Coffee With A Journalist

Welcome back to Coffee with a Journalist! In this episode, we chat with freelance writer and Forbes contributor Aly Walansky, whose work appears in Yahoo, Travel + Leisure, and more. Aly shares her love for freelancing, how she manages a packed inbox, and why Substack helps publicists stay on her radar. From pitch pet peeves (think vague subject lines and last-minute asks) to the importance of real relationships, this episode is full of tips for navigating media outreach. Enjoy!

Welcome to this episode of Coffee with a Journalist! Today we sit down with Nicholas Rice, Senior Editor at People magazine, for a conversation about the ins and outs of working at one of the world’s most iconic publications. Get ready for actionable insights on how publicists can stand out in a packed inbox, what kinds of pitches catch Nicholas’s attention, and how collaboration happens behind the scenes at People. Nicholas also pulls back the curtain on managing breaking news over weekends, the importance of authentic relationships with publicists, and what sets People's newsroom apart from the cutthroat stereotypes you see in the movies. Plus, hear about the launch of the new People app and why Nicholas believes the magazine is stronger than ever. Whether you’re a publicist, journalist, or just a People superfan, this episode is packed with warmth, passion, and practical tips for thriving in media today. Grab your coffee and enjoy!

On this episode of Coffee with a Journalist, we’re joined by Nicole Silberstein, editor in chief at Retail TouchPoints. She shares how she keeps a zeroed-out inbox, what makes a pitch actually stand out, and how she and her team sift through nonstop retail news to find the stories worth telling. We get into the nitty-gritty of PR pitches, sourcing experts who aren’t just selling something, and why a subject line can make or break your shot. Nicole also walks us through her day—from breaking news to podcast prep—and reflects on how AI is reshaping the newsroom. If you’ve ever wondered how to get on a journalist’s radar (and stay there), you’ll want to hear this one.

On this episode of Coffee with a Journalist, we sit down for a chat with Anna Mahan, the Associate Commerce Editor at Country Living, calling in from Alabama. Anna gives us a behind-the-scenes look at her role as a “shopping editor”—from curating gift guides and product roundups to navigating the chaos of her inbox, especially during peak shopping seasons like Amazon Prime Day and the holidays. She shares what makes a pitch stand out (hint: keep it personal, relevant, and don’t forget those price points!), her favorite subject line strategies, and the importance of affiliate partnerships for getting your products featured. If you want to unlock the secrets to pitching (and catching the eye of an editor at a major publication), you won’t want to miss this conversation!

Welcome back to Coffee with a Journalist! Today’s guest is Jill Manoff, editor-in-chief of both Glossy and Modern Retail—two standout publications under the Digiday Media umbrella. If you’re looking to better understand how to pitch in the fast-moving worlds of beauty, fashion, and retail, this episode is for you. Jill shares the unique focus of each outlet, her secret to inbox zero, and candid tips on subject lines, standout stories, and why data matters. She also talks about navigating media in the AI era, the role of conferences in story generation, and how she approaches publicist relationships (hint: don’t get too friendly). Whether you're a publicist, journalist, or just curious about how editors think, this episode is packed with insight from the top. Grab your coffee and let’s jump in!

In this episode of Coffee with a Journalist, we chat with Shoshi Parks, the newly promoted Executive Editor at 7x7, a beloved Bay Area lifestyle magazine. Broadcasting from San Jose, Shoshi shares her path from earning a PhD in anthropology to leading an iconic regional publication. She dives into her editorial process, what makes a pitch stand out (and what doesn't), and why personalized outreach matters. Packed with insider tips and candid advice, this episode is a must-listen for freelancers, publicists, and curious storytellers alike.

Welcome to Season 3 of Coffee with a Journalist! In this episode, we’re joined by Nancy Scola, contributing writer at POLITICO Magazine, known for her deep reporting on Washington, D.C., tech, and policy. We dig into the ever-evolving dynamic between journalists and publicists—debunking common myths, sharing best practices, and offering real-world advice for stronger relationships. Nancy walks us through how she manages her overflowing inbox (spoiler: the Pomodoro technique and Superhuman play key roles), how publicist pitches—especially the ones she doesn't get—shape her stories, and what truly grabs her attention. Plus, she shares insights on sourcing, setting boundaries, and what makes a pitch stand out in the D.C. media grind.

