Pr Hangover

When David Robinson first set foot on the red carpet as a volunteer, he knew he’d be back for more. Today, he is a successful publicist working with academy award-winning films and renowned gospel artists, conducting media relations and marketing for his clients. (Plus, he’s a GVSU alum!) But the journey from West Michigan to Atlanta did not happen overnight. In this episode, David discusses his entry to the entertainment industry, what work as a publicist entails, and specific practical tactics that have led him to build lasting relationships with a vast network of professionals. Connect with David: Website: www.thedavidbrand.com Instagram: @thedavidbrand Facebook: The David Brand Follow GVPRSSA: Website: https://gvprssa.com/ Instagram: @gv_prssa Facebook: @GVPRSSA Twitter: @GV_PRSSA

This influencer marketer knows her industry front and back... literally. Why? Because she’s an influencer herself. Ayanna Bozeman (AKA Ayanna Alexis) is an Abercrombie & Fitch influencer marketing specialist who has quite the following of her own, creating lifestyle and fashion content for audiences on Youtube, Instagram, and TikTok. Ayanna joins the show to discuss her experience and the lessons she has learned from content creation, professional life, and her journey on both sides of the influencer marketing field. Listen in as she shares how she approaches starting conversations with influencers, and stick around for practical advice to students looking to follow in her footsteps! Connect with Ayanna: Instagram: @ayannaalexis LinkedIn: Ayanna Bozeman Youtube: Ayanna Alexis TikTok: @ayannaalexiss Follow GVPRSSA: Website: https://gvprssa.com/ Instagram: @gv_prssa Facebook: @GVPRSSA Twitter: @GV_PRSSA

There’s more to employee advocacy than meets the eye. Brandi Boatner, a PR veteran working in digital and employee advocacy at IBM, is an advocate for people, company, and career. A former PRSA president with years in the public relations world, Brandi knows the ropes of both external and internal strategic communications. In this episode, we discuss Brandi’s shift to employee advocacy, how it differs from her “traditional” PR experience, and how she has been able to connect with thousands of IBM employees from around the world. She shares her excitement about IBM’s recent launch, “Let’s create.” She also speaks right to us students with words of encouragement that every pre-professional needs to hear… Join in! Watch the “Let’s Create” launch video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aSTX0qdBAsI Connect with Brandi: Twitter: @ThinkBluePR LinkedIn: Brandi Boatner Follow GVPRSSA: Website: https://gvprssa.com/ Instagram: @gv_prssa Facebook: @GVPRSSA Twitter: @GV_PRSSA

PR pros and journalists, despite key differences in their approach, have a lot in common. So how can these two distinct roles work together to advocate for community members in difficult situations where the wellbeing of communities is at stake? Bryce Huffman, a reporter and producer for BridgeDetroit, has interacted with many communications professionals over the years. He knows firsthand the tension and the collaboration that can come from these important relationships. Join us as we talk about covering sensitive news stories, using writing tactics that cause readers to care, and supporting journalists in their work(and vice versa). Bryce also shares some wisdom to help PR and journalism students work through the differences in careers and choose a route that fits them best. Listen on Apple Podcasts (iTunes), Spotify, and Soundcloud. Connect with Bryce: Twitter: @BryceHuffman313 LinkedIn: Bryce Huffman BridgeDetroit: www.bridgedetroit.com/ Follow GVPRSSA: Website: https://gvprssa.com/ Instagram:

There are already hundreds of tools in a PR pro's arsenal. Why care about podcasting? Robert Johnson, a seasoned podcaster and public relations practitioner, shares just how impactful a podcast can be for clients. No matter the industry, there is space for a podcast if a brand can execute it effectively. As a host and producer of PR industry podcast PR Nation and Strategic Communications Officer at Riester Public Affairs, Robert is an expert at building podcasts for clients. Starting in radio as a 14-year-old, he knows his way around a microphone… and he thinks you can too. Tune in to hear just why Robert thinks podcasting is important, its relevance to our lives as PR students, and what it takes to start a podcast of your own.

What does it take to work at a world-renowned agency? GVSU alumna Melissa Albano is an assistant account executive at Edelman, an agency that has ranked #1 of Global PR Firms. Clearly, she’s doing something correctly. So what’s her “it” factor? Join Melissa as she shares her journey of joining Edelman, her client work with Taco Bell, transitioning from corporate to firm life, and how she and a Trader Joe’s seasoning have lots in common. Melissa packs encouragement, motivation, and advice into this episode that any student should hear. Listen on Apple Podcasts (iTunes), Spotify, and Soundcloud. Looking to get to know Melissa and make a connection at Edelman? Shoot her a message on LinkedIn! Connect with Melissa: Instagram: @melissa_albano LinkedIn: Melissa Albano Follow GVPRSSA: Website: https://gvprssa.com/ Instagram: @gv_prssa Facebook: @GVPRSSA Twitter: @GV_PRSSA

