Shelley Zalis

🌍 Sponsorship Opportunity: narrAtIve—The Road to 100 with Black AI Media™ We’re excited to announce that Black AI Media™ is now open to sponsorships for narrAtIve: The Road to 100—a groundbreaking podcast series showcasing stories at the intersection of technology, culture, and empowerment. This is a chance to connect with a diverse, tech-savvy, and globally engaged audience, with listeners tuning in from over 20 countries. About Our Audience: Our platform reaches a powerful and dynamic audience, uniquely positioned as leaders, creators, and change-makers. Through impactful narratives, we connect communities worldwide, making each episode a valuable platform for your brand to align with voices that push boundaries, spark ideas, and inspire innovation. Why Sponsor narrAtIve? 🔸 Global Reach: Align your brand with content reaching listeners across the globe. 🔸 Community Impact: Support narratives that promote meaningful, mission-driven dialogue. 🔸 Exclusivity: Only 100 episodes available for sponsorship, ensuring a premium, high-impact experience. Sponsorships are limited, with each partnership selected to reflect our mission’s values and purpose. This isn’t just an ad—it’s an alignment with a future where tech, culture, and community come together to change the world. Join us on the journey. Be part of the narrative. 🔗 Learn More About Sponsorships: https://lnkd.in/dBgKRhUV #BlackAIMedia #SponsorshipOpportunity #Narrative100 #TechAndCulture #GlobalCommunity #Innovation

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🔍 Exploring the Uncomfortable Truths of Innovation 🔍 "Failure is not just an option, it's a necessity." Dive into a riveting discussion on the essential role of failure in innovation with Dr. Samuel West, curator of the Museum of Failure, on the latest episode of Innovation Storytellers. Learn why embracing risk and acknowledging our missteps is crucial for progress. Failure isn't just about setbacks; it's about paving the way for true innovation. 🎧 Listen now for groundbreaking insights: Lessons Learned at the Museum of Failure https://lnkd.in/eivtBwNg #Innovation #Podcast #Failure #Management

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The @PageSociety just released its newest report Beyond Communication: CCO Leadership in Navigating New Complexity. The findings underscore the CCO as an ever-more-essential partner with the CEO in defining and activating corporate character. Read more here: https://hubs.la/Q02x4nPQ0

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“It will take 210 years at the current pace for Black Communities to reach economic parity.” Shifting from Incrementalism to Transformative Impact. Final keynote by Adair Mosley at African American Leadership Forum We currently live in a paradox of the best of times and worst of times. Progress is not linear. But on the other side of the struggle is liberation. We design the future we want to live in. Engage for Good #EFG2024

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An immediate stand up and loud clap for this Essence feature highlighting and seeing us black lead/black founded PR agencies and the hidden figure work we do for our clients. As the article highlights, we aren’t often given the recognition we deserve for being the heroes of many public figures, businesses or brands success stories. We strategize, plan, counsel, implement, schmooze, connect, correct, email, call, clean up, show up and show out for clients. And we seldom get the proper acknowledgement for it. This could partially be due to the larger misunderstanding of what PR is. Did you know that Black women are largely underrepresented in PR—holding just 10.7% of PR management jobs, despite women holding nearly 73% of all PR management jobs. In the DC region, I am among a very small class of black owned comms agencies. We are extremely powerful because we do the quiet work. We pull the strings and advocate for those we believe in. Some are quick to let go of a PR partner simply because they don’t take the time to see the value or work and instead chase fads or shiny distractions that end up being fools gold. Next month will mark my Sweet 16 anniversary of Spotted MP (Marketing + Public Relations.) I want to take a moment to thank my wonderful clients who trust us “small yet mighty folks”, as well as acknowledge, applaude and uplift us for the work we do in the background to help achieve their business and brand goals. Thank you Essence for highlighting and seeing us in all that we do. 🙌🏾 #PR #BlackOwnedBusiness

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Comms Pros know - more than most - words matter. But sometimes, we use language that undermines our value. In-house stakeholders aren’t “clients.”  → We’re shoulder-to-shoulder partners. P&L centers shouldn't be called “The Business.”  → We're part of the business, not a subordinate function. Reinforcing an "us'" and "them" mindset is a disservice: It positions us as a less strategic function and makes us less effective. Ultimately, our job is to protect & promote brands and reputations. - Our roles are critical. - Our opinions are essential  - Our voices / expertise truly matter. We're Strategic Partners, not Service Providers.