On this episode of Coffee with a Journalist, we chat with David Oliver, Deputy Wellness Editor at USA Today, about what it takes to cover wellness at a national outlet. From trending TikTok health hacks to powerful stories on grief and rare diseases, David shares how he approaches his wide-ranging beat, what makes a pitch stand out, and how publicists can build better relationships with journalists. He also weighs in on the role of AI in media, sourcing strategies, and the future of journalism.

On this episode of Coffee with a Journalist, we sit down with Gabriella Ulloa, a freelance journalist whose work has graced the pages of Architectural Digest, New York Magazine, The New York Times, and Refinery29, among others. Gabriella opens up about her evolving approach to managing a bustling inbox, how she stays (mostly) organized with her colorful system of labels, and the challenges—and perks—of juggling multiple roles, including hosting her own YouTube show. She shares what kind of pitches catch her eye, especially when it comes to home design, cultural stories, and topics that move the needle in the Latino community. Plus, you’ll hear her candid thoughts on relationship-building with publicists, what makes a pitch stand out (or flop), and her passion for exploring the human stories behind the headlines. If you want the inside scoop on pitching to freelancers and keeping up in today’s fast-paced media landscape, this is one conversation you won’t want to miss!

Welcome back to Coffee with a Journalist! Today, we’re joined by Chandler Plante, Assistant Editor of Health and Fitness at PopSugar, for a caffeine-fueled chat on media pitches, wellness trends, and how she manages a packed inbox. Chandler shares PopSugar’s new editorial focus on women’s wellness, what makes a pitch stand out (hint: be specific and authentic), and how social media shapes her content planning. Whether you're a publicist or just curious about life behind the scenes at a major digital outlet, this episode is full of sharp insights and practical tips. Pour a cup and tune in!

On this episode of Coffee with a Journalist, we sit down with Tania Mitra, Senior Reporter at Citywire USA, for a candid conversation about the ins and outs of reporting on the asset and wealth management industry. From navigating a PR-heavy, compliance-driven world to building authentic relationships with both sources and publicists, Tania shares invaluable insights on what captures her attention—and what doesn’t—in her inbox. The episode dives into her journey from general news to finance journalism, how she organizes pitches, and why a direct, informed approach from publicists goes a long way. Whether you’re a PR professional looking to land in Citywire’s pages or simply curious about the world behind financial news, this episode is packed with real-world takeaways, a few laughs, and the story of someone who unexpectedly learned to love ETFs. Grab your coffee and join us for a peek behind the curtain of financial reporting.

On this episode of Coffee with a Journalist, we're welcoming Allison Murray, newly promoted Senior Editor at ZDNET. Allison shares her journey from staff writer to editor, offering a behind-the-scenes look at how ZDNet has shifted from a B2B focus to covering the latest in consumer technology and disruptive innovation. Listen in as Allison discusses her approach to reviewing quirky, niche tech products—from sunrise alarm clocks to robot litter boxes—and gives publicists insider tips on how to pitch her effectively (spoiler: clear subject lines and bullet points win her over). She also gets candid about inbox management, her pet peeves with off-target pitches, and what it’s like balancing a remote journalism career in Chicago. Whether you’re a PR pro hoping to land coverage or just curious about life at the forefront of tech journalism, you’ll find plenty of practical insights and a few laughs (including the story of a Black Friday casket pitch you won’t want to miss). Grab your coffee and enjoy!

On this episode of Coffee with a Journalist, we’re joined by Donna Francis, the award-winning beauty editor and contributing writer at HELLO! Magazine. Broadcasting from sunny Florida, Donna sits down with host Beck Bamberger to discuss the evolving beauty industry, her journey from the UK to the US, and her passion for stories that go beyond the surface—focusing on emotional well-being and positive aging. With over 25 years of experience, Donna opens up about how beauty journalism has transformed, what really catches her eye in a pitch, and why building genuine relationships with publicists still matters in a digital age. Grab your favorite cup of coffee and get ready for an insider’s look into the world of beauty journalism, the power of a strong subject line, and tips for pitching stories that truly resonate.

