New here? Hi! I’m Amanda Lauren, and I write mostly about interior design, lifestyle, and parenting/kids for Forbes, Real Simple, and Yahoo, among other publications, but my opinions are mine (and sometimes unhinged). I’m also a media consultant! This Substack is a mix of industry insights and media opps (but not today!)

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The Internet Never Forgets: What This Week’s PR Disasters Actually Tell Us

This is the third time I’ve attempted to write this post.

The first version was about Lovesac’s recent PR disaster. I recapped this on Instagram.

Then Target happened. And, frankly, it is hard to ignore a children’s Halloween costume that evokes racist minstrel imagery. Suddenly, a founder’s ridiculous reaction to a comedian struggling to assemble a sofa seemed like the least important PR disaster happening this week.

Then I opened TikTok.

@avalabordespecial edition because how did all of these things happen within the span of like a month😭 #discourse #callaway #lovesac

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Someone made a list of all the recent brand PR disasters, and it currently has over a million views (I wish my post had that many views!)

In case you missed it, Callaway Golf is facing backlash over an advertisement depicting a male golfer shoving a female golfer to the ground. The company ultimately apologized, and Callaway CEO Chip Brewer acknowledged that the ad had been approved before it was released. In what world is this ad okay?

Neutrogena is still dealing with backlash surrounding Hayden Panettiere and her claims that the brand wanted to end their relationship after she publicly discussed postpartum depression. After her death, Neutrogena acknowledged that it had made her feel unsupported and said that wasn’t what the company stood for. Yes, the link is to my post last week about that very topic.

And then there was Tarte’s Snatch Stick snafu, which I actually thought was more funny than offensive. Apparently, other people disagreed. I’ll always be pro inject-me-with-all-the-poison-so-I-look-pretty kind of person!

All of these incidents deserve their own posts. Unfortunately, I only have so many hours in the day to devote to this Substack.

So instead, I want to talk about what all of these incidents have in common—and what they tell us about the current state of PR.

First: The publicist probably isn’t the problem

This is something I really want people to understand.

When a company has a massive PR disaster, it is rarely the fault of the actual publicist.

These disasters usually happen much higher up the food chain.

They’re often the result of decisions made by someone in the C-suite, a senior marketing executive, a creative director, or some combination of people who should have known better.

And that’s what makes these situations so fascinating to me.

Because I look at them from three different perspectives.

From a PR Perspective

The biggest problem?

The internet never forgets.

Twenty years ago, a company could make a terrible decision and potentially get away with it.

There was no TikTok. Instagram didn’t exist as it does today. X was called Twitter.

There wasn’t a smartphone in everyone’s hand capable of turning one bad decision into a global conversation within hours.

Today, a bad decision can live like that burn scar on my leg I got freshman year after blacking out drunk on a heater. (True story!)

I think about this every time something goes viral, and people say, “How did nobody catch this?”

Well... how did nobody catch this?

How did a product like Target’s costume make it through product development, merchandising, marketing, photography, approvals, and eventually onto the website?

Target itself said it was looking into how the costume made it through its process.

I’m pretty sure they already know the answer.

Because these things don’t happen because one random person wakes up and says, “Let’s skip witches this Halloween and go with something super racist!”

And somehow, everyone says, “Great idea”

Until the internet says, “Are you fucking kidding me?”

Someone needs to be the final PR check

I’ve said this before, and I’m going to say it again:

Large companies need someone whose job is to ask, “How is the public going to react to this?”

Not:

“Do we like it?”

Not:

“Will this make a lot of $$$?”

Not:

“Is this on brand?”

But:

“How could this possibly go wrong?”

I seriously think there should be a formal position at large corporations that functions as the final PR and cultural-sensitivity check before major campaigns, products, and creative go public.

Someone who understands media.

Someone who understands social media and social justice equally.

A crisis pre-emptor, if you will…

As a millennial, I think this is a perfect job for the most annoying, woke, Gen Z person you know.

But PR agencies have a problem, too

Here’s where I have some sympathy for PR agencies.

Agencies don’t always have direct access to the people making these decisions.

Sometimes (and by sometimes, I mean often) the agency finds out about a product launch when the product is already manufactured.

PR is rarely involved in the creative process.

Sometimes an agency is handed a finished campaign and told, “Get press for this!”

And sometimes, frankly, agencies are afraid to tell their clients that something is a terrible idea.

I understand why.

Clients pay the bills.

If you’re the agency that constantly says no, eventually a client may decide they want an agency that says yes.

But PR needs to be involved before there’s a crisis!

As a journalist, this gets complicated

This is another part of the equation people don’t always think about.

As a journalist, I get uncomfortable when I’m pitched by controversial brands.

Sometimes I genuinely like the brand.

Sometimes I love the product.

Sometimes I have used the company for years.

But then something happens that makes me think, I don’t know if I want my name attached to this anymore.

That’s a very real consideration for journalists and creators.

If the company later becomes embroiled in a major controversy, readers don’t necessarily distinguish between the journalist and the brand.

I’ve written about companies in the past that later had some sort of controversy, and I’ve received nasty emails and comments because of it.

And honestly?

I don’t want that.

I don’t want to spend my time defending a brand because I wrote a product story about them six months before they went bankrupt and screwed all of their customers.

But I also don’t want to use my platform to promote a company whose core values I fundamentally disagree with.

Target is a good example for me.

The recent Halloween costume controversy is obviously troubling on its own. But I also have personal history with the company that has changed the way I think about it.

The Target situation is personal for me

I wasn’t planning to share this, but I feel like it’s the right time.

Last year, my daughter and I were backed into a wall by a homeless person in a Target parking lot. I believe he was trying to carjack me (he seemed very intoxicated) and wouldn’t get away from my car until he heard the glass of the taillight hit the wall and shatter. It was incredibly terrifying, especially with a then two-year-old in the car. And yes, there was additional damage to the car.

Afterward, I learned that the person involved had also threatened to cut a Target employee with a bottle and threatened to rape another.

While it’s not Target’s fault there was a violent homeless person in their West Hollywood location’s parking lot (I want to blame Karen Bass, but these people exist in major cities), I cannot for the life of me understand why police were not called. But I assume because there’s some sort of internal policy against this.

I called the store repeatedly—17 times—and couldn’t get anyone to answer.

Eventually, I called corporate.

The response was, frankly, underwhelming.

I ultimately decided not to publicize the incident at the time.

I stopped shopping at Target for months, which is really hard as a mom because sometimes your kid needs socks and you need food and you only have the bandwidth for one trip.

As a writer, I didn’t want to link to the brand or promote it because I felt like the company had failed to make me feel that it cared about the safety of its customers or employees.

That’s my personal experience.

And I realize one person’s experience doesn’t define an enormous company.

But that’s exactly the point.

Consumers have experiences with brands, and they can be highly personal. I can’t imagine being a black mom and having my child see that costume. I’d never walk into Target again.

And those experiences influence whether we want to give them our money, our attention, or our platforms.

Consumers have more choices than ever

This is the part that brands really need to understand.

There are more brands than ever in every category.

