Take initiative and go: #PitchStar Kennedy Reed

Take initiative and go: #PitchStar Kennedy Reed

This episode of “Pitch Live with Amy Summers” podcast takes a look back at Kennedy Reed’s #internship #mentorship at Pitch Publicity® and the career-building experiences that helped shape her path from college student to communications professional. Kennedy joined Pitch Publicity in January 2022 and remained with the agency through her graduation from the University of Florida in spring 2023, earning both a bachelor's degree in public relations and a master's degree in mass communication with a concentration in digital strategy. During her time at Pitch Publicity, she completed the firm's intensive pre-professional training program, secured hands-on experience across multiple client campaigns and traveled to industry events and conferences that expanded her perspective on the profession. Today, Kennedy is a social media specialist at Proforma, a leader in print and promotional products, where she blends strategic thinking with creative storytelling to help brands build meaningful connections with their audiences. In this episode, Kennedy shares insights on the value of saying yes to new opportunities, how students and young professionals can position themselves for career success, and the lessons from mentorship, travel and real-world experience that continue to influence her work today.   Key pitching/mentorship takeaways from Kennedy Reed on this episode of “Pitch Live”: * When traveling for business, be dressed and ready to go—you never know what opportunity may come your way when you land. * Networking becomes much easier when you focus on learning about other people instead of worrying about what to say next. * Attend networking events with people you trust and have a plan for looking out for one another. * If a conversation becomes awkward or unproductive, politely move on and always have an exit plan ready. * Before starting a job search, make a list of your contacts and activate your network. * Skip the mass applications. Research companies carefully and customize your resume and cover letter. * To make in-office work more enjoyable, build relationships with your co-workers and take little breaks away from your desk throughout the day. * Don't wait for teammates to ask for help—take the initiative and ask how you can support them. Join Amy Summers for #PitchLive with #PitchStar Kennedy Reed to be inspired by #mentorship and motivated to #pitch with success stories that prove the power of #ThePitch ☎️🤩   Connect:  Follow and connect with Amy Summers: Instagram | Bluesky | TikTok | Facebook: @amysummersnyc  X: @PitchAmy  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amysummersnyc [https://www.linkedin.com/in/amysummersnyc/]  Lift Your Leadership - Elevate Your Career: https://lifttolead.com [https://lifttolead.com/]    Follow and connect with #PitchStar Kennedy Reed: Instagram: @kenn_reed and @kennedy.proforma  X: @KennedyReedPR  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kennedyreedpublicrelations/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/kennedyreedpublicrelations/]    Follow and connect with Pitch Publicity #PitchStars  Instagram and LinkedIn @pitchpublicity    Follow and connect with #INICIVOX for #VirtualMentorship  Instagram | Facebook | X | LinkedIn: @INICIVOX Website: www.INICIVOX.com [http://www.inicivox.com/]    Be sure to hit that subscribe button and give us a rating or review. Your feedback helps us plan future episodes. As a bonus, join us at www.INICIVOX.com [http://www.inicivox.com/] where you can get motivated, hone your communication skills and binge as much mentorship as you want, whenever you need it.

Earn a reputation that invites opportunity: #PitchPro Joe Weiss

This episode of “Pitch Live with Amy Summers” podcast features Joe Weiss, a natural products industry leader whose career spans more than 30 years across retail, brand development, merchandising, and ingredient innovation. Joe currently serves as global head of brand management at PLT Health Solutions, following eight years as president of Nutrition 21 and earlier serving as vice president of corporate brands at The Vitamin Shoppe and senior vice president of merchandising at GNC. Having worked with retailers, manufacturers, ingredient suppliers, and consumer brands, Joe has a unique perspective on what it takes to build brand reputation, communicate value, and stand out in a competitive marketplace. A graduate of The Pennsylvania State University with a degree in economics and an MBA in marketing from the University of Pittsburgh's Joseph M. Katz Graduate School of Business, Joe shares lessons from a career spent bringing innovative health and wellness products to market and adapting to the ever-changing ways business gets done—while staying grounded in the relationships, trust and fundamentals that continue to drive success.   Key pitching takeaways from Joe Weiss on this episode of “Pitch Live”:   * Tell stories, not just facts. A personal connection to the company makes you more memorable. * Build your network before you need it. * Your reputation starts on day one. Keep your promises, deliver results and treat people with respect. * Listen more than you talk. Don't talk over the person you're pitching. * Lead with the business opportunity so people quickly understand the value. * Influence beats force. Seek to understand others' perspectives and build alignment. * Stay curious and continually ask whether your skills will remain relevant in the years ahead. * Know when it's time to pivot. If you're no longer learning or the business around you is changing, pay attention.   Join Amy Summers for #PitchLive with #PitchPro Joe Weiss to access Joe’s pitching strategies and success stories that prove the power of #ThePitch ☎️🤩   Connect:  Follow and connect with Amy Summers: Instagram | Bluesky | TikTok | Facebook: @amysummersnyc  X: @PitchAmy  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amysummersnyc [https://www.linkedin.com/in/amysummersnyc/]  Lift Your Leadership - Elevate Your Career: https://lifttolead.com [https://lifttolead.com/]    Follow and connect with Joe Weiss LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joejweiss [https://www.linkedin.com/in/joejweiss]    Follow and connect with Pitch Publicity #PitchStars  Instagram and LinkedIn @pitchpublicity    Follow and connect with #INICIVOX for #VirtualMentorship  Instagram | Facebook | X | LinkedIn: @INICIVOX Website: www.INICIVOX.com [http://www.inicivox.com/]  Be sure to hit that subscribe button and give us a rating or review. Your feedback helps us plan future episodes. As a bonus, join us at www.INICIVOX.com [http://www.inicivox.com/] where you can get motivated, hone your communication skills and binge as much mentorship as you want, whenever you need it.

