podcasts that their target audience is already listening to, and through his company Hatch his team helps businesses create their own podcasts that are led by proven strategies.

19 Jun 2023Thinking About Rebranding? Listen to this First00:40:39

Many entrepreneurs come to a point where they want to rebrand their business. Maybe their initial branding doesn’t match the direction the company has grown, or they just want a fresh new look! 


If a rebrand is in the future for you, this episode is for you! Whitney is sharing her do’s and don’ts that she’s learned through rebranding her own company. So strap in and get ready to take notes to prep for your rebrand. 

17 Jun 2024Why Agencies Get Fired00:38:57

Getting fired by a client can feel incredibly disheartening, but it's an experience every agency faces sooner or later. The key is to learn and grow from it.

In this episode, Whitney explores common reasons why agencies get fired and offers actionable tips to prevent it. If you're an agency owner or part of an agency team, this episode is packed with valuable insights to help you avoid common pitfalls and cultivate lasting, successful client relationships from the start.

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Have a specific topic you’d like us to cover? Connect with Whitney on Instagram @thewhitneylee.


07 Oct 2024How She Scaled and Sold her Agency with Carrie Kerpen, Founder and CEO of The Whisper Group00:42:50

Join us for an inspiring conversation with Carrie Kerpen, Founder and CEO of The Whisper Group, as she shares the journey of how she scaled and sold her agency.

In this episode, Whitney and Carrie dive into strategies for success, the specific obstacles she overcame in building her agency, and the key insights she gained throughout her journey. Whether you’re an aspiring entrepreneur or a seasoned pro, you won’t want to miss this episode!





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TheWhitneyLee.com

True Story Website


20 Jun 2022The Ultimate Guide to Winning with FB Ads featuring Dorothy Hollabaugh00:38:29

Today's episode of Sociallee Relevant takes a deep dive into Facebook and instagram ads for the experienced marketer in paid social. From paid advertisements on Facebook to pixel events to creative strategy, these experts in paid social media talk you through the tips and tricks to understand paid products on social media. Join Whitney Lee and Dorothy Hollabaugh for a discussion on best practices and their top tips and tricks for your paid marketing efforts.

Dorothy Hollabaugh joins Sociallee Relevant from Needless Eye Media. Needles Eye Media is a full-service digital advertising agency with insider knowledge, laser-like focus, and a borderline unhealthy obsession with data. They specialize in scaling profits with precision online advertising.

08 Aug 2022Influencers vs. Affiliates - Which is best for your brand?00:16:27

Influencers and affiliates are a new way to approach public relations, but which one is the best for your brand? And what’s the difference between the two? Tune in to today's episode of Sociallee Relevant to hear how you can utilize influencers and affiliates to boost your bottom line and reach new customers for your business.

24 Jul 2023Does a B2B Business Need Social Media & PR?00:25:09

Don’t get it twisted. PR and social media are for B2B companies too! Let go of the preconceived notion that PR and social media are the same thing as sales. While both may eventually lead to an increase in overall sales, they each serve their own purpose. 


Tune in for today’s episode as Whitney shares some of her PR strategies for a new B2B client, and gives you ways to implement them in your own business. 


Want us to cover a specific topic? Send your ideas to Whitney on Instagram @thewhitneylee.

15 Jul 2024Should You Niche Down Your Agency?00:30:34

Is niching down the key to success? Will it help you get more of the right kind of clients? How niche is too niche?

Join us today as Whitney cracks the code on whether or not niching down your agency is the right move. 

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Have a specific topic you want us to cover? Connect with Whitney on Instagram @thewhitneylee

11 Apr 2022#1 Thing Your Social Content Should Include00:25:30

User Generated Content!

End all of social media. You can say how awesome you are but if other people are saying you’re awesome - that’s PRICELESS

For some businesses, it just HAPPENS. People love sharing stuff like

food, travel, clothes.