So when a brand does something that makes a consumer uncomfortable, it is easier than ever to walk away. There are endless places to buy skincare, makeup, and Halloween costumes.

Yes, some controversies are temporary.

A company apologizes.

The internet moves on.

Sales recover.

The stock rebounds.

But when these things keep happening, they start to create a pattern.

And patterns change how people perceive a company.

The real PR lesson

I don’t think brands need to become boring.

Actually, quite the opposite.

Take risks.

Be funny.

Do something unexpected.

Create something people want to talk about.

But before you hit publish, have someone in the room whose job is to tell you when you’ve gone too far.

And, importantly, listen to them.

Because the best crisis communication strategy isn’t always a brilliant apology.

Sometimes it’s preventing the crisis from happening in the first place.

And that’s the part of PR that I think gets overlooked.

We’re so focused on crisis management that we forget about crisis prevention.

Your PR agency shouldn’t just be the company you call when the internet is furious.

They should be in the room before you give the internet a reason to be furious.

Because in 2026, the internet will never forget.

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So before we get into Neutrogena and Hayden Pattinere, let me say my heart goes out ot her family and friends. Her death is unimaginable and tragic on every level. This is also why Neutrogena couldn’t look worse right now.

New here? I’m Amanda Lauren, and I write mostly about interior design, lifestyle, and parenting/kids for Forbes, Real Simple, and Yahoo, among other publications, as well as a media consultant. But my opinions are mine. This Substack is a mix of industry insights and media opps (but not today!)

And if you like this, please click that little heart because it helps me out.

Please follow me on Instagram and TikTok.

Hayden Panettiere & Neutrogena: A PR Crisis Explained

In case you’ve been living under a rock, the actress, best known for her roles in Heroes and Nashville, died on August 16 in South Carolina. She was found unresponsive and in cardiac arrest, and while an apparent overdose has been reported, her official cause and manner of death have not yet been determined.

Earlier this year, Panettiere revealed in her memoir, This Is Me: A Reckoning, and in an interview on Jay Shetty’s On Purpose podcast, that Neutrogena did not renew her contract after she publicly discussed her postpartum depression.

Panettiere had an endorsement deal with Neutrogena for nearly a decade. She said that after appearing on Live! With Kelly and Michael and spontaneously discussing her postpartum depression, she was told the brand wanted to end the relationship. She also said her contract contained morality clauses and that her representative believed the attempted termination could be illegal. So, the brand did the next worst thing.

To be 100% clear: Talking about postpartum depression is brave and important, not immoral.

The brand also hasn’t made a statement as of August 20th at 9:30 am, which is when I am writing this.

Panettiere’s memoir was released in May, and she discussed the Neutrogena situation publicly before her death. Now, following her death, those comments have resurfaced and generated a new wave of anger toward the brand. Reports have documented calls for a Neutrogena boycott and criticism of the company across social media.

And I understand why.

Panettiere wasn’t talking about some embarrassing celebrity scandal.

She was talking about postpartum depression.

She was talking about being a new mother and struggling.

And for many women — particularly mothers — that makes this story feel deeply personal.

Neutrogena didn’t just betray the actress; they betrayed one of their largest demographics.

So what should Neutrogena do?

First of all, I know the brand’s agency and have worked with them in the past.

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Happy Thursday!

I really think it’s important to give my paid readers value because I truly appreciate your subscription. (We know you can fly any airline…)

So, I decided to copy the exact data-driven pitch I was sent and said yes to last week. (If you missed my last post, this is Part 2.) And of course I included notes!

To be honest, I usually redact a little bit, but screw it, I want my subscribers to see the real thing!

If you’re looking for a great example of a data-driven pitch, I highly suggest subscribing and using it as a template. This is helpful to both publicists and founders.

And I will be doing a Google Meet AMA in September for paid subscribers. I have not come up with a date yet, but it will likely happen in the middle of the month.

New Here?

I’m Amanda Lauren, and I write mostly about interior design, lifestyle, and parenting/kids for Forbes, Real Simple, and Yahoo. (If you know the spiel, feel free to scroll)

And if you like this, please click that little heart because it’s helpful to me and basically no effort for you.

Also, I’m thirsty, so please follow me on Instagram and TikTok.

This Substack features both advice and media opps.

Lastly, please click that little heart. It’s helpful to me. Thanks!

A Press Opp

If you rep a car company and are looking for reviews and want to lend me a car for the next two weeks in East Hampton starting ASAP, please get in touch. The car we have here was totaled this morning thanks to the rain. Literally any four-door car will do. Of course I want to cry!

Speaking of new cars, I need to buy or lease one before the end of the year, so I’m also willing to write reviews in Los Angeles. I’d love to test out a few before making a final decision. I am kind of in love with the Bronco, so bonus points if you rep Ford and are reading this. Also, not interested in electric cars, not because I don’t like them but because I’m not responsible enough to keep one charged. (I know my limitations!)

A PSA

This has happened a few times this summer and sometimes happens in LA, but I really need to make it a whole post. Asking a writer to cover an event and not inviting them to said event when you easily could have is uncouth.

Mistakes happen, but it’s pretty obvious when you send an email blast versus when you don’t. This is not a good way to establish press relationships!

The Data-Driven Pitch: A Real Life Example

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I recently said yes to a pitch.

Very quickly.

Like, probably one of the fastest yeses I’ve given to a pitch in recent years.

The pitch didn’t come from a publicist I had worked with before. It wasn’t a subject that was on my mind. And, to be honest, the brand involved isn’t even a brand I would consider one of my favorites—which usually makes me more likely to say yes to a pitch.

In fact, I used to use one of their products all the time. It was one of my favorites. Then they reformulated it, and I decided I didn’t like the brand anymore.

But this pitch was so good, so relevant and so well formatted (there’s a part 2 of this post, and we’ll get into it) that it almost wrote the article for me.

And that is exactly what a good pitch should do.

So I wanted to break down why this particular pitch worked—and why I think data-driven PR pitches are more important than ever.

But First…

New here? Hello! I’m Amanda Lauren, and I write mostly about interior design, lifestyle, and parenting/kids for Forbes, Real Simple, and Yahoo.

And if you like this, please click that little heart because it’s helpful to me.

Also, I’m thirsty, so please follow me on Instagram and TikTok.

This Substack features both advice and media opps, but no media opps today.

The Data-Driven Pitch

I believe data-driven pitches are more important than they’ve ever been.

And if you don’t believe me, let me explain why.

Actually, I’ll let Gary Vaynerchuk explain it.

If you don’t follow Gary Vee, you should! I love him! He’s very spot-on about a lot of things, particularly when it comes to social media and attention. I think a lot of what he says easily applies to PR.

One of the things he has talked about in recent months is the idea that social media is dead and now it’s become “interest media.”

He wrote a whole post about this on his Substack.

Think about your own social media feeds.

You might not see photos of your cousin Sarah’s new baby anymore, but suddenly you’re seeing videos from influencers you’ve never heard of who are sort of similar to the ones you already follow.

Why?

Because the algorithm has figured out what you’re interested in.

You searched for something.

You watched a video about something.

You lingered on a post.

You clicked something.

