Sharing access, authenticity, and empowerment in the public relations industry matters. In today's episode, authors Jamila Cupid, Ph.D. and Myescha Joell share what inspired them to write their groundbreaking new book, "Who's in the Room?: A Guide to Public Relations from the Black Professional Perspective." The book amplifies the voices, experiences, and contributions of Black public relations practitioners while providing a roadmap for authentic allyship and inclusion across the industry.

About Jamila:

Dr. Jamila Cupid is an international scholar and educator who trains students in the practice of public relations at Pepperdine University. She is a public relations and digital media professional, with expertise in research and strategy, who worked in the New York City and Washington, DC markets. Her research is based in global and multicultural PR and media.

Connect with Jamila on Instagram and LinkedIn

About Myescha:

Myescha Joell is an award-winning publicist, producer, and founder of Morris Street Media, known for high-impact campaigns at the intersection of culture, entertainment, and social impact. With over 20 years of experience, she's helped shape visibility for creatives, brands, and storytellers while producing content that amplifies underrepresented voices.

Connect with Myescha on Instagram

Topics covered:

• What inspired the creation of their guidebook for Black professionals

• Unexpected themes from "Who's in the Room?"

• Unique challenges for Black PR pros

• What allyship and inclusion look like in today's climate

• Advice on how to show up in professional spaces

Resources mentioned:

• "Who's in the Room?: A Guide to Public Relations from the Black Professional Perspective"

• Ask A Latina

• "Latinas in Public Relations: Shaping Communications, Communities, and Culture"

• "Smart Talk: Public Relations Essentials All Pros Should Know"

In tough times, resilience is key to keeping every aspect of your life from falling apart. In today's episode, Melissa interviews the founder of Yo Quiero Dinero, Jannese Torres, about how to build financial, mental, and professional resilience in eras of your life that may be unpredictable.

About Jannese:

Jannese Torres is the founder of Yo Quiero Dinero, an award-winning personal finance podcast, and author of Financially Lit!. A former engineer turned entrepreneur, she teaches Latinas how to grow income, invest confidently, and build wealth through ownership. Her work empowers women to break generational money cycles and create financial freedom on their own terms. She is a Florida State Board Member of the National Financial Educators Council (NFEC).

Connect with Jannese on Instagram

Topics covered:

• Common misunderstandings about influencers

• Financial advice for uncertain times

• Building resilience during tough times

• Who Jannese looks to for sound advice

• How to know when to speak up

• The resurgence of blogging

Resources mentioned:

• Delish D'Lites

• Financially Lit

• Ask A Latina

• "Latinas in Public Relations: Shaping Communications, Communities, and Culture"

• "Smart Talk: Public Relations Essentials All Pros Should Know"

• MVW Communications

Listen as Melissa kicks off Season 11 by talking about the importance of adapting in uncertain times and relying on our industry fundamentals. Join us this season as Melissa talks with experts in various disciplines about valuing advice and taking action.

Connect with Melissa on LinkedIn, Instagram, and Facebook

Topics covered:

• The theme of season 11

• How PR pros can approach change in 2026

• Remembering Pandemic-era lessons

• Advising clients during uncertain times

Resources mentioned:

• "PR Pros Are Equipped to Adapt"

• Ask A Latina

• "Latinas in Public Relations: Shaping Communications, Communities, and Culture"

• "Smart Talk: Public Relations Essentials All Pros Should Know"

• MVW Communications