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In this recent article with Authority Magazine, I discuss the barriers women face in advancing to leadership roles and share actionable strategies to overcome these challenges. It's an honor to be part of this conversation and to continue advocating for a future where equity is not just an aspiration but a reality. Read the full article: https://lnkd.in/dXx-XWxK 💪🏽 #Leadership #WomenInLeadership #Equity #DEI #HopeForTheFuture #AmiraBarger

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🎙️ New FIR Podcast Episode 430 🎙️ In this long-form episode for September, Shel Holtz, SCMP, and I dive into the evolving landscape of marketing and communication, highlighting how AI tools like NotebookLM are reshaping content creation, and the rise of corporate influencers. We explore meme marketing's growing impact, influencer-driven political campaigns, and why authenticity and transparency are more important than ever for brand trust. Key takeaways include: 🔹 NotebookLM’s revolutionary approach to AI-generated conversations 🔹 The power of corporate influencers for connecting with Gen Z 🔹 Meme marketing as a strategy to engage younger consumers 🔹 The ongoing importance of chat podcasts and human interaction in an AI-driven world In his Tech Report, Dan York shares the latest news on Substack's evolution, the spiralling kerfuffle between WordPress and WP Engine, and the launch of the Social Web Foundation. 🎧 Tune in to discover insights that can help you stay ahead in this rapidly changing field ⬇️ #Marketing #GenZ #AI #NotebookLM #MemeMarketing #Podcast https://lnkd.in/ePVyDgMb

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💡 From the fediverse to the Kamala Harris election campaign, SEO, and more: Insights in FIR 425. In this episode of our For Immediate Release podcast, Shel Holtz, SCMP, and I explore six key topics that are shaping the future of business, communication, and technology: 🔹 Fediverse and Digital Sovereignty: We discuss the growing disillusionment with platforms like X and the potential for governments to establish their own instances on the fediverse to maintain digital sovereignty and control over public discourse. 🔹 The Decline of Individuality: A recent study shows a significant decline in people’s desire to stand out over the past 20 years, which has implications for society and how businesses engage with their audiences. 🔹 Corporate DEI Backlash: With growing political and social backlash against Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives, some companies are scaling back their efforts. But are they abandoning these goals or just changing how they communicate them? 🔹 Impact of Disabling Social Media Comments: Research reveals that disabling comments on social media can harm the perception of influencers and public figures, making them appear less sincere and likeable. 🔹 Kamala Harris’s Gen Z Campaign Strategy: We delve into how Kamala Harris’s campaign successfully engages Gen Z voters by mastering platforms like TikTok and leveraging influencers to drive massive engagement. 🔹 AI and the Future of SEO: The rise of generative AI and concepts like 'zero-click search' are changing the SEO landscape, with new strategies needed to maintain visibility in an increasingly AI-driven search environment. 🔊 For a deeper dive, listen to episode 425 of the podcast - check out the full blog post with audio player here: ⬇️ #Podcast #BusinessTrends #AI #DEI #DigitalMarketing #SEO https://lnkd.in/eCM9mj9d

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In our latest episode of #imPRessions, David H. Dancer talks with co-hosts Jennifer Lewis and Kalli Vetrano about how to rebrand flawlessly. Having led iconic rebrands across industries, David shares the do's and don'ts of revamping a brand. From communicating changes to customers instead of surprising them to phasing in modifications, Dancer's advice is truly 💯. In this episode, David breaks down famous fails like Twitter/X and wins like Dunkin shedding "Donuts." Are you feeling inspired to modernize your business? Tune into this episode before starting your revamp. #Rebranding #BusinessBranding #MarketingStrategy #MarketingPodcast #BusinessPodcast #LinkedInMarketing #podcast The Pollack Group