And now the platform is feeding you more of it.

I’m probably not telling you anything you don’t already know.

But this shift has a lot to do with how attention works—and how people search for information.

And this changes the game for PR today.

Why Search Data Matters in a Pitch

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Hi, Happy Friday!

Do you have a client texting, calling, and sending carrier pigeons asking when their article will go live? Want to tell them to shut the fuck up? You can’t, but you can send them the following. You’re welcome.

New Here?

Hi, I’m Amanda Lauren, and I write mostly about interior design, lifestyle, and parenting/kids for Forbes, Real Simple, and Yahoo, among other publications, as well as a media consultant. But my opinions are mine. This Substack is a mix of industry insights and media opps.

If you like this, please click that little heart because it helps me out.

And please follow me on Instagram and TikTok because I’m sad and thirsty.

Also, if you want to work together or need PR consulting, please reply and get in touch.

Real Simple Opps

Please use Substack + Article Title as the subject line. If you don’t, I might miss your response.

Also, don’t pitch your client; just have them answer the questions.

What’s the Best Temperature to Set Your Thermostat to Every Season?

Who: HVAC and home experts

Deadline: 8/6/2026 at 9:00 am EST

What is the best temperature to set your HVAC to for the winter and why?

What is the best temperature to set your HVAC to in spring, and why?

What is the best temperature to set your HVAC to for the summer and why?

What is the best temperature to set your HVAC to for the fall and why?

Are there exceptions to any of these rules?

Any other thoughts?

How To Make Clothes Dry Faster—And Use Less Energy, According to Laundry Experts

Due: 8/10/2026 at 9:00 am EST

Who: Laundry experts and appliance experts

What are your best tips for making clothes dry faster without using additional energy?

What should you avoid doing that could make your clothes dry slower?

Any other thoughts?

When Will My Article Go Live? The Answer Is: I Have No Idea.

One of the questions I get asked most is:

“When will the article go live?”

I hate to be the bearer of bad news, but the answer is usually: I have absolutely fucking no idea.

And I know I’ve said this before. I know I’ve said this many times before. But because this question keeps coming up, I figured I might as well write an entire post about it.

Whether you’re a publicist, a brand, an expert, or someone who was interviewed for an article, here’s what you need to understand about earned media:

Read more

Happy “Hot Take” Thursday! I’ve got an interesting one for you. So, scroll if you’re already subscribed.

New Here?

Hi, I’m Amanda Lauren, and I write mostly about interior design, lifestyle, and parenting/kids for Forbes, Real Simple, and Yahoo, among other publications, as well as a media consultant. But my opinions are mine. This Substack is a mix of industry insights and media opps (but not today!)

If you like this, please click that little heart because it helps me out.

And please follow me on Instagram and TikTok because I’m thirsty.

Also, if you want to work together, please reply and get in touch.

Can Founders Pitch Themselves? Yes. But Here’s Why Most Shouldn’t.

Every time I write about PR, I try to remember that this Substack has two very different audiences.

Some of you are publicists. Some of you are founders. My goal has always been to share advice that helps both groups—even if that sometimes means saying things that aren’t particularly popular.

I mean, are you anyone until someone hates you? No!

But seriously, I try not to discourage anyone. I know PR budgets aren’t always realistic, especially in today’s economy for startups.

But I also think honesty is more helpful than false encouragement. And my advice might help you make some business decisions.

I’m writing this because one of my subscribers (let’s call her Jenny) recently shared that she lost a client after the founder decided they wanted to pitch themselves instead. They worked together for a long time, and she’s a fantastic publicist, so I know it’s not her. And I told her I’d be writing about this. So don’t worry, we’re cool…

Let Me Contradict Myself: Some of the Best Pitches I’ve Ever Received Came Directly From Founders

Let’s start with the good news.

Some of the best pitches I’ve ever received have come directly from a founder.

Bad news:

That founder has an MBA from Columbia. I’m not saying that makes you a better founder, but I know of several other successful founders from her class, so perhaps this is something they are teaching in business school.

But she’s not as rich or as successful as Gary Vaynerchuk, who went to Mount Ida College, a school I’ve never heard of (no offense to Mount Ida students and alumni).

Read more

Happy Wednesday, everyone!

Last week, this little Substack ranked 70th in business. So I want to say hello to my new followers!

Also, last Saturday, I wrote a post about what I would do if I were Phoebe Gates right now. If you haven’t been following the Phia scandal, it’s a very interesting story. It’s not paywalled. Enjoy!

New Here?

New here? Hello! I’m Amanda Lauren, and I write mostly about interior design, lifestyle, and parenting/kids for Forbes, Real Simple, and Yahoo.

And if you like this, please click that little heart because it’s helpful to me.

Also, I’m thirsty, so please follow me on Instagram and TikTok (maybe one day I can make Time’s list)!

This Substack features both advice and media opps. You can skip the media opps if you’d like.

Real Simple Opps

Please use Substack + Article Title as the subject line. Don’t pitch your clients. Just have them answer the questions, please.

Things Making Your Home Feel Hotter Than It Needs to Be—and What to Use Instead

Who: Interior Designers

Deadline: 7/18 by 10:00 am EST (Sorry, it’s a tight one)

What things make your home physically hotter and what should you use instead?

For example, polyester sheets (use natural fiber sheets instead), incandescent bulbs, and heavy curtains.

AND CAN YOU PLEASE SEND ME AN EMAIL ASAP IF YOUR CLIENT PLANS TO CONTRIBUTE BECAUSE IT’S A TIGHT DEADLINE?

The Biggest Mistakes People Make When Shopping Online Thrift Stores—and How to Avoid Them

Who: Designers, thrifting and shopping expats.

Deadline: 7/20 at 10:00 am EST

What are the most common mistakes people make shopping online thrift stores?

How do you avoid them?

Any other thoughts?

This is for both fashion and home.

Designers Share Their Best Tips for Creating a Cozy Reading Corner

Who: Interior designers

Deadline: 7/24/2026 at 10:00 am EST

Please share your best tips for creating a cozy reading corner.

What the TIME100 Creators List Tells Us About PR

Every year, a handful of lists capture the attention of founders, creators, investors, and publicists alike.

This week, it is TIME’s 100 Creators List.

I know this Substack has two very different audiences: founders and publicists. Sometimes it’s difficult to write something that speaks to both groups. This is one of those rare moments where the lesson applies equally to everyone building a brand. In fact, if you’re a publicist, I’d encourage you to send this to your clients and prospects.

Because here’s the truth most people don’t realize:

No one lands on one of these prestigious lists by accident.

Let’s Start with the Elephant in the Room: How Do You Get on Forbes 30 Under 30?

Because I’m a Forbes contributor, people ask me if I can help their client get on the Forbes 30 Under 30 List.

The short answer?

I have very little influence over it. And I’m unsure if other contributors are asked.

Full disclosure: Several years ago, an editor reached out to me about an artist and entrepreneur I’d written about multiple times because she was being considered for the list. Unfortunately, she was already over 30, so she wasn’t eligible.

No one has asked for my opinion since, but that experience taught me something important.