On this episode of Coffee with a Journalist, comedy columnist and writer Sean Malin of Vulture, New York Magazine’s renowned culture vertical, sits down to share the secrets behind his multifaceted career in journalism. Sean gives listeners an insider’s look at his upcoming book, "The Podcast Pantheon," the first-ever definitive guide to the most influential podcasts of our time—complete with exclusive stories and behind-the-scenes details. Tune in as Sean opens up about the essential, sometimes underestimated, role publicists play in the media industry, why he’s grateful for most of them (and candid about the ones on his blacklist), and the elements that make a pitch truly stand out in a crowded inbox. He also delves into the importance of boundaries, building authentic relationships, and the joy of finding eccentric stories in unexpected places. Whether you’re a fellow journalist, a publicist, or just love sharp, funny conversation about culture, this episode is packed with insights you won’t want to miss!

Welcome to this week's episode of Coffee with a Journalist, where we bring you inside the world of healthcare journalism with our guest, Cassie McGrath, a healthcare reporter from Morning Brew. Join us as we delve into the fast-paced realm of health news reporting, revealing how Cassie navigates a bustling inbox, cultivates strong relationships with publicists, and selects the right experts to weave compelling narratives. Discover what it's like working within Morning Brew's professional division and the intricate process of transforming a pitch into an engaging story. Whether you're a curious publicist or simply intrigued by the dynamic world of healthcare journalism, this episode is brimming with insightful tips and stories. So grab your coffee, get comfortable, and let's dive into it with Cassie McGrath.

On this episode of Coffee with a Journalist from the OnePitch team, we’re joined by Rachel Curry — a sharp, insightful freelance journalist who regularly contributes to CNBC. Rachel has a talent for breaking down complex topics in finance, tech, and local affairs with both clarity and a touch of humor. We talk about the real-life ups and downs of freelancing, how the media world is shifting, and her latest project, Acronym — a newsletter that cuts through corporate-speak to get to the heart of the story. Whether you’re in PR, journalism, or just love a good behind-the-scenes peek into the news world, this convo is full of takeaways. Grab your coffee and tune in for a refreshingly real chat.

Welcome to this episode of Coffee with a Journalist, where we dive into the fascinating world of tech journalism with Connie Guglielmo, the editor at large at CNET. Based in the bustling hub of Silicon Valley, Connie brings her extensive experience in tech reporting and editorial leadership to the table. In this episode, she gives us the inside scoop on what makes a pitch truly stand out in her inbox and what tends to fall flat. Publicists aiming to upgrade their pitching strategies will find Connie's insights and advice invaluable. Plus, she's sharing some engaging stories and practical tips that you can start using right away. So, grab your coffee and get ready for a conversation filled with sharp insights and a touch of humor, right here on Coffee with a Journalist.

In this week's episode of "Coffee with a Journalist," we chat with Steve Gelsi, a senior reporter at MarketWatch, and explore how the landscape of financial journalism is evolving, especially as newsrooms adapt to the capabilities of AI. Steve shares insights into his work covering banking and, occasionally, the cannabis industry, while also delving into how he manages his inbox and navigates pitches. Learn about the hectic early mornings in financial journalism, the shifting role of journalists as AI takes over routine reporting, and get tips on crafting the perfect pitch subject line. Whether you're an aspiring journalist, a PR professional, or just someone intrigued by the inner workings of newsrooms, this episode offers a rare glimpse into the fast-paced world of financial reporting. Grab your coffee and tune in for a conversation that's as enlightening as it is engaging.

Welcome to another insightful episode of Coffee with a Journalist, brought to you by the team at One Pitch. This week, we're excited to have Kia Kokalitcheva, the Senior Editor of VC News at PitchBook, join us from San Francisco. Kia dives into PitchBook's editorial focus on the deal-making world, shares her approach to managing an influx of press releases, and offers advice for publicists looking to effectively engage with her team. With her extensive background at Axios and Fortune, Kia also highlights the critical elements she considers when covering funding announcements. So grab your coffee and get ready to learn about the power of data-driven journalism and how to navigate the fast-paced media landscape. Enjoy the episode!

In this episode of Coffee with a Journalist, we sit down with Irving Mejia-Hilario, the agency's labor and general assignment reporter at Sports Business Journal. Broadcasting live from Dallas, Irving shares his captivating journey covering the intricate world of sports businesses. We delve into the crucial role of relationships in journalism and uncover valuable pitching insights. Irving also offers a compelling discussion on how Texas gambling laws could potentially reshape the sports industry. Join us as we explore the fascinating realm where sports and business intersect, and learn how journalists and publicists can effectively work together. Grab your favorite brew and tune in for an enlightening conversation.