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Whitney Lee True Story Public Relations, Principal

Whitney Lee, APR, CPRC, is a marketing and PR expert and the founder of True Story Public Relations – an award-winning creative agency helping companies in the hospitality, Travel, and tourism industries get in front of the right people with the right message.

With a master’s degree in integrated marketing communications from Florida State University, an Accreditation in Public Relations (APR), and a Certification as a Public Relations Counselor (CPRC), Whitney left her fancy corporate job in Destin, Florida, at age 26 and started as a freelancer, helping Small Businesses to get more visibility, clients and customers. Today, True Story has grown into fully-remote agency of ten, serving clients all over the US and internationally.

She was named Scarlett Magazine’s “Woman of the Year” in PR, one of the “Five Most Dynamic Women Leaders Ruling the PR Industry” in the CIO Times and one of United Way’s 40 under 40. Her insights are regularly featured in well-known media outlets like 850 Business Magazine, Emerald Coast Magazine, and the She Who Wins podcast with Renee Bauer to name a few.

Whitney is also a keynote speaker and the host of True Story: The PR Podcast where she shares marketing and PR tips, as well as insightful info on best practices of leading and working in a fully-remote agency.

Recent Content

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This One Thing Can Make Or Break Your Company With Michelle Villatoro, Ceo Of Just Think Hospitality &Raquo; 20832397 1732295760281 0Dd9D9Fc1C67C
This One Thing Can Make or Break Your Company with Michelle Villatoro, CEO of Just Think Hospitality

What’s the secret to a thriving business? It’s not just great products or top-notch service—it’s something way more powerful.In this episode, Whitney Lee sits down with Michelle Villatoro to t…

What’s the secret …

What’s the secret to a thriving business? It’s not just great products or top-notch service—it’s something way more powerful.In this episode, Whitney Lee sits down with Michelle Villatoro to talk about the one thing that can make or break your company: leadership. But we’re not just talking about fancy titles or managing tasks—we’re diving into what real leadership looks like and how it shapes everything from team culture to customer experience.Whitney and Michelle break down why emotional intelligence, human connection, and authenticity matter more than ever. They also get real …

Listen · 49:54
You'Re Wasting Your Money On Pr If... &Raquo; 20832397 1732295760281 0Dd9D9Fc1C67C
You're Wasting Your Money on PR If…

Is your business truly ready for PR? In this episode, Whitney Lee breaks down the key factors that determine whether your PR efforts will thrive—or fall flat. She explores the importance of defining…

Is your business tru…

Is your business truly ready for PR? In this episode, Whitney Lee breaks down the key factors that determine whether your PR efforts will thrive—or fall flat. She explores the importance of defining your brand identity, setting realistic expectations, and ensuring your business is prepared to make the most of media opportunities.Whitney also uncovers common reasons companies waste Money on PR, from lacking newsworthy content to overlooking the customer journey. Plus, she shares why PR is a long-term game and why success requires openness to new ideas and strategic shifts.What You’ll Learn …

Listen · 41:12
Should You Write A Book? The True Roi Behind Authorship With Dan Gerstein, Ceo Of Gotham Ghostwriters &Raquo; 20832397 1732295760281 0Dd9D9Fc1C67C
Should You Write a Book? The TRUE ROI Behind Authorship with Dan Gerstein, CEO of Gotham Ghostwriters

Ever thought about writing a book but don’t know where to start? Whether you’re an expert looking to establish authority or have a story to tell, the path to publishing can feel overwhelming. In t…

Ever thought about w…

Ever thought about writing a book but don’t know where to start? Whether you’re an expert looking to establish authority or have a story to tell, the path to publishing can feel overwhelming. In this episode, Whitney Lee sits down with Dan Gerstein, CEO of Gotham Ghostwriters, to demystify the world of ghostwriting and book publishing.Dan shares insights from his extensive career in writing and communications, explaining how Gotham Ghostwriters helps authors bring their ideas to life. He breaks down the differences between self-publishing and traditional publishing, the importance of under…

Listen · 36:54
Pitching Is For More Than Just Media (And This Is Why You’re Striking Out!) &Raquo; 20832397 1732295760281 0Dd9D9Fc1C67C
Pitching Is for More Than Just Media (And This Is Why You’re Striking Out!)