But if you aren’t out there watching and listening, you’re missing opportunities! So If you don’t have expensive listening tools how do you know what’s out there?

  1. Obviously if they tag you
  2. Hashtags -not only looking at your branded one but also looking at other ones for your industry like coffee or depending on your business hashtags for your location or city
  3. Location tags - looking at people who tag themselves specifically at your business (resorts or destinations)
  4. Searching terms
  5. Reviews - sometimes they have amazing photos or great quotes to pull from

So those are some good places to start looking for content that may include your brand.

honestly - this is important either way bc there could be points of CONCERN that you should be monitoring.

  1. Seeing patterns about service or a specific team member
  2. Comparing you to other competitors - amazing feedback
  3. Concerns on the quality

SO IMPORTANT TO BE LISTENING. and it may hurt but you can take that as feedback and make changes. Tell people you heard them!

So on a positive note- if you’re wanting to generate more UGC - here are some tips

  1. Ask them - servers, putting cards on the table
  2. Incentivize
  3. Suggest it - include your hashtag everywhere. You don’t have to necessarily say “USE OUR HASHTAG” but just showing it there will remind them. put I everywhere! cups, beverage napkins, clings on windows (salons & boutiques)
  4. Give them a photo op - working on a fun sign. or a statue, or a mural on the wall!
  5. Promote other people’s content - when you’re sharing other users, people will see that and want their content promoted too!

User Generated Content is the GOAL for so many brands. You always have the option to not use it if it doesn’t align with your brand’s vision or tone, but it just comes through so authentically rather than perfectly curated images by a professional photographer.

Influencers are an amazing form of user generated content and if you’re interested in working with influencers you’ll definitely want to download our free tips to identifying influencers that will actually make you money!! linked in show notes or go to besociallee.com/podcast/how-we-generated-over-33000-with-6-unpaid-influencers/

14 Mar 2022Is In-House Marketing Actually Costing You $$$?00:19:00

Hiring an agency is WAY more expensive than hiring an in-house employee, right? Well - actually, let’s do the math. You might be surprised to learn the numerous ways you can save a significant amount of money and resources by hiring an agency. This episode will explain in detail why in-house marketing might actually be costing you more than you think and all the things an agency can do to take your business to the next level!

06 May 2024The Biggest Challenge of Working in PR00:18:39

The world of public relations may seem mystical, but once you learn how to tackle some of the most common hurdles, you will be on the track to making brands truly known. 

Today, Whitney Lee is spilling the biggest challenge of working in PR and how to troubleshoot it. Don’t miss out on this episode if you’ve been hitting public relations roadblocks for you and your clients.

Have a topic you'd like us to cover? Send your ideas to Whitney on Instagram @thewhitneylee.

20 Feb 2023How a Tiny Startup Took Down the World's Biggest Watch Brand with R.T. Custer of Vortic Watches00:26:14

If there was anything R.T. Custer anticipated when he founded Vortic Watches, it was most definitely not a lawsuit from the world's biggest watch brand. Needless to say, this world-class entrepreneur has a wealth of insight when it comes to overcoming hurdles as an entrepreneur. Tune in to this week’s episode as Whitney picks R.T. Custer’s brain on some of the trials and wins he has experienced on his journey.

Learn more about Vortic Watches.

Connect with R.T. Custer on Instagram. 

Follow True Story on Instagram

22 Apr 20243 Mistakes I've Made as a Leader00:37:05

Good leaders make mistakes too! Hear from the principal of True Story Public Relations herself as Whitney Lee dives into mistakes she's made and what she has learned from them.

Tune in to today's episode to learn more about embracing vulnerability and growing from setbacks. Remember, even the greatest leaders stumble, but it's how they rise that defines their legacy. 

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Have a specific topic you want us to cover? Connect with Whitney on Instagram @thewhitneylee.