If editors repeatedly see your name in credible publications—especially a publication like Forbes- you become much harder to ignore.

So who influences the press?

You guessed it!

Publicists!

Are These Prestigious Lists Really That Important?

I hate to say it, but yes.

In many ways, being named to one of these lists is even more valuable than a single feature article. It’s one of the highest forms of third-party validation you can receive.

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If you’ve been anywhere near X or Threads for the past 24 hours, you’ve probably seen one company dominating the conversation: Phia.

The shopping app, co-founded by Phoebe Gates, the daughter of Bill Gates, and her Stanford roommate, Sophia Kianni, has come under scrutiny over allegations of cookie stuffing, which is a controversial affiliate marketing practice that can improperly claim credit for purchases, diverting commission revenue away from the publisher or creator that originally influenced the sale.

Cookie stuffing is against the rules of Impact.com (which has since suspended Phia), along with other major affiliate platforms.

If you want more details about how cookie stuffing works, I highly advise reading the Bloomberg investigation as well as the original report by researcher Ben Edelman.

So let’s break down what happened, why people are upset, and how I think the founders can turn what is currently a PR nightmare into a comeback story.

New Here?

Hello, I’m Amanda Lauren, and I write mostly about interior design, lifestyle, and parenting/kids for Forbes, Real Simple, and Yahoo, among other publications, as well as a media consultant. But my opinions are mine. This Substack is a mix of industry insights and media opps (but not today!)

And if you like this, please click that little heart because it helps me out.

Please keep up with me (like a Kardashian) on Instagram and TikTok.

What is Phia?

According to Phia’s website, the app and browser extension help you find better prices, including deals on secondhand pieces.

Like many commerce platforms, Phia earns revenue through affiliate commissions. In theory, everyone wins: shoppers save money, brands make sales, and the platform earns a percentage.

According to Bloomberg, the start-up has raised $43 million from a star-studded roster of investors, including Karlie Kloss, Kim Kardashian, Sydney Sweeney, and Hailey Bieber.

It’s also worth noting that the co-founders also have a successful podcast on Alex Cooper’s Unwell Network called The Burnouts.

Here’s The BIG Problem

This story hits differently for me because I’ve spent years writing commerce content.

Product reviews.

Shopping guides.

Gift guides.

Best-of lists.

Those articles aren’t just content; they’re how many publications make money. Why do you think Rolling Stone has a Mother’s Day Gift Guide? It’s kind of laughable, but there’s more behind it, and this is why many publications have folded.

When someone reads an article I’ve written, clicks a product link, and makes a purchase, the publisher earns affiliate revenue. That revenue helps pay editors, writers, staff, and everyone else involved in producing quality journalism.

If another platform (like Phia) receives credit for purchases it didn’t actually drive, publishers lose revenue.

And when publishers lose revenue, journalists lose opportunities.

Anything that further chips away at publisher revenue ultimately hurts journalism, from the serious stuff to the fluffy lifestyle pieces you enjoy. Let’s be clear: this is who Phia is stealing from.

Phoebe Gates Will Be Fine

Let’s state the obvious.

Phoebe Gates isn’t facing an existential or financial crisis.

She’s enormously privileged, and regardless of what happens to Phia, she’ll have opportunities that most founders never will.

I don’t feel sorry for her.

But I also don’t think this controversy is career-ending.

Far from it.

Jeffrey Epstein Never Hurt Bill Gates

Bill Gates is mentioned over 3000 times in the Epstein files. Do you think the founder’s association with a sex trafficker has hurt him? Not in the least.

On a personal level, I don’t buy Microsoft products and avoid using any Microsoft products unless I have to. (Occasionally, I have to do a call on Teams and there’s no way out of it).

But I don’t think most people care. Bill Gates is still one of the richest men on Earth.

Do I think Phia will take a hit from this? Sure, but I don’t think this scandal means the app is going away any time soon.

So What Should Phoebe Gates Do Now?

A lot of founders think the goal of crisis communications is to make people stop talking.

It isn’t.

The goal is making sure they remember the right thing six months from now.

Here’s what I think Phia needs to do ASAP.

Hire a crisis communications firm immediately

Get a year-long retainer and keep their current PR team as well. They might have already hired someone because a spokesperson responded to Bloomberg’s report, stating, “Within the last 24 hours, we were made aware that in a recent release our codebase was causing misattributions from a subset of users. As soon as we were notified, our team worked overnight to identify, mitigate, and has since resolved the issue.”

Okay…

Pause the personal brand—for now

Phoebe Gates has built a strong social presence. While her Instagram is still public, she made her X account private. If I were her, I’d limit comments on every single Instagram post and avoid posting for a few weeks. I’d do the same for the Phia account.

I don’t think she has to do this forever, but just long enough for the news cycle to move on.

I’d also maybe put the podcast on hold for the summer. (Summer break!)

The internet has an incredibly short attention span.

There will always be another controversy or founder to cancel.

Fix the business before fixing the image

Reputation campaigns don’t work if the underlying issue hasn’t been addressed.

If affiliate partners lost trust, rebuilding those relationships has to be priority number one. They can’t make money without them.

The product has to be credible before the marketing can be.

This isn’t the first time the Phia has been in hot water. The brand only launched last year, and there was immediately an issue involving Phia’s collection of users’ web browsing history, including snapshots of the pages they visited, which included sensitive info like bank statements! Yikes!

If Phia wants consumer trust, they need to operate ethically.

Lean into community once the dust settles

Eventually, I’d go back on offense.

Host creator events.

Work with influencers.

Partner with shoppers who genuinely love saving money.

Reintroduce the brand, but only after operational issues have been addressed.

Here’s the thing about startup scandals

I’m a big believer that most startup controversies aren’t fatal.

They’re defining moments.

If the company acknowledges mistakes, fixes problems, and rebuilds trust, people often move on.

Consumers have short memories.

Founders get second chances all the time.

No matter what happens, both cofounders will be perfectly fine.

Also, this isn’t Elizabeth Holmes level bad. They didn’t kill anyone.

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This Could Even Be A Good Thing

In fact, awareness may end up being one of Phia’s biggest assets.

Before this week, many people had never heard of the app. They currently have 1.5 million users, which is certainly something to aspire to, but it’s just the beginning.

All of this press means a lot of exposure.

That’s obviously not the kind of publicity any founder wants, but awareness is still awareness.

I’ll be curious to see in six months to a year from now how many users they have and if valuation has increased or decreased.

While I think what they did was despicable (I highly doubt it was an accident), I love saving money while shopping. Who doens’t?

And yes, many apps can help save money, but there’s nothing chic or cool about Rakuten or Honey. Phia is young and hot. And if they play their cards right, no one will remember this by next summer.

The PR takeaway

Every founder says they want attention.

Very few are prepared for what happens when that attention turns negative.

That’s when PR stops being about headlines and starts being about leadership.

We’ll see what happens next.

But one thing is certain:

The next chapter of this story won’t be written by social media.

It’ll be written by the founders.

Happy Friday!

