In this edition of our Meet the Team series, we’re excited to spotlight Shari Rauch, Director of Media Buying at Bridgenext. Based in Woodbury, NY, Shari brings a rich, multi-faceted background in media—from production and sales to her current role leading strategic media buying initiatives. With a career that began in the control rooms of CNN and evolved through decades of hands-on experience, Shari’s journey reflects not just adaptability, but a genuine passion for helping clients connect with the right audiences in meaningful ways. Let’s dive deeper and explore more about Shari in the sections below.

Bridgenext Team Stats:

• Name: Shari Rauch
• Hometown: Plainview, NY
• Current Team: Woodbury, NY
• Team Role: Director, Media Buying
• How did you enter the media industry? I went to the University of Maryland as a business major thinking I wanted to be an accountant. A couple of courses in I knew it wasn’t for me and came across Radio, Television and Film. I switched my major and that was my path going forward. My senior year I interned at CNN in DC which provided me with amazing hands-on experience. I was one of the few interns that wanted to be in the control room. The production crew took me under their wings, and it was a fantastic experience. After graduating college, I started out on the production side of the business producing satellite media tours, B-Roll packages, and creative video content. From there I transitioned to sales and after many years as an account director I made the move to media buying which I love. It’s been great getting to work in all these different areas of the industry.
• Sum up your work style in three emojis:
• What do you love most about working with your team at Bridgenext? I truly love working with everyone on our team. We are always collaborating to create unique media plans for our clients. I consider the team to be more than just colleagues, they are my friends.
• How would your coworkers describe you? Hardworking, organized, detail oriented, can-do attitude.
• Favorite go-to snack/drink to keep your creative juices flowing Anything chocolate
• What fuels your creative fire? (Besides caffeine and money, of course!) I enjoy designing integrated plans that provide clients with the right mix of media for the biggest impact on their target audience while maximizing their budget. I also enjoy the research side, which keeps us in the know on emerging channels and ahead of media trends. I also have to admit that I watch a lot of TV – in the name of research of course!
• What’s your biggest career achievement? Staying in constant growth mode. It’s rewarding to have been on so many sides of the industry during my career, contributing to all size projects in numerous roles and partnering with clients in every vertical.
• Tell us about a project that you are proud of: One project that stands out for me is the Arkansas Vaccination PSA we worked on during the pandemic. It was a complex, high-impact, high-visibility campaign with a large-scale integrated media plan that reached a broad and diverse audience across the state. It was rewarding to be part of something so timely and meaningful, especially knowing it played a role in public health awareness.
• What’s the most exciting trend in media right now? The most exciting trend in media right now is the growing integration with streaming networks. This “new” landscape is creating exciting new opportunities to engage target audiences and sharpen your strategy when planning media buys. It’s also a great way to amplify the content from your satellite media tour programs.
• Favorite Quote: “The only way to do great work is to love what you do.” Steve Jobs

Whether she’s researching new media opportunities, fine-tuning a client campaign, or drawing inspiration from a late-night TV binge, Shari approaches every project with energy, precision, and heart. Her collaborative spirit and deep industry knowledge make her an invaluable part of the Bridgenext team. We’re lucky to work alongside someone who not only loves what she does—but makes everyone around her better at what they do too. Stay tuned for more Meet the Team features as we celebrate the incredible individuals who make our PR strategies and delivery successful.

Political or social instability, stock market tumbles, new fiscal policies, psychological factors, global pandemics, and even viral hashtags have all been named culprits of economic uncertainty at one point or another. Exactly what tips the scale or who is to blame is often hard to pinpoint. And while communications and advertising professionals regularly take a hit during hard times, history demonstrates how PR can be the lifeline a business needs to thrive during—and after—a crisis. When used effectively, their work can be the biggest driver of recovery for a business.

Before the instinct to downsize your media campaign kicks-in, check out our 5 PR strategies to give your brand a competitive advantage.

1. Don’t Shy Away from the Spotlight: During downturns, the idea of scaling back on PR and advertising may seem like a prudent way to cut costs. But research tells a different story. According to the World Advertising Research Center (WARC)/Millward Brown, it can take up to 5 years for brands to recover from “going dark”.

