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PR Ramblings from Joshua Milne PR – October 3, 2025
You’re getting this newsletter because we’ve worked together, you’re in my network, or you subscribed to stay in the loop.
Event Media Outreach: Try Pitching Meteorologists
Event coverage is usually possible, but securing a lot of exposure is harder. One underused angle to consider – have you ever tried to pitch local meteorologists? In my experience in working with them, many like to spotlight upcoming community events during weather segments. When you pitch them, make it turnkey and include the following :
- Event logo and a few images
- Any available b-roll
- Date, time, location, and a sentence on “why it matters”
The One Place I Want People to Have My Email
If you run a consumer business (and often B2B), add an email capture (or widget) on your homepage. Engaging with your target audience via social can be impactful, but an email list reaches people who asked to hear from you or who are current and potentially future buyers. This is an easy way to connect with an interested audience base.
Not Posting on LinkedIn? Start – Light and Consistent
If you need a cost-effective channel to market your company, product or service, make sure you are posting on LinkedIn. Now, if you are thinking “I have no time” or “I have nothing to say,” these are solvable concerns that can easily be fixed. Here is a simple starter plan:
- Post 1-2× per week
- Use your authentic voice; be specific and useful
- Topics to consider: what you’re building, a small win or lesson, a client story (with permission), a take on an industry trend, or a behind-the-scenes process.
You may not see immediate inbound interest, but you will build awareness and credibility, which compounds over time.
September Media Wins
This past month, I secured 68 media placements including: The Boston Globe, NBC Boston, Waste Today, and WHDH. Of those, 55 were primarily TV segments driving before-and-after exposure for the Military Friends Foundation Run for the Fallen 5K.
Thanks for Reading
That’s it for this edition of PR Ramblings – my space to share real-world wins, practical advice, and the occasional rant.
Got a question or idea you’d like to bounce around? I’d love to hear from you.
PR Ramblings from Joshua Milne PR – September 2, 2025 |
|
Thoughts, wins, and lessons from the media trenches You’re receiving this newsletter because we’ve worked together, you’re part of my network, or you signed up to stay in the loop.
I’ve redesigned my website → www.joshuamilnepr.com. What’s been updated:
Take a look when you have a minute.
Back in my agency days, I used to cringe when I was told to send these type of vague emails. Journalists already get bombarded with them and they rarely help build a real connection.
Instead, here’s what does work:
Two simple rules I always follow:
Did you know most conference actively recruit speakers months in advance? They issue a “Call for Papers” (application) 6–8 months before the event. A few things to keep in mind:
Even so, if you’re aiming to build credibility or reach new audiences, speaking can be an effective strategy.
That’s it for this edition of PR Ramblings—my space to share real-world wins, practical advice, and the occasional rant. |
Out with the Old, In with the New
Don’t Email Media Just to Ask “What Are You Working On?” 
Make their life easier
Be honest and respectful of their time
PR Ramblings from Joshua Milne PR – August 5, 2025
Thoughts, wins, and lessons from the media trenches.
You’re receiving this newsletter because we’ve worked together, you’re part of my network, or you signed up to stay in the loop. Don’t want future updates? You can unsubscribe at the bottom.
Choosing a Media Database
Need to subscribe to a media database service but not sure where to start? Here’s my quick take:
- Best Overall: Muck Rack – My go-to for accuracy and usability.
- Honorable Mention: Cision – Some folks swear by it, but I find it not as up-to-date as Muck Rack.
- Avoid: Critical Mention – Their database is extremely limited and not worth your time.
- Budget Options: Prowly and Qwoted – Lower cost, but keep expectations in check.
Holiday Gift Guide Pitching: Start Now
Yes, it’s that time already. Long-lead holiday gift guide pitching is in full swing. To maximize opportunities, you should start outreach no later than October 1 and ideally earlier.
Make sure your client provides the following:
- A list of products/services to promote
- Pricing and key details
- High-quality images
- Purchase links
- Discount codes (if applicable)
Feel free to reach out if you need help getting a product or service included in HGG roundups later this year.
Pitch What You’ve Actually Tried
One of the biggest credibility killers in PR? Pitching something you haven’t experienced yourself. I’ve been guilty of it, too – but I’m working to change that.
Whether it’s a hotel, restaurant, or a physical product, make time to try it out. Don’t rely on the client’s website or claims. Firsthand experience leads to better, more authentic pitches—and reporters can tell the difference.
July Media Wins
This past month, I secured 16 media placements for clients, including features in: South China Morning Post, MPR News, and NBC Chicago
Thanks for reading PR Ramblings, where I share real-world wins, practical advice, and the occasional rant. Got a question or want to bounce around an idea? I’d love to hear from you.
Josh
Joshua Milne PR
PR Ramblings from Joshua Milne PR – July 1, 2025
PR thoughts, wins, and lessons from the media trenches.