What College Can’t Teach You: A Post-grad Conversation (w/ Allison Canter, Carson Kunnen, and Morgan Layne) Some things can’t be taught in school. The awkwardness of settling into the ‘real world’ after college is one of those things. Today, recent GVSU Advertising and Public Relations graduates Allison Canter, Carson Kunnen, and Morgan Layne share their experiences of transitioning from involved students to young professionals. From finding joy in the mundane aspects of adult life to celebrating victories on the new job, we cover it all. Allison, Carson, and Morgan reflect on adjusting to unexpected career positions, opportunities they wish they had pursued in college, and advice to their undergraduate selves. Undergrads, you won’t want to miss this one. Connect with Allison: Instagram: @allisoncanter LinkedIn: Allison Canter Connect with Carson: Twitter: @ckunnen12 LinkedIn: Carson Kunnen Connect with Morgan: Instagram: @morgnlayne LinkedIn: Morgan Layne Follow GVPRSSA: Website: https://gvpr

Dr. Adrienne Wallace knows busyness–and the anxiety that comes with it–all too well. As a professor, an advisor, a digital marketing strategist, and a writer (and much more), she has a lot on her plate. So where do rest and relaxation fit in? Adrienne shares her experience and offers advice on taking effective and healthy breaks, managing anxiety, and prioritizing commitments to ensure time and health are maximized. This episode is packed with tidbits of gold for students on semester break, and Adrienne’s words of wisdom extend into the typical work and school day. Find a rhythm, avoid avoidance, and know your limits. There’s more where that came from. Give it a listen!

What’s it like to run a renowned national organization while simultaneously living the student life? It’s no small feat, but with initiative, time management, and effective leadership, Rachel and Cat make it look easy. Rachel Meltzer, PRSSA National President, and Cat Kalageros, PRSSA National VP of Brand Engagement discuss their roles on the national committee, staying “jazzed” about the industry, student leadership, and workflow. Take it from two prominent students: an impassioned desire to make a difference goes a long way in opportunity and growth. Read Rachel’s blog post on digital tools to maximize efficiency here: https://progressions.prsa.org/index.php/2021/04/09/tools-of-the-trade-new-software-for-your-workflow/ Interested in writing a blog for Progressions? Reach out to Cat! Connect with Rachel: Instagram: @rachel_meltzer Twitter: @rachel_meltzer LinkedIn: Rachel Meltzer Website: rachelemeltzer.com , hifriendsbyrachel.com Connect with Cat: Instagram: @cat_kalogeros Twitter: @ckalogerosm

Dr. LaShonda Eaddy, APR, Ph.D. isn’t afraid of research. In fact, she embraces it, teaching her students daily how to apply scholarship to the field of Public Relations. A self-proclaimed “practitioner scholar,” Dr. Eaddy has devoted her career to breaking down the barriers between academics and PR pros. So what exactly is an APR certification? Is a Ph.D. completely out of reach? What does it take to successfully implement academia in the field and vice versa? In sharing her vast experiences as a professor and as a professional, she discusses exactly how she manages all of it. Curious about pursuing either APR or education further? Reach out to Dr. Eaddy on any of the following. She would love to talk. Website: www.lashondaeaddy.com Faculty Website: https://www.bellisario.psu.edu/people/individual/lashonda-eaddy Twitter: @lashondaeaddy LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/lashonda-eaddy-ph-d-apr-12a1b03 Email: [email protected]

“I didn’t know I could have a career in professional sports,” says Brooklyn McDaniels, Sponsorship and Partnership Coordinator for the NFL. As a self-dubbed small-town girl with a big city personality, Brooklyn has found her role at the NFL in New York City to be rewarding in both personal and professional aspects. Brooklyn attributes her success to her love for people, her passion for communications, and the growth she has experienced as she has built and managed strong interpersonal relationships. This episode is full of strong bits of advice from a young professional who has seized opportunities to rise above the standard. Listen as we talk sports communications, the intersection of different industries, communication tactics, and ways students best prepare themselves for the big world. And yes, living in NYC is everything you might think it is. Brooklyn would love to connect if you’re interested in learning more. Find her here: Twitter: https://twitter.com/beelynmcdizzle?lang=en IG - https://www.ins

She’s an artist, a strategist, and a top notch communicator. Brooke Rosier, Global Marketing Specialist for Amway’s brand, Artistry, does more than cosmetic branding. Using her skills as a painter and an artist, she crafts creative and strategic campaigns for customers around the world. Brooke also invests her spare time in local nonprofit Lions & Rabbits Center for the Arts as a board member. So how does her hobby of painting influence her career? Listen in to find out. Brooke talks about the world of skincare, her adult group projects, and the unique dimensions of communication in an intercultural context. Curious for more? Find Brooke here: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brookerosier/ Website: https://www.brookerosier.com/

