How to Pitch Your Brand Story to Podcasts, Panels and Press as a Black Founder

In an era where visibility can directly impact your business growth, learning how to share your story effectively is essential. For Black founders navigating creative industries and competitive start-up spaces in the UK, this isn’t just about media training or self-promotion. Owning your narrative in ways that feel authentic, culturally relevant and emotionally safe are crucial for Black . Getting in front of the right podcast hosts, panel organisers or journalists is not only possible—it’s powerful. But pitching your story requires more than a good product or service. It demands strategy, awareness and courage.

At Ariatu PR, we work with entrepreneurs and start-ups who are ready to build brands with lasting influence. That influence begins with storytelling and more importantly, with knowing how to pitch that story to the right people in the right way. 

The first step is understanding what makes your story meaningful not just because you find it interesting, it has to be of interest to others it also can’t just be a story of numbers and milestones. As a Black founder, your values are often rooted in culture, community and innovation born from necessity. That’s what makes your story different and what makes it matter. Media decision-makers are looking for stories that resonate with their audiences. The more specific and honest you are, the more universal your story becomes.

For Black business owners who are entering into the media spotlight psychological safety matters deeply. Many Black entrepreneurs hesitate to pitch themselves because they have seen others be misquoted, misunderstood or reduced to simplistic narratives which make tabloid headlines. Ariatu PR believes that psychological safety is foundational to effective PR and media relations. You need to feel safe and supported in sharing your story, not worried about whether your voice will be flattened or your identity tokenised. That’s why we help our clients prepare not just the words but the mindset. We ensure our clients know their boundaries, feel grounded in their messaging and understand how to communicate with intention and control; giving the power to know when to walk away and say no when necessary.

Too often, Black founders are expected to explain, educate or conform to mainstream expectations in order to gain visibility but your story doesn’t need to be diluted to be powerful. When pitching to podcasts, event organisers or press, it’s crucial to approach platforms that respect your cultural context as well as your commercial potential. This means seeking out media spaces that understand the diasporic experience, value intersectional storytelling, and recognise the importance of your presence beyond a diversity check-box. We guide our clients toward platforms that amplify rather than extract.

Social relevance is another essential layer. The best media features and panel appearances connect your personal story with a wider conversation. Ask yourself: why now? How does your business speak to a current cultural moment, challenge an outdated industry norm, or offer a fresh solution to an ongoing issue? Black founders often operate at the intersection of innovation and impact, your pitch should highlight how your work fits into larger social, creative or economic shifts. This shows journalists and producers that your voice adds value not just to a segment, but to the bigger picture.

Preparation is key so make sure that you gain an understanding of each platform’s tone, audience and content style before you pitch. Take the time to consume the media if you want to be featured by the media, there’s no point in saying that you don’t watch or read the news and yet you want to be featured by it. That doesn’t make sense!  Tailor your message, keep it concise and make it clear what you bring to the table. So whether you're hoping to join a podcast discussion or be interviewed by a journalist, you want to position yourself as someone who is ready as well as relevant and once the opportunity comes, media coaching helps you step into the spotlight with gravitas and composure. 

At Ariatu PR, we don’t just secure media opportunities through media relations, we help our clients make the most of them. From crafting strong pitches to preparing for interviews and protecting your peace in the process, we understand what it takes to navigate the media landscape as a Black founder in a way that’s both strategic and sustainable. Your story deserves to be heard, but more importantly, it deserves to be heard in your voice and on your terms. When told with intention, care and confidence, your story can spark change, build credibility and create community. Ready to get your voice into the room? Contact us today to start building a PR and visibility strategy that centres your story and elevates your impact.

How To Get Press Coverage For Your Business

Press coverage is one of the most powerful tools to amplify your brand, build credibility, and attract new opportunities. For entrepreneurs, creatives, and professionals, it can be the difference between staying in the shadows or standing out in your industry. But how do you get the press to notice you and share your story? The answer lies in strategy, preparation, and authenticity.

Before diving into the mechanics of press outreach, take a step back to understand your "why." Why is press coverage important for your brand? Are you launching a new product, sharing a compelling story, or highlighting your expertise in a specific field? Knowing the purpose behind your efforts will guide the narrative you present and ensure that your outreach is focused and meaningful.

Journalists are inundated with pitches every day, so clarity in your goals is essential. Whether you want to grow your audience, attract investors, or establish thought leadership, having a clear objective ensures your story resonates with the right people. Take the time to understand your story, what makes it important? Just because you feel like your product, service or personal brand story is important that doesn’t mean that it will be newsworthy.

At the heart of effective press coverage is a story that stands out. Think about what makes you or your business unique. It could be the innovative way you approach your industry, your personal journey, or the impact your work has on others. Whatever it is, your story should be authentic, compelling, and relevant.

