Sign up to receive the PR Ramblings newsletter on a monthly basis

PR Ramblings from Joshua Milne PR – May 2026

You’re receiving this because we’ve worked together, you’re part of my network, or you subscribed to stay in the loop.

Boston Marathon season always delivers
March and April were definitely a sprint for me. Between planning and execution, a big portion of my time over the last two months were spent supporting clients tied to the Boston Marathon.

I had the opportunity to work with Tough Ruck and Military Friends Foundation, as well as generate exposure for Dave McGillivray. I also provided pro-bono support to The Susan Hurley Fund and Team Hoyt – organizations doing meaningful work in the running, marathon, and Boston communities.

A “no” is just part of the process
Rejection is baked into the world of media relations, but how you handle it matters more than the outcome itself.

When a reporter passes, it’s not the end of the relationship – it just means that specific idea didn’t land.

The best move is usually the simplest one: acknowledge it and move on.

A quick “Thanks for taking a look” email response keeps the door open with the media member without creating friction. Behind the scenes, take note of what might not have clicked – timing, angle, outlet fit – and use that insight later.

What doesn’t work is circling back with the same idea dressed up slightly differently. Reporters notice, and it doesn’t help your credibility.

Respect the “no,” adjust, and come back with something meaningfully different when the timing is right.

Ask the one question most people skip
When a reporter reaches out to speak with your client or secure additional info, speed matter, but clarity matters just as much.

Two things should happen right away:

A quick acknowledgment that you received the request
A simple question: “What’s your deadline?”

That second step is the one people miss.

Early in my career, I learned this the hard way. I spent time pulling together the content that the reporter requested, only to find out the story had already run.

Since then, asking about timing has become automatic.

If you don’t know the deadline, you’re guessing. And in most cases, you’re guessing wrong.

Once you have that timeline, treat it like a live opportunity – because it is. Follow up internally with urgency and make sure nothing slips.

Missing a deadline is one of the easiest ways to miss coverage entirely.

Holiday gift guide season starts sooner than you think (yes, really)
It always catches people off guard, but holiday gift guide roundup planning is already around the corner.

Many print outlets work six months ahead, and major opportunities – like Oprah’s Favorite Things – are often locked in later in the summer.

If you’re planning to pursue holiday gift guide coverage, June and July are when you should be building your lists and starting outreach.

Alongside your media database, it’s worth looking at databases like The Gift List, which is specifically built for identifying reporters and editors who cover seasonal gift roundups throughout the year.

The earlier you start, the better your chances of landing meaningful placement.

Coverage Secured in April

From a media standpoint, April was a strong month. I secured 25 pieces of coverage for clients, with a heavy emphasis on local outlets. Highlights included placements with Boston.com, WCVB, WBZ, Worcester Magazine, and others. It’s a good reminder that local media often drives the most relevant and impactful storytelling, especially when there’s a strong community connection.

Thanks for reading PR Ramblings – my space for real world wins, practical advice, and the occasional reality check.

If you ever want to compare notes or talk through a challenge, feel free to reach out.

PR Ramblings from Joshua Milne PR – March 3, 2026

Thoughts, wins, and lessons from the media trenches

You’re receiving this because we’ve worked together, you’re part of my network, or you subscribed to stay in the loop.

Don’t ghost reporters

It still surprises me how often reporters tell me they reached out to a PR contact … and got no response. Then they followed up … and still heard nothing.

I understand that sometimes the questions are sensitive, the timing is difficult, or you’re still trying to get answers internally. But even then, it takes only a few seconds to acknowledge the inquiry.

When I receive a media request, I try to respond quickly with something simple like: “Message received. I’m working to get you an answer on X.”

That small step goes a long way. Reporters notice responsiveness, and over time, it helps build stronger working relationships.

A quote is not a group project

I always shake my head when a client tries to attach two or more people to a single quote being sent to the media. I’ve never understood the logic. A quote should reflect one person’s voice. One person said it. One person should own it.

If multiple executives want to be included, give each person a separate quote. Reporters are rarely going to use a quote attributed to multiple spokespeople, and it often creates more confusion than clarity.