In this episode, Whitney Lee breaks down the real meaning of pitching and why it’s more than just sending out press releases. Whether you’re pitching a story, a campaign, or a brand partnership, W…

In this episode, Whi…

In this episode, Whitney Lee breaks down the real meaning of pitching and why it’s more than just sending out press releases. Whether you’re pitching a story, a campaign, or a brand partnership, Whitney shares how to communicate your ideas effectively, avoid common mistakes, and build genuine Relationships that lead to real opportunities.Key takeaways:What pitching really means in PR and beyondHow to craft a pitch that gets attention (without being spammy)Why emails aren’t enough—how direct conversations make a differenceCommon pitching mistakes and how to fix themIf you want to sharpe…

Listen · 19:13
Pr Is Changing: How To Keep Up In An Industry That Continually Shifts With Adriana Sol, Founder Of Wander Pr &Raquo; 20832397 1732295760281 0Dd9D9Fc1C67C
PR is Changing: How to Keep Up in an Industry that Continually Shifts with Adriana Sol, Founder of Wander PR

💡Is PR really just about getting media coverage? Think again.Today, Whitney Lee sits down with Adriana Sol, founder ofWander PR, to break down the biggest misconceptions about public relations and …

💡Is PR really jus…

💡Is PR really just about getting media coverage? Think again.Today, Whitney Lee sits down with Adriana Sol, founder ofWander PR, to break down the biggest misconceptions about public relations and what it really takes to build a successful agency.Adriana shares her journey into PR, the impact of COVID-19 on her business, and how she’s navigated the challenges of leadership in a constantly evolving industry. She and Whitney explore why PR isn’t a one-size-fits-all strategy, the importance of measuring success beyond financial metrics, and how self-reflection plays a key role in effective…

Listen · 47:38
Should You Get A Master'S Degree? &Raquo; 20832397 1732295760281 0Dd9D9Fc1C67C
Should You Get a Master's Degree?

Should you get a master’s degree? In today's episode, Whitney shares her personal experience, diving into the motivations behind pursuing further Education, the importance of internships, and the t…

Should you get a mas…

Should you get a master’s degree? In today's episode, Whitney shares her personal experience, diving into the motivations behind pursuing further education, the importance of internships, and the true value of the connections made in school. Whitney breaks down why a master’s degree can be a great tool for some—but not always necessary for career Growth. If you’ve been debating whether grad school is the right move for you, this episode will give you the Clarity you need. ------------- Connect with Whitney on Instagram Connect with Whitney on LinkedIn True Story PR Website TheWhitne…

Listen · 47:23
Pr Predictions For 2025 With Jen Berson, Founder And President Of Jeneration Pr &Raquo; 20832397 1732295760281 0Dd9D9Fc1C67C
PR Predictions for 2025 with Jen Berson, Founder and President of Jeneration PR

In an industry where it’s common to keep your cards close to your chest, Jen Berson took the values of community over competition seriously in her PR agency. Instead of keeping her tips and tricks a…

In an industry where…

In an industry where it’s common to keep your cards close to your chest, Jen Berson took the values of community over competition seriously in her PR agency. Instead of keeping her tips and tricks a secret, she created Jeneration Academy, an online educational platform for entrepreneurs that includes courses, resources, and an online community.  Join us today as Whitney and Jen dive into several hot topics including the top PR trends and predictions for 2024, how AI is impacting the PR industry, the NECESSITY for affiliate programs, and more!  ——— Connect with Jen on Instagram  Jene…

Listen · 55:33
3 Ways Businesses Are Rethinking Their Marketing &Amp; Pr In 2025 &Raquo; 20832397 1732295760281 0Dd9D9Fc1C67C
3 Ways Businesses are Rethinking Their Marketing & PR in 2025

In this episode, Whitney Lee discusses the significant shifts in marketing and PR strategies in 2025 emphasizing the move towards fractional CMOs, shorter planning cycles, and a more authentic approac…

In this episode, Whi…

In this episode, Whitney Lee discusses the significant shifts in marketing and PR strategies in 2025 emphasizing the move towards fractional CMOs, shorter planning cycles, and a more authentic approach to branding. She reflects on how the pandemic has changed the way businesses operate, particularly in terms of team structures and the increasing acceptance of remote work. The conversation highlights the importance of adapting to new trends in marketing, including the effectiveness of organic content over traditional polished imagery. ----------- Connect with Whitney on Instagram Connect with W…

Listen · 35:10
What Pr Pros Need To Know About Seo With Jade Pruett, Owner &Amp; Founder Of Helloseo &Raquo; 20832397 1732295760281 0Dd9D9Fc1C67C
What PR Pros Need to Know About SEO with Jade Pruett, Owner & Founder of HelloSEO

Are you leveraging the full power of SEO in your PR strategy, or are you leaving potential untapped? In this episode, Whitney sits down with Jade Pruett to uncover the vital connection between SEO and…