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As our world gets more fraught and complex, audiences are increasingly choosing news sources which are more visual, reports are more watched, less read, with YouTube continuing its rise. The implications of this trend for deep understanding of difficult issues is worth pondering. More people are concerned about how to grapple with the rising torrent of fake news, and many having doubts about how AI might be deployed by newsrooms. Edelman has partnered with the Reuters Institute for this annual report as we are all in the business of communicating and good, credible and trusted information is critical to everyone in that process

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Tackling pay gaps is crucial. The pay gap in the marketing industry is real, and it's time we address it head-on. Black women in marketing often face disparities that hinder their growth and success. Here are some calls to action organizations can implement to advocate for equal pay and create fair opportunities for all: 📈 Conduct Pay Audits: Regularly review salary structures to identify and address disparities. Ensure that compensation is based on skills, experience, and performance, not biases. 🔓 Promote Transparency: Be open about pay scales and the criteria for salary increases. Transparency builds trust and accountability. 👔 Offer Professional Development: Provide opportunities for growth and advancement specifically for Black women. This includes training programs, workshops, and mentorship. 🌱 Foster an Inclusive Culture: Create an environment where everyone feels valued and heard. Encourage open dialogue about diversity and inclusion. 💼 Establish Mentorship Programs: Pair junior employees with experienced mentors to guide their career development and advocate for their progress. By implementing these strategies, organizations can ensure that Black women in marketing are paid what they deserve and have the opportunities to thrive. 💬 #EqualPay #Advocacy #Marketing #BlackWomenMarketers

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Top takeaways from the "Beyond the Basics: A #GenerativeAI Masterclass for Business Communicators" at #IABC24. Yesterday, I had the privilege of attending a workshop led by Matt Russell from the Mayo Clinic. The masterclass focused on leveraging #ChatGPT and other AI tools to grow and enhance business communications. Here are my top takeaways (first draft thanks to ChatGPT;) 1. Expand AI Use: Start using tools individually and then scale their uses across teams for enhanced productivity. 2. AI in Project Management: Integrate AI into project planning to streamline processes and boost efficiency. 3. Promote AI Integration: Develop strategies to advocate for AI adoption, keeping in line with policy and culture, while staying on top of advancements.

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🇺🇸 In #UNO41, we analyze how DEI policies are transforming the public conversation in the U.S. @Mike Houston, our Partner and CEO of LLYC U.S., explores how this topic has become one of the most polarized issues in public discourse. There were 20 million social media messages recorded about DEI, which is six times more than one of the country's most contentious issues: gun control. This reflects tensions around individual freedom, safety, and education, challenging those striving to build inclusive environments in a divided society. 📖 Learn more in #LLYCIDEAS ▶️https://ow.ly/GN9H30sHYCz

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While previous research recommended against featuring older women in ads, The #JournalofAdvertisingResearch 2023 Best Paper by Hanna Berg and Karina T. Liljedal examines current consumer responses to advertising featuring older female decorative models and the findings are positive. This article is open access for all. #advertisingresearch #advertising #diversity

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Saving to read later: 🚨New Pub Alert🚨 Via Whitney McCoy, PhD: We are excited to share “Focus Groups as Counterspaces for Black Girls and Black Women: A Critical Approach to Research Methods.” This method acts as a form of resistance, creating empowering spaces for collective healing and advocacy. Highlights: • Focus groups as counterspaces is an anti-gendered-racist method. • The method can expand onto-epistemologies for Black girls and Black women identities. • The method disrupts hegemonic, normative practices in educational psychology. • Guiding principles shift the current methods for focus group implementation. • Principles center safety, adaptive coping, collectivism, and authentic communication. https://lnkd.in/gm2WZGEg

Wonderful post from Julia Rice about shedding your skin and new beginnings. And a new word for you: Ecdysis.

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Empowering Young Women: From Program to Profession Breaking barriers and creating a future filled with endless possibilities. Let's continue to uplift and inspire one another.  Tune in to our YouTube channel for the full interview.  #EmpoweringWomen #NextGeneration #FromProgramToProfession #BlackExcellence #WomenInLeadership  #strategicmovespodcast #podcast

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