You’re receiving this newsletter because we’ve collaborated, you’re part of my network, or you signed up to stay updated. Don’t want to receive future issues? You can unsubscribe at the bottom
Local Media Hits Can Be Just as Impactful as National Coverage
While national coverage often feels like the holy grail, I continue to see clients benefit enormously from well placed local media hits. For example, last month I worked with Runbuk to pitch local outlets on participants training for the North Pole Marathon. The story is simple but it resonates. Local outlets love highlighting hometown heroes, and these features often generate meaningful engagement and local buzz.
Is Your Client Media Trained?
Working with North Pole Marathon participants reminded me that many people stepping into the media spotlight aren’t media trained. Recently, I’ve started flagging this to some reporters ahead of time. It helps set expectations and leads to better interviews. Reporters appreciate the heads up and your clients will too.
Are You a Partner or Just a Vendor?
After a few weeks with a new client, a key dynamic always becomes clear: is this a partnership or just a transaction?
In my experience, the best results come from relationships built on trust, shared goals, and open communication. If you find yourself in “vendor mode,” push (respectfully) for a more collaborative relationship. Partnerships are where the real magic happens.
Freelancer Substacks Worth Following
Staying sharp in this business means staying current. Thankfully, some of the most useful insights come straight from freelance journalists themselves. Their Substacks offers a wealth of knowledge on what works (and what flops) when pitching the media.
Here are a few I regularly read and recommend: Aly Walansky, Bryce Gruber, Emma Grace Moon, Dana Baardsen, Rachel Dube, Jill Schildhouse, Alesandra Dubin, Katie Lockhart, Joni Sweet, and Top Tier Consulting.
May Media Highlights
This month, I helped clients land 15 media hits, including placements in: Askmen, Daily Mom, and Rough Draft Atlanta.
Thanks for reading PR Ramblings, where I share real-world wins, practical advice, and the occasional rant. Got a question or an idea to bounce around? Let’s connect.
Joshua Milne
Joshua Milne PR
PR Ramblings from Joshua Milne PR – May 1, 2025
Thoughts, wins, and lessons from the media trenches.
You’re receiving this newsletter because we’ve collaborated, you’re part of my network, or you subscribed to stay updated. Prefer not to receive future updates? You can unsubscribe below.
WBUR Interview for the National Baseball Poetry Festival
When promoting an event – whether local, regional, or national – I make it a point to leave no stone unturned when seeking media coverage for my clients. That doesn’t mean pitching every outlet under the sun, but it does mean having a thoughtful, targeted list that includes TV, radio, print, online, podcasts, local blogs, calendar listings, and even local wire services, when relevant.
Thanks to relationships built over time, WBUR replied to my pitch and requested an
interview to produce a segment on the National Baseball Poetry Festival. You can listen to the segment here:
WBUR – Baseball Poetry and the Legacy of Willie Mays
Media Tip: Always Schedule a Prep Call Before Interviews
In my experience, many clients need a few minutes to “warm up” once an interview starts. They may stumble early or miss key talking points when answering the first two questions from a reporter. That’s why I now schedule a brief prep call on the morning of any scheduled interview.
We run through possible questions, refine responses, and get them in the right mindset. It only takes 15–20 minutes and it makes a huge difference – it’s a night and day difference. Clients hit the ground running, confident and ready to crush that first question.
PR Query Lists Worth Following
While it has become harder to secure media coverage for clients, there are way more newsletters available where you can source potential media opps for your clients. There are now multiple f newsletters that share active reporter queries. Some of my go-to sources include:
- HARO (Help a Reporter Out)
- Source of Sources
- Rachel Cavanaugh’s JamNet Callout
- Help a B2B Reporter
- Qwoted (not a fan, but some people like it)
- Newsletters from freelancers like Aly Walanksy, Alice Dubin, Jill Schildhouse, Nicole Pajer, and Joni Sweet (among others)
These are great for PR pros and clients looking to proactively plug into ongoing media conversations.
May Media Highlights
This month, I helped clients land 12 media hits, including features in: WBUR, Sports Techie, and NBC Boston.
Thanks for reading PR Ramblings, where I share real-world wins, practical tips, and the occasional rant. Got a question or a pitch idea? Let’s connect.
—
Joshua Milne
Joshua Milne PR
.
PR Ramblings from Joshua Milne PR – September 2, 2025 |
|
Thoughts, wins, and lessons from the media trenches You’re receiving this newsletter because we’ve worked together, you’re part of my network, or you signed up to stay in the loop.
I’ve redesigned my website → www.joshuamilnepr.com. What’s been updated:
Take a look when you have a minute.
Back in my agency days, I used to cringe when I was told to send these type of vague emails. Journalists already get bombarded with them and they rarely help build a real connection.