Are you leveraging t…

Are you leveraging the full power of SEO in your PR strategy, or are you leaving potential untapped? In this episode, Whitney sits down with Jade Pruett to uncover the vital connection between SEO and PR—a must-know for any modern marketer. Together, they break down the challenges PR professionals face in navigating SEO and share actionable strategies to bridge the gap. 💡 Here’s what you’ll learn:The art of acquiring backlinks and why guest posting still reigns supreme. How media coverage can amplify your SEO game. The value of tools like Google Analytics and Google Search Conso…

Listen · 55:33
8 Books You Should Read To Level Up This Year &Raquo; 20832397 1732295760281 0Dd9D9Fc1C67C
8 Books You Should Read To Level Up This Year

In this episode, Whitney shares a curated list of books that have profoundly influenced her personal and professional life. From productivity hacks to the power of love languages, Whitney highlights k…

In this episode, Whi…

In this episode, Whitney shares a curated list of books that have profoundly influenced her personal and professional life. From productivity hacks to the power of love languages, Whitney highlights key insights from these impactful reads and explains how they’ve shaped her mindset and approach to life. Whether you’re looking for your next great read or seeking inspiration for personal growth, this episode offers a roadmap to elevate your life and business through the Wisdom of books. ------------ Connect with Whitney: LinkedIn Instagram True Story Website TheWhitneyLee.com

Listen · 47:15
How Freelance Journalists Are Changing The Game With Substack With Joni Sweet, Freelance Writer And Pr Consultant &Raquo; 20832397 1732295760281 0Dd9D9Fc1C67C
How Freelance Journalists are Changing the Game with Substack with Joni Sweet, Freelance Writer and PR Consultant

What does it take to thrive as a journalist in today’s fast-paced, digital-first world? In this episode, Whitney Lee uncovers the secrets with freelance journalist and PR consultant Joni Sweet. From…

What does it take to…

What does it take to thrive as a journalist in today’s fast-paced, digital-first world? In this episode, Whitney Lee uncovers the secrets with freelance journalist and PR consultant Joni Sweet. From navigating the rise of AI to mastering the art of storytelling, this conversation is a must-listen for anyone curious about the future of media. Key topics include:The rise of Substack and its role in personal branding for journalists.How media monetization has changed over the years.The growing importance of SEO in modern storytelling.Best practices for pitching stories to journalist…

Listen · 47:06
4 Patterns Biz Owners Need To Break In 2025 &Raquo; 20832397 1732295760281 0Dd9D9Fc1C67C
4 Patterns Biz Owners Need to Break in 2025

Ready to transform your business for the new year? In this episode, Whitney Lee reveals the marketing and PR strategies every business owner needs to navigate a rapidly evolving landscape. Whether you…

Ready to transform y…

Ready to transform your business for the new year? In this episode, Whitney Lee reveals the marketing and PR strategies every business owner needs to navigate a rapidly evolving landscape. Whether you're struggling to stand out in a crowded market or looking to optimize your budget, these insights are your roadmap to success. Whitney Lee reflects on the transformative year of 2024, sharing invaluable lessons and strategies for businesses aiming to thrive amidst changing consumer behaviors. She explores the interconnected yet distinct roles of marketing and PR, highlighting how they work togeth…

Listen · 38:11
High Stakes Pr: Building Campaigns Like Someone'S Life Depends On It With Drew Piers, Managing Director, Partner - Sachs Media Group &Raquo; 20832397 1732295760281 0Dd9D9Fc1C67C
High Stakes PR: Building Campaigns Like Someone's Life Depends On It with Drew Piers, Managing Director, Partner – Sachs Media Group

How do you cut through the noise to tell stories that matter? In this episode, Whitney sits down with Drew Piers of Sachs Media to unpack the ever-evolving world of public relations, advocacy, and sto…

How do you cut throu…

How do you cut through the noise to tell stories that matter? In this episode, Whitney sits down with Drew Piers of Sachs Media to unpack the ever-evolving world of public relations, advocacy, and storytelling. From navigating political turbulence to driving nonprofit missions, this conversation dives deep into the power of authentic communication and the strategies that make it work. Drew shares his journey in public affairs, revealing how research and audience insights shape impactful campaigns. He and Whitney explore the nuances of leadership, the role of language in framing issues for dive…

Listen · 44:56
Biz Owners: Why Your Marketing/Pr Isn'T Successful &Raquo; 20832397 1732295760281 0Dd9D9Fc1C67C
Biz Owners: Why Your Marketing/PR Isn't Successful