If you can’t answer “Why now?” don’t send the pitch yet

Aly Walansky, freelance reporter and author of an incredibly valuable PR-focused Substack, recently shared a simple thought that’s worth taping to your monitor:

“If your pitch doesn’t answer ‘Why now?’ in the first two sentences, it’s probably not ready yet.”

That’s spot on.

Yes, clients often want us to “get the news out” as quickly as possible. But before drafting anything, it’s worth pausing and asking: Why is this relevant right now? What’s the timely hook? Why should a reporter care today instead of next month?

If you can’t answer those questions clearly, the pitch probably needs more work.

Big results from World Marathon Challenge outreach

I’ve really enjoyed the opportunity to support Runbuk and its marathon races. The company’s crown jewel event is the World Marathon Challenge, where participants run seven marathons on seven continents in seven days.

While the national media have been somewhat skeptical about covering the event, I continue to see strong interest from local media outlets that want to spotlight members of their communities accomplishing remarkable things.

I conducted two rounds of outreach around this year’s event – one before the race and one after – and the results were impressive:

230 total broadcast, audio, and online mentions (and counting)
4,430,000 estimated audience reach
$350,430 in estimated publicity value

February media wins

In February, I helped clients secure coverage in 21 outlets. A few of the standout hits included The Hustle, The Boston Globe, and the New York Post.

Thanks for reading PR Ramblings – my space for real world wins, practical advice, and the occasional rant.

PR Ramblings from Joshua Milne PR – February 2, 2026

Thoughts, wins, and lessons from the media trenches.
You’re getting this because we’ve worked together, you’re in my network, or you subscribed to stay in the loop.

Sundays are the new Mondays

I’ve been doing a “Sunday setup” for years to get ready for the week ahead. Here’s what it looks like for me:

I review emails from the last 48 hours
I map out priorities and weekly tasks for each client
I line up the first few action items so Monday isn’t spent “getting organized”

That small block of prep time helps me hit the ground running, stay proactive with clients, and gives me more flexibility during the week when I need to break away for family stuff.

Totally get it if weekends are a hard “no” (or just slammed). But if you’ve never tried this, test it once. You might be surprised how much calmer your Monday feels.

Sales is not the same as PR

Yes, building relationships with reporters matters. But you should never cross the ethical line.

I heard a story last month about a salesperson who assumed pitching the media was basically the same thing as selling. While pitching an editor on the phone, they learned the editor sometimes grabs dinner at a specific local restaurant. The conversation ends… and a couple hours later the editor receives a gift certificate to that exact place.

The editor immediately called to confirm it came from the salesperson. Once they did, the editor made it crystal clear: not acceptable.

It’s one thing to offer a reporter the chance to evaluate a product or service (when appropriate, disclosed, and transparent). It’s another thing entirely to send “surprise” gifts that look like an attempt to influence coverage.

PR is about credibility. Once you damage trust, you don’t get it back easily.

Play the long game

I pitch plenty of reporters I don’t already know, but relationships still matter. And the strongest media relationships are usually built between pitches, not during them.

A few simple habits that add up:

Keep an eye on what a reporter is writing
Share a thoughtful, non-salesy note when you genuinely have insight
Comment on a post (when it’s relevant)
Set a goal to strengthen 1-2 reporter relationships per week

Consistency wins here. Small touches, done regularly, compound fast.

January 2026 + December 2025 media wins

Over the last two months, I helped clients secure exposure in 177 outlets. A few of the standout hits included Investor’s Business Daily, HousingWire, Axios Pro Rata, and Marathon Handbook.

This month, I also supported Runbuk to promote U.S. athletes competing in the 777 (seven marathons, seven continents, seven days). We secured a featured segment on the Dallas–Fort Worth NBC station, then it got downloaded to the national database and picked up by approximately 123 radio stations around the country.

Not bad….

Thanks for reading PR Ramblings – my space for real-world wins, practical advice, and the occasional rant.

PR Ramblings from Joshua Milne PR – December 1, 2025

Thoughts, wins, and lessons from the media trenches.
You’re getting this because we’ve worked together, you’re in my network, or you subscribed to stay in the loop.

From Jingle Bells to Cupid’s Arrows

If you’re promoting a consumer product, you’ve probably spent the last few months hustling to get your client into Black Friday/Cyber Monday coverage and general holiday gift guides. That being said, once that push is over, don’t take your foot completely off the gas as Valentine’s Day is next.

