In this episode of Small Business School, host Staci Millard sits down with PR expert and podcast pitching strategist Christina Lenkowski to break down what publicity actually is, why most entrepreneurs misunderstand it, and how podcast guesting can become one of your highest ROI growth strategies in 2026.

They dive into the difference between being visible and being strategically visible, why smaller podcasts often outperform big-name shows, and how to leverage guest appearances into long-term content and credibility.

Key topics covered:

The 3 pillars of marketing: owned, paid, and earned media
What publicity really means (and what it’s not)
Why podcast guesting builds trust faster than ads or social media
The biggest mistakes entrepreneurs make when pitching themselves
Why “spray and pray” pitching is hurting your brand
How to identify the right podcasts for your business
Why small to mid-size podcasts often convert better than large shows
How to repurpose podcast interviews into high-impact content
The importance of relationship-building in modern marketing

If you’ve been chasing visibility but not seeing results, this episode is your reminder that where and how you show up matters more than how often. Podcast guesting isn’t just about exposure, it’s about connection, credibility, and conversion.

Connect with Christina:

Instagram: @publicityxchristina

Website: https://www.publicityxchristina.com/quiz-landing-page

Staci's Links:
Instagram. Website.