🎙️ Is your marketing team set up for success, or are you unknowingly setting them up to fail? In this episode, Whitney takes a hard look at the challenges business owners face when hiring and man…

🎙️ Is your mark…

🎙️ Is your marketing team set up for success, or are you unknowingly setting them up to fail? In this episode, Whitney takes a hard look at the challenges business owners face when hiring and managing young marketing talent. She reveals why simply hiring fresh faces isn’t enough—and what it takes to transform raw potential into real results. You’ll also hear how fractional CMOs are emerging as a smart, cost-effective solution for businesses that can’t afford a full-service agency but still need experienced leadership to drive strategy and execution. Whether you’re navigating the…

Listen · 22:25
Pros &Amp; Cons: Big Agencies Vs Small Agencies With Amy Dang-Stojanovic - Managing Partner, Mochee &Raquo; 20832397 1732295760281 0Dd9D9Fc1C67C
Pros & Cons: Big Agencies vs Small Agencies with Amy Dang-Stojanovic – Managing Partner, Mochee

Is social media still the Wild West of marketing, or has it grown into a strategic powerhouse? In this episode, Whitney Lee sits down with Amy Dang-Stojanovic, managing partner of Mochi, to explore th…

Is social media stil…

Is social media still the Wild West of marketing, or has it grown into a strategic powerhouse? In this episode, Whitney Lee sits down with Amy Dang-Stojanovic, managing partner of Mochi, to explore the ever-changing world of social media and PR. They pull back the curtain on:The rise of authentic content and the shift away from polished perfection. Why smaller, nimble teams can outshine big-name agencies. The critical balance between engagement and calls to action in successful campaigns. How content creators and influencers play different but vital roles in modern marketing.Amy also s…

Listen · 43:32
Missed Opportunities - What I Should'Ve Done When We Started The Agency &Raquo; 20832397 1732295760281 0Dd9D9Fc1C67C
Missed Opportunities – What I Should've Done When We Started the Agency

What if the secret to success wasn’t in finding a business partner? 🤔 In this episode, Whitney Lee shares her inspiring journey from leaving a corporate career at just 26 years old to building he…

What if the secret t…

What if the secret to success wasn’t in finding a business partner? 🤔 In this episode, Whitney Lee shares her inspiring journey from leaving a corporate career at just 26 years old to building her own thriving business. She dives into how mentorship—both informal and paid—has been a game-changer in her life. Whitney reflects on the lessons learned, mistakes made, and the invaluable guidance she’s gained along the way. 💡 Key Takeaways You’ll Love:Start your mentorship journey sooner rather than later. Mistakes are inevitable—but mentors help you learn and avoid the big one…

Listen · 27:06
How To Triple Your Podcast Pitching In A Day With Parker Olson, Founder Of Podpitch &Raquo; 20832397 1673878976474 5481Fd6421513
How to Triple Your Podcast Pitching in a Day with Parker Olson, Founder of PodPitch

Think podcasts are just a side hustle or hobby? Think again. In this episode, Whitney Lee chats with Parker Olson, founder of PodPitch, about how podcasts are becoming a PR powerhouse. They explore th…

Think podcasts are j…

Think podcasts are just a side hustle or hobby? Think again. In this episode, Whitney Lee chats with Parker Olson, founder of PodPitch, about how podcasts are becoming a PR powerhouse. They explore the art of customized pitches, the game-changing role of AI, and why podcasts are now key players in the media landscape. Parker shares his unconventional journey—from wild diets to living in nontraditional spaces—offering fresh insights on creativity and Innovation. Discover how tools like PodPitch are enhancing PR efforts while preserving the human touch, and what this means for the future of …

Listen · 35:28
The Tiny Shift That Changed Our Relationship With Every Client &Raquo; 20832397 1673878976474 5481Fd6421513
The Tiny Shift that Changed Our Relationship with Every Client

Ever wonder what it takes to go from a "yes person" to an authoritative leader in your field? In this episode, Whitney Lee shares her transformative journey from corporate life to freelancing, highlig…

Ever wonder what it …

Ever wonder what it takes to go from a "yes person" to an authoritative leader in your field? In this episode, Whitney Lee shares her transformative journey from corporate life to freelancing, highlighting the mindset shifts that changed her career. She talks about redefining client relationships, stepping into a strategist role, and the power of proactive communication. But that’s just the beginning—Whitney dives into how perception and PR can make or break your business. Want more? Hit play and discover her secrets firsthand! ------------ Apply for Mentorship with Whitney Connect with…

Listen · 22:24

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