Part 2 of a crossover episode. Part 1 aired on Chip Griffin's podcast, Chats with Chip. Episode Summary In this episode — Part 2 of a special crossover with returning guest Chip Griffin — hosts Karen Swim and Michelle Kane take a frank look at what the current landscape really…
Hosts Karen Swim, APR and Michelle Kane return after a pause to launch a new season of That's Solo Life, exploring the realities of solo PR pros, marketers, and communicators. Episodes will cover burnout, reinvention, tech-driven disruption, caregiving responsibilities, and how to stay replenished while running your business. Expect practical…
In this episode of That Solo Life, hosts Karen Swim, APR, and Michelle Kane are joined by Cyndee Woolley, MBA, APR, President and Founder of C2 Communications. Together, they dive deep into the nuanced world of public information campaigns and crisis communications for local communities. While national headlines often grab…
Episode Summary In a world increasingly driven by data, frameworks, and efficiency, are we losing the human element in public relations? This week, hosts Karen Swim and Michelle Kane tackle the critical need for brands to prioritize people over processes. They explore how the over-reliance on analytics, scripts, and rigid…
In this episode of That Solo Life, Karen Swim and Michelle Kane tackle the complex issue of corporate communication during times of social unrest and public crisis. They explore the critical difference between advocacy and activism, and why ignoring major events can sometimes be riskier than taking a stance. Episode…
In this episode, Karen and Michelle are joined by Doug Simon, CEO of D S Simon Media, to explore the transformative impact of artificial intelligence on the public relations landscape. Doug shares invaluable insights on how AI is fundamentally changing content discoverability and why PR professionals, especially solo practitioners, must…
In this episode of That Solo Life, Karen Swim and Michelle Kane tackle a common frustration for PR professionals: managing unrealistic client expectations. We have all heard the requests to "make it go viral" or "get us on the Today Show" immediately. While these aren't bad goals, they are often…
In this highly anticipated episode of That Solo Life, hosts Karen Swim, APR and Michelle Kane welcome industry legend Gini Dietrich, founder of Spin Sucks and creator of the PESO Model. Together, they dive deep into the current state of public relations and what lies ahead for 2026. The conversation…
This week, Karen and Michelle are joined by Catherine "Cat" Holt, a seasoned marketing executive with over 25 years of experience building major US brands. Cat shares her journey from the corporate world to founding her own company, driven by a desire to help businesses create purpose-driven cultures. She offers…
As the year winds down, hosts Karen Swim, APR, and Michelle Kane take a moment for a lighthearted yet insightful discussion about what they’re wishing for all solo PR pros in the coming year. This isn't your typical list of gadgets and software; instead, it's a heartfelt collection of the…
As 2025 comes to a close, it's the perfect time to reflect on the trends, challenges, and bright spots that defined the year for communications professionals. In this special year-end episode, hosts Karen Swim and Michelle Kane look back at their favorite moments from the podcast and the industry. They…
PR Pros, don't lose control! Karen Swim, APR, and Michelle Kane discuss how the rapid rise of AI is transforming the PR landscape. Solo PR pros must assert their unique value and own their professional narrative. The conversation covers the importance of personal branding, communicating your actual impact to clients,…
Sponsorship development is critical to nonprofits. In this episode, Karen Swim, APR, and Michelle Kane welcome back Anetra Henry, founder of Anetra Henry Consulting. Anetra brings her expertise in nonprofit sponsorships to the table, guiding solo PR pros and communicators through each step of the sponsorship journey. The conversation covers…
In this episode, hosts Karen Swim and Michelle Kane dive into a fascinating study about Generation Alpha—today's kids and teens aged 0-15. You might think your target audience is the adults with the wallets, but this new generation is wielding surprising economic power, influencing major family purchases from cars to…
In this eye-opening episode, hosts Karen Swim, APR and Michelle Kane tackle the disturbing trend of "rage farms" and the growing industry of disinformation-as-a-service. Stemming from a recent article by Mark Schaefer, they explore how coordinated, anonymous online attacks are manufactured to create controversy, manipulate public opinion, and inflict real-world…
For busy PR and marketing professionals, finding time to read—whether for professional development or pleasure—can be a challenge. In this episode, hosts Karen Swim and Michelle Kane open up their own "to-be-read" piles to share the books currently on their stacks. Episode Highlights (01:05) - Why PR pros often have…
Jess Sato helps people find their "big idea" and leverage that for thought leadership, but what is a big idea? Jess explains that it's not as complicated as we think.
In this episode of That Solo Life, hosts Karen Swim, APR, and Michelle Kane dive into the unique challenges PR professionals face when their exceptional skills at work start to interfere with their personal lives. From overthinking to overworking, they explore how these traits, while beneficial in the professional realm,…
PR people have professional superpowers but sometimes the things that bring success in business do not translate to joy off the clock! Meet Rhonda and see if you relate! And to get the whole scoop watch Episode 309 of That Solo Life podcast!
Tune in to this powerful episode of That Solo Life featuring Melissa Vela-Williamson, APR, Fellow PRSA, CDP, an accomplished PR strategist, author, and advocate for inclusivity in communication. Hosts Karen Swim, APR, and Michelle Kane sit down for an intimate chat with Melissa, discussing her inspiring career and successful personal…
In this episode, Karen Swim, APR and Michelle Kane discuss the concerning trend of media outlets caving to influence and pressure from the current administration in the United States. They express concerns about the erosion of a free and independent press, which they view as critical to maintaining a healthy…
In this episode of That Solo Life, hosts Karen Swim, APR, and Michelle Kane tackle the significant and timely topic of ”Media Under the Influence.” Together, they explore how modern-day pressures, including governmental interference and financial constraints, are impacting media integrity.
There is nothing tame about social media in 2025. In Episode 306 of That Solo Life podcast, Karen and Michelle discuss the problematic platforms and where we all go from here.
This podcast episode discusses the challenges and considerations PR professionals face in navigating the evolving social media landscape. The hosts share their perspectives on the pros and cons of maintaining a presence on various social media platforms, acknowledging the need to reach audiences where they are while also being mindful…