Returning to My Roots: The PR Lessons I Found in Germany

When I boarded my flight to Germany, I was excited to explore historic cities, see incredible landmarks, and experience a culture that has influenced so much of the world. But for me, this trip meant so much more than just traveling abroad. I was born in Germany, and this was my first time returning in 15 years. Even though I don't remember much from living there, finally getting to go back and experience the country where my story began made this trip incredibly meaningful.

Read More
GrandPR
The Real Competition on Love Island: Reputation

Love Island USA may be known for romance, drama, and unforgettable moments, but behind every couple and conversation is something else being built: a reputation. With millions of viewers analyzing every decision, Islanders are not just competing for love–they are creating personal brands that can impact their lives long after leaving the villa. Every summer, viewers tune into Love Island USA for the relationships, unexpected twists, and of course, the drama. But while Islanders enter the villa hoping to find a connection, they are also building something else, a personal brand.

Read More
GrandPR
What to Know Before Pitching Media

I’ll be honest, pitching media can feel intimidating. Many of us learn how to write pitches through class exercises, mock scenarios, and workshops, but that is very different from sending one to an actual editor or reporter and waiting to see what happens. As young professionals still gaining experience, we can spend hours refining a pitch only for it to go unopened, let alone be taken seriously. There are a lot of moving parts to consider when pitching media as well, which makes the process complex. The angle, the contact, the timing, and the tone all have to be right. It can feel like confidence should come first, but I have learned that strong pitching can be built on preparation.

Read More
GrandPR
My Presidency: A Year in Review

If you had sat me down a year ago and told me that I would be wrapping up a full year as GVPRSSA president, I would have laughed right in your face. At the time, I was focused on stepping into a new role, building my skills, and figuring things out one step at a time, not leading an entire organization. What I didn’t realize then, was how quickly things can change and how much you can grow when you’re pushed outside of your comfort zone.

Read More
GrandPR
Debunking the Myths of Professional Social Media Management

Social media management serves more than just posting content to fill a feed. It doesn’t simply reflect trends; it actively shapes how organizations build community, trust, and influence. What may look like “playing on your phone” is really 10% posting and 90% strategy, logistics, and analysis. As communicators, we know success goes beyond virality or follower counts, it’s about creating meaningful impact, where consistency, intention, and engagement drive real connection and action.

Read More
GrandPR
Why Are We Still Rooting for Taylor Frankie Paul? Even When PR Criticizes Her.

Taylor Frankie Paul serves as more than just another influencer to watch. She doesn’t simply create content; she creates emotional connection, drawing people in through a story that feels real, too real. What may seem like unpredictability is what keeps audiences engaged, even as it becomes a liability. As communicators, we see that PR is not about the level of attention, but the right type of attention, where authenticity builds relevance, but also carries risk.

Read More
GrandPR
Is It Really All Just For PR? A Deep Dive Into Celebrity Relationships

Celebrity relationships serve as more than just personal connections in the public eye. They don’t simply reflect romance; they actively shape media attention, audience behavior, and cultural conversation. What may look like a “PR stunt” is often public curiosity amplified, not created. As communicators, we understand that PR is not about forcing narratives, but leveraging interest, where attention, speculation, and storytelling turn real relationships into powerful drivers of engagement and influence.

Read More
GrandPR
The PR Interview Playbook (No Script Required)

When working in a field as fast-paced as public relations, having strong interview skills can turn into a currency in the industry. From story pitching to preparing a brand spokesperson to hosting your own show on a podcast, calculated conversations can make or break your intended message. As podcast director for GVPRSSA’s podcast, PR Hangover, I’ve dedicated countless hours behind the mic, and more importantly, behind the scenes, shaping interviews that connect to our audience. Learn how to lead that conversation like the PR Pro you are in 5 easy steps.

Read More
The Evolution of Influencer Culture

Most young people think that becoming a social media influencer is a cheat code for success in today's world— and in a lot of ways, they’re not wrong. You don’t have to scroll far on TikTok to realize that there are 19 and 20-year-olds buying houses and landing brand deals, all from being paid to post content. Social media influencers shape everything around us. From the clothes we wear to the water bottles we drink out of, it all came from the impact of social media and trending creators.

Read More