Archives: Smart Talk
Fantastic Example of Brand Storytelling Posted August 20, 2017 by Lisa Strickland | | 0 Comments
Does your brand have a story? If not, you’re missing out on the best way to differentiate your company and foster engagement. Your story is the foundation of your brand and the best strategy for growth. Here’s an example of a story we developed for Sanarus Technologies, in cooperation with Ivy Island Productions.
Marines Host Golf Scramble To Benefit Semper Fi Fund Posted June 06, 2016 by Lisa Strickland | News | 0 Comments

The Marines are hosting a fundraiser to benefit Semper Fi Fund.
The 2016 fundraiser will kick off with a Social Event on Thursday, October 13th at the MCAS Miramar Officers’ Club followed by a golf scramble, Friday, October 14th at Miramar Memorial Golf Course.
Highlights of the Social Event include guest speakers Gen. James Amos, former Commandant of the Marine Corps and Medal of Honor recipient, Dakota Meyer, as well as opportunity drawings, a live auction and appearances by other notable guests.
Golf scramble, social mixer and live auction – it’s always a sold out event! Check out the Marine Corps Aviation Association (MCAA) 2016 Golf Scramble website & get ready for some serious Oorah!
Register for the event here.
Couldn’t ask for a better client or a more noble cause to promote!
Who Says The Thrill Is Gone? Posted February 26, 2016 by Lisa Strickland | | 0 Comments
Yep. This is what it feels like every time we get TV placement for a Brava client.
The thrill never ends.
Happy Leap Year, folks!
Writing Workshop With CNN Journalist John DeDakis Posted January 16, 2016 by Lisa Strickland | News | 0 Comments

Visit Eventbrite.com for ticket information.
Attention Nashville writers: Here’s an event you don’t want to miss!
One day only – Saturday, February 20th @9:00 AM.
BRAVA client and Emmy award-winning journalist and author John DeDakis will conduct a day-long writing workshop, “From Novice To Novelist,” at Atmalogy – Nasville’s vibrant and eclectic community cafe.
This workshop is a step-by-step guide that deconstructs and demystifies the writing process. We’ll go from how to get the nub of an idea all the way through to getting your novel (or memoir) into the hands of expectant fans. Along the way, you’ll learn how to stay organized, how to write in the voice of the opposite sex, how to rewrite, how to get an agent, and how to face your writing/marketing fears. It’s a great opportunity to connect with other writers and learn from an accomplished novelist and writing coach.
John DeDakis is a former Senior Copy Editor on CNN’s “The Situation Room with Wolf Blitzer” and the author of three mystery-suspense novels featuring a strong female protagonist. His fourth in the series, “Bullet In The Chamber,” will be published Oct. 15 and deals, in part, with the death of his 22-year-old son.
During John’s nearly 45-year, award-winning career in journalism (25 years at CNN), he has been a White House Correspondent and interviewed such luminaries as Alfred Hitchcock, Jimmy Carter, and Ronald Reagan. In addition, he teaches journalism at The University of Maryland-College Park and leads writing workshops here and abroad.
You can find out more about John and upcoming events by visiting johndedakis.com. Seating is limited, so sign up today.
Top 3 Marketing/PR trends for 2014 Posted December 24, 2013 by Lisa Strickland | Marketing | 0 Comments

Content is still king And there’s no sign of that changing anytime soon. Why? Social platforms are crying out to be fed – all day, every day, ad infinitum. Smart marketers know that posting useful, interesting and entertaining content is one of the most effective ways of connecting with customers.
Tell your story Crisp, relevant content is a company’s greatest asset. If you want to become part of the social conversation, don’t overlook the importance of storytelling. The goal is to share information that appeals to the reader’s emotions; by so doing, you set the stage for others to tell your brand story. And what’s more credible – you tooting your own horn or engaged customers tooting it for you?
Integrate Finally, companies are starting to realize that marketing and public relations are not entirely two separate entities. The concept of marketing vs. promotions has been replaced with integrated marketing communications. Consider it a broader, more inclusive means of communication between the company and the consumer. It’s a cooperative process through which relationships with customers and stakeholders are built and maintained via consistent messaging and conversation.
In an increasingly competitive marketplace, companies that embrace a range of communications tools are most likely to achieve their marketing and public relations objectives.
It’s a jungle out there. Plan your marketing and promotional campaigns wisely – and you’ll survive.
