Storylines Live
Episode 41: Chapters with Paul: Changes in PR

Paul Furiga, our Chief Storyteller and host, is back in the hot seat. In this episode, Tara and Paul use their decades of industry experience to debunk press release myths, revealing how PR extends far beyond basic announcements. They explore common press release pitfalls, the evolution of news wires, and how to craft pitches that truly resonate with journalists. Learn to move beyond generic releases and unlock the real power of strategic PR.
Key Takeaways
- Press releases, while necessary, are often overused and less effective than building direct relationships with journalists.
- Successful PR relies on understanding a journalist's interests and providing valuable, relevant story pitches rather than simply distributing information.
- The rise of digital media and influencers has expanded PR strategies beyond traditional press releases, offering new avenues for reaching targeted audiences.
- Creating keyword-optimized and well-written press releases can improve search engine visibility and reach a wider online audience.
- Brand journalism emphasizes creating educational and engaging content to build trust and connect directly with an audience, rather than solely promoting products or services.
Timestamps
00:13 Host Introduction
01:44 The Purpose of a Press Release
03:39 The Pros and Cons of Press Releases
06:25 Press Releases and "The Wire" Services
09:53 The Importance of News Value in Press Releases
10:54 Pitching vs. Press Releases
11:24 Building Relationships with Journalists
15:16 Self-Publishing and Social Media
17:25 How to Connect with WordWrite
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