The Association PR Toolkit—Smart, Strategic, and Actually Doable

The Association PR Toolkit—Smart, Strategic, and Actually DoableIn this solo episode of The Association Insights Podcast, host Colleen Gallagher, CEO of OnWrd & UpWrd, walks through the essential tools every association needs in their PR playbook. From mapping out the right stories to building the right press list—and pitching them to the right people—this is your tactical, honest, and refreshingly practical guide to PR that works.

Whether you're new to PR or looking to tighten your approach, Colleen lays out a clear framework for how associations can stop playing defense and start leading with strategy.

🎧 Get ready for a fast-moving, tip-packed episode designed to help you build visibility, credibility, and momentum—on your terms.

Key Highlights:

Your Editorial Calendar = Your North Star: Why a strategic, flexible editorial calendar is the foundation of all great PR—and how to align your content with awareness days, legislative priorities, and member moments.

The Press List That Actually Works: Forget mass email blasts. Learn how to build a press list that’s focused, up-to-date, and built around relationships—not just reach.

Pitching, Personalized: Colleen breaks down how to craft stories that resonate—whether you’re pitching national, local, trade, or digital-first outlets.

The Follow-Up Formula: Learn when to follow up, how often, and what not to do if you want to build real relationships with reporters.

Media Training 101: Why polished spokespeople matter, what good training looks like, and how to prepare your team for tough questions without sounding robotic.

Make Every Media Hit Go Further: Once you land a story, the work isn’t over. Colleen shares how to amplify your media wins through owned channels—email, social, newsletters, and board reports—so your results don’t end when the segment does.

🎧 Tune in for a candid, practical solo episode that gives associations a real plan for PR success.

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Coming Soon: Our October series, Member Value Reimagined, kicks off next week. We’re talking to association leaders and innovators who are redefining what value looks like in today’s changing landscape. From content and community to benefits and beyond—you won’t want to miss it.