Podcast Production for "Working For All," The New Podcast From Dutchess County's DC Works

Various job creation initiative programs related to DC Works reached out to Brandon Lillard and Katie Hellmuth of Tha’ Max Studio and Tin Shingle to help DC Works create and produce a podcast that highlights the service agencies and businesses aligned to help people of all abilities and situations in Dutchess County get work.

It’s a complex program, and we are learning more and more about it through the podcast episodes we record for them. After recording 5 episodes to warm up and find their style, our next recording session was to hone in on their introduction, how they wanted to present themselves as co-hosts on this podcast, and how the podcast would present itself on the newly designed website of DC Works.

Working with the mission statement on their website, Tin Shingle wrote an introduction that will work in order to represent a variety of types of guests. Based on the recent rebranding of DC Works, we also came up with a title for the podcast that incorporates and highlights the all abilities community.

Tell us what you think!

Working For All
A DC Works Podcast

Working For All is the podcast of DC Works, which contributes to Dutchess County’s economic growth by supporting the needs of employers and job seekers through resources and services offered in a true One Stop environment that proudly works cooperatively with community agencies.

In this podcast, we hear directly from job seekers, businesses, community agencies, leaders, and our own team to learn first hand the experiences and needs from employers employing people with all abilities, differently employed, and those who are changing careers.

We're you're hosts, Amanda and Zoey, showing you how Dutchess County is working for all.

Episodes will be available soon, as DC Works rolls out their rebrand. We have 7 more episodes to record, which means a variety of gusts, as well as a turnaround interview on the co-hosts Amanda and Zoey that Brandon and Katie will co-host, in order to interview Amanda and Zoey about what is available at DC Works, and what makes it a one stop shop for people in Dutchess County changing careers, entering the workforce, or needing special accommodations for their abilities in order to earn a living.

To hire Tin Shingle to produce your podcast, no matter if you’re local to New York’s Hudson Valley or elsewhere in the country, see here to learn more and reach out.

The #1 Way To Kill Your Media Pitch When Trying To Get PR About Your Business

There are many ways your email to a reporter magazine or producer for a show could go wrong. The email dance is delicate, even if you do get past the initial email you wrote, to get into a second or third email chain with your intended media outlet. There are ways to mess it up then, but there is one guaranteed line you could write that will guarantee you a hard “No” from a writer you wish to write about your business.

This writing style happens all of the time. The business owner is emailing the media outlet, aka “pitching” with the big hopes that the media will write about them. The formula usually goes like this:

• Overview about the company.

• Why they are so special.

• The closing statement.

The costly mistake is in the Closing Statement. It’s when you’re at your most vulnerable, stating exactly what you want. It’s when you say, in your purest voice: “Will you write about me?”

It’s hard to write to the media. So intimidating. It could be your life’s dream to be featured in this publication, or you could be pitching the media in order to save someone’s life or raise awareness about something life-altering. But when you type that last sentence: “Will you write about me?” you very well may get a response of: “Sure, buy an advertisement!” Or you may get no response at all.

Why Does This Statement Kill The Media Pitch?

The reason asking the reporter or producer to feature your business results in death is simple: you are asking the writer to work for you. Their boss says: “Will you write about XYZ.” Rather, their boss says: “Hey, go write about ABC and have it on my desk in 5 hours.”

The reporter needs to be hooked by your story. You need to include so many curious details, and include how timely it is. Like, the reporter has to write about what you pitched them because you showed them so many compelling reasons that are relevant right now.

Watch this video where Katie, who is a writer and does get pitched by different types of businesses, tells you why this is the statement won’t get you media coverage. When you ask someone to write about you, you are putting them to work. If you’re putting them to work, you need to pay them. That is why they are telling you to buy an ad :)

Katie has shared this insight before. But this time, it is with a Holiday theme. It brings the analogy of the Xmas or Hanukah list into this situation. When you ask for what you want, you don’t always get it. People may scrutinize your ask, think it not worth it, or alter it in some way. The Ask puts pressure on a person that can result in silence.

Of course, if you are 5 years old, caregivers may be scrambling to get you what you want. But as adults with big dreams, these asks may go over differently. That is why you are not going to ask to be covered ever again. You are going to tell them why what you need covered is so amazing; so compelling.

Your ask is going to be: “Should you need more information, let me know.” Meanwhile, you will have included a photo of what you are talking about; include what makes it very timely; and bullet points of why it is amazing.

Tin Shingle’s Pitch Whisperer

You don’t need to do this alone. It’s scary, and you may put it off. You may not send the email at all, or you may send the same one on repeat. Tin Shingle has a Pitch Whisperer Program, where you can copy/paste your email draft into our Community Forum, where Katie will review it (and other Tin Shingle members if they want to). The community learning aspect is good. Even if you don’t submit, if others do, then you can read the edit notes and learn from them.

This is a benefit of membership with Tin Shingle, one you can start using today.