Instead, here’s what does work:
Two simple rules I always follow:
Did you know most conference actively recruit speakers months in advance? They issue a “Call for Papers” (application) 6–8 months before the event. A few things to keep in mind:
Even so, if you’re aiming to build credibility or reach new audiences, speaking can be an effective strategy.
That’s it for this edition of PR Ramblings—my space to share real-world wins, practical advice, and the occasional rant. |
PR Ramblings from Joshua Milne PR – August 5, 2025
Thoughts, wins, and lessons from the media trenches.
You’re receiving this newsletter because we’ve worked together, you’re part of my network, or you signed up to stay in the loop. Don’t want future updates? You can unsubscribe at the bottom.
Choosing a Media Database
Need to subscribe to a media database service but not sure where to start? Here’s my quick take:
- Best Overall: Muck Rack – My go-to for accuracy and usability.
- Honorable Mention: Cision – Some folks swear by it, but I find it not as up-to-date as Muck Rack.
- Avoid: Critical Mention – Their database is extremely limited and not worth your time.
- Budget Options: Prowly and Qwoted – Lower cost, but keep expectations in check.
Holiday Gift Guide Pitching: Start Now
Yes, it’s that time already. Long-lead holiday gift guide pitching is in full swing. To maximize opportunities, you should start outreach no later than October 1 and ideally earlier.
Make sure your client provides the following:
- A list of products/services to promote
- Pricing and key details
- High-quality images
- Purchase links
- Discount codes (if applicable)
Feel free to reach out if you need help getting a product or service included in HGG roundups later this year.
Pitch What You’ve Actually Tried
One of the biggest credibility killers in PR? Pitching something you haven’t experienced yourself. I’ve been guilty of it, too – but I’m working to change that.
Whether it’s a hotel, restaurant, or a physical product, make time to try it out. Don’t rely on the client’s website or claims. Firsthand experience leads to better, more authentic pitches—and reporters can tell the difference.
July Media Wins
This past month, I secured 16 media placements for clients, including features in: South China Morning Post, MPR News, and NBC Chicago
Thanks for reading PR Ramblings, where I share real-world wins, practical advice, and the occasional rant. Got a question or want to bounce around an idea? I’d love to hear from you.
Josh
Joshua Milne PR
PR Ramblings from Joshua Milne PR – July 1, 2025
PR thoughts, wins, and lessons from the media trenches.
You’re receiving this newsletter because we’ve collaborated, you’re part of my network, or you signed up to stay updated. Don’t want to receive future issues? You can unsubscribe at the bottom
Local Media Hits Can Be Just as Impactful as National Coverage
While national coverage often feels like the holy grail, I continue to see clients benefit enormously from well placed local media hits. For example, last month I worked with Runbuk to pitch local outlets on participants training for the North Pole Marathon. The story is simple but it resonates. Local outlets love highlighting hometown heroes, and these features often generate meaningful engagement and local buzz.
Is Your Client Media Trained?
Working with North Pole Marathon participants reminded me that many people stepping into the media spotlight aren’t media trained. Recently, I’ve started flagging this to some reporters ahead of time. It helps set expectations and leads to better interviews. Reporters appreciate the heads up and your clients will too.
Are You a Partner or Just a Vendor?
After a few weeks with a new client, a key dynamic always becomes clear: is this a partnership or just a transaction?
In my experience, the best results come from relationships built on trust, shared goals, and open communication. If you find yourself in “vendor mode,” push (respectfully) for a more collaborative relationship. Partnerships are where the real magic happens.
Freelancer Substacks Worth Following
Staying sharp in this business means staying current. Thankfully, some of the most useful insights come straight from freelance journalists themselves. Their Substacks offers a wealth of knowledge on what works (and what flops) when pitching the media.
Here are a few I regularly read and recommend: Aly Walansky, Bryce Gruber, Emma Grace Moon, Dana Baardsen, Rachel Dube, Jill Schildhouse, Alesandra Dubin, Katie Lockhart, Joni Sweet, and Top Tier Consulting.
May Media Highlights
This month, I helped clients land 15 media hits, including placements in: Askmen, Daily Mom, and Rough Draft Atlanta.
Thanks for reading PR Ramblings, where I share real-world wins, practical advice, and the occasional rant. Got a question or an idea to bounce around? Let’s connect.
Joshua Milne
Joshua Milne PR
PR Ramblings from Joshua Milne PR – May 1, 2025
Thoughts, wins, and lessons from the media trenches.
You’re receiving this newsletter because we’ve collaborated, you’re part of my network, or you subscribed to stay updated. Prefer not to receive future updates? You can unsubscribe below.
WBUR Interview for the National Baseball Poetry Festival
When promoting an event – whether local, regional, or national – I make it a point to leave no stone unturned when seeking media coverage for my clients. That doesn’t mean pitching every outlet under the sun, but it does mean having a thoughtful, targeted list that includes TV, radio, print, online, podcasts, local blogs, calendar listings, and even local wire services, when relevant.