Create space for real connection: #PitchStar Myisha Chapman

This episode of “Pitch Live with Amy Summers” podcast takes a look back at Myisha Chapman’s #internship #mentorship at Pitch Publicity® and how it helped shape her rise into a respected communications leader in healthcare and corporate communications. Now serving as a vice president on the Corporate Healthcare team at Ruder Finn, Myisha advises biotechnology, pharmaceutical and mission-driven organizations on strategic storytelling, executive visibility, patient advocacy, and integrated communications initiatives designed to build trust, strengthen connection, and inspire action. A graduate of University of Florida with a Bachelor’s degree in Public Relations and a Master of Health Administration, Myisha has built a career centered on elevating patient voices, expanding access to information, and creating meaningful connections through communications. A proud member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., she is also intentional about building community, nurturing relationships, and staying deeply connected to the people and networks that have supported her personal and professional growth. In this episode, Myisha reflects on her professional journey, the importance of mentorship early in a career, and how intention in leadership can create lasting impact.   Key pitching/mentorship takeaways from Myisha Chapman on this episode of “Pitch Live”: * Treat every role as a learning opportunity. Ask yourself: What skills can I build here? * Surround yourself with people who make room for your ambition and growth. * Stay connected to mentors before you need something. Strong relationships are built through consistency, not convenience. * Don’t assume what your team wants. Ask direct reports about their goals and where they want to grow. * Remote work still requires real human connection. Get on camera, pick up the phone, and make time for face-to-face conversations. * The best check-ins aren’t always task-driven. Create space for real conversations, not just work updates. * In interviews, especially virtual ones, energy and presence matter. Show enthusiasm, stay engaged, and always come prepared with thoughtful questions. * Your network is built through ongoing connection. Early in your career, make it a priority to stay in touch and nurture relationships consistently. Join Amy Summers for #PitchLive with #PitchStar Myisha Chapman to be inspired by #mentorship and motivated to #pitch with success stories that prove the power of #ThePitch ☎️🤩   Connect:  Follow and connect with Amy Summers: Instagram | Bluesky | TikTok | Facebook: @amysummersnyc  X: @PitchAmy  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amysummersnyc [https://www.linkedin.com/in/amysummersnyc/]    Follow and connect with #PitchStar Myisha Chapman: Instagram: myisha.renee LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/myisha-chapman-okanlawon-mha-2a7b9251/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/myisha-chapman-okanlawon-mha-2a7b9251/]    Follow and connect with Pitch Publicity #PitchStars  Instagram and LinkedIn @pitchpublicity    Follow and connect with #INICIVOX for #VirtualMentorship  Instagram | Facebook | X | LinkedIn: @INICIVOX Website: www.INICIVOX.com [http://www.inicivox.com/]  Be sure to hit that subscribe button and give us a rating or review. Your feedback helps us plan future episodes. As a bonus, join us at www.INICIVOX.com [http://www.inicivox.com/] where you can get motivated, hone your communication skills and binge as much mentorship as you want, whenever you need it.

