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How We Turn “Meh” Moments into A+ Features

Economic Insider Staff on July 21, 2025

By: Kate Sarmiento

The PR Playbook You Didn’t Know You Needed (But Definitely Do)

You’ve been there.

You launched a new product. You got a decent customer review. You hired someone cool. Maybe you even moved offices or hit 10K followers.

It’s not headline stuff, right? Or… is it?

At Don’t Be A Little Pitch (DBALP), we’ve made a habit (and a business) out of turning those so-called “meh” moments into media catnip. While most brands sit on small updates, thinking, “This isn’t news,” we say: “Watch this.”

Because the truth is, most coverage gold isn’t mined from groundbreaking launches or celebrity endorsements. It’s carved out of the everyday…  if you know how to tell the story right.

What Even Is a “Meh” Moment?

Let’s clarify. A “meh” moment isn’t meaningless. It just hasn’t been packaged properly.

Here are a few examples of what most brands underestimate:

  • A behind-the-scenes process
  • A product restock (yes, really)
  • A quirky founder habit or ritual
  • A small but loyal customer base
  • An anniversary or “birthday” of the company
  • A new colorway or product tweak

In your mind, it’s easily overlooked. But to the right editor, it’s a trend, a hook, a “did you know?” line buried in a bigger story.

According to a Muck Rack State of PR 2023 report, 73% of journalists say the biggest reason they ignore a pitch is because “it’s not relevant to their beat.” Not because it’s boring, but because it wasn’t framed in a way that connected to what they care about. That’s a storytelling issue. And that’s fixable.

How We Spin “Meh” into Media Magic

We don’t rely simply on gimmicks and hope for the best. We look at what’s already happening inside your brand, then build a real story around it, one that makes sense in the current media landscape.

1. Tie It to a Trend

Your CEO’s morning routine isn’t news until we frame it under “How Startup Founders Hack Focus in 2025.”

A product restock might feel like business as usual. But if it speaks to rising demand, it becomes part of a larger conversation.

We constantly scan what editors are covering, which headlines are gaining traction, and what audiences are responding to. Then we find the most natural connection point between your brand and what’s trending.

2. Add Expert Weight

We don’t just pitch updates. We pitch takes.

By attaching your brand’s POV to a broader conversation (AI, sustainability, slow fashion, workplace culture), we create relevant storylines that matter to editors and audiences alike. Even better? We draft pitches in your brand’s voice so editors don’t feel like they’re reading the same email for the 100th time.

3. Build a Visual & Emotional Hook

A strong visual, a clever turn of phrase, or a simple metaphor that hits home can stop an editor mid-scroll.

Humor? Still works. Relatability? Always wins. A quote that actually sounds like something a real human said? That’s the gold standard.

When it lands right, a small story becomes a big opportunity.

From Quiet Wins to National Headlines: How You Can Do It Too

Not everyone has a full PR team. But the mindset? That’s free. And the method? Proven.

Take Carved, a wood-and-resin phone accessory brand that came to us with one clear goal: national media coverage to boost brand visibility and sales.

Sounds like a tall order in a saturated market, right?

Spoiler: they landed features in Forbes, CNET, 9to5Mac, The Verge, and dozens more. And it started with what many would’ve dismissed as a minor update: handcrafted phone cases.

The product was great. The team was talented. But the story? That’s what we built.

We didn’t lead with “phone case.” We led with:

“Art you can hold. Handcrafted from the real landscapes of the planet. Every swirl, every grain, one of a kind… just like the person holding it.”

Then we layered:

  • Custom pitches in the voice of Carved’s founder
  • A gift strategy that wasn’t transactional, but experiential
  • Media lists targeting tech, lifestyle, gifting, and niche outlets
  • Follow-ups that didn’t feel like spam, they felt like human curiosity

The results?

  • 88 pieces of coverage (and counting)
  • A 78 percent email open rate and a 15 percent response rate
  • A 23 percent increase in monthly traffic
  • Exposure to 100 million-plus eyeballs via national and niche outlets

All because we didn’t wait for a big news moment. We built one. And that’s exactly what founders and marketers can do in-house, starting today. Here’s how:

Audit your last 30 days. What changed? What did you almost post to LinkedIn and then second-guess?

Ask, “What’s the story behind this?” Not just what happened, but why. And why now?

Match the moment to a movement. Is there a trend you can align with? A bigger wave to ride?

Find your spokespeople. Who on your team has a hot take? A personal story? A lived experience that connects to your update?

Stop waiting for perfect. Journalists want a good angle, not a flawless announcement. Done is better than invisible.

The difference between “meh” and media-worthy often comes down to framing, timing, and knowing how to connect the dots.