CNN Layoffs Begin - Hitting Contributing - Who Are Not Full Time Employees But Contractors With Sometimes 6-Figure Contracts

As first reported by AdWeek, the anticipated layoffs happening at CNN are in motion. According to TVNewser, a memo was sent to staff sent on Wednesday. It is reported that CNN chairman and CEO Chris Licht wrote that the layoffs have now started. “He said the layoffs would initially focus on its paid contributors’ staff and then shift to full-time CNN staff on Thursday.

According to the AdWeek article,  Axios reported: “A source familiar with the cuts said that “a couple hundred” people in total will be impacted.”

Adweek reported that Licht said “impacted employees will learn more through an in-person meeting or via Zoom, depending on the employee’s location and receive information about notice period or any severance that would apply. All employees who are bonus eligible will still receive their 2022 bonuses, Licht said.” (The Hill)

Ugh. Terrible feeling, but perhaps better that the Twitter layoffs led by Elon Musk that came by algorithm.

Adweek noted that “contributors are not employees but are under contract to serve as talking heads or experts appearing exclusively on the network.” Adweek backed that with reporting from LA Times and Company Town “Most are kept on an annual retainer and are paid in the low six figures. Bigger names earn as much as $500,000 a year.“

Wishing everyone well who either lost a job or a contract.

Tin Shingle's Office Hours: 1-2pm Today Wednesday

Office Hours

When: Wednesday, October 26th, 2022
Time: 1pm-2pm EST
Where: At your computer or on your phone.
Zoom Link: Click Here for the Zoom Link. You need to be logged into your account.
Required: Membership with Tin Shingle. Join today.

Hello!

Below is the Zoom link to access the members-only TuneUp Office Hour that happens every Wednesday unless we are having a live public TuneUp. These are small-group sessions where there could be one or five members on the call. This is a great opportunity for you to get one-on-one assistance.

Bring your questions, celebration, strategy ideas, and strategy needs for getting the word out using social and news media.

I'll be your moderator, and I look forward to meeting with you!

Activate your membership here. Be sure you're logged in, and get the Zoom link here to join the interactive session where you get to bring your media celebrations, challenges, and needs.

About TuneUp Office Hours

If you are a member of Tin Shingle, come on today's Members-Only TuneUp! These are open for members only, and and not open to the public. This is a safe space for Tin Shingle Members to come in with brainstorms to give and get feedback.

You can turn on your video camera to speak eye-to-eye, or just talk on the phone or through your computer speakers.

In this series, members of Tin Shingle with the Media Kit Membership can call in to workshop any need in their marketing campaign, including:

• Media Pitching: What a pitch to a certain media outlet should look like, and how it should read.

• Instagram: How to get sales and create PR opportunities from you posts.

• Facebook: How do you increase traffic from this platform?

• Website: The media will circle back to evaluate their website. What are they seeing, and is it clear?

• SEO: What's your game plan? Let's get one. You don't want to miss out on all that search traffic.

Tin Shingle's Office Hours: Do This Podcast Challenge

Woo! It's been a month, and it's not even over yet. October is notoriously busy. What with events back in full swing, you may be wondering why you feel so over-scheduled. But it’s TuneUp Wednesday! Today is Office Hours from 1-2pm EST.

If you stick to your list of priorities, you will see success. If your list is on repeat, or needs a refresh, here is a challenge: Up your podcasting or audio-interview game. This challenge can involve recording services from Tin Shingle and @tha_max_studio via Brandon Lillard @randell_savage84 if you need help getting over the finish line. 🙌🏽 🎧 www.tinshingle.com/podcasting. Katie issued you a challenge today in a mini-TuneUp on IG, so go watch for some inspo. Or watch right here!

Otherwise, talk to some of you soon on Tin Shingle's Office Hours TuneUp, which is for members only. Activate your membership here. Be sure you're logged in, and get the Zoom link here to join the interactive session where you get to bring your media celebrations, challenges, and needs.

Why This Breast Cancer Survivor Thinks The Pink Razor Is Trash

October starts and it’s always Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Since 3-6 months ago, Tin Shingle has been encouraging our membership and readership to pitch the media accordingly. With “pink this” and “gift guide” that. But we know the reality is that it’s Breast Cancer Awareness Month every day of the year. It’s lot of cancer awareness month every day of the year, including ovarian cancer, colon cancer, etc.

“I like the idea of this month, but it can also feel like trash. ”

— Jill Hilbrenner, Owner of Witch Hazel

This is why we found it so refreshing and grounding when our friend and curator Jill Hilbrenner of Witch Hazel in Beacon, NY came out with her breast cancer story, and how she was not amused by the pink.

Jill explained this in her own words in a series of Instagram Stories, which Tin Shingle captured and published below.

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“Hello, Good Morning, buckle in for some unsolicited thoughts on Breast Cancer Awareness Month…

“This is where pink razors (etc.) come in. When I see themed or glittery products, I want to collect them and smash them with that thing that smashed cars in Breaking Bad.”

— Jill Hilbrenner, Owner of Witch Hazel

“I like the idea of this month, but it can also feel like trash.

“Back in 2019, I was diagnosed with (and went through treatment for early-stage BC. I had zero symptoms, but just happened to have good insurance that let me get screenings before the typical mammogram age.

