The most effective PR doesn't look like PR.


Last week, I told you that I’m launching a new podcast called Shelf-Made Stories.

It's all about the amazing people who've turned their love of books into thriving businesses.

Each week, I will chat with the creative minds behind bookstores, book buses, subscription boxes, and paid book clubs.

Click here to subscribe to the dedicated Shelf-Made Stories newsletter where you'll get behind-the-scenes content, episode previews, and exclusive insights from my guests

💡 On Building Media Presence in 2025

Earning media exposure is more challenging than ever today.

You know what you need to do:

  • Start by building genuine relationships with journalists and content creators in your niche.
  • Instead of mass-sending press releases, engage with their work, offer valuable insights, and become a reliable source.
  • Consider creating your own multimedia content - whether it's short-form videos, podcast appearances, or thoughtful LinkedIn articles.

I know it can be frustrating to pitch and hear crickets.

So, remember to share your expertise freely, participate in industry conversations, and focus on telling stories that resonate with both media outlets and their audiences.

The most effective PR doesn't look like PR at all.

It's authentic engagement that builds credibility over time.

🌷 Amsterdam Adventures

Next week, I'll be exploring the charming canals of Amsterdam with the Storyblok team!

If you have any must-visit spots, hidden gems, or favorite bookstores in the city, send them my way!

🤳 On the ‘Gram

I’m doing my January round-up of the 8 books I read this month, so make sure to follow me on Instagram to see it.

Plus, I’m doing more book giveaways there… so fun!

Christina

Last Read: A Court of Mist and Fury by Sarah J. Maas ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Current Read: Part of Your World by Abby Jimenez

P.S. Don't forget to subscribe to the Shelf-Made Stories newsletter if you want to join me on this bookish business adventure!

Become a Media Maven

Learn step-by-step how businesses are earning media exposure (without ads) from a TV reporter turned PR agency owner every Thursday.

Read more from Become a Media Maven

I just did something every single business coach has told me NOT to do. I put all my pricing packages right on the homepage of my website. No more "contact for pricing" or "let's schedule a call to discuss options." Just four clear packages, all the details, and the price tags to go with them. Why the change? Honestly, I was tired of my team members wasting time on calls with people who were never going to become clients. You know the ones - they're curious about what you do, they ask a...

Become a Media Maven Thursday, March 13th, 2025 The other day, one of my Media Maven clients passed along some great testimonials asking if we could do anything with them (for PR). Not really, but…We could transform it into powerful social proof that builds trust AND provides value to her audience. This is what we did: 1️⃣ Started with the testimonial's core win 2️⃣ Added context around the challenge 3️⃣ Included 1-2 specific steps from her process that helped them succeed 4️⃣ Created a...

My new podcast Shelf Made Stories is now LIVE. You can listen to it anywhere, and if you want to see what we're talking about, watch it on YouTube. I created this podcast to learn how booklovers build businesses. Right now, you can hear how 🤳🏻 People are making money by posting pictures of their books on an app, 📚A woman diversifies her income at her bookstore so it makes money even if she doesn't sell any books, 💰 and how a Bookstagrammer turned her following into a book club that brings in...