If you've ever wondered how to get featured in major media outlets, land podcast interviews, or build credibility for your brand, this episode breaks it all down.

In this powerful conversation, PR expert Tracy Aliche shares how founders, entrepreneurs, and experts can use strategic public relations (PR) to increase visibility, build trust, and position themselves as authorities in their industry.

Whether you're just starting out or looking to elevate your brand, this episode gives you a practical roadmap to becoming PR-ready and getting the media attention your business deserves.

• What PR (Public Relations) really is—and how it differs from marketing
• Why earned media builds more credibility than paid ads
• How Tracy transitioned from finance to building a successful PR firm
• Why small businesses need PR just as much (if not more) than big brands
• The foundational elements you must have before pitching yourself to the media
• What it means to be "PR-ready"

• Clarity is everything: Your brand story, target audience, and messaging must be clearly defined
• Credibility builds momentum: One media feature can open doors to more opportunities
• Start small: Local and niche media help you build confidence and experience before going national
• Be strategic, not random: PR is not luck—it's about timing, positioning, and consistency

Tracy breaks down the 3 must-haves for a successful pitch:

• Relevant – Tailored to the journalist, outlet, and audience
• Timely – Connected to current events, trends, or seasonal moments
• Newsworthy – Gives a compelling reason why your story matters right now

• TV & podcasts: Pitch ~3 months in advance
• Digital media: Allow at least 1 month
• Seasonal features (Mother's Day, awareness months, etc.): Plan early

• Trying to land national media first without experience
• Not knowing how to leverage press once you get it
• Skipping the foundational work (brand story, messaging, assets)
• Pitching without a clear strategy

Your brand story alone isn't enough, tie it to current conversations, awareness months, or industry trends to make it media-worthy.

• Tracy's 5-Step PR Strategy Guide (available on her website)

Website: www.tracyaliche.com
Instagram: @tracyalichepr
Contact: Use the contact form on her website to inquire about PR services or coaching

Website: www.sistahsconnect.com
Email: info@sistahsconnect.com
Listen Live: Sistahs Connect Radio (24/7)

In this episode, I'm joined by my friend Tanesha Halstead, founder of Virtually Centered Solutions, a consulting business dedicated to helping entrepreneurs streamline operations with strategic virtual support. Tanesha is the homegirl who makes tech feel less intimidating. She shares why every solopreneur needs a CRM, budget-friendly ways to start automating your business today, and her journey of balancing solopreneurship and motherhood.

What You'll Learn in This Episode:

• Why every solopreneur—no matter the stage—needs a CRM
• Simple, cost-effective ways to start automating your business
• How to avoid the "shiny object" trap with tech tools
• The three essential tools every entrepreneur should have
• Why simplicity always wins when it comes to systems

Resources & Links Mentioned in This Episode:

• Free Business Automation Checklist:
  virtuallycenteredsolutions.com/business-automation-checklist
• Learn more about Virtually Centered Solutions: virtuallycenteredsolutions.com

Connect with Tanesha Halstead:

• Website: virtuallycenteredsolutions.com
• YouTube: Virtually Centered Solutions

More from Kimberly Sumpter:
🎙️ Sistahs Connect® Radio delivers a soulful blend of throwback R&B, Neo Soul, and women-led podcasts 24/7 while uplifting the voices of Black women and spotlighting Black women-owned businesses. Tune in for music, inspiration, and sisterhood on Sistahs Connect Radio.

📚 Podcast To Inspire® is my coaching and course platform where I teach women entrepreneurs how to plan, produce, and launch their own podcasts with confidence. Learn more at podcasttoinspire.com.

In this debut episode of Her Business Blueprint, I sit down with Melissa Jagessar, founder of Cali Meets NYC, a home and body fragrance brand rooted in healing, heritage, and hustle. Melissa shares her inspiring journey from childhood curiosity with candles to battling depression after the loss of her grandmother, to launching a brand that not only honors her roots but helps others reconnect with scent and memory.

In this episode, we discuss:

*How Melissa turned grief into growth during the 2020 pandemic
*Her grandmother's legacy as a Black business owner in the Bronx in the 1960s
*The creation of Cali Meets NYC and how love and design inspired the brand
*How custom zip code candles became her signature product
*Overcoming self-doubt to launch a YouTube channel and show up for her business
*That unforgettable moment Tabitha Brown featured her candle
*The importance of having a community
*The challenges and joys of being a solopreneur
*Finding balance with Pilates and prioritizing mental wellness
*Her plans for expanding the brand with perfumes and more body care

Resources & Mentions:

Cali Meets NYC website
Black Candlemakers Club
Very Good Mondays with Tabitha Brown
Sistahs Connect website
Sistahs Connect on Instagram
Sistahs Connect Radio

✨ Tune and listen to Sistahs Connect Radio, your home for throwback Neo Soul, R&B and a touch of inspiration 24/7! Download the Live365 app, search for Sistahs Connect Radio, and save it as your favorite. Support Black women entrepreneurs and voices in media.

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