   On the flip side, companies that prioritize PR investments even during slowdowns enjoy immense benefits such as:

   • Maintaining brand awareness when competitors fade.
   • Building long-term credibility and trust.
   • Positioning themselves for faster recovery post-downturn.

   Example: During the 2008 financial crisis, Coca-Cola invested heavily in their PR strategy, launching the “Open Happiness” campaign. While others cut back on marketing, Coca-Cola strengthened its brand messaging, fostering emotional connections with consumers that contributed to its long-term success.

2. Be Authentic: Authenticity isn’t just a buzzword; it’s a consumer priority, especially in times of uncertainty. People are looking for emotional connections with brands. Here’s how to lean into authenticity:

   1. Broadcast Media tours are an effective way to connect with local, regional, and national media outlets, as well as influencers and subject matter experts, to communicate messages to the target consumers through a trusted medium.
   2. Tailor your messaging to what your customers truly value. For example, during the height of the pandemic, brands like Dove celebrated healthcare workers with campaigns centering around care and humanity.

   Remember, people are looking for more than a product or service; they’re seeking connection and brands that align with their values.

3. Prioritize creativity: Creativity stands out, especially when audiences are overwhelmed with doomscrolling and daily uncertainties. For more memorable brand effects superior creative can generate outsized lifts on ROI and elevate brand impact. Look at brands like Airbnb that used creative storytelling post-pandemic. Through their “Made Possible By Hosts” campaign, Airbnb highlighted real stories of hosts opening their homes, creating heartfelt connections with their audiences. Even with smaller budgets, creative thinking can have outsized results.

4. Tune in to Radio: Radio is America’s top medium with mass appeal among diverse audiences. Many major brands have reaped the rewards of shifting a portion of their ad budgets to AM/FM radio, especially when costs are tight.

   Radio media tours allow:

   1. Wide-reaching communication, even in regional markets.
   2. A personalized and relatable tone to reach target listeners.

   Shift budget to AM/FM radio to grow reach even if total budgets are reduced.

5. Go beyond media placements: A robust PR strategy goes beyond press releases and paid media placements. Create campaigns that encompass earned and paid media, thought leadership and strategic communications to create maximum impact.

   For example, during the dramatic shifts of 2020, Nike delivered a masterclass in integrated PR with its “You Can’t Stop Us” campaign. The brand combined powerful video content, global ad placements, strategic community partnerships, and a spotlight on athletes overcoming obstacles to tell an unforgettable, unified story.

Doing PR the Right Way

Remember, PR is the foundation for revenue growth and brand integrity. When integrated effectively, media and video campaigns ensure a brand remains visible and influential— especially during challenging times. Brands that continue to maintain visibility are often the first choice when spending rebounds.

Through strategic PR, businesses can turn uncertainty into opportunity.

With a well-timed and strategically crafted PR strategy, your story can still shine, even in uncertain times. At Bridgenext, our team of skilled media strategists, communication experts, and PR professionals bring a wealth of experience in broadcast and digital communications. We’re passionate about crafting innovative strategies tailored to today’s dynamic media landscape. Connect with us to discover how we can help elevate your brand with precision and impact.

Radio remains one of the most resilient and trusted media platforms today. With over 15,000 radio stations in the United States alone and more than 80% of ad-supported audio time dedicated to it, it continues to be a powerful medium for news, entertainment, and advertising. As part of an effective PR strategy, businesses are leveraging radio media tours and broadcast media tours to reach their target audiences more effectively.

Recent studies highlight AM/FM radio’s strong credibility, ranking as the most trusted traditional medium, particularly among the Hispanic community. Additionally, news talk formats are the top choice for listeners aged 18 and older, creating valuable opportunities for guest interviews and expert commentary. However, securing interview placements on news and morning shows can be challenging. The key to success? Staying ahead of evolving trends and integrating them into strategic pitches with the help of a trusted media partner.

To help you navigate the changing landscape, here are the Top Five Radio Media Tour Trends for 2025:

1. Personal Finances & Economic Trends

Economic concerns will dominate conversations as shifting tariffs and government policies impact consumer spending habits. Frugality, sustainability, and mindful consumption are on the rise, driving demand for expert insights on budgeting, saving, and making informed purchasing decisions. From groceries and clothing to technology, consumers will seek advice on how to stretch their dollars without sacrificing quality. A well-planned media tour focusing on these financial topics can help position experts and brands as go-to sources.