In the past, I’ve seen some Valentine’s Day roundups start to appear as early as mid-December (not a ton, but enough that you don’t want to miss them). If you want a shot at those longer-lead Valentine’s gift guides, have your pitches, images, pricing, and affiliate info ready to go before the end of the year.

No Caption, No Clip

So…if I’m short on time, I’ll sometimes take shortcuts to get content to the media before their deadline. One place that can backfire, and I recently learned the hard way, photo captions.

There are times when I get images from clients with zero context and no captions. I’m not always on-site for events, so I’m often guessing at who’s in the shot and what’s happening. Earlier this month, I sent some images to a major newspaper that was covering my client, and my client couldn’t provide the details I needed.

Lesson learned. The editor told me in no uncertain terms: if you can’t include a photo caption, it’s useless to send images.

Good reminder for all of us: If you’re sending photos, always include who’s in the image, what’s happening, where it was taken, and any key context. Otherwise, that “great” shot may never see the light of day.

Don’t Try to “Upgrade” the Outlet

I totally get it: when a client or boss is pushing for a “bigger” or more well-known outlet, it’s tempting to keep reaching.

That said, here’s a hard line I never cross: if a freelancer tells you your client will be in a story, do not go back and ask if the article could run in a different outlet instead.

That question doesn’t make you look ambitious; it risks your relationship with that writer. They’ve already done the work to place your client, and asking to “trade up” can come off as ungrateful and short-sighted.

It’s hard enough to get coverage right now. When you land a solid placement that fits the story and audience, celebrate it and take the win.

November Media Wins

This past month, I supported clients in securing exposure in 22 outlets. Most of the coverage was focused on local events or profiles, including placements in The Boston Globe, Boston Business Journal, MassLive, and Waste360, among others.

Thanks for reading PR Ramblings – my space for real-world wins, practical advice, and the occasional rant.

PR Ramblings from Joshua Milne PR – October 31, 2025

Thoughts, wins, and lessons from the media trenches

You’re getting this because we’ve worked together, you’re in my network, or you subscribed to stay in the loop.

Is the PR economy finally turning around?

2025’s been rough for a lot of PR and marketing independents, but I think things are starting to improve as we head in 2026. Two signals:

PR roles are popping up again on LinkedIn.
More companies are asking for proposals and booking intro calls.

If you’re a solopreneur or you run a small shop, keep your pipeline warm now so you’re ready to move when 2026 budgets are approved.

Ask this first: “What’s your deadline?”

I’m still surprised how often reporters say they can’t get a response from PR folks. Now, I can understand if it’s a negative issue for your client, you might not want to respond back (or maybe you do to control the story narrative). Here is an short email to send to any reporter:

“Thanks for reaching out – message received. I’m pulling details together and will circle back within XX hours. What’s your deadline?”

That 10 second reply buys time, sets expectations, and builds trust with the media.

Pitch tweak: send the expert, not the essay

Back in the early HARO days, the playbook was to respond ASAP to a reporter’s query and include full answers so they wouldn’t need to follow up. That said, PR keeps evolving and reporters recommend a new plan when replying to these types of queries:

Reply with a short bio and why your expert fits the story angle
Confirm the focus and deadline.
Then deliver tailored quotes or schedule a quick call with your client.

You’ll save cycles, avoid guessing the story’s true direction, and increase placement odds.

October Media Wins

This past month, I secured 13 media placements for clients including: Waste Dive, Waste Today, and Small Business Currents.

Thanks for reading PR Ramblings which is my space for real-world wins, practical advice, and the occasional rant.

Got a question or idea to bounce around? Hit reply or reach me below.

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.

Out with the Old, In with the New

I’ve redesigned my website → www.joshuamilnepr.com. What’s been updated:

A full archive of media coverage I’ve secured for clients
Coverage organized by category for easy browsing
Logos of past and present clients

Take a look when you have a minute.

Don’t Email Media Just to Ask “What Are You Working On?”

