How Press Releases Build SEO, Authority & Business Growth

Learn how entrepreneurs and small businesses can leverage press releases to gain visibility, improve search rankings, and position themselves as industry leaders.

In this episode, host R. Kenner French sits down with Mickie Kennedy, founder of eReleases, to discuss how entrepreneurs, startups, and small businesses can use press releases to generate media coverage, build authority, improve SEO, and create long-term business growth.

With nearly three decades in the PR industry, Mickey explains why press releases continue to outperform many traditional marketing tactics when executed strategically. He shares real-world examples of businesses that landed massive opportunities, generated millions in revenue, and became industry thought leaders through consistent public relations efforts.

The conversation explores how journalists consume information today, why earned media is more valuable than paid advertising, and how businesses can increase their chances of getting meaningful media coverage. Mickey also reveals common mistakes entrepreneurs make when using AI to create press releases and explains why storytelling, data, and contrarian viewpoints often attract more attention from journalists.

📈 Whether you're a local business owner, consultant, real estate professional, startup founder, or established entrepreneur, this episode offers practical strategies for creating newsworthy stories that media outlets actually want to cover.

What You'll Learn

• Why press releases remain one of the most affordable marketing channels

• The difference between press release distribution and earned media

•How media coverage can improve SEO, credibility, and conversions

• Why journalists increasingly rely on newswire services

• The biggest mistakes businesses make when writing press releases

• How AI can help—but also hurt—your PR strategy

• The power of storytelling in gaining media attention

• Why contrarian viewpoints often attract journalist interest

• How to position yourself as a thought leader in your industry

• Ways PR can increase company valuation and long-term business value

• Local media outreach strategies for small businesses

• How consistent PR campaigns create lasting authority

Who This Episode Is For

🌱 Entrepreneurs and startup founders

🌱 Small business owners

🌱 Real estate professionals

🌱 Marketing and PR professionals

🌱 Consultants and coaches

🌱 CEOs looking to build authority

🌱 Business owners seeking alternatives to expensive advertising

Key Takeaway

⚠️ Press releases are not simply announcements. When built around compelling stories, meaningful data, and genuine newsworthiness, they can generate media coverage that builds trust, strengthens SEO, creates customer loyalty, and drives business growth for years.

What's your biggest challenge when it comes to getting media coverage for your business? Follow the podcast for future episodes.