Advertise on podcast: Smart Talk Series

In today’s bonus episode, we’re celebrating Vanessa Van Edwards’ new book, “Conversation: How to Connect with Anyone and Make Every Interaction Count,” which is built around one belief: the most meaningful moments in our lives don't happen by accident. They happen in what Vanessa calls purposeful conversations. And as part of her mission to spark more of them all over the world, Smart Talk series host takes the Conversation Challenge with her podcast producer, Livia Treviño. Our five questions: 1. What's your personal passion project? 2. What have you always wanted to learn? 3. How do you feel most misunderstood? 4. Would you ever write a book? What about? 5. What's one thing you wish you could do but haven't, because you're afraid it won't work out? Resources mentioned:  - “Conversation: How to Connect with Anyone and Make Every Interaction Count” - Pitch Ideas Like A PR Pro Digital Course - "Latinas in Public Relations: Shaping Communications, Communities, and Culture" - "Smart Talk: Public Relations Essentials All Pros Should Know" - MVW Communications

Truth and storytelling are the cornerstones of journalism. As the media landscape evolves with the rise in conflict journalism and AI, how do journalists keep the fundamentals at the forefront? Join Melissa as she closes out season 12 by having a candid conversation with Nancy M. Preyor-Johnson, a senior projects reporter at the San Antonio Express-News, about the realities, pressures, and bright spots of being a journalist today. Learn how Nancy left and returned to journalism with insights from teaching and a role in public relations. About Nancy:  Nancy M. Preyor-Johnson is a senior projects reporter at the San Antonio Express-News. Her reporting focuses on immigration enforcement, policing, crime and accountability, including investigations involving public officials such as U.S. Rep. Tony Gonzales. Her work seeks to hold powerful institutions and individuals accountable while amplifying the experiences of vulnerable communities. Connect with Nancy on LinkedIn Follow Nancy on TikTok, Facebook, and Instagram Topics covered: - Nancy's journey to creating her career fit - Nancy’s start in journalism and her return after teaching  - What PR pros can better understand about news and opinion journalism - Key takeaways from teaching the next gen of professionals Resources mentioned:  - San Antonio Express-News - Pitch Ideas Like A PR Pro Digital Course - "Latinas in Public Relations: Shaping Communications, Communities, and Culture" - "Smart Talk: Public Relations Essentials All Pros Should Know" - MVW Communications

Being connected with a special interest group is an underappreciated attribute that all communicators can benefit from. The ability to bring people together around interests they love builds community, trust and loyalty. In this episode, Melissa talks with Ansley Partosa, the founder of Rosario Media & Events, about how she stitched together a career at the intersection of gaming, film production and cosplay. About Ansley:  Ansley Partosa combines her expertise in digital marketing to make a positive impact in the gaming world. With her business Rosario Media & Events, she uses her love of graphic design, video editing, and content creation to help clients share their unique stories. Ansley also serves as the Head of the Greater Gaming Society of San Antonio, where she leads the charge in hosting esports tournaments, game development meet ups, and inclusive community events. Follow Ansley on Instagram Topics covered: - Ansley’s journey to her career interests - Ansley’s experience in the gaming and entertainment industry - Sustainable roles in entertainment - The intersection of a creative perspective and an entrepreneurial mindset - Cosplay skills that translate Resources mentioned:  - Greater Gaming Society of San Antonio - San Japan - Cirque Aria - Pitch Ideas Like A PR Pro Digital Course - "Latinas in Public Relations: Shaping Communications, Communities, and Culture" - "Smart Talk: Public Relations Essentials All Pros Should Know" - MVW Communications

Communications work often requires stepping confidently into unfamiliar territory. That's why the ability to simplify complex ideas can be a powerful skill. In this episode, Melissa talks with Joshua Sostrin, the founder and president of Imperative Content, about how his background in comedy launched him into a renowned career in speechwriting and storytelling. About Josh:  Joshua Sostrin is a speechwriter with over 20 years of experience and is the founder and president of Imperative Content, an executive communications consultancy. His background spans high tech, national security, academia, law, medicine, politics, and entertainment, with work featured in outlets from the World Economic Forum to The New York Times to The Tonight Show with Jay Leno, including speechwriting for members of the U.S. House and Senate and a presidential candidate. Connect with Josh on LinkedIn Visit Josh’s website Topics covered: - Josh’s journey to his current career - The nonlinear path to speechwriting - Josh’s storytelling process - What it takes to be a successful speechwriter - Leveraging research in communications work - Tips for creating engaging content Resources mentioned:  - Cristela Alonzo: Upper Classy - “A call to kindness: We are stronger together; let’s be a force for good” - “Storytelling That Elevates” - Pitch Ideas Like A PR Pro Digital Course - "Latinas in Public Relations: Shaping Communications, Communities, and Culture" - "Smart Talk: Public Relations Essentials All Pros Should Know" - MVW Communications

