In this episode of Just Following Up...Again, we sit down with Katie Alyx, a dark romance author whose path to publishing was anything but conventional. Legally blind due to Retinitis Pigmentosa, Katie didn't let an unfinished-manuscript habit or an unconventional view of the world stop her from finishing her first book.

But this conversation isn't just about the books. It's about the business behind them. As a self-published author, Katie has had to become her own marketing department, and she joins us to break down exactly how she's done it: building an author brand from scratch, finding and growing a readership, and turning personal story into promotional power. Whether you're an indie author trying to get your book in front of readers or a marketer curious about how creators build loyal audiences without a traditional publishing budget, this episode is packed with practical takeaways on visibility, authenticity, and getting your work noticed in a noisy market.

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Have a suggestion for a future episode? Let us know by filling out this form. For more information on the Central West Coast Chapter of FPRA visit https://cwcfpra.com/

Editing by Muffy Lavens Theme song courtesy of Ben Kunkel/Professor Soup

In this episode of Just Following Up…Again, Candice Smith MEd. shares her approach for getting founders with complex stories to think differently about visibility and traction. Her work at French Press intentionally amplifies voices that often get overlooked in traditional media cycles, pairing strategic support with a fresh framework to help leaders capture attention and turn it into lasting impact.

Candice has guided entrepreneurs through the challenges of earned media rejection, pivoting to new channels, building trust, and ultimately finding the right mix for sustainable growth. Her sessions consistently help founders identify what’s working, refine their message, and cultivate relationships that lead to genuine coverage.

Have a suggestion for a future episode? Let us know by filling out this form. For more information on the Central West Coast Chapter of FPRA visit https://cwcfpra.com/

Editing by Muffy Lavens Theme song courtesy of Ben Kunkel/Professor Soup

In this episode of Just Following Up…Again, we're joined by Samantha Flynn, founder of Junipr Public Relations and author of The EntrePReneur Advantage. Samantha has built her career helping entrepreneurs cut through the noise, uncover what makes their business truly unique, and communicate that value with confidence.

The conversation explores why public relations shouldn't be viewed as a luxury reserved for established companies, but rather as a strategic tool that can guide decision-making, fuel growth, and create opportunities at every stage of a business.

Have a suggestion for a future episode? Let us know by filling out this form. For more information on the Central West Coast Chapter of FPRA visit https://cwcfpra.com/

Editing by Muffy Lavens Theme song courtesy of Ben Kunkel/Professor Soup