“I’m good now, thank God. But once you know your body can do this, you can never NOT know what it feels like to feel like your body’s revolting. And, therefore, there’s always some anxiety that can pop up whenever. Thanks, therapy!

“This is where pink razors (etc.) come in. When I see themed or glittery products, I want to collect them and smash them with that thing that smashed cars in Breaking Bad.

“Going through treatment, I wanted zero to do with a pink razor. You know why? You can’t even shave your skin during radiation because it’s too damaged. Like what?”

— Jill Hilbrenner, Owner of Witch Hazel

“Ya wanna think that the intentions behind those initiatives are good (cough, greed, cough, show me your financials) but going through treatment, I wanted zero to do with a pink razor.

“You know why? You can’t even shave your skin during radiation because it’s too damaged. Like what?

“This novel popped off because I read an email from Violets Are Blue Skincare and I was basically nodding my head throughout.

“They’re actually founded by a BC survivor, and they consistently give money, resources, and products to people going through treatment.

“That is actual commitment vs. 31-day marketing.

“I’ll also suggest:

1. Don’t be afraid to talk to people going through it. I had close friends totally ghost me, then reappear conveniently when my treatment was over to “catch up because it’s been so long!” Being uncomfortable is normal, but don’t disappear.

2. Saying “the wrong thing” is better than saying nothing. Your loved one will tell you (or be silent) if they don’t want to talk about it. But I remember everyone who checked in.

3. A good text formula is like this: “Hey, I know things are really tough, and I can’t imagine how that feels. If there’s anything specific you need (insert some ideas here), I’m here. No need to respond, but I’m thinking about you.” This shows genuine concern but leaves control of the conversation to your loved one.

“In summary because God knows you have better things to do than listen to me all day:

1. Research if companies are actually contributing or just doing a pink-glitter cash grab. (not trying to say all initiatives are bad!)

2. Get a mammogram and go to your annual doctor visits. (And don’t feel afraid to fight insurance if they say a necessary screening is too expensive. Sometimes your doctor’s office will help you or take it on entirely.)

3. Consider what you can do on a personal level. Remember that this month is difficult for some people. Give or volunteer locally, and nurture personal relationships even if it means temporarily making yourself uncomfortable.

“Ok, excuse me because I forgot one thing. If you reach out to someone, please don’t say: “You’ve got this!”

“I hated when people said that. Factually, there’s no way to know if it’s true. For me personally, it also felt like forceful positivity that didn’t acknowledge the big-ness of the situation. Basically hearing “you go, girl!” when it’s like, “hi, I’m sick.”

“(I understand the intentions are positive and it’s not like someone is going to lose your number for saying that. But many people don’t like that phrase.)”

Looking At The Bright Side Of Things - Not Just On Motivational Monday (Tuesday)

This post was for Monday, but ya know, it was Monday, and Katie James, Inc. got locked out of Tin Shingle’s Instagram password because that’s how it goes sometimes.

It’s Tuesday and still raining, but at least it’s cozy. Always trying to look on the bright side of a gloomy day.

“If your Monday had a dip down, remember that Mondays always suck, (despite our excitement about entering the work week) and pay attention to the opportunities and good health that presented today.”

Start Your Own Podcast With Tin Shingle's Production Team

So great being back at ThaMax for podcasting recording sessions for our clients, Dutchess Workforce Investment Board! They have started a new podcast to shine light on employment agencies helping people in Dutchess County. And beyond as more people will hear these episodes.

Pictured above (left photo) is Brandon Lillard directing and coaching these new podcasters.

Want to start your own podcast? We can be your production team. Click here for details >

Join Tin Shingle Today To Get In On Office Hours - Where You Can Get The Word Out Using PR And Social Media

The reverse view of today’s Office Hours TuneUp. Katie James, Inc. has been on the go a lot, and needs a solid place to work from. In the meantime, she pops up at different locations.

For some Tin Shingle Office Hours, which is a small group strategy session with Tin Shingle members only, she’ll be on these comfortable stools. To get on these calls, which discuss how to get the word out using PR and Social Media, join Tin Shingle today >

Send A Special Note With Luxe Limited-Edition Stationary From Witch Hazel

Bringing back some retail posts to the Tin Shingle…

There are too many in Beacon, NY not to share! Was out for A Little Beacon Blog advertiser business and this gorgeous stationery at Witch Hazel literally caught my eye. The designer is a friend of Owner of Witch Hazel, Jill from her corporate days.

I’m picking up a batch of these my next time in, and sending a note to @gildedtwig xo

You too can “send a special note with this luxe, limited-edition stationery. Featuring original artwork by Brooklyn-based illustrator Antoinette, each card includes a sweet blossom design styled in gold foil.

Every set of 10 cards, neatly tied in a bundle, comes with five pale blue and five neutral beige envelopes. Stationery cards are made of premium Crane Collection Lettra paper — an earth-friendly, tree-free paper produced from cotton fibers recovered from the apparel trade and from cotton processing.” Buy them here >