Thanks to relationships built over time, WBUR replied to my pitch and requested an
interview to produce a segment on the National Baseball Poetry Festival. You can listen to the segment here:
WBUR – Baseball Poetry and the Legacy of Willie Mays
Media Tip: Always Schedule a Prep Call Before Interviews
In my experience, many clients need a few minutes to “warm up” once an interview starts. They may stumble early or miss key talking points when answering the first two questions from a reporter. That’s why I now schedule a brief prep call on the morning of any scheduled interview.
We run through possible questions, refine responses, and get them in the right mindset. It only takes 15–20 minutes and it makes a huge difference – it’s a night and day difference. Clients hit the ground running, confident and ready to crush that first question.
PR Query Lists Worth Following
While it has become harder to secure media coverage for clients, there are way more newsletters available where you can source potential media opps for your clients. There are now multiple f newsletters that share active reporter queries. Some of my go-to sources include:
- HARO (Help a Reporter Out)
- Source of Sources
- Rachel Cavanaugh’s JamNet Callout
- Help a B2B Reporter
- Qwoted (not a fan, but some people like it)
- Newsletters from freelancers like Aly Walanksy, Alice Dubin, Jill Schildhouse, Nicole Pajer, and Joni Sweet (among others)
These are great for PR pros and clients looking to proactively plug into ongoing media conversations.
May Media Highlights
This month, I helped clients land 12 media hits, including features in: WBUR, Sports Techie, and NBC Boston.
Thanks for reading PR Ramblings, where I share real-world wins, practical tips, and the occasional rant. Got a question or a pitch idea? Let’s connect.
—
Joshua Milne
Joshua Milne PR
.
PR Ramblings from Joshua Milne PR – September 2, 2025 |
|
Thoughts, wins, and lessons from the media trenches You’re receiving this newsletter because we’ve worked together, you’re part of my network, or you signed up to stay in the loop.
I’ve redesigned my website → www.joshuamilnepr.com. What’s been updated:
Take a look when you have a minute.
Back in my agency days, I used to cringe when I was told to send these type of vague emails. Journalists already get bombarded with them and they rarely help build a real connection.
Instead, here’s what does work:
Two simple rules I always follow:
Did you know most conference actively recruit speakers months in advance? They issue a “Call for Papers” (application) 6–8 months before the event. A few things to keep in mind:
Even so, if you’re aiming to build credibility or reach new audiences, speaking can be an effective strategy.
That’s it for this edition of PR Ramblings—my space to share real-world wins, practical advice, and the occasional rant. |
PR Ramblings from Joshua Milne PR – August 5, 2025
Thoughts, wins, and lessons from the media trenches.
You’re receiving this newsletter because we’ve worked together, you’re part of my network, or you signed up to stay in the loop. Don’t want future updates? You can unsubscribe at the bottom.
Choosing a Media Database
Need to subscribe to a media database service but not sure where to start? Here’s my quick take:
- Best Overall: Muck Rack – My go-to for accuracy and usability.
- Honorable Mention: Cision – Some folks swear by it, but I find it not as up-to-date as Muck Rack.
- Avoid: Critical Mention – Their database is extremely limited and not worth your time.
- Budget Options: Prowly and Qwoted – Lower cost, but keep expectations in check.
Holiday Gift Guide Pitching: Start Now
Yes, it’s that time already. Long-lead holiday gift guide pitching is in full swing. To maximize opportunities, you should start outreach no later than October 1 and ideally earlier.
Make sure your client provides the following:
- A list of products/services to promote
- Pricing and key details
- High-quality images
- Purchase links
- Discount codes (if applicable)
Feel free to reach out if you need help getting a product or service included in HGG roundups later this year.
Pitch What You’ve Actually Tried
One of the biggest credibility killers in PR? Pitching something you haven’t experienced yourself. I’ve been guilty of it, too – but I’m working to change that.
Whether it’s a hotel, restaurant, or a physical product, make time to try it out. Don’t rely on the client’s website or claims. Firsthand experience leads to better, more authentic pitches—and reporters can tell the difference.
July Media Wins
This past month, I secured 16 media placements for clients, including features in: South China Morning Post, MPR News, and NBC Chicago
Thanks for reading PR Ramblings, where I share real-world wins, practical advice, and the occasional rant. Got a question or want to bounce around an idea? I’d love to hear from you.
Josh
Joshua Milne PR
PR Ramblings from Joshua Milne PR – July 1, 2025
PR thoughts, wins, and lessons from the media trenches.
You’re receiving this newsletter because we’ve collaborated, you’re part of my network, or you signed up to stay updated. Don’t want to receive future issues? You can unsubscribe at the bottom
Local Media Hits Can Be Just as Impactful as National Coverage
While national coverage often feels like the holy grail, I continue to see clients benefit enormously from well placed local media hits. For example, last month I worked with Runbuk to pitch local outlets on participants training for the North Pole Marathon. The story is simple but it resonates. Local outlets love highlighting hometown heroes, and these features often generate meaningful engagement and local buzz.