Carved didn’t change their product. They changed the way it was pitched. And that shift turned handcrafted accessories into national conversation starters.

You can do the same.

Let’s Make It Louder, Smarter, and Press-Ready

Brand gravity isn’t built on launches alone. It’s the momentum you build from showing up consistently and showing up with strategy.

At Don’t Be A Little Pitch (DBALP), we don’t wait for moments. We make them. We help brands turn quiet wins into bold headlines. Because the right pitch can make anything newsworthy.

Got a moment you think no one cares about? Let’s talk. We’ll make it louder. We’ll make it smarter. And we’ll make it press-ready.

Visit dontbealittlepitch.com and let’s build your media magic.

Using WickedFile to Track and Prevent Profit Loss in Auto Repair Shops

Economic Insider Staff on July 21, 2025

How Automating Financial Intelligence Can Transform Auto Shops

In a fast-paced environment like an auto repair shop, keeping a finger on the financial pulse can easily fall by the wayside. Owners and managers often find themselves caught up in day-to-day operations. With so many moving parts—juggling customer appointments, managing technician workloads, and overseeing service quality—financial tracking might not seem like a priority. However, this oversight can lead to significant profit leakage.

WickedFile steps into this scenario as a game-changing solution. By integrating seamlessly with existing management systems, it doesn’t just report on what has already occurred; it predicts and mitigates potential pitfalls before they impact the bottom line. For instance, if a part is ordered but not billed to a customer, WickedFile alerts the owner, allowing corrective action. This oversight typically goes unnoticed until a considerable amount has accumulated, leaving owners wondering where their profits have evaporated.

A compelling statistic from the American Automobile Association (AAA) highlights the urgency for such solutions. As labor and parts costs rise, shops can no longer afford to miss small but significant profit margins. This revelation becomes especially poignant when considering the potential recovery of lost labor. As Bob Saladna points out, capturing just a fraction of that lost revenue, about 5% to 10%, could translate into an extra five thousand to fifteen thousand dollars each month. That’s not just a statistic; that’s a reality check for business owners who might be inadvertently letting their earnings slip.

With WickedFile’s AI-powered analysis, shop owners can cultivate a clearer understanding of their operations. Data points collected from daily activities are transformed into insights that streamline operations and enhance profitability. For example, the platform can show profitability tracked by individual technicians and service advisors, helping identify who’s generating the most value. It also ties in historical trends, allowing managers to develop more accurate forecasts as they plan for the future.

Ultimately, the businesses that choose to leverage this kind of technology are not merely adapting to changing market conditions; they are setting themselves up as frontrunners in an increasingly competitive field. As the industry landscape continues to shift, the adoption of AI and data analytics will separate the thriving shops from those that remain stagnant.

In light of this, now is the opportune moment for auto repair shops to explore tools like WickedFile. By providing daily visibility into essential metrics such as parts usage and team performance, they can mitigate losses and safeguard revenue. If your operations might benefit from increased visibility, consider taking a closer look at how innovative solutions can help put your shop on the path to sustained profitability.

For more information about implementing financial visibility in your auto repair shop, visit WickedFile.com.

The Future of Auto Repair Businesses

The auto repair industry is at a crossroads. As challenges mount from rising costs to declining profit margins, the need for innovative solutions becomes ever more pressing. Auto shops must adapt to remain competitive. Those that embrace technology, specifically AI-driven tools like WickedFile, are likely to gain a significant advantage.

One of the most pressing realities is the increasing complexity of managing auto shops effectively. With more vehicles on the road than ever before and a growing customer base, maintaining profitability hinges on optimizing every aspect of the business. This includes vigilant financial tracking and process streamlining. As competition intensifies, shop owners who can enhance operational transparency will not only safeguard their profits but potentially accelerate their growth.

Making informed decisions based on real-time data is no longer an option; it is essential. Using platforms like WickedFile, which provide specific insights about parts usage and technician efficiency, can translate to smarter inventory management. By ensuring that every part is properly accounted for and billed, shops can close the gaps that lead to unnoticed revenue loss.

In addition, the insights from these platforms can foster a culture of accountability among staff. Technicians aware that their performance is being monitored may take greater care in their work, contributing to higher quality service and better customer retention. Improved service quality leads to greater customer satisfaction, which is invaluable in building a loyal client base.

As the industry evolves, the conversation about profit leakage needs to become part of a broader dialogue about innovation in auto repair. Tools like WickedFile are at the forefront of this change, helping shop owners to not just visualize but understand their financial health at a granular level. This degree of insight encourages proactive management rather than reactive fixes, placing shops on a firm footing for future success.