Aligning your career with the life you want often means weaving together your interests, strengths, and long‑held passions. In this episode, Melissa talks with Brandon Glass, a performer and Nationally Certified Sign Language Interpreter, about how he blends his creative and professional talents to build the career of his dreams. About Brandon:  From touring the world as a professional dancer, stuntman, and live host to coming home to his community and serving as a coach, mentor, and ASL interpreter, Brandon spans the globe embracing his passion and sharing his love for community through live performances, teaching workshops, and connecting with his community in elevating and inspiring ways. Having toured with notable companies such as Odyssey Dance Theatre, Step Afrika, and Ringling Bros., his most recent adventure takes him to South Africa, skating as a Live Host with Disney on Ice. His studies and community engagement provide a space for him to come home and work closely with the Deaf community as a Nationally Certified Sign Language Interpreter as well as a leadership and youth sports coach!  Connect with Brandon on Instagram Visit Brandon’s website Listen to Brandon’s podcast  Topics covered: - Brandon's journey to creating his career fit - The path to working in entertainment - Brandon’s work as a Nationally Certified Sign Language Interpreter - The intersection of working with the Deaf community and entertainment - How to make your dreams possible - Tips for PR pros and full-time communicators  Resources mentioned:  - Disney on Ice, Mickey’s Search Party  - Cirque Aria  - Thrive Gym - Pitch Ideas Like A PR Pro Digital Course - "Latinas in Public Relations: Shaping Communications, Communities, and Culture" - "Smart Talk: Public Relations Essentials All Pros Should Know" - MVW Communications

🚨New Media Relations Digital Course!🚨 📰 Today, our founder, Melissa Vela-Williamson, is launching her first digital course, Pitch Ideas Like A PR Pro, to help anyone who needs support crafting and delivering a strong pitch. This course is built for anyone looking to level up their skills in pitching story ideas to journalists, business ideas to investors, or just trying to land your next opportunity. Presenting your case in a compelling way is invaluable. In just over an hour, you'll hear best-practice insights directly from a seasoned PR pro whose recent local market campaign resulted in 613 pieces of earned coverage with a 660 million audience reach and over 16.6M views.  Let Melissa's hard-learned lessons, insider tips, and PR kit tools help your business, nonprofit, institution, or thought leadership pitch an idea in meaningful ways.  Enroll now: https://www.mvw360.com/course

Sometimes the best career move is letting your passion lead the way. In today’s episode, Melissa talks with Laura Perez, the associate director of brand operations at Spurs Sports & Entertainment, about striking the balance between your niche interests and an organization’s needs. About Laura:  Laura Perez is a sports and entertainment professional with more than 21 years of experience at Spurs Sports & Entertainment.  As Associate Director of Brand Operations, she leads operational strategy and workflow management for the Brand Engagement team and has played a key role in major initiatives, including the San Antonio Spurs’ 50th Anniversary season, while championing leadership development and community impact throughout South Texas. Connect with Laura on LinkedIn   Topics covered: - Laura’s journey to her professional specialty  - Working in brand operations - How to manage change and competing priorities - Illustrating your organization's values in your work - How a career in sports informs the life of a sports parent  - Tips for communications students and professionals Resources mentioned:  - Healthy Sports Parents - Pitch Ideas Like A PR Pro Digital Course - "Latinas in Public Relations: Shaping Communications, Communities, and Culture" -"Smart Talk: Public Relations Essentials All Pros Should Know" -MVW Communications

Resilience is key when you’re going all in on a niche. As external factors change, your passion and skills will help you stay afloat. Join Melissa as she kicks off season 12 with Jonathan Carone, the owner and creative director of Carone Designs and founder of Healthy Sports Parents. Listen as they discuss this season’s theme of finding your niche. About Jonathan:  Jonathan Carone has spent the last 10+ years helping organizations communicate more clearly, connect more deeply, and build trust with the people they serve. That's his day job at CaroneDesigns. But on the side, he's been building a new platform called Healthy Sports Parents. What started as a side project has become a fast-growing media platform with over 165,000 followers and 3M+ monthly views across social media helping moms, dads, and coaches navigate the world of youth sports with more empathy, perspective, and presence. Connect with Jonathan on LinkedIn  Topics covered: - Jonathan’s journey to his niche - The inspiration for Healthy Sports Parents - How to cut through the noise and connect with an audience - What HSP taught Jonathan about communications - Tips for using communication for good Resources mentioned:  - Carone Designs - Healthy Sports Parents - Parents 2026 Next Gen Awards - Opportunity Knocks - Pitch Ideas Like A PR Pro Digital Course - "Latinas in Public Relations: Shaping Communications, Communities, and Culture" - "Smart Talk: Public Relations Essentials All Pros Should Know" - MVW Communications