11 Mar 20243 Little Subconscious Behaviors that are Ruining Your Productivity 00:23:32

Could these three little subconscious behaviors be ruining your productivity? 

As an agency owner, Whitney is no stranger to being pulled in a million directions. Whether your productivity is slacking in your personal or professional life, changing these three behaviors could make a world of difference. 

Have a specific topic or question you’d like us to cover? Send your ideas to Whitney on Instagram @thewhitneylee.

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Getting 100+ Emails a Day? My Productivity Hack podcast episode.

Connect with Whitney on Instagram

True Story Public Relations Website

09 Oct 2023Pitching, Press Tours + More with Freelance Food Writer, Aly Walansky00:41:08

The royal wedding, hot takes on artificial intelligence, and pitching tips- this is an episode you won’t want to miss. Today Whitney is interviewing journalist and food writer, Aly Walansky. Aly’s work has been featured in publications like The Today Show, Forbes, Food & Wine, Southern Living, The Spruce, FoodNetwork.com, All Recipes, The Kitchn, and many more. Tune in for the full scoop with Aly! 

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Connect with Aly at alywalansky.substack.com

Aly on LinkedIn

19 Sep 2022HOT TAKE - You're fake AF if you use this marketing strategy00:19:13

As marketers try to appeal to millennial and Gen Z consumers, we have noticed a bandwagon strategy that causes some businesses to appear fake AF. Authenticity is more powerful than ever in marketing, and some businesses are truly missing the mark when they try to hop on this trending marketing strategy. 

In a time where brands are afraid of cancel culture, many businesses feel the pressure to promote causes that they may not sincerely support. That's not to say that businesses cannot promote causes. In today's episode, Whitney is sharing her take on how to approach supporting causes through your business.

21 Aug 2023The Revenue Stream that Allows You to Stop Trading Time for Money with Jasmine Jonte00:37:58

Are you an expert or entrepreneur that is pouring hours and hours into your services to make more money? There may be a revenue stream you're completely missing out on.


In today's episode, Whitney is chatting with Jasmine Jonte from Cre8tion on all things online courses! Jasmine and her team take the knowledge and expertise of entrepreneurs all over the country and turn it into sellable online programs.


If you've been looking for an additional revenue stream, you won't want to miss this episode!




Jasmine Jonte helps experts turn braindumps into world-class programs! Her Done-For-You Course Creation agency takes care of everything – from the big picture promise down to the last worksheet download. They’re on a mission to make learning simple and fun for 10 Million students while saving 100+ hours for every course creator they partner with! 
Coupling her teaching experience with business savvy and management skills, you’ll want her to do the heavy lifting when building or upgrading your online programs.


Connect with Jasmine at jasminejonte.com


21 Mar 2022Should Your Business be on TikTok?00:30:08

With millions of users worldwide, Tik Tok is becoming a real player in the social media game for businesses. With numerous new social media platforms coming out each year, it can get overwhelming trying to decide whether or not your business should have a presence on each platform. Is your investment in these platforms worth your time, money, and effort? If you are asking yourself those questions, then make sure to tune into today’s episode where Whitney walks you through the pros and cons of having a TikTok to help you decide if it’s right for your business.

27 Dec 20233 Ways We Improved Our Team’s Productivity and Profitability in 202300:41:28

2023 was a big year for the True Story team! Join us for today's episode as Whitney deep-dives into strategies she has implemented to improve the agency's productivity and profitability. If you're an agency owner or director, you will want to save these tips!

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Connect with Whitney

True Story Public Relations

23 Dec 20244 Patterns Biz Owners Need to Break in 202500:38:11

Ready to transform your business for the new year? In this episode, Whitney Lee reveals the marketing and PR strategies every business owner needs to navigate a rapidly evolving landscape. Whether you're struggling to stand out in a crowded market or looking to optimize your budget, these insights are your roadmap to success.