Let’s start off with the disastrous week I’ve had in the Hamptons. Last Sunday night, we had a leak, which involved countless workmen in my house, removing a ceiling and opening up bathrooms. I have terrible dust allergies, and now I know my poor three-year-old daughter does too! Even my husband asked for a Claritin. WILD!

Then I had an allergic reaction to a bug bite that was so bad (my leg swelled and I couldn’t wear shorts for two days), it required oral steroids! YAY!

Despite all of this, I did have some fun this week (a few parties!), but honestly looking forward to buckling down and trying to get some serious work done next week.

I am going to try to go through emails over the weekend. So, if I’ve ignored yours, that’s why.

Are You New Here?

Hi! I’m Amanda Lauren, and I write mostly about interior design, lifestyle, and parenting/kids for Forbes, Real Simple, and Yahoo, among other publications. But my opinions are my own. This Substack features a mix of industry insights and media opps (but not today).

And if you like this, please click that heart because it helps me out. (And it’s very good karma).

Also, please follow me on Instagram and TikTok.

And if you want to work together (I have a PR course and some other options), please reply.

Lastly, if you are interested in a sponsored post for Yahoo, such as a product review, please get in touch as well.

Micro Moves That Build Better PR Relationships (and the Ones That Quietly Destroy Them)

The smallest things you do as a publicist often have the biggest impact on your reputation.

A few weeks ago, someone came up to me at an event and told me she loved my post about AI in PR.

Then she said something that stuck with me.

“AI will never replace good PR relationships.”

I couldn’t agree more.

Yes, AI can help you brainstorm subject lines, clean up a pitch, or summarize research. But it can’t build trust. It can’t earn goodwill. It can’t make a journalist think, I love working with this publicist.

Relationships are still the currency of PR.

But the question is: How do you build those relationships in 2026 when so much of our industry operates remotely?

I’ve worked with hundreds of publicists I’ve never met in real life. Some have become people I’d gladly help whenever I can. Others? I delete their emails before I finish reading them.

The difference usually isn’t some grand gesture.

It’s the micro moves.

These tiny actions seem insignificant on their own, but they add up over time. Just like little annoyances in everyday life.

Think about it. Amazon doens’t deliver that deodorant you needed on time, or Starbucks gives you oat milk in your matcha when you asked for almond. Some jerk cuts you off in traffic, and you almost die…

These things are kind of minor, but they ruin your day a little. The same thing happens professionally. Every interaction leaves an impression.

Here are a few micro moves that can quietly strengthen—or weaken—your relationships with journalists.

But first, a confession I probably shouldn’t admit

(So, that’s why it’s behind a paywall)

I think a genuinely strong relationship is often more valuable than a great pitch…

Read more

As Kyle Cooke says, “Summer should be fun!”

And so far, it is! I’m writing this from a lounge chair in my backyard in East Hampton!

I have no complaints!

But I do have rants, opps and deadlines!

New here?

I’m Amanda Lauren, and I write mostly about interior design, lifestyle, and parenting/kids for Forbes, Real Simple, and Yahoo, among other publications. But my opinions are mine (and often a bit harsh, but that’s what you’re here for, right?) This Substack is a mix of industry insights and media opps.

And if you like this, please click that little heart because it helps me out.

Also, I’m embarrassingly thirsty, so please follow me on Instagram and TikTok. I’m trying to create 30 new pieces of content in 30 days, which is a lot easier out here.

What I’m Working On

Please pitch me all things Hamptons for Forbes and Yahoo. Also, if you want a product review for Yahoo (this is a paid opp), please get in touch. Lastly, I am super behind on emails and will be going through my inbox tonight, so if you’ve recently pitched me, I will try to get back to you ASAP.

Real Simple Opps

Can you please let me know ASAP if you will be getting answers to these questions? The deadlines are tight(ish), and I was assigned these today. These are for such specific experts; there’s no need to pitch me your client. Just send over an email with a quick note.

THANK YOU!

Please use Substack + Article Title as your subject line.

Article: The Best Vacation-Proof Flowers for Busy Gardeners

Deadline: July 6, 9:00 am EST.
What blooms will stay healthy with less attention while you are away?

Explain what makes flowers suited to an absence, and the kinds of growing conditions and care needs that matter for busy gardeners. Include only flowers that are presented as low-maintenance and verify any claims about heat, drought, or time away.

Article: The Worst Pots for Hot Weather—and What Gardening Experts Recommend Instead

Deadline: July 3, 9:00 am EST.

What are the worst pots for hot weather and why?

What are better pots to use instead?

Any other thoughts?

The Email That Made Me Furious: A Lesson in PR, Link Building, and Why Journalists Ignore Bad Pitches

Subscribe now

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Happy Wednesday!

I’m writing this, and then I’m pretty much off for the rest of the week. We’re heading to East Hampton for two months on Friday, and tomorrow I am absolutely devoting way too much time to getting my hair done. (Red hair is a lifestyle choice.)

If you didn’t know, I’m based in LA for the other ten months of the year. This is the seventh summer my husband and I have had a quasi-bicoastal lifestyle, and I feel very lucky. I grew up on the Upper East Side of Manhattan, as did he (literally just a few blocks away from me). I always wonder what my life would have been like if I’d stayed in New York, and getting back every summer for such a long stay lets me live the life I might have had. It’s very magical.

Best of all, my daughter gets to go to day camp, have a pool in the backyard (she’ll have one in LA at some point, but not now), and live just a three-minute drive from the beach.

All of that said, taking a long flight with a child and a puppy (even with a supportive husband) is nowhere near as fun as it sounds.

Thoughts and prayers, please.

Are You New Here?

Hello! I’m Amanda Lauren, and I write mostly about interior design, lifestyle, and parenting/kids for Forbes, Real Simple, and Yahoo, among other publications. But my opinions are mine. This Substack is a mix of industry insights and media opps.

And if you like this, please click the little heart because it helps me out.

Also, I’m very thirsty, so please follow me on Instagram and TikTok.

Real Simple Media Opps

Can you please let me know ASAP if you will be getting answers to these questions? The deadline is tight, and I was assigned this morning. These are for such specific experts; there’s no need to pitch me your client. Just send over an email with a quick note.

Please use Substack + Article Title as your subject line.

Places Ticks Love to Hide in Your Yard, According to Pest Experts
Deadline: 6/29 at 9:00 am EST

Questions:

Where are ticks most likely to hide in a yard?

What yard conditions attract ticks?

How shade, moisture, overgrowth, and yard edges attract ticks?

How can you prevent ticks from being attracted to your yard?

Any other thoughts?

It’s Too Hot to Deep Clean—TK Things Cleaning Pros Always Prioritize Instead

Deadline: 6/29 at 9:00 am EST

Questions:

What do cleaning pros focus on when deep cleaning feels unrealistic in hot weather?

If it’s too hot for a full reset, what should you do instead?

What tasks make the biggest difference first?

How do you decide what to clean immediately versus what you should wait on?

Any other thoughts?

What Does A Perfect PR Response Look Like? Here’s An Example

One of the biggest challenges in PR is formulating the perfect answer. Hot take: The perfect answer not only responds to a writer’s question but also showcases your expertise. This isn’t always easy to do.