What is community relations? It’s listening, and it’s building trust. Jennifer Pascua, Lead of Community Relations for Spectrum Health, has years of experience under her belt in news reporting, freelancing, and most recently, corporate communications. Today, she imparts her wisdom to listeners. Tune in as we talk communications tactics; community partnerships; diversity, equity and inclusion; and effective networking. Jennifer’s encounters with various and diverse people groups uncover some key takeaways for students. “It all comes down to trust. It’s just relationships.” Connect with Jennifer here: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferpascua/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JenniferAnnePascua/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jenypascuatv/

Asking foundational questions is scary. We Ad/PR students have all been there, felt that, and regretted not posing the big questions at the beginning of our studies. So, here we are: upperclassmen asking the questions so you don’t have to. In this episode, we cover 5 questions that first-year students are asking: 1. What made you want to go into PR/made you realize you could be good at it? 2. What’s the difference between advertising and PR? 3. What surprised you most about going into PR? Is there anything you didn’t expect? 4. I’m taking all pre-req classes this year. Is there anything else I should be doing preparing for marketing/ PR? 5. What’s the biggest lesson you’ve learned since freshman year? Have any other questions? Shoot an email to [email protected]. We would love to get in touch. Or, find any of the guests here: Amberly Dzimira, VP of Chapter Development LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amberly-dzimira-698b8b196/ Clare Quirin, Social Media Director LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in

His work “literally saves the lives of children.” Does it get better than that? Juan Fernandez, VP of Marketing and Communications at Bethany Christian Services, has vast experience in the nonprofit communications field. From teaching in Costa Rica to managing communication and marketing at an international organization, Juan has done it all, and he has learned a lot along the way. Listen as Juan discusses his life in the nonprofit world and the challenges and rewards that come with it. How do we use correct terminology even when SEO tells us to say something else? How can we share the story of a nonprofit organization so that it effectively reaches the target communities? We cover it all. Find Juan on LinkedIn and Twitter @JuanF517.

Let’s face it: stocks, markets, and investments are intimidating for too many students and pros. They don't have to be. In fact, there are expansive opportunities in the world of investments - even for creatives. Join Mike Houston, Managing Director and Partner at Lambert, as he helps listeners conquer market hesitancy and understand Investor Relations’ role at the intersection of financial analysis and creative communications. Plus, Landon Klausing, president of the Seidman Investment Portfolio Organization at GVSU, answers the “stupid questions” about the market that we’re all afraid to ask. Curious about the market? Learn the basics with Tiicker’s tools (www.tiicker.com). Find Mike here: Email: [email protected] LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidmattgreen/ Find Landon here: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/landon-klausing/

“Our people tell our story best.” - Uncover the hidden gem of government communications as David Green, Director of Communications for the City of Grand Rapids, reveals how he has found public sector work to be a rewarding and impactful career. Join David as he discusses the intersection of his passions and careers, public relations for cities and the military, and the vitality of equitably giving communities a voice. ________________________________________________________________ Contact David Green at [email protected], and find him on Twitter @realdavidmgreen. Additional Questions? Comments? Reach out to Brady at [email protected].

We’ve all heard someone say it: “That’s just good PR…” but let’s be honest - this could mean anything. Students, strangers, and experienced pros alike will find this episode of PR Hangover helpful. Join us as we break down common misconceptions about the field of public relations, establish a definition for the strategic process, discuss careers in PR, and ask: is public relations right for you? Important Time Stamps: 1:18 - Introduction to your host 3:17 - A PR definition 4:05 - Common misconceptions 7:19 - What PR actually is 9:50 - PR vs. Marketing vs. Advertising 11:10 - In-house vs. Agency 15:33 - Stellar PR work 18:10 - How do you know PR is right for you? 22:56 - Resources 24:16 - Summary Resources: GVPRSSA Facebook: @GVPRSSA Twitter: @GV_PRSSA Instagram: @gv_prssa GrandPR FB: @GrandPR Twitter: @Grand_PR IG: @grand_pr LinkedIn: @GrandPR Ad club FB: @gvsuadclub Twitter: @gvadclub IG: @gvadclub Local PR firms: 8ThirtyFour Lambert Sabo PR HappyPR National Resources/Blogs: PRWeek PRNews PRDaily Bra

You’ve heard her voice all year long, but how well do you really know Emma Nelson, previous host of PR Hangover? Listen as the tables turn, and Emma becomes the interviewee, discussing her personality recipe, an email exchange with Taylor Swift’s publicist, and her biggest dreams.

On this episode, we sit down with Jason Falls and discuss his career through public relations and advertising. His work focuses on influencer marketing, but Jason likes the term “influence marketing” much more. He discusses the prevalence of influencers today, his proudest career moments, and insights for students.