Whitney Lee reflects on the transformative year of 2024, sharing invaluable lessons and strategies for businesses aiming to thrive amidst changing consumer behaviors. She explores the interconnected yet distinct roles of marketing and PR, highlighting how they work together to drive business forward. With post-COVID consumer behaviors shifting, Whitney delves into how businesses can adapt to these changes to stay relevant. She stresses the importance of finding and mastering a niche as a way to stand out and build a loyal audience. Additionally, Whitney underscores the value of strategic investments, from effective advertising to avoiding the pitfalls of hiring cheap help that can waste resources. She also explains why cutting your marketing budget during slow seasons is a critical mistake and advocates for maintaining year-round marketing efforts. Finally, she emphasizes the necessity of having a clear marketing budget to ensure both survival and growth.

Whether you’re a seasoned entrepreneur or just starting out, this episode is packed with actionable insights to help you make smarter, more strategic decisions in 2024. Tune in now to gain the insights you need to make 2024 your most successful year yet!

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Connect with Whitney on Instagram

Connect with Whitney on LinkedIn

True Story Public Relations on Instagram

True Story Website

TheWhitneyLee.com

06 Nov 2023The Secret Sauce to Going Viral on Social Media with Hilary Billings, Co-Founder and CEO of Attentioneers00:43:14

We live in a day and age where everyone wants to go viral on social media. Today, Whitney is interviewing Co-Founder and CEO of Attentioneers, Hilary Billings.

Hilary is no stranger to going viral and is sharing her secret sauce to creating short-form videos that people WANT to see. Tune in and leave this episode with new inspiration and ideas for creating videos with the potential to go viral.

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Hilary is a keynote speaker, digital influencer, and personal brand strategist. A former Miss Nevada, producer for E! News, and travel host for Norwegian Cruise Line, Hilary has been a featured contributor for USA Today, Thrive Global, and Huffington Post, as well as been featured on Extra! Entertainment Television.

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Attentioneers.com

Get a free TikTok strategy call

Hilary on LinkedIn

20 May 2024REAL TALK: A Message to Influencers from Agencies00:45:35

Today’s episode is a real, raw message from an agency owner directly to influencers! If you’re an influencer, buckle up for tips and etiquette for working with brands and agencies. You may be surprised by how much these simple adjustments can impact your work with agencies and brands. 

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Have a specific topic you'd like us to cover? Send your ideas to Whitney on Instagram @thewhitneylee.

14 Jan 2025 What PR Pros Need to Know About SEO with Jade Pruett, Owner & Founder of HelloSEO00:55:33

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!

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Free SEO Report Card

HelloSEO Website

Jade on LinkedIn

Jade on Instagram

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Whitney on LinkedIn

Whitney on Instagram

True Story PR Website

TheWhitneyLee.com

02 May 2022Your Email Campaign Will Fail Without This00:28:55

Are you reaching your people? Social media is constantly changing and email marketing is one way that businesses keep in constant communication with their stakeholders. This week, Whitney talks about what will make your email marketing fail. Tune in to get Whitney's tips and tricks to hack your email marketing campaigns through your subject line and get her best and worst examples.


7 Tips:

1. Don't give it all away! Make your subject lines intriguing but a little vague.

2. Keep your subject line short and sweet.

3. Explore emojis but do some research before you use them.

4. Urgency in your subject line can be a very important factor to your customer’s opening your email.

5. Let your customers know that there’s an offer inside.

6. Use first names in your emails.

7. Pay attention to the preview text.

14 Oct 2024The Worst Advice for a New Agency or Freelancer 00:29:21

Is following conventional wisdom really the best path for your agency or freelance journey?

In today’s solo podcast episode, Whitney dives into “The Worst Advice for a New Agency or Freelancer.”

Get ready for some hot takes on the common pitfalls and misconceptions that could hold you back!


