The Future of Public Relations: Leveraging AI and Authenticity with We Feature You PR's Zachary BernardIn a recent episode of The Thoughtful Entrepreneur, host Josh Elledge sat down with Zachary Bernard, founder of We Feature You PR, to explore how AI and storytelling are reshaping the public relations landscape. Zachary shared his passion for authentic communication and offered valuable insights into media strategies, podcasting, and the future of earned media. If you’re a founder or business leader seeking organic growth through meaningful visibility, this episode is a must-listen.Redefining PR: Strategic Storytelling, AI, and Founder VisibilityZachary’s approach to public relations is rooted in earning trust, not just attention. He emphasizes that effective PR isn’t about buying exposure—it’s about earning it through strategic placements in publications that matter to your audience. Rather than chasing broad media hits, he advises founders to prioritize niche outlets and tailored storytelling that speaks directly to decision-makers. This shift away from generic, high-volume PR toward targeted and authentic media engagement is where long-term brand value is built.The conversation also tackled the rising role of AI in public relations. Zachary clarified that while AI tools can help with research and ideation, they’re no replacement for human authenticity. In fact, as synthetic content becomes more prevalent, people will crave real human voices and experiences more than ever. He encourages businesses to use AI to refine messaging, but always pair it with emotional intelligence and human connection—especially when pitching to journalists or appearing as a podcast guest.Speaking of podcasts, Zachary sees them as one of the most powerful tools for founder visibility today. Unlike traditional media, podcasting allows for longer-form, authentic conversations that build trust with listeners. He offered tactical advice for those new to guesting, including researching your target shows, tailoring pitches, starting with smaller podcasts to build confidence, and promoting your episodes after they air. These simple but effective strategies can dramatically increase your PR success and position you as a credible expert in your field.About Zachary BernardZachary Bernard is the founder of We Feature You PR and host of The Entrepreneur’s Logbook podcast. With a focus on earned media and organic brand growth, he helps founders and executives gain visibility through strategic PR and podcast features.About We Feature You PRWe Feature You PR helps founders and business leaders earn media placements and podcast features that build credibility and organic authority—without relying on paid ads.Links Mentioned in this EpisodeWe Feature You PR WebsiteZachary Bernard on LinkedInEpisode HighlightsWhy earned media beats paid advertising for long-term brand credibilityHow AI is reshaping PR—and where human authenticity still winsTactical steps to pitch yourself as a podcast guestThe difference between broad vs. niche PR strategiesWhy storytelling is the foundation of any successful PR campaignConclusionThis episode with Zachary Bernard makes one thing clear: the future of PR lies in authenticity, precision, and trust-building. From leveraging AI the right way to showing up on podcasts with intention, Zachary’s insights are a playbook for founders ready to grow through connection, not clicks.Apply to be a Guest on The Thoughtful Entrepreneur: https://go.upmyinfluence.com/podcast-guestMore from UpMyInfluence:We are actively booking guests for our The Thoughtful Entrepreneur. Schedule HERE.Are you a 6-figure consultant? I’ve got high-level intros for you. Learn more here.What is your #1 Lead Generation BLOCKER? Take my free quiz here.Want to learn more about all the podcasts managed by UpMyInfluence? Opt in here.Don’t forget to subscribe to The Thoughtful Entrepreneur and thank you for listening. Tune in next time!