Is Your Client Media Trained?
Working with North Pole Marathon participants reminded me that many people stepping into the media spotlight aren’t media trained. Recently, I’ve started flagging this to some reporters ahead of time. It helps set expectations and leads to better interviews. Reporters appreciate the heads up and your clients will too.
Are You a Partner or Just a Vendor?
After a few weeks with a new client, a key dynamic always becomes clear: is this a partnership or just a transaction?
In my experience, the best results come from relationships built on trust, shared goals, and open communication. If you find yourself in “vendor mode,” push (respectfully) for a more collaborative relationship. Partnerships are where the real magic happens.
Freelancer Substacks Worth Following
Staying sharp in this business means staying current. Thankfully, some of the most useful insights come straight from freelance journalists themselves. Their Substacks offers a wealth of knowledge on what works (and what flops) when pitching the media.
Here are a few I regularly read and recommend: Aly Walansky, Bryce Gruber, Emma Grace Moon, Dana Baardsen, Rachel Dube, Jill Schildhouse, Alesandra Dubin, Katie Lockhart, Joni Sweet, and Top Tier Consulting.
May Media Highlights
This month, I helped clients land 15 media hits, including placements in: Askmen, Daily Mom, and Rough Draft Atlanta.
Thanks for reading PR Ramblings, where I share real-world wins, practical advice, and the occasional rant. Got a question or an idea to bounce around? Let’s connect.
Joshua Milne
Joshua Milne PR
PR Ramblings from Joshua Milne PR – May 1, 2025
Thoughts, wins, and lessons from the media trenches.
You’re receiving this newsletter because we’ve collaborated, you’re part of my network, or you subscribed to stay updated. Prefer not to receive future updates? You can unsubscribe below.
WBUR Interview for the National Baseball Poetry Festival
When promoting an event – whether local, regional, or national – I make it a point to leave no stone unturned when seeking media coverage for my clients. That doesn’t mean pitching every outlet under the sun, but it does mean having a thoughtful, targeted list that includes TV, radio, print, online, podcasts, local blogs, calendar listings, and even local wire services, when relevant.
Thanks to relationships built over time, WBUR replied to my pitch and requested an
interview to produce a segment on the National Baseball Poetry Festival. You can listen to the segment here:
WBUR – Baseball Poetry and the Legacy of Willie Mays
Media Tip: Always Schedule a Prep Call Before Interviews
In my experience, many clients need a few minutes to “warm up” once an interview starts. They may stumble early or miss key talking points when answering the first two questions from a reporter. That’s why I now schedule a brief prep call on the morning of any scheduled interview.
We run through possible questions, refine responses, and get them in the right mindset. It only takes 15–20 minutes and it makes a huge difference – it’s a night and day difference. Clients hit the ground running, confident and ready to crush that first question.
PR Query Lists Worth Following
While it has become harder to secure media coverage for clients, there are way more newsletters available where you can source potential media opps for your clients. There are now multiple f newsletters that share active reporter queries. Some of my go-to sources include:
- HARO (Help a Reporter Out)
- Source of Sources
- Rachel Cavanaugh’s JamNet Callout
- Help a B2B Reporter
- Qwoted (not a fan, but some people like it)
- Newsletters from freelancers like Aly Walanksy, Alice Dubin, Jill Schildhouse, Nicole Pajer, and Joni Sweet (among others)
These are great for PR pros and clients looking to proactively plug into ongoing media conversations.
May Media Highlights
This month, I helped clients land 12 media hits, including features in: WBUR, Sports Techie, and NBC Boston.
Thanks for reading PR Ramblings, where I share real-world wins, practical tips, and the occasional rant. Got a question or a pitch idea? Let’s connect.
—
Joshua Milne
Joshua Milne PR
.
PR Ramblings from Joshua Milne PR – September 2, 2025 |
|
Thoughts, wins, and lessons from the media trenches You’re receiving this newsletter because we’ve worked together, you’re part of my network, or you signed up to stay in the loop.
I’ve redesigned my website → www.joshuamilnepr.com. What’s been updated:
Take a look when you have a minute.
Back in my agency days, I used to cringe when I was told to send these type of vague emails. Journalists already get bombarded with them and they rarely help build a real connection.
Instead, here’s what does work:
Two simple rules I always follow:
Did you know most conference actively recruit speakers months in advance? They issue a “Call for Papers” (application) 6–8 months before the event. A few things to keep in mind:
Even so, if you’re aiming to build credibility or reach new audiences, speaking can be an effective strategy.
That’s it for this edition of PR Ramblings—my space to share real-world wins, practical advice, and the occasional rant. |
PR Ramblings from Joshua Milne PR – August 5, 2025
Thoughts, wins, and lessons from the media trenches.