Journalists are drawn to stories that evoke emotion or address a current trend or issue. Consider how your narrative fits into the broader cultural or industry conversation. For instance, if you’re a creative entrepreneur who overcame significant challenges to launch a sustainable fashion line, tie your story to the growing global demand for eco-conscious brands. Take the time to review the media, what kind of stories get featured and why - this is crucial.

Securing press coverage often begins long before you send a pitch. Building genuine relationships with journalists and editors is one of the most effective ways to increase your chances of being featured.

Start by identifying the journalists who cover your niche or industry. Follow their work to understand their tone, interests, and the type of stories they typically cover. Engage with them on social media by sharing their articles or offering thoughtful comments. When it’s time to pitch your story, these small efforts can help you stand out as a familiar and credible source. Build a database of contacts, you can use paid databases like Journorequest, Vuelio, Roxhill if you have the budget or you can take the time to research journalists and editors.  

Your pitch is your golden ticket to press coverage. It needs to be concise, personalized, and tailored to the journalist you’re reaching out to. Avoid generic mass emails; instead, take the time to address the journalist by name and reference a recent article they’ve written that aligns with your story.

Begin your pitch with a strong hook that immediately grabs their attention. This could be an intriguing statistic, a bold statement, or a question that sparks curiosity. Follow up with a clear and concise explanation of your story, why it’s relevant, and what makes it newsworthy. You might find it useful to pull together a press release - it is not essential but useful and effective when used correctly. End your email with a polite call to action, such as offering an interview or providing additional resources. Don’t underestimate the power of your existing network when seeking press coverage. Reach out to colleagues, mentors, or friends who may have media connections or experience in public relations. A warm introduction from someone the journalist already knows can go a long way in helping your pitch get noticed.

You can also look for opportunities to collaborate with other professionals or brands in your space. Joint projects, events, or campaigns can be a compelling reason to approach the press together, increasing your chances of coverage.

Once a journalist expresses interest in your story, the last thing you want is to scramble for materials. Be proactive by preparing a press kit in advance. This should include high-quality images, a professional bio, product descriptions, or service details, and any relevant statistics or case studies.

A well-organized press kit not only makes the journalist’s job easier but also positions you as a professional worth covering. Ensure your assets are visually appealing and align with your brand’s aesthetic, as this reflects your overall credibility.

Pitching to the press is not a one-and-done effort. Rejection—or even silence—is part of the process. If you don’t receive a response, follow up politely after a week or two. Keep your follow-up short and sweet, reiterating your interest and offering additional information if needed. At the same time, know when to step back. Bombarding journalists with multiple emails or calls can harm your chances of building a lasting relationship. Focus on persistence balanced with respect, and remember that timing plays a significant role in press coverage.

Securing press coverage is a significant win, but your work doesn’t end there. Once your story is published, share it widely across your social media platforms, website, and email newsletters. Tag the journalist and publication to show appreciation, as this can strengthen your relationship for future opportunities. Additionally, use the coverage as a stepping stone to pitch other media outlets. Highlighting that you’ve already been featured in a reputable publication can add credibility to your pitch and open more doors.

Press coverage can be a game-changer for entrepreneurs, creatives, and professionals looking to elevate their brand. By crafting a unique story, building genuine relationships, and staying persistent, you can increase your chances of being featured. Remember, the journey to media attention is a marathon, not a sprint. Stay authentic, focus on value, and trust that your hard work will pay off in time.

For more support in navigating the world of press coverage get in touch.

How To Write a Press Release and Get Media Coverage for Your Business

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Personal Branding for Authors: Building Visibility and Impact Beyond the Book Deal

Getting a book deal is a major milestone especially for Black British authors navigating an industry that has historically underrepresented their voices. But publishing your book is just the beginning. What happens next can define your long-term success, influence and visibility beyond your book’s release. In today’s media-saturated and attention-driven world, your personal brand as an author matters just as much as your words on the page.

At Ariatu PR, we work closely with authors and publishing teams to ensure that the voices of Black and marginalised writers are truly remembered. Personal branding is more than self-promotion; it’s about clarity, authenticity and consistent storytelling that resonates with readers, media and industry partners. 

For Black British authors in particular, personal branding offers a powerful way to reclaim narrative, challenge stereotypes and speak directly to audiences who’ve been waiting to see themselves reflected in literature. It’s also an essential part of turning your book into something bigger: a movement, a community or even a career with multiple dimensions from speaking engagements to media opportunities and commercial  partnerships. The sky is the limit and there’s nothing wrong with admitting that you want to make money from your work. 