2. Baby Boomer-Focused Content

By 2030, all baby boomers will be 65 or older, representing approximately 61 million Americans. This demographic shift will increase demand for content related to health and longevity, retirement planning, personal finance, and fraud prevention. Radio stations will prioritize discussions that resonate with this audience, making it a prime opportunity for experts in these fields to contribute valuable insights.

3. Public Safety & Consumer Awareness

Public safety remains a major concern, with issues ranging from food and product recalls to toxic chemicals in everyday items. Unpredictable weather patterns and the ethical implications of AI technology further add to public unease. Radio stations will be eager to keep their audiences informed, providing a platform for industry professionals to offer guidance and reassurance. A broadcast media tour can be an effective way to deliver timely information on these critical topics.

4. Government Policies & Legislative Changes

Rapidly changing policy shifts are impacting everything from inflation and taxation to healthcare and education. With Americans seeking clarity on how these changes affect their daily lives, radio will play a crucial role in breaking down complex topics and delivering them in an accessible format. Thought leaders and policy experts can position themselves as go-to sources for these discussions.

5. The Power of Local Relevance

Local content remains a top priority . While national news is readily available from multiple sources, audiences tune into radio for regional updates and community-driven stories. Providing localized statistics, expert spokespeople, and relevant narratives will increase the chances of securing on-air placements and engaging local listeners.

Final Thoughts

As radio continues to evolve, aligning your messaging with these key trends will help you break through the noise and engage local audiences. Whether discussing economic shifts, baby boomer concerns, or local news, creating compelling, timely, and relevant content is essential for media success in 2025. To maximize the impact of your campaign, partner with Bridgenext. We have the experience and insights to help you succeed—let’s make it happen together.

At Bridgenext, we don’t just create content—we craft stories that captivate, inspire, and leave a lasting impact. Behind the magic is Rich Quigley, our Global Head of Bridgenext’s Content Studio, who unites talented teams to transform bold ideas into award-winning media.

With a strategic vision for innovation and a commitment to creative excellence, Rich empowers our teams to set new standards in storytelling and consistently deliver content that resonates with audiences.

Bridgenext Team Stats:

• Name: Rich Quigley
• State: California
• Team Role: Global Head, Bridgenext Content Studio
• How did you enter the media industry? Tell us your story! As far back as I can remember, I wanted to be involved in media—but I had no idea in what capacity. After college, I worked in television as a segment and associate producer, then moved to NYC to study directing. I spent a decade directing theater and commercials, and eventually founded OnCue, a production and post-production company catering to luxury brands like TAG Heuer, Mont Blanc, Bulgari, and Rolls-Royce. OnCue was later acquired by News Broadcast Network, where I served as Head of West Coast Production and Executive Producer.
• Sum up your work style in three emojis:
• What do you love most about working with your team at Bridgenext? I love how talented, collaborative, and dedicated the team is. Every day, I get to work with exceptional people who push the boundaries of storytelling and strategic communications. Truly, it’s a dream come true.
• How would your coworkers describe you? Strategic, collaborative, creative—and driven by a passion for Bridgenext, our people, and our work.
• Favorite go-to snack/drink to keep your creative juices flowing: Dark chocolate and almonds!
• What fuels your creative fire? (Besides caffeine and money, of course!) The challenge of turning a vision into something that connects with audiences.
• What’s your biggest career achievement? One of the most fulfilling aspects of my career is a 19-year partnership with the American Heart Association. We’ve grown into a trusted partner across media and digital, helping amplify their mission in meaningful and measurable ways. Every team member contributes to these projects, and we’re grateful for the opportunity because it keeps us grounded in a mission-driven mindset—one that prioritizes storytelling with purpose and impact. It’s an approach we carry into our work across the studio and extend to other clients, ensuring that all our projects are crafted with intention and care.