So, when I received the perfect answer from a source for an article I wrote for Forbes, I asked if it was okay to write about it. She said yes.

I also want to note this person does not have a publicist, but rather she is friends with one I am very close to. I am not saying this to devalue publicists (NOT AT ALL, OBVIOUSLY I LOVE YOU), I’m saying this because if a publicist isn’t currently in your budget (I know there are founders who subscribe), that doens’t preclude you from getting publicity. said, a publicist makes it a million billion times easier, and PR is a service worth the money.

The article is called Why The Rich Are Choosing To Rent.

For your reference, this is a link to the article. https://www.forbes.com/sites/amandalauren/2026/06/18/why-the-rich-are-choosing-to-rent/

Here’s the TLDR according to Forbes’ AI: The traditional path to homeownership is evolving, with affluent Americans increasingly choosing to rent their primary residences. This shift is driven by several factors: the high cost of living in major cities makes homeownership less financially appealing, prompting high earners to invest their capital in income-generating properties instead. Flexibility is another key draw, as renting allows for easier relocation and adaptation in an uncertain world. The rise of luxury, condo-quality rentals also provides attractive options for those seeking premium amenities without the commitment of ownership. Ultimately, wealthy individuals are prioritizing liquidity and strategic investments, separating their living arrangements from their investment portfolios to maximize returns elsewhere.

How I Connected With The Source

Here’s my initial conversation with Anj Catalano of The Agency, which took place over text. To be candid, the publicist who introduced us is a close friend, and we text all day long most days.

Also, this is really the text, and it’s sort of disjointed because I was doing 100 things when I sent it.

Me: Hi. I’m working on an article for Forbes about why the rich are renting. In other words, there has been a trend towards renting your primary residence but owning investment properties that you wouldn’t necessarily live in. This could be due to the flexibility of renting, but really I’m looking for someone who has a high income but perhaps lives in a market like LA, SF, or NY where the cost of a home they’d want to live in is just so high, it makes more sense to rent. But perhaps they own a smaller home or condo that they rent out. Do you know someone who fits this description who can answer some questions over email?

Are you working with a lot of people like this?

Anj: Amanda, so great to meet you!

I don’t have a specific client I could connect you with right now, but this is honestly something I see all the time. A lot of the high earners I work with in LA are having exactly this conversation, especially when the home they actually want to live in is in the $2-5M range. At that point, the math gets complicated fast. Rates are so high that sometimes mortgages are over $20,000 a month!

Would it be useful to have me speak to it from the agent side? Happy to share what I’m seeing on the ground in LA.

Why This Initial Response Is Great

So her initial response was honest (she didn’t have a client). But her knowledge and honesty made me realize she would be a great source. So at that point, I didn’t even care that she didn’t fit my description.

So, I asked to answer the following questions over email.

Can you elaborate a little bit about what you said in the text?

Also, are these clients who rent their primary homes also buying investment properties? Even just like a one-bedroom condo to rent out or Airbnb?

Any other thoughts?

The Golden Response

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Happy Thursday!

A subscriber asked me to write about the best and worst ways to use AI in PR right now. I love a request, so feel free to share what you would like to write about in the comments.

New Here?

Hello! I’m Amanda Lauren, and I write mostly about interior design, lifestyle, and parenting/kids for Forbes, Real Simple, and Yahoo, among other publications. But my opinions are my own. This Substack features a mix of industry insights and media opps.

And if you like this, please click that heart because it helps me out. (And it’s good karma).

Also, please follow me on Instagram and TikTok.

And if you want to work together (I have a PR course and some other options), please reply.

Lastly, if you are interested in a sponsored post for Yahoo, such as a product review, please get in touch as well.

The Best And Worst Ways To Use AI In PR Right Now

AI is everywhere right now. Depending on who you ask, it’s either the greatest productivity tool ever created or the beginning of the end of entire industries.

To be fully candid, I’m not an AI expert.

I find it incredibly helpful for certain tasks and deeply uncomfortable for others. And while the technology is evolving at lightning speed, one observation I recently heard has stuck with me:

“The AI model you’re using today will be the worst model you’ll ever use.”

(I have no idea who said this, and I’m paraphrasing, but you get the point)

With that in mind, I wanted to share what I believe are the best and worst ways to use AI in PR—while acknowledging that these opinions may change as the technology evolves.

My Mixed Feelings About AI

I have complicated feelings about AI.

On one hand, it genuinely concerns me that AI is replacing jobs across the media industry. Writers, editors, researchers, and countless other professionals are already feeling the effects.

On the other hand, AI can be an incredibly useful tool. Pretending it doesn’t exist—or refusing to learn how to use it isn’t going to stop its adoption.

I often see people in Facebook groups proudly announcing that they don’t use AI, followed by comments sharing wildly inaccurate statistics or misinformation about the technology, like every time you ask ChatGPT a question, a river dies.

Like any tool, its value depends on how you use it.

That said, AI is far from perfect.

Unlike spellcheck, which has become remarkably reliable, AI still makes mistakes, hallucinates information, and requires serious human oversight. At this stage, I view it as a productivity tool rather than a replacement for human judgment.

And for PR professionals, that’s an important distinction.

A Note: ChatGPT vs. Claude

I know plenty of people who swear by Claude. I’ve used it myself.

But for the most part, I’m a ChatGPT girl.

Part of that is familiarity. ChatGPT has learned my preferences, understands how I like things formatted, and generally works the way I work. Because I use the free version, I occasionally hit usage limits and experiment with Claude, but I always find myself returning to ChatGPT.

That said, most of the principles in this post apply regardless of which AI platform you prefer.

The Best Ways To Use AI In PR

Explaining Complex Topics

When I need to understand a topic I’m not well-versed in, or a news story, I’ll often use prompts like:

“Explain this to me like I’m in kindergarten.”

Or even:

“Explain this to me like I’m an idiot.”

AI is excellent at breaking down complex topics into plain English. Instead of reading five different articles and piecing together the information myself, I can get a simplified overview in seconds.

It’s one of the most valuable uses of AI in my workflow.

Subscribe now

Read more

Happy Thursday!

It’s been a big week for me. Carlin (my 3-year-old daughter, if you’re new here) and I went to the premiere of Toy Story 5. It was her first movie theater expirence ever. Also, her first red carpet paparazzi encounter, first surprise Taylor Swift concert (she sang the closing credits song and did a duet with Randy Newman of You’ve Got A Friend In Me), and first after-party. She was a champ! I am still tired, and it was two days ago…

(Check out our fun time on the red carpet here).

Hello

Is this the first time you’re reading this? I’m Amanda Lauren, and I write mostly about interior design, lifestyle, and parenting/kids for Forbes, Real Simple, and Yahoo, among other publications. But my opinions are mine. This Substack is a mix of industry insights and media opps (but not today, next week for sure).

And if you like this, please click that little heart because it helps me out.

Also, I’m thirsty (and a little sad), so please follow me on Instagram and TikTok.

FINALLY: I’ll be in the Hamptons from June 27th to sometime at the end of August, so if you are out East, please get in touch.