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:

Lead with something timely
Reference a specific column, topic they regularly cover, or section
Subscribe to their Substack and respond to pitch calls

Two simple rules I always follow:
1️⃣ Make their life easier
2️⃣ Be honest and respectful of their time

Speaking at Conferences: An Overlooked PR Opportunity

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:

You’ll usually get a free pass, but you don’t get paid
Travel is often on your dime
Some conferences charge speakers (especially for promotional topics)

Even so, if you’re aiming to build credibility or reach new audiences, speaking can be an effective strategy.

August Media Wins: This past month, I secured 21 client media placements, including features in: Boston Globe, Axios Raleigh, WBZ-AM, WGBH, and Waste Advantage.

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.

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.

Out with the Old, In with the New

I’ve redesigned my website → www.joshuamilnepr.com. What’s been updated:

A full archive of media coverage I’ve secured for clients
Coverage organized by category for easy browsing
Logos of past and present clients

Take a look when you have a minute.

Don’t Email Media Just to Ask “What Are You Working On?”

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:

Lead with something timely
Reference a specific column, topic they regularly cover, or section
Subscribe to their Substack and respond to pitch calls

Two simple rules I always follow:
1️⃣ Make their life easier
2️⃣ Be honest and respectful of their time

Speaking at Conferences: An Overlooked PR Opportunity

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:

You’ll usually get a free pass, but you don’t get paid
Travel is often on your dime
Some conferences charge speakers (especially for promotional topics)

Even so, if you’re aiming to build credibility or reach new audiences, speaking can be an effective strategy.

August Media Wins: This past month, I secured 21 client media placements, including features in: Boston Globe, Axios Raleigh, WBZ-AM, WGBH, and Waste Advantage.

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.

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.

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.

Local Media Hits Can Be Just as Impactful as National Coverage

Is Your Client Media Trained?

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?

Freelancer Substacks Worth Following

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

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

PR Query Lists Worth Following

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.

Out with the Old, In with the New

I’ve redesigned my website → www.joshuamilnepr.com. What’s been updated:

A full archive of media coverage I’ve secured for clients
Coverage organized by category for easy browsing
Logos of past and present clients

Take a look when you have a minute.

Don’t Email Media Just to Ask “What Are You Working On?”

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:

Lead with something timely
Reference a specific column, topic they regularly cover, or section
Subscribe to their Substack and respond to pitch calls

Two simple rules I always follow:
1️⃣ Make their life easier
2️⃣ Be honest and respectful of their time

Speaking at Conferences: An Overlooked PR Opportunity

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:

You’ll usually get a free pass, but you don’t get paid
Travel is often on your dime
Some conferences charge speakers (especially for promotional topics)

Even so, if you’re aiming to build credibility or reach new audiences, speaking can be an effective strategy.

August Media Wins: This past month, I secured 21 client media placements, including features in: Boston Globe, Axios Raleigh, WBZ-AM, WGBH, and Waste Advantage.

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.

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.

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.

Local Media Hits Can Be Just as Impactful as National Coverage

Is Your Client Media Trained?

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?

Freelancer Substacks Worth Following

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

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

PR Query Lists Worth Following

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.

Out with the Old, In with the New

I’ve redesigned my website → www.joshuamilnepr.com. What’s been updated:

A full archive of media coverage I’ve secured for clients
Coverage organized by category for easy browsing
Logos of past and present clients

Take a look when you have a minute.

Don’t Email Media Just to Ask “What Are You Working On?”

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:

Lead with something timely
Reference a specific column, topic they regularly cover, or section
Subscribe to their Substack and respond to pitch calls

Two simple rules I always follow:
1️⃣ Make their life easier
2️⃣ Be honest and respectful of their time

Speaking at Conferences: An Overlooked PR Opportunity

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:

You’ll usually get a free pass, but you don’t get paid
Travel is often on your dime
Some conferences charge speakers (especially for promotional topics)

Even so, if you’re aiming to build credibility or reach new audiences, speaking can be an effective strategy.

August Media Wins: This past month, I secured 21 client media placements, including features in: Boston Globe, Axios Raleigh, WBZ-AM, WGBH, and Waste Advantage.

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.

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.

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.

Local Media Hits Can Be Just as Impactful as National Coverage

Is Your Client Media Trained?

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?

Freelancer Substacks Worth Following

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

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

PR Query Lists Worth Following

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

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.