• Tell us about a project that you are proud of. Just one? Honestly, it’s impossible to pick a single project. While our work spans a broad spectrum, our rich legacy in sports media means that many of the projects I’m most proud of are sports related. Over the years, we’ve partnered with CBS Sports, ABC Sports, ESPN, and HBO—producing everything from opens, teases, and promos to features, series, and full-length documentaries. Our team has earned an impressive 17 Sports Emmys along the way, which still amazes me.

  One of my favorite pieces of media we’ve ever produced is the AFC Championship open, “Teasing John Malkovich.” It earned an Emmy, a Clio, and a Cannes Golden Lion, and is widely regarded as one of the best teases ever produced in sports television.

  Another project that is not to be missed is the Paramount+ documentary “The Only,” which explores the extraordinary life of U.S. Soccer Hall of Fame goalkeeper Briana Scurry. Our very own Anthony Cortese directed and edited it, crafting a compelling story of resilience and heart.

  Near and dear to my heart is CBS Sports’ “Joy of the Game,” an Emmy-nominated, GEMA Gold, and Telly Award-winning spot that aired in the lead-up to the 2024 Super Bowl. It spotlights football’s unifying power and celebrates the National Gay Flag Football League’s efforts in promoting LGBTQ+ representation. Our incredibly talented producer Andrea Allen expertly guided the production from start to finish.

  I also have to mention the 2024 Super Bowl LVIII opening tease, filmed at the iconic Sphere in Las Vegas. The reimagining of Frank Sinatra’s “My Way” took home a 2024 Sports Emmy Award for Outstanding Open/Tease, and it still chokes me up every time I watch it.

  And we recently completed post-production on “Pulisic,” a phenomenal 9-part documentary series that looks at the life of American phenom and global soccer icon, Christian Pulisic. It’s streaming on Paramount+, and we’re excited for audiences to experience it.

  These projects are a reflection of the exceptional talent, creativity, and dedication our Content Studio team brings to every production.

• What’s the most exciting trend in media right now? In post-production, AI-driven innovations are transforming efficiency. For example, we’ve been editing Sesame Street for 20 years, and one of the most labor-intensive tasks is painting out puppeteering rods. AI-powered generative fill has made this process 75% faster, giving our team more time for creative endeavors.

  On the distribution side of our business, streaming placements are a game changer—they let us hyper-target media with pinpoint precision. Want to reach parents of grade-school-age kids who are homeowners, have a dog, love casual fast dining, and spend their weekends camping? We’ve got you covered.

• How are you adapting to the ever-evolving video production industry? Staying ahead in an evolving industry means embracing new tools and technology that enhance production and improve efficiency—while staying true to our roots, which are grounded in creative, purposeful storytelling.
• Favorite Quote: A group becomes a team when each member is sure enough of themselves and their contribution to praise the skills of the others. – Norman Shidle

Rich and his team’s commitment to turning bold ideas into award-winning stories is evident in every project they produce. Whether it’s memorable TV or dynamic corporate and digital campaigns, their focus on innovation and teamwork propels Bridgenext Content Studio forward.

We’re excited to keep pushing the boundaries of storytelling—and invite you to join us on this creative journey.

Stay tuned for more Meet the Team posts.

As we move through 2025, the media landscape is brimming with opportunities for PR professionals and marketers. Now more than ever, the need for multi-channel communication has never been more apparent. Amidst this evolving environment, co-op media tours stand out as a high-impact, cost-effective solution for brands seeking meaningful visibility.

But first, what are co-op satellite media tours (SMTs)?

Co-op SMTs bring multiple non-competing brands together to share airtime on TV, radio, and digital outlets. By leveraging industry experts and aligning with timely trends, these tours amplify reach while minimizing costs.

Here’s why 2025 is shaping up to be the year of co-op media tours:

1. Assured Media Coverage in a Dynamic World

In an era where unpredictability has become the norm, co-op media tours provide a dependable way for brands to secure media coverage. These tours ensure visibility even amid breaking news or shifting newsroom priorities. For instance, a holiday-themed co-op tour showcased a kitchen appliance brand demonstrating quick holiday recipes, a décor company highlighting festive home setups, and a tech brand promoting smart gifting solutions. Each brand benefits from the collective media reach and can secure coverage on multiple local TV stations.