Many authors assume their publisher or publicist will handle all media engagement, but in reality, publishers often focus on book sales, not  individual personal brand-building. That’s where an independent PR strategy; tailored to you, your values and your unique voice becomes invaluable. It’s not just about getting you coverage at launch; it’s about building a reputation that keeps people paying attention long after the press cycle ends.

Your personal brand as an author should be rooted in who you are and what you stand for. Are you a fearless commentator on social justice? A curator of forgotten histories? A voice for the next generation of diasporic readers? Your brand helps readers, editors, journalists and collaborators understand how to engage with your work whether that’s your next book, a live panel or a creative collaboration.

Media visibility is one of the most effective ways to reinforce your brand. That’s why we focus on placing our clients in media that truly speaks to their audience; from mainstream magazines and  newspapers and cultural platforms to podcasts and literary journals that amplify Black voices. We also offer tailored media coaching to prepare you for interviews and panels, so your message is delivered with confidence and consistency.

Another key aspect of author personal branding is digital presence. Today’s readers don’t just want to read your work, they want to engage with you. Your social media, personal website, newsletter and public appearances are all part of your brand story. They don’t have to be flashy or performative, but they do need to feel intentional and aligned with your values. We support authors in building a digital ecosystem that reflects their voice while protecting their boundaries.

For Black British writers, there’s also a deeper cultural layer to navigate. The publishing industry hasn’t always made space for nuance, diversity of thought or authenticity in how our stories are told or how we show up in public. That’s why branding for Black authors can’t be one-size-fits-all. It requires cultural sensitivity, community knowledge, and a commitment to doing things differently. At Ariatu PR, we pride ourselves on providing that kind of support—strategic, human, and rooted in lived experience.

Ultimately, personal branding isn’t about ego, it’s about equity and about being seen and heard on your own terms, creating a legacy that goes beyond one publishing deal and building a presence that opens doors for you and others who come after. If you’re a Black British author looking to build your impact, protect your reputation and reach your audience with purpose, you don’t have to do it alone. Contact us to find out how we can help you grow your author brand, amplify your voice and build a career that goes far beyond the book.

How PR Can Support Equity-Focused Charities by Amplifying Underrepresented Voices

Media narratives continue to overlook or misrepresent Black and marginalised communities and equity-focused charities carry the weight of not just doing vital work but also making sure their stories are told in the way they deserve to be told. For charities committed to social impact, particularly those led by or serving underrepresented communities, investing in strategic, culturally conscious PR is crucial. 

At Ariatu PR, we specialise in working with purpose-driven organisations that exist to shift power, create opportunity, and serve communities that are too often ignored in mainstream media. We understand that for many Black-led charities and equity-focused organisations, it’s not just about getting media coverage, it's about protecting your message, shaping narratives from the inside out and ensuring your work resonates with the people who matter most.

The PR industry has historically lacked diversity, which means many charities working at the grassroots or within specific cultural contexts find themselves misrepresented or completely excluded from media conversations. This lack of representation reinforces systems of silence and invisibility that equity-focused organisations are working so hard to dismantle. That’s where intentional, community-first PR makes all the difference. Authentic storytelling is at the core of our work at Ariatu PR. We support charities and not-for-profits by helping them shape narratives that honour the lived experiences of the communities they serve. That means working in collaboration rather than imposition. It means finding the emotional heart of a campaign, building messaging that speaks across cultures and choosing the right platforms from niche digital spaces to legacy media that will truly amplify rather than dilute your message.

For equity-focused organisations, PR can also be a powerful tool for fundraising and partnership-building. Donors, funders and collaborators are more likely to connect with your mission when they understand the human stories behind the work. Strategic media placements, powerful case studies and values-led visibility help organisations not only stand out but stand strong in their mission. Whether you’re trying to secure funding for a new programme, raise awareness about an urgent issue, or celebrate an underreported community success, the right communications strategy helps people care—and act.

Of course, visibility comes with responsibility. Many equity-focused charities operate within sensitive political, social or emotional landscapes. That’s why PR in this space must be handled with care, especially when it involves vulnerable communities. At Ariatu PR, we take a trauma-informed and culturally aware approach to communications. We help organisations navigate the line between transparency and protection, ensuring stories are shared ethically and intentionally, without exploitation or sensationalism.

We also support charities in building media confidence internally. Not every team is media-trained or ready to handle press inquiries, especially in times of crisis or high visibility. Part of our work includes empowering spokespeople from underrepresented communities to own their voice, show up with clarity, and speak their truth, on their own terms. We believe in representation not just behind the scenes, but front and centre, in the bylines, quotes and headlines.

Our work with charities and not-for-profits is deeply collaborative. We don’t drop in with generic press templates or pre-written messages. We listen, we learn, and we co-create. And we do it with deep respect for the cultural contexts and lived experiences that shape each organisation’s work. We’ve had the privilege of working with clients across the UK, Africa, the US, and the Caribbean; amplifying stories that challenge stereotypes, uplift communities, and drive social change.

