By: Dr. Tamara “Tami” Patzer
The world is full of opportunities to share your expertise, tell your story, and connect with the people who need what you offer. Whether being a guest on a podcast, writing a guest article, or appearing on TV, media can amplify your voice and elevate your brand.
Yet, many entrepreneurs, creatives, and professionals hesitate to embrace these opportunities. Maybe you think I don’t have a big enough platform, or I’m not the media type. These thoughts are common, but they often hold you back from the influence, impact, and income that media can bring.
The truth is, media isn’t just for celebrities or Fortune 500 CEOs—it’s for anyone willing to share their knowledge and show up authentically. Let’s explore how to use media to grow your influence, create real impact, and build your income.
Using Media to Build Influence
At its core, influence is about trust. People trust the voices they see and hear consistently, whether on their favorite podcast, local news station, or in an article on social media. Media allows you to establish that trust by sharing your insights, expertise, and story.
Real Talk:
Being visible doesn’t mean you need to shout louder than everyone else. It means showing up as yourself and giving people a reason to listen. Influence comes from connection, which happens when people feel like they know you.
Example:
Sophie, a small-business coach, shared her story of building her business after losing her corporate job. She appeared on a podcast for women entrepreneurs, offering practical advice on starting fresh. Her story was so relatable that listeners started following her online, and she soon launched a group coaching program with a waitlist.
Takeaway:
Your story is what makes you influential. Media simply helps more people hear it.
Using Media to Create Impact
Media isn’t just about growing your brand—it’s about making a difference. When you share your message with an audience, you can inspire action, change minds, or help others see possibilities they didn’t see before.
Real Talk:
The best way to create impact is to focus on your audience. What do they care about? What are they struggling with? Speak directly to their needs, and you’ll leave a lasting impression.
Example:
David, an advocate for mental health, shared his story of overcoming anxiety during a local radio segment. He didn’t use jargon or statistics; he simply talked about what helped him and how others could take their first steps toward healing. After the segment aired, a local nonprofit reached out to collaborate on a community program, extending its impact even further.
Takeaway:
When you focus on your audience, you turn your voice into a catalyst for change.
Using Media to Build Income
Media appearances can open doors to partnerships, clients, and new revenue streams. When you’re seen as an expert in your field, people want to work with you, learn from you, or invest in your ideas.
Real Talk:
Media is not about a hard sell—it’s about creating trust and showing people the value you bring. The opportunities will naturally follow if you use media to educate, inform, or entertain.
Example:
A marketing strategist, Rachel appeared on a business podcast to share tips for solopreneurs. She offered a free resource to listeners—her “5-Minute Marketing Plan.” That one interview brought her hundreds of email subscribers, many of whom became paying clients for her coaching programs.
Takeaway:
Media works best when it’s part of a more significant strategy. Use it to introduce people to what you do and let them decide how to engage with you further.
Why People Hesitate to Use Media
Even though media can offer incredible benefits, many people hold themselves back. Here are some of the most common reasons—and how to move past them:
- “I’m Not Ready.”
You don’t have to be perfect to share your story. Start with what you know, and let your authenticity shine. - “I’m Not Famous.”
Media isn’t reserved for big names. Many outlets are looking for fresh voices and real stories. - “What If I Mess Up?”
Mistakes happen. But every media appearance is a chance to learn and improve.
Solution: Start small. Pitch yourself to a niche podcast, contribute an article to an industry blog, or do a live Q&A on Instagram. The more you practice, the more confident you’ll become.
How to Get Started
Here’s how to take your first steps toward using media to grow your influence, impact, and income:
- Define Your Message: What do you want to share with the world? What makes your story unique?
- Find Your Audience: Identify the platforms (podcasts, blogs, TV shows) where your ideal audience is already paying attention.
- Prepare and Practice: Develop your talking points, anticipate common questions, and rehearse until you feel confident.
- Leverage Every Opportunity: Share it widely on your social platforms and with your network after your appearance. Repurpose the content for maximum visibility.
The Media Advantage
When you embrace media, you’re not just gaining exposure—you’re building trust, creating impact, and opening new doors. You’re giving people a reason to follow, work, or partner with you.
Remember: Media isn’t about being perfect. It’s about showing up, sharing your story, and adding value. The more you lean into that, the more opportunities will come.
About Dr. Tamara “Tami” Patzer
Dr. Tamara “Tami” Patzer pioneered media strategy and thought leadership. With more than 40 years of experience, she helps entrepreneurs and professionals amplify their voices and build lasting influence.
A global speaker, Tami has presented at prestigious venues like the Harvard Faculty Club, Nasdaq in Times Square, and Coca-Cola in Atlanta. Her expertise has been featured on NBC, CBS, CW, and ABC, where she shares actionable strategies for using media to grow influence, create impact, and generate income.
Tami is the creator of the CARE Framework (Credibility, Authority, Reach, Engagement) and the author of multiple bestsellers, including Beyond the Best Seller. She’s passionate about helping people turn their stories into platforms for success.
📩 Email: TamaraPatzer@gmail.com
📱 Text: 941-421-6563
📅 Schedule a Consultation: https://TamiPatzer.as.me/GetMedia
Published by Mark V.