Make everyone feel seen: #PitchPro Ilene Silverman

This episode of “Pitch Live with Amy Summers” podcast features Ilene Silverman, owner and president of Ilene’s Gator Store, a beloved Gainesville retail destination rooted in decades of family legacy. Carrying forward a tradition that began with her family’s original downtown store established in 1935, Silverman has built Ilene’s Gator Store into a recognizable brand known for its deep connection to the University of Florida community and loyal Gator Nation following. A Gainesville native, she has successfully blended heritage with modern retail, growing a business that reflects both entrepreneurial resilience and hometown pride. In this episode, Silverman shares the story behind her family’s longstanding presence in Gainesville, how she evolved the brand over time, and what it takes to sustain a successful retail business across generations.   Key pitching takeaways from Ilene Silverman on this episode of “Pitch Live”:   * Lead with a genuine welcome the moment a customer walks in. * Skip the “How can I help you?” greeting and start a conversation instead. * Sell the story behind the product, not just the product itself. * Tell the truth, even if it costs you the sale. * Build trust by helping customers look and feel their best. * Curate quality merchandise to build lasting customer confidence. * Maximize checkout with add-ons across price points for every generation. * Treat every customer with kindness—no judgment, ever.   Join Amy Summers for #PitchLive with #PitchPro Ilene Silverman to access Ilene’s pitching strategies and success stories that prove the power of #ThePitch ☎️🤩   Connect:  Follow and connect with Amy Summers: Instagram | Bluesky | TikTok | Facebook: @amysummersnyc  X: @PitchAmy  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amysummersnyc [https://www.linkedin.com/in/amysummersnyc/]  Lift Your Leadership - Elevate Your Career: https://lifttolead.com [https://lifttolead.com/]    Follow and connect with Ilene Silverman X | Facebook: @igatorstore  Instagram: @ilenesgatorstore @ilene_silverman  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ilene-silveman-50905b18a [https://www.linkedin.com/in/ilene-silveman-50905b18a]  Website: https://ilenesgatorstore.com [https://ilenesgatorstore.com/]  Visit Ilene’s Gator Store: 2441 NW 43rd St., Suite 19 Gainesville, Florida 32606   Follow and connect with Pitch Publicity #PitchStars  Instagram and LinkedIn @pitchpublicity    Follow and connect with #INICIVOX for #VirtualMentorship  Instagram | Facebook | X | LinkedIn: @INICIVOX Website: www.INICIVOX.com [http://www.inicivox.com/]  Be sure to hit that subscribe button and give us a rating or review. Your feedback helps us plan future episodes. As a bonus, join us at www.INICIVOX.com [http://www.inicivox.com/] where you can get motivated, hone your communication skills and binge as much mentorship as you want, whenever you need it.

Drive decisions with clarity and concision: #PitchStar Sally Greider

This episode of “Pitch Live with Amy Summers” podcast takes a look back at Sally Greider’s #internship #mentorship at Pitch Publicity® and how that early foundation helped launch her into one of the most competitive arenas in media. Now a director at Horizon Media in New York City, Sally leads digital advertising for brands, specializing in cross-channel, full-funnel campaigns that turn big ideas into measurable impact. A University of Florida graduate with dual degrees in English and Public Relations, Sally quickly rose from standout Pitch Star to a leader known for building high-performing teams, thriving in high-pressure environments, and bringing both strategic precision and creative vision to everything she touches.   Key pitching/mentorship takeaways from Sally Greider on this episode of “Pitch Live”: * Deliver clean, concise updates that move decisions forward. * Don’t wait for annual reviews. Proactively align with managers on career goals. * Show you care: take initiative, ask questions, and stay engaged. * Pressure-test your own pitch — know the gaps and how you’re addressing them. * Lead with curiosity and ask “why,” not just give direction.  * Stay steady under pressure — calm + positivity drives team confidence. * Balance constructive feedback with recognition and praise — both matter.  * Maintain relationships beyond the role because mentorship doesn’t end when someone leaves.  Join Amy Summers for #PitchLive with #PitchStar Sally Greider to be inspired by #mentorship and motivated to #pitch with success stories that prove the power of #ThePitch ☎️🤩   Connect:  Follow and connect with Amy Summers: Instagram | Bluesky | TikTok | Facebook: @amysummersnyc  X: @PitchAmy  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amysummersnyc [https://www.linkedin.com/in/amysummersnyc/]  Lift Your Leadership - Elevate Your Career: https://lifttolead.com [https://lifttolead.com]   Get Your Copy of Lift: https://lifttolead.com/book [https://lifttolead.com/book]    Follow and connect with #PitchStar Sally Greider: Instagram: @sally_blake LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sallygreider [https://www.linkedin.com/in/sallygreider]    Follow and connect with Pitch Publicity #PitchStars  Instagram and LinkedIn @pitchpublicity    Follow and connect with #INICIVOX for #VirtualMentorship  Instagram | Facebook | X | LinkedIn: @INICIVOX Website: www.INICIVOX.com [http://www.inicivox.com]  Be sure to hit that subscribe button and give us a rating or review. Your feedback helps us plan future episodes. As a bonus, join us at www.INICIVOX.com [http://www.inicivox.com] where you can get motivated, hone your communication skills and binge as much mentorship as you want, whenever you need it.