In conclusion, auto repair businesses today face multiple pressures that can jeopardize their profitability. By leveraging advanced technology designed for enhanced operational transparency and accountability, they can effectively combat profit leakage. For those looking to maximize revenue and streamline operations, now is the time to explore solutions like WickedFile and reclaim control over their financial futures. For further exploration of these innovative solutions, visit WickedFile.com.

 

Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for general informational purposes only. The views expressed are those of the author and do not constitute professional or financial advice. Results may vary, and readers are encouraged to consult with relevant professionals before making any business or financial decisions.

Harmony Group Capital Elaborates on How Abandoned Mills Are Reshaping American Cities

Economic Insider Staff on July 21, 2025

Industrial mills, once the backbone of American cities, are now increasingly seen as opportunities for urban revitalization. What were once abandoned and decaying structures are gradually being viewed as assets. Cities across the country are exploring ways to transform mills into residential, commercial, and public spaces while maintaining their industrial heritage.

From the textile towns of the South to the manufacturing hubs of the Northeast, Harmony Group Capital suggests that these projects are reshaping urban landscapes, stimulating local economies, and sparking conversations about sustainability. Although challenges persist, such as environmental concerns and the risk of gentrification, there are examples of successful redevelopments that illustrate the potential when cities invest in preserving their architectural legacy.

Industrial and Urban Decline

Throughout the 19th and early 20th centuries, mills played a central role in American industries, driving local economies and shaping the identities of entire cities. Textile, grain, and paper mills lined rivers and railways, particularly in the Northeast and Midwest, serving as key employers and community anchors.

As global manufacturing shifted and automation advanced, many of these once-thriving sites were left behind. Cities like Paterson, New Jersey, and Birmingham, Alabama, saw widespread closures as jobs moved overseas or diminished altogether. The resulting vacancies contributed to urban decline, leaving behind massive brick structures that became symbols of a changing economic landscape.

In the South, towns once centered around cotton mills also experienced significant economic decline. These areas often faced long-term disinvestment, but the physical presence of the mills remained—weathered but structurally sound—awaiting opportunities for new uses. Their looming silhouettes continued to dominate the local skyline, reminiscent of a time when industry dictated the rhythm of daily life.

Adaptive Reuse

In recent years, cities have begun to recognize the potential of their defunct industrial spaces, with adaptive reuse emerging as a favored approach. Rather than demolishing these historic mills, developers and municipalities are finding innovative ways to restore them. This strategy not only helps preserve the character of the buildings but also provides a more sustainable alternative to new construction.

In places like Providence, Rhode Island, and Greenville, South Carolina, local governments have worked alongside private developers to revive shuttered mills, turning them into vibrant community assets. Tax incentives tied to historic preservation efforts can help offset high renovation costs, making these projects more financially viable. The blend of old-world architecture with modern functionality offers both charm and practicality, attracting interest from investors and residents alike. Such initiatives have often become catalysts for further neighborhood development.

New Purposes for Old Structures

Former mill buildings are being transformed into dynamic mixed-use spaces that serve a wide range of community needs. What was once a textile factory might now house open-plan lofts with exposed brick walls, boutique retail spaces, or modern co-working hubs. This flexibility allows cities to meet evolving demands without losing their architectural heritage.

Structures originally designed for manufacturing are now well-suited for open-concept layouts and creative uses that appeal to today’s metropolitan residents. In North Carolina, a former crop processing mill now operates as a thriving innovation hub, home to tech startups and artisanal shops. Meanwhile, in Massachusetts, an old paper mill has been converted into affordable housing combined with a community arts center. The ability to adapt these spaces to a neighborhood’s needs has made them key contributors to urban renewal in many cities.

Positive Impacts on Local Communities

When old mills are revived, they often catalyze further revitalization in surrounding neighborhoods. These once-forgotten structures can serve as anchors, attracting new businesses and foot traffic to areas that had long been overlooked. Local economies benefit not only from construction activity but also from the ongoing commercial and residential use of the space. Streets that were once quiet and neglected are now lively with pedestrians, local shops, and community events.

Barriers and Public Concerns

Despite their potential, mill redevelopment projects face a complex set of challenges. Costs tied to environmental cleanup, code compliance, and structural reinforcements can sometimes escalate, deterring smaller investors. These buildings, while structurally sound, often require extensive upgrades to meet modern safety and accessibility standards.

Community pushback can also arise, particularly when redevelopment leads to rising rents and the displacement of long-term residents. The balance remains delicate, especially in neighborhoods with limited affordable housing options. Concerns over the loss of cultural identity may arise when redevelopment favors wealthier tenants over local needs. Ensuring transparent communication and community involvement is often crucial to addressing these concerns.