2. A Lifeline for Understaffed Newsrooms

The challenges of newsroom staff shortages persist, but the demand for quality, relevant content remains high. Co-op media tours deliver compelling stories, helping news directors meet their programming needs. This symbiotic relationship underscores the importance of co-ops in today’s media ecosystem.

3. Portable and Flexible Solutions

In 2025, the ability to continuously adapt is a competitive advantage. Co-op media tours thrive in this environment by bringing events directly to the media. From in-studio, on location and virtual, expanded production capabilities offer clients unmatched flexibility to meet media and brand demands wherever they are.

4. Maximized ROI Through Shared Investment

Co-op media tours are a win-win for brands looking to do more with less. These strategic partnerships provide an impressive return on investment by dividing production costs across multiple brands while delivering extensive audience reach. Take a hypothetical Earth Day tour: a sustainable fashion brand, a green energy company, and an eco-friendly cleaning product line shared costs to create a segment about “Living Green in 2025.” The campaign generated over 30 million impressions while each brand spent a fraction of what a solo effort would have cost.

Looking Ahead

2025 is the year to embrace smarter, collaborative media strategies, and co-op media tours are perfectly positioned to lead the charge. Bridgenext’s PR team offers a unique blend of guaranteed results, cost efficiency, and adaptability, making us an indispensable partner for modern marketers.

Ready to explore how co-op media tours can elevate your brand’s reach this year? Check out our updated Co-op Calendar to discover exciting opportunities.

This year isn’t just about meeting goals—it’s about exceeding them, together.

A satellite media tour can get your message in front of millions of people in a single day. Whether you’re promoting a product, sharing a public service announcement, or driving awareness for an event, choosing the right SMT partner is the secret to amplifying your impact. Let’s explore four critical factors to help you pick the right SMT company, and we’ll throw in a story to show how one smart decision can lead to media magic.

Use Case: From Local Effort to Nationwide Buzz

The founder of a small eco-friendly skincare brand had a loyal local following, but she wanted to expand her product’s reach. Aiming to launch a new product line, the founder partnered with an SMT company (which may or may not be us).

The partner helped her craft a compelling story, secure high-quality TV and radio interviews, and place spots on nationally syndicated programs across the country. In just one day, the brand had increased visibility by 67% and boosted recognition putting them top of mind for potential customer. The right SMT partner didn’t just share her message—they elevated her brand (okay, yes the SMT company is us!).

Selecting the Right SMT Partner

1. Experience is Non-Negotiable

   An SMT partner’s experience can make or break your campaign. Look for a company with a proven track record in your industry that understands your goals.

   Questions to Ask:

   • Have they worked with brands like yours?
   • What types of media outlets do they have access to?
   • Can they provide case studies or references?
2. Media Relationships Matter

   The best SMT companies have established relationships with top-tier outlets, from TV stations to online platforms. These connections ensure your story gets picked up where it matters most.

   Questions to Ask:

   • How strong are their relationships with local media?
   • Are they able to target audiences and amplify content?
3. Tailored Storytelling

   A cookie-cutter approach won’t cut it. A good SMT partner will take time to understand your brand, goals, and audience, crafting a narrative that resonates.

   Questions to Ask:

   • Do they create the editorial, scripting and message development?
   • How do they ensure your story aligns with current media trends?
4. Production and Execution Excellence

   From production through post, a seamless execution is critical. Look for a company that can set up interviews, shoot and edit video, and handle technical glitches – the right SMT partner ensures your project runs like clockwork.

   Questions to Ask:

   • What technology and tools do they use?
   • How do they manage unforeseen issues during live interviews?
   • What in-house audio/visual capabilities to they have?

The Research Checklist

Before signing with an SMT company, do your homework:

• Read Reviews: Explore testimonials and third-party reviews.
• Watch Their Work: Request examples of past SMTs they’ve handled.
• Discuss Costs: Transparency about pricing and deliverables is crucial.
• Evaluate Reach: Ensure they can access the markets you want to target.

What’s Your SMT Plan?

Before you get your SMT campaign started, prepare for these questions and take your brand to the next level:

• What’s your biggest goal for an SMT—brand awareness, product sales, or thought leadership?
• Have you identified the media markets most valuable to your campaign?
• What’s your story, and what do you want the world to take away from it?