You’re receiving this newsletter because we’ve worked together, you’re part of my network, or you signed up to stay in the loop. Don’t want future updates? You can unsubscribe at the bottom.
Choosing a Media Database
Need to subscribe to a media database service but not sure where to start? Here’s my quick take:
- Best Overall: Muck Rack – My go-to for accuracy and usability.
- Honorable Mention: Cision – Some folks swear by it, but I find it not as up-to-date as Muck Rack.
- Avoid: Critical Mention – Their database is extremely limited and not worth your time.
- Budget Options: Prowly and Qwoted – Lower cost, but keep expectations in check.
Holiday Gift Guide Pitching: Start Now
Yes, it’s that time already. Long-lead holiday gift guide pitching is in full swing. To maximize opportunities, you should start outreach no later than October 1 and ideally earlier.
Make sure your client provides the following:
- A list of products/services to promote
- Pricing and key details
- High-quality images
- Purchase links
- Discount codes (if applicable)
Feel free to reach out if you need help getting a product or service included in HGG roundups later this year.
Pitch What You’ve Actually Tried
One of the biggest credibility killers in PR? Pitching something you haven’t experienced yourself. I’ve been guilty of it, too – but I’m working to change that.
Whether it’s a hotel, restaurant, or a physical product, make time to try it out. Don’t rely on the client’s website or claims. Firsthand experience leads to better, more authentic pitches—and reporters can tell the difference.
July Media Wins
This past month, I secured 16 media placements for clients, including features in: South China Morning Post, MPR News, and NBC Chicago
Thanks for reading PR Ramblings, where I share real-world wins, practical advice, and the occasional rant. Got a question or want to bounce around an idea? I’d love to hear from you.
Josh
Joshua Milne PR
PR Ramblings from Joshua Milne PR – July 1, 2025
PR thoughts, wins, and lessons from the media trenches.
You’re receiving this newsletter because we’ve collaborated, you’re part of my network, or you signed up to stay updated. Don’t want to receive future issues? You can unsubscribe at the bottom
Local Media Hits Can Be Just as Impactful as National Coverage
While national coverage often feels like the holy grail, I continue to see clients benefit enormously from well placed local media hits. For example, last month I worked with Runbuk to pitch local outlets on participants training for the North Pole Marathon. The story is simple but it resonates. Local outlets love highlighting hometown heroes, and these features often generate meaningful engagement and local buzz.
Is Your Client Media Trained?
Working with North Pole Marathon participants reminded me that many people stepping into the media spotlight aren’t media trained. Recently, I’ve started flagging this to some reporters ahead of time. It helps set expectations and leads to better interviews. Reporters appreciate the heads up and your clients will too.
Are You a Partner or Just a Vendor?
After a few weeks with a new client, a key dynamic always becomes clear: is this a partnership or just a transaction?
In my experience, the best results come from relationships built on trust, shared goals, and open communication. If you find yourself in “vendor mode,” push (respectfully) for a more collaborative relationship. Partnerships are where the real magic happens.
Freelancer Substacks Worth Following
Staying sharp in this business means staying current. Thankfully, some of the most useful insights come straight from freelance journalists themselves. Their Substacks offers a wealth of knowledge on what works (and what flops) when pitching the media.
Here are a few I regularly read and recommend: Aly Walansky, Bryce Gruber, Emma Grace Moon, Dana Baardsen, Rachel Dube, Jill Schildhouse, Alesandra Dubin, Katie Lockhart, Joni Sweet, and Top Tier Consulting.
May Media Highlights
This month, I helped clients land 15 media hits, including placements in: Askmen, Daily Mom, and Rough Draft Atlanta.
Thanks for reading PR Ramblings, where I share real-world wins, practical advice, and the occasional rant. Got a question or an idea to bounce around? Let’s connect.
Joshua Milne
Joshua Milne PR
PR Ramblings from Joshua Milne PR – May 1, 2025
Thoughts, wins, and lessons from the media trenches.
You’re receiving this newsletter because we’ve collaborated, you’re part of my network, or you subscribed to stay updated. Prefer not to receive future updates? You can unsubscribe below.
WBUR Interview for the National Baseball Poetry Festival
When promoting an event – whether local, regional, or national – I make it a point to leave no stone unturned when seeking media coverage for my clients. That doesn’t mean pitching every outlet under the sun, but it does mean having a thoughtful, targeted list that includes TV, radio, print, online, podcasts, local blogs, calendar listings, and even local wire services, when relevant.
Thanks to relationships built over time, WBUR replied to my pitch and requested an
interview to produce a segment on the National Baseball Poetry Festival. You can listen to the segment here:
WBUR – Baseball Poetry and the Legacy of Willie Mays
Media Tip: Always Schedule a Prep Call Before Interviews
In my experience, many clients need a few minutes to “warm up” once an interview starts. They may stumble early or miss key talking points when answering the first two questions from a reporter. That’s why I now schedule a brief prep call on the morning of any scheduled interview.