Product Education Is One of the Most Underrated PR Strategies

Yesterday, I was on a consulting call with a founder whose company makes a product that 99.99% of people use (not an official statistic, but you get my point). It’s an essential hygiene item that most of us buy regularly without giving it much thought, although we may be brand loyal.

But when she explained what made it different, I realized something.

Unlike conventional versions of the product, hers is made from renewable resources (third-party certified) and is non-toxic.

That’s not just a product feature. It’s something most consumers (and writers) don’t think about, but it’s definitely something they should.

This is why it’s crucial to focus your pitches on educating writers and consumers about what makes your product different in its category and why that’s important.

Everyone Is Stupid

Read more

Happy Thursday! How’s it going? Today’s post is about my least favorite word, “no!” I also have media opps. So let’s get into it!

Is this the first time you’re reading this? Hello, I’m Amanda Lauren, and I write mostly about interior design, lifestyle, and parenting/kids for Forbes, Real Simple, and Yahoo, among other publications. But my opinions are mine. This Substack is a mix of industry insights and media opps.

So please subscribe…

Subscribe now

And if you like this, please click that little heart because it helps me out.

Also, I’m thirsty, so please follow me on Instagram and TikTok.

Lastly, I’ll be in the Hamptons from June 27th to sometime at the end of August, so if you are out East, please get in touch.

Media Opps!

Please use Substack + Article title as the subject line.

Also, please let me know you are getting answers from your client ASAP! Just want to make sure I have enough sources because this article is a little bit tight.

Both of these are for Real Simple, and I need responses by Noon PST on June 8, 2026.

Gardening Mistakes That Cause Plants To Struggle In Summer Heat

Who: Gardening experts.

What gardening mistakes make plants struggle in the summer heat? (Please don’t focus on plant selection here).

Some examples include watering habits and soil moisture management, as well as how mulch and spacing affect heat stress.

Ways To Help Your Upstairs Stay Cool Without Overworking The AC

Who: HVAC experts.

How can you keep an upstairs cooler without making the air conditioner work harder?

(Think fixes, not replacements)

Why do upstairs rooms get hotter?

How can you improve airflow, insulation, and sun blocking?

Any other thoughts?

The Hardest Word in PR: How to Say No Without Damaging Media Relationships

For publicists, one of the most frustrating parts of the job isn’t pitching reporters, securing interviews, or navigating a crowded media landscape.

It’s managing clients.

More specifically, it’s managing clients who say no.

My life philosophy has always been simple: if I say I’m going to do something, I do it. So when someone tells me their client is available for an interview, can answer questions, or is willing to send a sample, I generally expect that commitment to be honored.

Unfortunately, that’s not always how things work. (I can say this about a lot of things!)

One of the biggest challenges in public relations is that you can control your strategy, your outreach, and your communication, but you can’t control your clients.

And when clients decline opportunities, become unavailable, or refuse to listen to professional advice, it can create real consequences for both publicists and the writers they’re trying to work with.

Here’s what to do when you think you’re fucked.

Read more

Earlier this week, I hosted an AMA on Google Meet for my subscribers, and I want to thank everyone who showed up.

One question, in particular, really stayed with me.

“Do you think there’s value in having clients on podcasts even if they’re small?(SO many podcasts out there these days! I want to value their time while also getting exposure.”

And honestly? My answer will probably surprise a lot of publicists and founders.

You Can Skip This Part

New here? Hi! I’m Amanda Lauren, and I write mostly about interior design, lifestyle, and parenting/kids for Forbes, Real Simple and Yahoo.

And if you like this, please click that little heart because it’s helpful to me.

Also, I’m painfully thirsty, so please follow me on Instagram and TikTok.

This Substack features both advice and media opps. But just advice today…

Are Small Podcasts A Waste Of Time?

No, I do not think smaller podcasts are a waste of time.

In fact, depending on the client, they can be incredibly valuable.

Read more

Happy Almost Holiday Weekend!

In case you missed my last two posts:

Last Friday, I sent out an email saying that I was hosting an AMA on Google Meet for paid subscribers on Wednesday, June 27th, at 9:30 am PST/12:30 p.m. EST. Except that I meant MAY 27th! OOPS!

So, if you are a paid subscriber and want to ask me anything or even pitch me live, you can sign up here. Oh, and I plan on spilling lots of tea! So much tea! A wild amount of tea! We’re going to need a mop! A really good one, not a Swiffer. This can’t even be posted behind a paywall.

After you sign up, I will send you a calendar invite a few days before the event.

But before you RSVP…

Subscribe now

Also, In Case You Missed It, Here’s What I’m Working On

If you are looking for Father’s Day placement for your brands, please get in touch regarding paid opportunities for Yahoo ASAP. I’m working on a Father’s Day gift guide.

I’m also working on a roundup of pieces moms should refresh their summer wardrobes with for Yahoo.

Lastly, I will be in the Hamptons this summer from the end of June until the end of August. I will be focused mostly on Hamptons content at that time. So, pitch me and invite me to your events. I am forever thirsty.

New Here?

Hello! I’m Amanda Lauren, and I write mostly about interior design, lifestyle, and parenting/kids for Forbes, Real Simple, Yahoo, and Today’s Parent, among other publications. But my opinions are my own. This Substack is a mix of industry insights and media opps.

And if you like this, please click that little heart because it helps me out.

Also, please follow me on Instagram and TikTok.

What Gets Writers Excited About a Pitch?

But with a holiday weekend approaching, I wanted to focus on something more positive: what publicists are actually doing right.

Despite overflowing inboxes and constant competition for attention, some pitches still manage to stand out immediately. They spark curiosity, inspire story ideas, and make writers genuinely excited to learn more.

If your goal is to land meaningful media coverage, here are the things that consistently make writers pay attention.

It’s Beautiful (And You Tell Me That Right Away)

To quote my mom, “I like pretty.” Everyone likes pretty. If people didn’t like pretty things, Instagram wouldn’t exist.

That whole “A picture is worth 1000 words” saying is definitely true! Whether it’s a stunning hotel, thoughtfully designed packaging, a beautiful house, a chic dress, or a stylishly plated meal, aesthetics matter. Writers covering lifestyle topics often seek visually compelling stories, especially in a digital-first world where images can be just as important as words.

One mistake I see often is that publicists bury the visual appeal of a product or destination. Sometimes I’ll receive a pitch and have no idea how beautiful something is until I dig through attachments or visit a website.

Don’t make writers work that hard!

If something is visually impressive, lead with that fact. Tell us why it’s special. Highlight what makes it photogenic, distinctive, or design-forward from the very first paragraph.

A strong visual hook can instantly elevate a pitch.

Subscribe now

Read more

Happy Monday!

No one is perfect, especially me! On Friday, I sent out an email saying that I was hosting an AMA on Google Meet for paid subscribers on Wednesday, June 27th, at 9:30 am PST/12:30 p.m. EST. Except that I meant MAY 27th! YIKES!

So, if you are a paid subscriber and want to ask me anything or even pitch me live, you can sign up here. Oh, and I plan on spilling lots of tea! So much tea! A wild amount of tea! We’re going to need a mop!

After you sign up, I will send you a calendar invite a few days before the event.

