From Overlooked to In Demand: Visibility, PR & Owning Your Expertise with KJ Blattenbauer
About this Episode
What does it really take to stop being overlooked and start being recognized for your expertise?
In this episode, publicist and brand strategist KJ Blattenbauer joins Ashley to break down the truth about public relations, visibility, and why so many women undervalue their voice before they’re even seen.
This conversation is for founders, creatives, nonprofit leaders, and builders who know they’re doing meaningful work but haven’t yet stepped fully into being seen for it.
If you’ve ever hesitated to pitch yourself, share your story, or claim authority in your space, this episode will challenge your mindset and give you practical tools to show up with confidence, clarity, and courage.
They talk about
What public relations actually is and why it’s about shaping perception when you’re not in the room
Why PR should be a top-of-funnel strategy, not a “later” investment
The real reason women stay overlooked and how to interrupt that pattern
Why vulnerability is the biggest barrier to self-promotion
Authority vs. virality and why credibility compounds over time
How to pitch yourself without sounding salesy or self-centered
Why rejection is data, not a failure
How to prepare your systems before seeking visibility
What it really means to “act like a big deal”
Unleashing your inner queen through unapologetic self-belief
Show Notes
Public Relations Is About Trust: PR isn’t about hype. It’s about teaching people how to talk about your work when you’re not present. KJ breaks down why third-party credibility (podcasts, news, long-form media) builds trust faster than social media alone.
Why Women Stay Overlooked: Many women don’t lack expertise. They lack visibility. KJ explains how staying quiet, waiting to be asked, or fearing judgment keeps talented leaders out of key conversations.
Authority Over Virality: Going viral can bring attention. Being positioned as an expert builds longevity. KJ shares why founders are returning to PR as a sustainable visibility strategy.
Rejection Is Part of the Process: Every “no” is information. KJ reframes rejection as feedback and why persistence matters more than perfection.
Unleashing Your Inner Queen: For KJ, unleashing your inner queen means showing up unapologetically, sharing your gift boldly, and bringing others with you as you rise.
Guest Appearing in This Episode
KJ Blattenbauer: Publicist, brand strategist, and visibility expert helping founders and leaders get seen, heard, and respected.
Follow her on Instagram
Explore Hearsay PR
Buy her new book
Know someone who’s doing incredible work but still hiding in plain sight? Share this episode! It might be the push they need.