We run through possible questions, refine responses, and get them in the right mindset. It only takes 15–20 minutes and it makes a huge difference – it’s a night and day difference. Clients hit the ground running, confident and ready to crush that first question.
PR Query Lists Worth Following
While it has become harder to secure media coverage for clients, there are way more newsletters available where you can source potential media opps for your clients. There are now multiple f newsletters that share active reporter queries. Some of my go-to sources include:
- HARO (Help a Reporter Out)
- Source of Sources
- Rachel Cavanaugh’s JamNet Callout
- Help a B2B Reporter
- Qwoted (not a fan, but some people like it)
- Newsletters from freelancers like Aly Walanksy, Alice Dubin, Jill Schildhouse, Nicole Pajer, and Joni Sweet (among others)
These are great for PR pros and clients looking to proactively plug into ongoing media conversations.
May Media Highlights
This month, I helped clients land 12 media hits, including features in: WBUR, Sports Techie, and NBC Boston.
Thanks for reading PR Ramblings, where I share real-world wins, practical tips, and the occasional rant. Got a question or a pitch idea? Let’s connect.
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Joshua Milne
Joshua Milne PR
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Joshua Milne’s PR Ramblings – April 1, 2025
Industry Coverage Can Be More Valuable Than a National Hit
I recently worked on a fast-turnaround PR project for Mythica at the Game Developers Conference (GDC). The startup wanted to showcase its innovation in open-sourcing procedural tools for game development. I have worked off-and-on within the gaming industry for more than 20 years. Thanks to my longstanding relationship with Dean Takahashi at VentureBeat, I was able to get the news in front of him, resulting in this great VentureBeat article—one of Mythica’s top-targeted outlets.
Personalize, Personalize, Personalize
Yes, it takes longer to personalize a media pitch, but in an inbox flooded with emails, personalization to a reporter makes all the difference. Have you referenced a journalist’s recent work? Checked their social feeds? Taking the time to tailor your message can significantly improve engagement. (Note to self: I need to double down on this too.)
A Simple Thank You Goes a Long Way
If a journalist covers your company, take a moment to say thanks. A quick email like, “We appreciate the coverage—thank you!” helps build lasting relationships. You’d be surprised how many reporters never hear back after writing a story. A little gratitude can set you apart.
In March, I helped existing clients secure 17 media hits, including placements in WCVB (Boston), Worcester Magazine, Boston.com, and Creative Bloq.
Thank you for tuning in to PR Ramblings! Questions, ideas, or feedback? Let’s connect.
Joshua Milne’s PR Ramblings – March 3, 2025
Podcast Coverage Can Drive New Business
It’s surprising how impactful podcast interviews can be in generating new business. A former client, Mad*Pow, saw firsthand how podcast exposure led to inbound inquiries. After featuring executives on various podcasts, they repeatedly received outreach from businesses interested in working with them. One example is their 2021 interview UI Breakfast: UI/UX Design and Product Strategy, which I helped secure.
Coverage is Never Guaranteed
Even after an interview, a company event, or sending a product for review, media coverage is never a sure thing. Journalists juggle multiple priorities – they might get pulled onto another story, find the executive’s quotes unusable, or simply not like the product they reviewed. Until you see the article published, hear the podcast aired, or watch the segment live, coverage is never confirmed.
Media Coverage is Gold – Share It!
When you do secure media coverage, maximize its impact! Share it across social media, add it to your website, and add it to your marketing materials. Customers and prospects still trust and value earned media—whether it’s a feature story, product review, or executive insights.
February Client Coverage Highlights
This past month, I secured 12 pieces of media coverage for my clients, with a lot of the articles talking about the World Marathon Challenge.
PR Ramblings from Joshua Milne PR – February 17, 2025
Hometown Coverage for the Win
For those following Boston sports, the Sunday Notes Columns in the Boston Globe are a must-read. While they primarily focus on the specific sport, they often highlight local events, new books, or fundraisers at the end of the column. I have only been able to get clients included in these columns a few times so it was really cool to see the National Baseball Poetry Festival mentioned in yesterday’s Baseball Sunday Notes column.
Repeat after Me – Don’t Go “Off the Record”
The media landscape is continually evolving. Traditionally, reporters wouldn’t include information that was discussed “off the record.” That being said, I now advise clients to avoid going “off the record” entirely. Instead, consider providing information “on background,” knowing that the info might be included without direct attribution. Remember, once you’re on the phone with a reporter, anything you say could be used in the story.
The Power of Podcasts
Looking to gain exposure for yourself or your business? Securing a podcast interview might be the way to go. Many clients have reported an increase in new business inquiries after appearing on podcasts. Listeners tend to be highly engaged, making them more likely to remember the interviewee. They also tend to be a great forum for longer form discussions.