You’ve Got Questions? I’ve Got Answers!

Is there anything you want to know about being a writer, PR tips, or topics you’d like me to cover? My comments are open below.

And lastly…

In Case You Missed It, Here’s What I’m Working On

If you are looking for Father’s Day placement for your brands, please get in touch regarding paid opportunities for Yahoo ASAP. I’m working on a Father’s Day gift guide.

I’m also working on a roundup of pieces moms should refresh their summer wardrobes with for Yahoo.

Lastly, I will be in the Hamptons this summer from the end of June until the end of August. I will be focused mostly on Hamptons content at that time. So, pitch me and invite me to your events. I am forever thirsty.

More To Come Later This Week…

Is it summer yet?

Leave a comment

Happy Friday. I will be hosting an AMA on Google Meet for paid subscribers only on Wednesday, May 27th, at 9:30 am PST/12:30 p.m. EST. You can sign up here. It’s been a while since I’ve done one of these! You can pitch me, ask me questions about Forbes, or PR in general—literally AMA. After you sign up, I will send you a calendar invite a few days before the event.

I’ve always joked that I’m a little bit psychic. Not full crystal-ball psychic, but a reasonable amount psychic. I’ve predicted car accidents, baby genders (which, admittedly, gives you a 50% chance of being right), and other random things in life that eventually happened.

But there’s one thing I’ve been predicting for a while now about the PR industry — and I genuinely don’t think most people are ready for it.

Ironically, I also think it could end up being a very good thing for society.

Last week,I had lunch with people who work in PR for Amazon. They are part of a large agency. We were mostly talking about Prime Day and retail strategy, but at one point, they mentioned they don’t personally handle crisis communications for the company.

I immediately said, “You’re lucky.”

Because I’ve always felt bad for publicists who represent massive corporations during scandals, cancellations, or public disasters.

Remember that disaster with Wayfair and a child sex trafficking conspiracy theory in 2020? I had no reason to believe it. What a nightmare. I sent an email message to the publicist (who I am still friends with to this day) that I was happy to support her brand when the time is right.

Sometimes weird things happen. But cut to 2026, and much of the bad PR brands get isn’t all that bizarre.

New Here?

Hello! I’m Amanda Lauren, and I write mostly about interior design, lifestyle, and parenting/kids for Forbes, Real Simple, Yahoo, and Today’s Parent, among other publications. But my opinions are mine. This Substack is a mix of industry insights and media opps (but not today).

And if you like this, please click that little heart because it helps me out.

Also, I’m painfully thirsty, so please follow me on Instagram and TikTok.

A Few Notes

If you are looking for Father’s Day placement for your brands, please get in touch regarding paid opportunities for Yahoo.

Also, I will be in the Hamptons this summer from the end of June until the end of August. I will be focused on Hamptons content at that time. So, pitch me and invite me to your events. I am forever thirsty.

Subscribe now

Read more

A lot of what I share here on Substack is about the things I say no to. I actually feel like 2026 is my year of “no.”

And while I think that’s necessary — especially in media, PR, and freelance life — I also realized it can sound a little negative after a while. So today, I wanted to talk about something I did say yes to: an exclusive.

More specifically, why I agreed to do an exclusive when I’m honestly not the biggest fan of exclusives in general.

Maybe it’s because of my beat. Maybe it’s because I’ve been pitched so many “exclusive” stories that absolutely should not have been exclusives. But most of the time, I’m skeptical. Very skeptical.

That said, every once in a while, someone offers me one that actually makes sense. And while I obviously don’t speak for every writer, I do think the reasons I said yes are probably similar to the reasons many writers say yes.

New here? Hello! I’m Amanda Lauren, and I write mostly about interior design, lifestyle, and parenting/kids for Forbes, Real Simple, Yahoo, and Today’s Parent, among other publications. But my opinions are mine and most likely unhinged. This Substack is a mix of industry insights and media opps (but not today).

And if you like this, please click that little heart because it helps me out.

Also, I’m painfully thirsty, so please follow me on Instagram and TikTok.

Here’s why I said yes to a recent exclusive.

It Was A Brand I Actually Like

The exclusive was about Revolve and the brand’s newest store in Miami. I BROKE THE NEWS FOR FORBES, POSSIBLY ALL OF GEN Z, AND MAYBE 87% OF MILLENNIALS WHO ALSO HAVE TIKTOK ACCOUNTS. (I was going to insert a Venn diagram here, but I will spare you.)

Before anything else, this mattered because I genuinely like the brand. I shop there. I have pieces from Revolve that are wardrobe staples. And honestly? I’ve consistently had really good experiences with them as a customer. (I can’t get into this right now, but I’ve had some really horrible experiences of brands treating me like garbage as a customer and totally differently as a content creator.)

Revolve’s shipping is weirdly fast — faster than I expect almost every single time — which feels rare these days. Their returns are painless, which matters because, like everyone else, I’m ordering multiple sizes and definitely not keeping everything. Their app is fantastic, even when I don’t choose to update it. The overall experience is easy, and the people who work at the LA store are lovely.

Read more

Hi,

I hope everyone is having a good week. Happy Friday, and sorry this is a little late. Carlin turned three this week, and I wanted to spend a little extra time to celebrate with her. We’re also going to Disneyland on Sunday with some of our closest friends and their kids. Thank God they serve alcohol at California Adventure!

Also, I’m thinking of starting another Substack where I share my favorite things for the home (like bedding) and beyond (what I’m watching, accounts I’m following, etc). Please let me know in the comments if this is something you’re interested in.

New here? Hi!!!! I’m Amanda Lauren, and I write mostly about interior design, lifestyle, and parenting/kids for Forbes, Real Simple, Yahoo, and Today’s Parent, among other publications. But my opinions are mine and certainly unhinged. This Substack is a mix of industry insights and media opps.

And if you like this, please click that little heart because it helps me out.

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Today I’m going to talk about press mailers (so scroll down if that’s why you’re here). These can be incredibly effective—or a colossal waste of money. I’ve seen both sides firsthand.

So how do you actually maximize your press mailer and get real ROI? Shall we call it Mailmaxxing? Fun right?

Here’s what works (and what doesn’t), based on years of experience on the receiving end.

But first…

Real Simple Opps

Please use Substack + Article Title as the subject line. Don’t pitch me your clients; just have them answer the questions. Thanks!

Article: Ways To Prepare Your Outdoor Space For Summer Right Now

Who: Home and garden pros

Deadline: May 4th, 3:00 pm PST (I know, it’s tight)

I’m thinking power-wash your patio, pull weeds, clean your outdoor furniture, but I am sure home and garden pros have some great suggestions

Article: Garden Supplies You Should Buy From Costco

Who: Garden Pros

Deadline: May 8th, 8:00am PST

What garden supplies should you buy from Costco and why?

Mailmaxxing

As a journalist, I genuinely enjoy receiving thoughtful packages. Trying new products is part of the job, and a well-executed mailer can absolutely lead to coverage, social shares, or long-term brand awareness. But for every great mailer, there are several that miss the mark entirely—often in ways that are easily avoidable. (SO. EASILY. AVOIDABLE)

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