Any organization or individual can encounter a public relations crisis. That’s why it’s important to proactively build an immunity to crisis and have the right team in your corner when your reputation is at stake. In this season’s finale, Melissa talks with Jon Goldberg, the founder of Reputation Architects, about the lessons he’s learned through his work in crisis communications and reputation management.   About Jon:  Jon Goldberg founded Reputation Architects in 2009 after more than 25 years as an advisor to top executives and boards and a senior leader at some of the world's most prominent communications firms. Trained as a journalist, Jon is a frequent speaker, author and media commentator at the intersection of risk, reputation, culture and technology, including building organizational immunity to crisis; countering disinformation; the psychology of online trolling; communicating on polarizing social issues; and the role of artificial intelligence in stoking—and potentially reversing—incivility and online hate. Connect with Jon on LinkedIn   Topics covered: - Crisis communication vs. reputation management - How to manage your well-being in a stressful line of work - Learnings from Jon’s deep experience in crisis communications - Who is at risk for a crisis - The intersection of reputation, risk, culture and technology - What Jon wishes PR pros knew about managing crisis comms   Resources mentioned:  - The Coffee Bean  - "Latinas in Public Relations: Shaping Communications, Communities, and Culture"  - "Smart Talk: Public Relations Essentials All Pros Should Know" - MVW Communications

Coaching is a valuable way to help break through what is keeping you from being the leader you were meant to be. In today’s episode, Melissa speaks with the founder and CEO of Piñata Possible, Laura Saldivar Luna, about how working with a leadership coach can transform your professional and personal life. About Laura:  Laura Saldivar Luna is a wife, mom, and the founder and CEO of Piñata Possible, a transformational coaching practice that helps purpose-driven leaders unlock breakthroughs in their inner leadership and external impact. Before stepping into entrepreneurship, Laura spent nearly 20 years with Teach For America—serving as a classroom teacher, as an Executive Director, and as the organization's Chief People Officer. Her work is rooted in the belief that when leaders liberate their full expression, they expand their clarity, joy, power, and impact. Connect with Laura on LinkedIn Topics covered: - The story behind Piñata Possible’s framework - Lessons learned from working in education - When to seek the help of a coach - What prevents people from taking action on their goals - What to know about working with a leadership coach - How cultural differences impact coaching experiences Resources mentioned:  - Piñata Possible - Beyond the Bite with Eddie Aldrete: Laura Saldivar Luna on Breaking the Piñata and Finding the Potential Within - Chip Conley - Ask A Latina - "Latinas in Public Relations: Shaping Communications, Communities, and Culture" "Smart Talk: Public Relations Essentials All Pros Should Know" MVW Communications

Paying it forward doesn’t always have to mean a monetary act of kindness. Sometimes, candid career advice and making connections can be infinitely more valuable to students searching for or starting their careers.    In today’s episode, Melissa speaks with public relations professor and the founder of SpeakerPost, Komal Shah Kapoor, Ph.D., about why it’s impactful to share advice from your professional journey with students and young professionals.   About Dr. Kapoor:  Komal Kapoor is a public relations professor at Pepperdine University and the founder of SpeakerPost, a platform that connects educators with industry professionals for guest speaking opportunities in high school and college classrooms. With a background spanning global marketing, media, and entrepreneurship, her work focuses on mentorship, relationship-building, and helping students feel more confident and prepared as they enter professional environments. Connect with Dr. Kapoor on LinkedIn   Topics covered: -Dr. K’s passion for connecting students and industry professionals -Student’s perspective on PR and communications -Feedback from students -How students utilize AI for advice -What Dr. K wishes pros knew about young professionals -How to advise the future generation of PR professionals with SpeakerPost   Resources mentioned:  - SpeakerPost - Green Sea Shells - "Latinas in Public Relations: Shaping Communications, Communities, and Culture" - "Smart Talk: Public Relations Essentials All Pros Should Know" - MVW Communications