Final Thoughts

Selecting the right SMT partner can be the difference between a one-day blip and a lasting media impression. Bridgenext offers expert storytelling, strategic solutions, and data-driven insights to create powerful brand narratives and achieve your business goals. Here are some of the recent media tours we have worked on. Ready to make media magic together? Contact us today to get started.

What’s it like to have an Emmy on your shelf? Just ask Dan O’Sullivan, our VP of Sound! With a passion for crafting unforgettable soundscapes and a creative spark that’s hard to match, Dan makes every project he touches truly shine. Dan, based in New York, is a mastermind of sound engineering at Bridgenext. Let’s dive into his story and see what makes him tick (spoiler: cold brew and spicy pickles are involved).

Bridgenext Team Stats:

• Name: Dan O’Sullivan
• State: New York, NY
• Team Role: VP of Sound
• Favorite go-to snack/drink to keep your creative juices flowing: Cold brew coffee and spicy pickles. It’s an unconventional duo, but creativity often thrives on the unexpected!
• How did you enter the field of video production or post-production? Share your career journey: Dan’s path to post-production began with a foundation in music composition at NYU. Today, he leads the sound department at Bridgenext, transforming raw audio into captivating masterpieces and silence into compelling stories.
• Sum up your work style in three emojis:
• What do you love most about working with your team at Bridgenext? The majority of our team have been working together for years and we function like a well-oiled machine. We’re able to work quickly and creatively to put out a first-rate product. I am proud of our portfolio.
• What’s your favorite tool that you rely on daily? I use Pro Tools audio software day in and day out. It’s like an extension of my body at this point.
• What fuels your creative fire? I’m inspired by great music, art, entertainment, etc. Anything that is striking and lights the internal fire of my soul.
• What’s your biggest career achievement? One of my biggest achievements was my first Emmy win on my first nomination for my work with CBS Sports on “The 118th Army-Navy Game: The More Things Change”.

  

• Tell us about a project that you are proud of. I’m proud of our collaboration with CBS Sports to share compelling stories that highlight the humanity behind world-class athletes.
• What is your go-to plugin/software for creating stunning sound design? Anything from Sound Toys is sure to lead me in fun and exciting sonic directions.
• What’s the most exciting trend in video production right now? The tools and technology are advancing at a rapid pace, and it’s never been a better time for creative individuals to realize their vision.
• Favorite Quote: “All you need is love. But a little chocolate now and then doesn’t hurt.”

And that’s Dan O’Sullivan for you—a creative powerhouse, team player, and sound magician! Take a look at the award-winning work our team has crafted, and stay tuned as we introduce more of the incredible people who make Bridgenext the amazing place it is.

In today’s competitive media environment, capturing attention requires more than just visibility—it demands quality, strategy, and authenticity. For brands looking to make an impact, media tours have evolved beyond traditional in-studio interviews to include dynamic virtual locations, cross-platform campaigns, and creative editorial approaches. Leveraging these elements not only expands reach but also deepens connections with audiences.

Here we examine four key components that make for a successful satellite media tour in 2025. Read on to find out how these strategies can elevate your brand and create lasting impressions in an oversaturated media landscape.

1. High-Quality Content as a Differentiator

   In today’s competitive media landscape, high-quality content is key to standing out. By leveraging both in-studio and on-site media tours, brands can create captivating, premium content that truly resonates with audiences.

   • In-Studio Media Tours: In-studio media tours bring electrifying lights, precise sound, and sharp visuals, offering a controlled environment that produces polished, professional-grade content, and a credible brand message. While not a new trend, this shift back to in-studio tours is proving increasingly essential.
   • On-Site Media Tours on the Rise: Virtual media tours make it easy to showcase diverse remote locations—beaches, hotels, corporate headquarters—without the high costs of a satellite truck, once required for remote tours. These vibrant and dynamic backgrounds help bring stories to life, enhancing viewer engagement.
   • The Power of Premium Production: Whether in a controlled studio or an interesting remote setting, rich production values paired with compelling storytelling are essential. High-quality visuals and audio help brands cut through the noise and create lasting audience connections.