Connect with Whitney on Instagram ⁠

⁠Connect with Whitney on LinkedIn⁠

⁠TheWhitneyLee.com⁠

⁠True Story Website

27 Jan 2025PR Predictions for 2025 with Jen Berson, Founder and President of Jeneration PR00:55:33

In an industry where it’s common to keep your cards close to your chest, Jen Berson took the values of community over competition seriously in her PR agency. Instead of keeping her tips and tricks a secret, she created Jeneration Academy, an online educational platform for entrepreneurs that includes courses, resources, and an online community. 

Join us today as Whitney and Jen dive into several hot topics including the top PR trends and predictions for 2024, how AI is impacting the PR industry, the NECESSITY for affiliate programs, and more! 

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Connect with Jen on Instagram 

Jeneration PR 

Jeneration Academy 

Join Powerhouse Pros Free Online Community

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Connect with Whitney on Instagram

Connect with Whitney on LinkedIn

True Story PR Website

TheWhitneyLee.com

28 Oct 2024Your First Assistant or Employee: How to Know What You Should Hand Off00:33:09

Feeling overwhelmed by doing it all yourself? It’s time to level up! In this episode, Whitney Lee reveals the secrets to successfully building and managing a team. Drawing from her own journey, she shares invaluable tips on hiring the right assistants, defining clear roles, and creating a structured system for task management. Whitney breaks down the critical difference between being a leader who trains and counsels versus just overseeing task execution.

Plus, she dives into the nuances of working with employees versus contractors, giving you the tools to make the right choices for your business. Ready to stop wearing all the hats and start scaling your business? Tune in now—and don’t forget to explore mentorship opportunities with Whitney herself!

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Apply for Ongoing Mentorship

TheWhitneyLee.com

True Story Public Relations

Connect with Whitney on Instagram

Connect with Whitney on LinkedIn

15 Apr 2024How a 22-Year-Old Tennis Buff Built an International Experience Company00:35:36

Join us for today's episode as we dive into the inspiring journey of Barnabas Carrega, CEO and Founder of The GR8 Experience, as he shares how he built this empire at just 22 years old.

From tennis buff to CEO, Barnabas shares how his journey led him to build custom dream experiences for his clients.

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Connect with Barnabas on Linkedin

The Gr8 Experience

True Story Public Relations Website

Connect with Whitney on Instagram

29 Jan 2024Creating Superfans: How to Turn Customers into Lifelong Advocates with Brittany Hodak00:34:50

“When you give your customers something to talk about, you’re going to see very rapid and very real ROI.” 

Ever wonder how other brands and businesses gained their die-hard supporters? Most of the time, it’s not due to luck. It’s due to hard work and strategy! 

Join us today as Whitney deep dives with Brittany Hodak on actionable tips for turning customers into superfans. 

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Connect with Brittany

09 Dec 2024Biz Owners: Why Your Marketing/PR Isn't Successful00:22:25

🎙️ Is your marketing team set up for success, or are you unknowingly setting them up to fail?

In this episode, Whitney takes a hard look at the challenges business owners face when hiring and managing young marketing talent. She reveals why simply hiring fresh faces isn’t enough—and what it takes to transform raw potential into real results.

You’ll also hear how fractional CMOs are emerging as a smart, cost-effective solution for businesses that can’t afford a full-service agency but still need experienced leadership to drive strategy and execution.

Whether you’re navigating the complexity of marketing or struggling to guide a young team, this episode will leave you with actionable insights to elevate your efforts.

  • Why marketing is more complex than it seems—and how to set realistic expectations for young hires.
  • The power of feedback, training, and structured plans to help young marketers thrive.
  • How fractional CMOs can fill the gap when your business needs expert oversight without the hefty price tag.
  • Practical strategies for balancing cost, quality, and collaboration in your marketing approach.

Ready to build a marketing team that truly works for your business? Tune in now!

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Connect with Whitney on LinkedIn

Connect with Whitney on Instagram

True Story PR Website

TheWhitneyLee.com

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