How to Become a Media Company: Podcast Interview with Gresham Harkless Jr. of CBNation

If you’re an entrepreneur struggling to cut through the digital noise, this episode of The Brandinc PR Podcast is your new blueprint. We sat down with Gresham “Gresh” W. Harkless Jr., the founder of CBNation and Blue 16 Media, for a no-holds-barred conversation about how to actually get visible, grow your brand, and think like a media company.

Gresh breaks down why every CEO, business owner, and entrepreneur must embrace their inner content creator — and how doing so can drive leads, build trust, and boost revenue. As someone who built multiple platforms for business storytelling, including CEOBlogNation.com, CEOPodcasts.com, and CBNation.tv, Gresh walks the walk.

Key Takeaways:

  • How to build a brand that acts like a media company
  • Common visibility mistakes entrepreneurs make
  • The truth about SEO (and what most folks are missing)
  • Why content + consistency = conversion

This episode is a must-listen for small business owners, PR professionals, and content creators ready to level up.

🎧 Listen to the full episode now: The Brandinc PR Podcast 
📲 Follow Gresham on Youtube, Instagram
💡 Need help making your brand visible? Let’s talk strategy → 

The 3 Biggest PR Myths That Are Holding You Back — And What To Do Instead

The 3 Biggest PR Myths That Are Holding You Back — And What To Do Instead

If you’ve ever thought, “I can’t get PR because I’m not famous or newsworthy enough,” you’re not alone.
I hear this all the time from entrepreneurs, small business owners, and creatives — and I’m here to tell you: it’s just not true.

Let’s break down the 3 biggest myths about public relations and how you can flip them in your favor.

Myth #1: You need to have an event happening
A lot of people believe they can only pitch the media if they’re hosting a launch party, releasing a book, or putting on a big event.
Truth: Media outlets love evergreen, expert-driven stories just as much as timely events. You can pitch your expertise, your unique journey, or even insights tied to awareness months and trending topics.

Try this instead: Share how your experience connects to what’s happening in the world — no event required.

Myth #2: You need prior news coverage
It’s easy to assume journalists only cover people who already have a track record of press.
Truth: Reporters love fresh voices and new angles. Having a clear, compelling story is far more important than a long list of past features.

Try this instead: Build credibility with a well-crafted bio, strong media kit, and thoughtful pitches that show why you’re a great fit for their audience.

Myth #3: You need to be a celebrity
PR isn’t reserved for A-listers.
Truth: Local media, niche publications, and podcasts are constantly looking for relatable experts and inspiring stories. Being visible and valuable in your own industry can open more doors than chasing fame.

Try this instead: Position yourself as the go-to person in your field. Consistent visibility beats celebrity status every time.

The Bottom Line
PR is for people with value to share, not just for those with big budgets or massive followings.
If you’re ready to start getting media attention, start with what you already have: your expertise, your story, and your perspective.

👉 Want to hear more?
Listen to my latest podcast episode: The 3 Biggest PR Myths (and What To Do Instead): https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-brandinc-pr-podcast/id1769667431. 

Bloom Bar Atlanta Featured in Eater’s Top Margaritas Roundup!

Bloom Bar Atlanta Featured in Eater’s Top Margaritas Roundup!

We’re thrilled to share that our client, Bloom Bar Atlanta, has been spotlighted in Eater Atlanta’s latest article: 18 Atlanta Bars and Restaurants Serving Top-Notch Margaritas.

Eater’s curated list highlights some of the city’s most standout spots for margarita lovers, and Bloom Bar earned a coveted mention for its vibrant cocktails and innovative twists on the classic drink. Known for its upscale ambiance and expertly crafted beverages, Bloom Bar continues to make waves in Atlanta’s bustling food and drink scene.

Read the full article and see why Bloom Bar is a must-visit for margarita enthusiasts: Eater Atlanta – Top Margaritas

Cheers to Bloom Bar Atlanta for the well-deserved recognition!

Gerard Longo Makes His SXSW Debut – A Major Win for Independent Creators!

Gerard Longo Makes His SXSW Debut – A Major Win for Independent Creators!

At Brandinc PR, we love celebrating our clients’ success, and this one is BIG! Our client, Gerard Longo, is officially making his SXSW 2025 debut, showcasing his incredible journey as both a music industry leader and an author.

Gerard has been a driving force in the underground music scene, empowering independent artists through @UMCNashville. Now, he’s taking the stage at SXSW, where he’ll share his expertise on breaking barriers in the industry. Attendees will also have the exclusive opportunity to meet him at his book signing—a must for anyone looking to navigate the evolving music landscape.

🚀 Don’t miss out! Register now to join Gerard’s session and gain firsthand insights into his innovative approach to artist development.

👉 Session Registration Link

Book Signing Registration Link

We couldn’t be prouder of Gerard and can’t wait to see him continue making waves! Stay tuned for more updates from Brandinc PR as we help our clients shine on the biggest stages.

Mid-Quarter PR Check-In: Is Your Strategy on Track?

Mid-Quarter PR Check-In: Is Your Strategy on Track?

We’re nearly halfway through Q1—can you believe it? 🎉 Time is flying, and now’s the perfect moment to pause, reflect, and ask yourself: Is my PR strategy actually working?

Whether you kicked off 2025 with a full PR game plan or you’re still figuring things out, a mid-quarter check-in can be the game-changer you didn’t know you needed. It’s the sweet spot between launching goals and making the right tweaks before the quarter wraps.

🚀 Why a Mid-Quarter Check-In Matters

PR is all about momentum, visibility, and strategic positioning—but staying on track requires regular pulse checks. Without them, you could be missing opportunities or heading in the wrong direction without even realizing it.

Here’s what a simple mid-quarter review can help you with:

  • Spot Wins & Celebrate Them 🏆 – Recognize what’s working and lean in harder.
  • Identify Gaps & Pivots 🔄 – Notice what’s not clicking and adjust before it’s too late.
  • Realign Goals 🎯 – Ensure your PR goals still match your brand’s evolving needs.

✨ Join Me for a Live Q&A: Let’s Talk Strategy!

On March 29th at 10 AM CT, Brandi Sims, Founder of Brandinc PR, is hosting an Instagram Live Q&A to help YOU navigate your mid-quarter PR check-in.

We’ll cover:

✅ Quick PR audits you can do right now
✅ How to adjust your strategy without starting from scratch
✅ Ways to amplify your visibility before Q1 wraps up

This is your space to ask questions, share wins, and get actionable advice on how to fine-tune your PR goals for the rest of the quarter.

💡 How to Prepare

  • Review your Q1 goals – What’s been achieved? What still needs work?
  • List your challenges – What’s been blocking your progress?
  • Come with questions – Let’s make this session tailored to YOU.

🎧 Don’t Miss Out!

This check-in isn’t just about reflection—it’s about action. Join me on March 29th and let’s make sure you’re set up to end Q1 stronger than you started.

RSVP today and let’s get strategic! 💥

RSVP here: https://lu.ma/ygov2hgz