At a time when misinformation and harmful narratives can spread fast, the right PR partner can help your organisation not only cut through the noise but counter it with clarity and purpose. This isn’t just about brand awareness—it’s about building trust, growing your influence, and affirming the voices of those too often pushed to the margins.

If you're a Black-led organisation, a grassroots movement, or a mission-led charity working with marginalised communities, know this: your voice matters. Your story deserves to be heard, not just in times of crisis or campaign launches but consistently and confidently and Ariatu PR is here to help you shape and share that story.

Get in touch with us today to explore how PR can support your mission and help amplify the voices that need to be heard the most.

How To Use LinkedIn to Build Your Brand Profile

LinkedIn is no longer just a platform for job seekers and recruiters; it has evolved into a powerful tool for building personal and professional brands. Whether you’re an entrepreneur, creative, or professional, leveraging LinkedIn effectively can significantly enhance your brand profile, connect you with key audiences, and open doors to new opportunities. Here's how you can make the most of this platform to elevate your brand.

Your LinkedIn profile is your digital calling card. To make a lasting impression, ensure it’s polished, professional, and aligned with your brand identity. Start with a high-quality, approachable headshot that conveys professionalism. Your headline is prime real estate—go beyond your job title and use this space to highlight your expertise or the value you offer. For instance, instead of “Graphic Designer,” consider “Award-Winning Designer Specializing in Transforming Brands through Visual Storytelling.”

Your summary section is another opportunity to showcase your brand. Use it to tell your story, highlight your unique value proposition, and connect emotionally with your audience. Include a clear call to action, such as inviting people to visit your website, connect for collaborations, or explore your services. Don’t forget to personalize your LinkedIn URL; a clean, custom URL reinforces your professionalism.

To raise your brand profile, you need to position yourself as a thought leader. Sharing high-value, relevant content regularly is one of the best ways to do this. Write posts that showcase your expertise, insights, and unique perspective in your industry. Share lessons from your personal experiences, industry trends, or actionable tips that resonate with your target audience.

Long-form articles published on LinkedIn can further amplify your brand. These pieces allow you to dive deeper into topics that matter to your audience, establishing you as a knowledgeable and trustworthy voice. For entrepreneurs, sharing case studies about your business journey or solutions you've developed can inspire and educate your audience.

LinkedIn is a two-way street. While posting your own content is essential, engaging with others’ posts is equally important. Comment thoughtfully on industry news, congratulate others on their achievements, and participate in meaningful discussions. By engaging, you increase your visibility and build genuine connections.

Joining LinkedIn groups relevant to your industry or niche can also help expand your network and keep you informed about what your peers are discussing. Sharing your expertise in these groups is another way to position yourself as a leader in your field.

Visual content grabs attention and is highly engaging on LinkedIn. Consider incorporating short videos where you share insights, behind-the-scenes glimpses, or quick tips related to your work. You don’t need a studio setup; authentic, well-lit, and concise videos recorded on your smartphone can be just as effective.

Infographics, slideshows, and images that communicate your brand’s values, achievements, or offerings can also drive engagement. For example, if you’re a creative professional, showcasing your portfolio in a visually appealing post can draw significant interest.

LinkedIn’s power lies in its network. Don’t just connect with everyone—be intentional about building relationships with individuals who align with your goals and values. These could be potential collaborators, clients, mentors, or thought leaders in your field. When sending connection requests, personalize your message to explain why you’re reaching out; this small gesture can go a long way in building rapport.

Once connected, nurture these relationships. Send occasional messages to check in, share content that might interest them, leave comments and acknowledge their successes.. Building strong, genuine relationships will amplify your brand's reach and reputation.

LinkedIn offers numerous tools that can help boost your visibility. For instance, the “Featured” section lets you showcase your best work, such as articles, videos, or projects. Recommendations from colleagues or clients are another powerful way to build credibility. Don’t hesitate to ask for endorsements and testimonials—social proof carries significant weight.

You can also utilize LinkedIn’s analytics to understand what content resonates most with your audience and refine your strategy accordingly. Additionally, consider using LinkedIn Live or newsletters to engage your audience in a more interactive format.

Consistency is key. Regularly updating your profile, posting content, and engaging with others will ensure you stay top-of-mind with your audience. However, authenticity should always be at the core of your efforts. Share your wins and challenges, your process, and your values. People connect with brands and individuals they find relatable and trustworthy.

LinkedIn is a treasure trove of opportunities for entrepreneurs, creatives, and professionals looking to raise their brand profile. By optimizing your profile, sharing valuable content, engaging authentically, and leveraging the platform's tools, you can build a strong, impactful presence that supports your professional goals.

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