Thank you for tuning in to PR Ramblings. If you have questions, ideas, or feedback, let’s connect!
PR Ramblings from Joshua Milne PR – January 31, 2025
Hometown Coverage for the Win
There’s a common belief that national media coverage always packs the biggest punch. But in my experience, securing multiple local hits can sometimes provide even greater value for my clients.
For example, earlier this month I pitched a World Marathon Challenge participant (run 7 marathons on 7 continents in 7 days!) to the Tucson, AZ media. Four local TV stations expressed interest in speaking with the local runner.
Sometimes, Silence is Golden
Timing is everything when it comes to working in PR. Before distributing news – locally or nationally – it’s critical to check the broader news landscape.
For instance, when Boston was excited about the announcement of the New England Patriots’ new head coach, I stayed away from pitching any news to the Boston sports media as it wasn’t Pats-related.
Similarly, trying to pitch news to LA media during the recent wildfires would’ve been insensitive and likely ignored. When major news breaks, sometimes the best strategy is to wait until the news cycle settles.
While local journalism has been in the decline of late, I’m optimistic about its comeback in 2025.
You’re a Star
Want to boost your professional profile? Establish yourself as a trusted thought leader. How? Whether it’s reaching out to media in your industry or connecting with outlets in your hometown, introducing yourself as a reliable source can potentially be beneficial in the future.
Not ready for interviews? Instead consider providing expert commentary on LinkedIn. A short paragraph posted twice a week is enough to position yourself as an industry expert. It’s easy and effective in the long run.
January Client Coverage Highlights
This past month, I secured 9 media placements for clients, with a strong focus on hometown stories for participants in the World Marathon Challenge.
PR Ramblings from Joshua Milne PR – January 15, 2025
As 2025 is now upon us, I have created this newsletter where I can discuss PR and media relations, share insights and trends, and bring to life what exactly I do for clients.
Some topics I plan discuss include highlighting interesting press clips I have secured for clients in the past, media relations tips and tricks – both from me personally and industry pundits – and actionable things you can do to generate exposure for your brand or business.
I should add that this newsletter will be brief, to the point, and easy to read on your mobile device.
This Coverage Deserves a Gold Star
In November, I worked on a rush campaign for Eastern Standard Provisions, hoping to generate some last-minute holiday exposure. If you’re a B2C business, doing outreach to secure inclusion in holiday gift guides can be one of the smartest ways to secure exposure. It is important to add that starting this endeavor in November is an extreme rush campaign. While national gift guides can be considered the ultimate exposure for a client, I believe local publications often provide just as much impact. Thanks to some strong relationships with Boston-based food reporters, I was able to land coverage for Eastern Standard Provisions in both the Boston Globe and a roundup in Boston Magazine, arguably the two biggest and most impactful regional media outlets for this client.
Wait, I Have to Pay for a Feature Story on My Company?
The media landscape is changing fast. Years ago, you could pitch reporters to secure a profile story about your company without paying a dime. But now? It’s increasingly common for feature stories to be part of a “pay-to-play” model. While earned media feature stories still happen from time to time, they’re becoming rarer. That being said, there are other ways to get included in articles – as an expert source, as part of a roundup story, being interviewed on a podcast which can then translate into additional print or online coverage, etc.
Help Me, Help You!
Enhance your website for 2025.
Here are my two small updates that can make a big difference:
- Create a Media Contact Email: Make it easy for journalists to reach you. Something as simple as press@yourcompany.com or media@yourcompany.com can go a long way. I can’t tell you how many times reporters have been frustrated by an inability to contact someone. If they can’t reach you, they will likely move on to a competitor.
- Add an Email Subscription Widget: Even if you don’t have a newsletter now, adding an email sign-up option to your website is a smart move. It’s a great way to start building an email list that can pay off in the future when you do launch communications.
Monthly Client Coverage Highlights
In December 2024, I secured 11 pieces of coverage for my clients. Here are some key takeaways:
- This month’s media coverage spans multiple industries, from general gift guides to specialized sectors like food, business, and nonprofits.
- Coverage appeared in mainstream outlets like The Boston Globe and PitchBook, alongside niche industry leaders such as Snack Food & Wholesale Bakery.
- These placements cater to highly targeted audiences, whether they are consumers, investors, or industry professionals, helping to build strong brand visibility across key sectors.
Looking forward to sharing more media relations insights and PR tips in 2025 and beyond.
Why You Should Hire Joshua Milne PR
- You are receiving senior-level PR counsel.
- I have primarily focused on securing media coverage for my clients over the last eight years.
- I have relationships with media in a variety of industries at the local, regional and national levels.
- I am thorough and will leave no stone unturned as I research media opportunities, awards, or speaking opportunities for my clients.