2. Cross-Platform Strategies: Expanding Your Media Tour’s Reach

   To maximize impact, media tours are evolving into cross-platform campaigns that seamlessly blend traditional broadcast media with digital and streaming content allowing brands to connect with broader, more diverse audiences while effectively targeting specific demographics on each platform.

   Key Strategies:

   • Diversify Formats: Expand beyond one medium. Consider streaming services, podcasts, and social media to reach different audience segments.
   • Platform Optimization: Leverage your time during a media tour to capture varied content formats —such as shorter clips for social media and longer segments for streaming or broadcast. This approach ensures your message resonates with audiences on each platform while maximizing your time in the studio.
   • Repurpose Content: Maximize reach by transforming one piece of content into multiple formats across platforms, conserving resources while expanding impact.

   Adopting a cross-platform approach not only enhances engagement but also builds a more sustainable, impactful satellite media tour.

3. Focusing on Target Audiences and Authenticity

   Targeted outreach is essential in today’s media space, as brands look to connect meaningfully with both broad and specific audiences.

   Engage Target Audiences for Lasting Impact:

   • Targeted Messaging: Content tailored to specific interests significantly boosts engagement. This focused approach ensures messages are more relevant and impactful.
   • Building Stronger Relationships: Understanding audience preferences, allows brands to form authentic, trust-based relationships.
   • Cutting Through the Noise: Targeted content helps brands stand out in a crowded media environment utilizing a focused strategy that ensures messages reach the right audiences.

   Leveraging SME Influence:

   Subject Matter Experts (SMEs) offer a unique voice that resonates with audiences. Partnering with SMEs who have a strong social following can bring additional credibility and authenticity to your media tours.

   • Enhancing Credibility: SME’s add credibility and authenticity to brand messaging, building trust through real-life experiences.
   • Amplifying Reach: Partnering with SMEs who have a strong social media presence extends the reach of a media tour playing a key role in cross-platform strategies.
   • Fostering Authenticity: Personal stories and real-life experiences from SMEs create a genuine connection with audiences.
   • Driving Engagement: SMEs foster deeper audience engagement by blending expert insights with relatable storytelling, making brand message more impactful.

4. Creative Editorial: The Heart of Engaging Content

   Creating compelling narratives and unique perspectives is vital to capturing audience interest. Consider these strategies for effective creative editorial:

   • Storytelling: Develop engaging, relatable stories that resonate with your target audience.
   • Visual Appeal: High-quality visuals boost storytelling impact and engagement.
   • Timely Relevance: Stay current with trends and news to produce timely, relevant content.
   • Adaptability: Customize content for each platform to optimize reach and interaction.

By embracing these trends, media tours in 2025 can become even more dynamic, targeted, and integrated. Focusing on niche audiences, leveraging the authenticity of SMEs, and creating compelling content will empower brands to succeed in the evolving media landscape.

Ready to embark on your next media adventure? Bridgenext offers expert storytelling, strategic solutions, and data-driven insights to create powerful brand narratives and achieve your business goals. Check out some of our recent media tours and contact us today to get started.

At Bridgenext, we wholeheartedly believe in the magic of team dynamics! As part of our Meet the Team series, we’re thrilled to introduce Melanie Reiter, our superstar Media Relations Manager. Since joining us in 2021, Melanie has become an irreplaceable part of our team, renowned for her dedication and significant contributions. With talented pros like Melanie, we deliver media tours that are confident, creative, and successful.

So, here’s to Melanie Reiter – a driving force behind our impactful media relations:

Bridgenext Team Stats:

• Name: Melanie Reiter
• Hometown: Palm Springs, California
• Current City: New York, NY
• Team Role: I am a Media Relations Manager where I develop editorial content and draft media alerts, pitch brand stories to TV and radio stations nationwide. At a broader level, I also drive media tours from conceptualization to final reporting, client-facing comms, and project management.
• Experience: Joined Bridgenext (previously Definition6) in 2021 as Media Relations Coordinator. Promoted to Senior Media Relations Coordinator in 2022. Promoted to Media Relations Manager in 2023.
• Career Highlight: Received Bridgenext’s Above and Beyond Award in 2022
• Favorite Work Project: The Bridgenext team was tasked to boost brand awareness of the summer events and attractions at LEGOLAND California – where we conceptualized, developed, and produced an on-site media tour live. It earned comprehensive broadcast coverage in national and key local markets. I loved managing this on-site project, which included setting up a remote studio in the park and experiencing the logistics of live production. Plus, getting to hang out with my fam in San Diego was the cherry on top!
• Activities/Hobbies: Trying new restaurants and rating them on Beli (if that counts!)
• Last Vacation: This summer, I took a 3-week trip to Turkey, Greece, Croatia, and Italy.
• Favorite TV Show or Movie: The current TV show binge is “The Morning Show.” A must-watch!
• Favorite Food: Thai food, always and forever
• Favorite Music: Jamie xx’s new album “In Waves”
• Favorite Sport: Tennis
• Favorite Quote: “I am not afraid of storms, for I am learning how to sail my ship.” – Louisa May Alcott

Melanie’s journey at Bridgenext reflects her passion, commitment, and talent in media relations. Team members like Melanie remind us of the power of creativity and hard work in delivering standout media tours. Stay tuned for more Meet the Team features as we celebrate the incredible individuals who make our success possible.

Public Service Announcements (PSAs) remain a powerful megaphone for nonprofits aiming to make a difference. Even though broadcast outlets offer free airtime for these messages, getting your PSA on air is far from easy. It requires compelling content, strategic planning, persistent pitching, and a future-focused mindset. With TV stations receiving hundreds of PSA submissions every week but having only a few slots available, nonprofits must adopt a creative, holistic approach to ensure their message gets heard.

Step 1: Nail the Specifications

For your PSA to be considered, it must meet precise technical requirements. Stick to the standard time formats—15, 30, or 60 seconds. Your message should be concise, clear, and impactful, addressing a public need with a strong call to action.

Like the “What if California Citrus Disappeared?”, a timely :30 PSA from the Citrus Pest & Disease Prevention Program warning of a plant disease killing California citrus, created in both English and Spanish language. Or the American Heart Association’s Learn How to Spot a Stroke F.A.S.T. PSA featuring celebrities Susan Lucci, Jennie Garth and NBA player Paul George sharing their personal connection to stroke.

Knowing your target audience will help ensure your PSA resonates with the right people.

Step 2: Build a Strong Digital Presence

While some stations might still accept physical submissions, the digital world is where most action happens now. Create a dedicated landing page for the PSA with all your digital assets in one place. This should include downloadable PSA files, a persuasive pitch letter, scheduled air dates, and press materials. Making it easy for stations to access your content significantly increases your chances of landing airtime.

Step 3: Perfect Your Pitch

Persistence and strategy are crucial when pitching your PSA to programming directors and community service departments. Each station usually has someone in charge of PSAs, but the role might not always be clearly defined. Do your research to find the right contact and pitch early and often. With the constant flood of submissions, staying top-of-mind can make all the difference.

Step 4: Stay Persistent

With over 800 TV stations to connect with, it’s easy to get lost in the shuffle. Thoughtful follow-up is key. Many stations track submissions without immediate responses, so continuous outreach can eventually break through. Be prepared for the long haul—this process can take months.

Step 5: Practice Patience

Once you’ve secured a station’s commitment to air your PSA, the waiting game begins. It will often take weeks or even months to get into the broadcast rotation. It’s a lesson in patience, but trust that your effort will pay off in due time.

Step 6: Be Resilient

Sometimes, despite your best efforts, things don’t go as planned. The media landscape is constantly shifting, and with it, the strategies you’ll need to employ. Stay resilient, keep pushing, and be open to new opportunities and ideas that may arise.

The success of your PSA campaign ultimately depends on the adaptability and tenacity of the partners offering PR services and handling media strategy. Are there new platforms or innovative techniques you can use to broaden your reach beyond traditional TV? Think about recent campaigns that stood out—what made them memorable? Was it their storytelling? The way they tapped into timely social trends? Engage with your audience, seek feedback, and create a conversation around your message. PSAs aren’t just about informing; they’re about inspiring action. How will you empower viewers to not only absorb your message but share it, advocate for your cause, and truly make it happen? The possibilities are endless—so seize them.