Sharing access, authenticity, and empowerment in the public relations industry matters. In today’s episode, authors Jamila Cupid, Ph.D. and Myescha Joell share what inspired them to write their groundbreaking new book, “Who’s in the Room?: A Guide to Public Relations from the Black Professional Perspective.” The book amplifies the voices, experiences, and contributions of Black public relations practitioners while providing a roadmap for authentic allyship and inclusion across the industry.   About Jamila:  Dr. Jamila Cupid is an international scholar and educator who trains students in the practice of public relations at Pepperdine University. She is a public relations and digital media professional, with expertise in research and strategy, who worked in the New York City and Washington, DC markets. Her research is based in global and multicultural PR and media. Connect with Jamila on Instagram and LinkedIn   About Myescha:  Myescha Joell is an award-winning publicist, producer, and founder of Morris Street Media, known for high-impact campaigns at the intersection of culture, entertainment, and social impact. With over 20 years of experience, she’s helped shape visibility for creatives, brands, and storytellers while producing content that amplifies underrepresented voices.   Connect with Myescha on Instagram   Topics covered: - What inspired the creation of their guidebook for Black professionals - Unexpected themes from “Who’s in the Room?” - Unique challenges for Black PR pros - What allyship and inclusion look like in today’s climate - Advice on how to show up in professional spaces   Resources mentioned:  - “Who’s in the Room?: A Guide to Public Relations from the Black Professional Perspective” - Ask A Latina - "Latinas in Public Relations: Shaping Communications, Communities, and Culture" - "Smart Talk: Public Relations Essentials All Pros Should Know"

In tough times, resilience is key to keeping every aspect of your life from falling apart. In today’s episode, Melissa interviews the founder of Yo Quiero Dinero, Jannese Torres, about how to build financial, mental, and professional resilience in eras of your life that may be unpredictable.   About Jannese:  Jannese Torres is the founder of Yo Quiero Dinero, an award-winning personal finance podcast, and author of Financially Lit!. A former engineer turned entrepreneur, she teaches Latinas how to grow income, invest confidently, and build wealth through ownership. Her work empowers women to break generational money cycles and create financial freedom on their own terms. She is a Florida State Board Member of the National Financial Educators Council (NFEC). Connect with Jannese on Instagram   Topics covered: - Common misunderstandings about influencers - Financial advice for uncertain times  - Building resilience during tough times - Who Jannese looks to for sound advice - How to know when to speak up - The resurgence of blogging   Resources mentioned:  - Delish D’Lites - Financially Lit - Ask A Latina - "Latinas in Public Relations: Shaping Communications, Communities, and Culture" - "Smart Talk: Public Relations Essentials All Pros Should Know" - MVW Communications

Listen as Melissa kicks off Season 11 by talking about the importance of adapting in uncertain times and relying on our industry fundamentals. Join us this season as Melissa talks with experts in various disciplines about valuing advice and taking action. Connect with Melissa on LinkedIn, Instagram, and Facebook Topics covered: - The theme of season 11 - How PR pros can approach change in 2026 - Remembering Pandemic-era lessons - Advising clients during uncertain times   Resources mentioned:  - “PR Pros Are Equipped to Adapt” - Ask A Latina - "Latinas in Public Relations: Shaping Communications, Communities, and Culture" - "Smart Talk: Public Relations Essentials All Pros Should Know" - MVW Communications

Celebrating milestones as an entrepreneur can be difficult when you're trying to navigate a tough time or just busy serving your clients. In this episode, Melissa sits down with the President of Solo PR Pro, Karen Swim, to discuss how to leverage milestones as a business owner, the enduring spirit of solopreneurs, and how to take care of your well-being while leading the way in public relations.  About Karen: Karen Swim, APR, is an accredited public relations professional, speaker, podcaster, author, and champion of independent by choice workers. She is the Founder of Words For Hire, a B2B, Technology and Healthcare PR and Marketing agency and the President of Solo PR Pro, a membership organization for independents and microagencies. In 2024, she also co-founded Data+PR, a collaborative with BlueRun PR that focuses on storytelling through data.  Follow Karen on LinkedIn and Instagram Topics covered: - Karen's milestone moments - About the Solo PR Pro community - What inspires Karen to lead her community - Navigating uncertain times as a Solo PR Pro - Leveraging milestone moments - How to stop underestimating yourself Resources mentioned:  - Words for Hire -Solo PR Pro "Latinas in Public Relations: Shaping Communications, Communities, and Culture" "Smart Talk: Public Relations Essentials All Pros Should Know" MVW Communications