Emerging Trends

Looking ahead, more projects are incorporating environmentally conscious design and community input from the outset. The shift toward pedestrian-friendly, mixed-use spaces reflects a growing awareness that these areas must serve more than economic objectives—they should also align with the values and needs of the communities they serve.

Growth Strategies: Exploring Different Avenues for Expanding Your Business

Economic Insider Staff 2 on July 21, 2025

Making a business larger or reaching new areas is often a really exciting step, but it certainly comes with its own set of challenges. Whether a company is thinking about things like letting others use its brand, sharing its special ideas, or bringing out new products or services, each way of growing offers its own chances and hurdles. It’s worth exploring these different routes for making a business bigger to see which might be a good fit for specific goals and resources.

Read also: Your Business’s Best Listener: Why Understanding Customers Fuels Growth

Spreading the Brand: The Idea Behind Franchising

Franchising is a widely known way for a business to grow. Here, the original business owner, known as the franchisor, gives other individuals or groups (the franchisees) permission to run their own locations. These new spots use the franchisor’s established brand name, sell its products, and follow its proven way of doing business. This particular approach can lead to a fairly quick expansion without the original business needing to put in a lot of its own money for new setups.

One big plus with franchising is how it helps keep brand consistency strong across many different places. Since franchisees follow the franchisor’s well-tested systems and rules, customers can expect the same experience no matter which location they visit. This builds trust and recognition. Another benefit is sharing risks. The person or group opening the new location typically covers the costs of setting it up and running it. This helps lower the financial risk for the original business. Franchisors also gain revenue streams through initial franchise fees and then ongoing payments (royalties) based on sales, which provides a steady income. However, for franchising to work well, the original business really needs a strong brand that people recognize, a business model that has already shown it works, and a solid plan for training and supporting its franchisees to help them succeed.

Sharing Innovation: How Licensing Opens Doors

Licensing presents another smart way for a business to expand. This involves giving another company the right to use valuable intellectual property, such as registered names (trademarks), unique inventions (patents), or special company knowledge (proprietary technology). This can be a very cost-effective way to grow a business without the need to directly manage new locations or day-to-day operations.

Licensing allows a business to leverage existing networks. It essentially lets the company using the license tap into their established ways of getting products out and their existing group of customers. This can really speed up how quickly a product or service gets into a new market. It also lets the original business focus on its main strengths. By licensing out products or technology, the core team can concentrate on what they do best, while the licensee handles things like making the product, marketing it, and selling it. This also creates new revenue from licensing fees and ongoing royalties, setting up a sort of passive income stream. Licensing tends to be a good fit for businesses that have strong, protected intellectual property and are looking to get into new markets or industries without needing a huge investment themselves.

Fresh Ideas: Launching New Products or Services

Bringing new products or services to the market is a very direct way for a business to grow. It aims to get a bigger share of the existing market and attract more customers. This path often involves a lot of creativity, careful market research, and sometimes a pretty big investment. However, if done well, it can bring about significant rewards.

Introducing new offerings helps with diversification. It means a business isn’t putting all its eggs in one basket, reducing its reliance on just one product or a single market. This can make the business more stable. New products or services can also help a business meet evolving market demand. As customer needs and preferences change, having fresh items or services keeps the business relevant and competitive. There are often cross-selling opportunities as well. When a business offers a wider range of items or services, it can encourage existing customers to buy more, which can lead to higher overall sales and build stronger customer loyalty. For this strategy to succeed, a business truly needs to understand its market deeply, have a strong marketing plan, and be able to create new ideas and adjust quickly to changes.

Teaming Up: The Power of Strategic Partnerships

Forming strategic partnerships can be a very strong way to grow, allowing businesses to use each other’s strengths and resources. These partnerships can come in many forms, including joint ventures where two businesses create a new separate entity, simple collaborations on a specific project, or broader alliances for mutual benefit.

A major advantage is resource sharing. Partners can combine things like technology, specialized knowledge, and ways to get products out, which often helps lower costs and makes things more efficient for everyone involved. These partnerships can also open up market access to new groups of customers or even entire new geographical areas that might have been tough to reach alone. Collaborating with other businesses often gives a boost to innovation. By bringing together different perspectives and skills, new ideas can form more easily, leading to fresh solutions. Choosing the right partner and making sure roles, responsibilities, and goals are very clear from the start are absolutely vital for a successful partnership.

New Horizons: Expanding into Different Markets

Expanding into new geographical areas or new groups of people (demographic markets) is a common way businesses grow. This kind of move can significantly increase a company’s customer base and bring in more revenue.

Before stepping into a new market, thorough market research is essential. This helps a business understand the unique needs, preferences, and competitive landscape of that new area. It’s also important to be ready for adaptation. Products, services, and marketing approaches might need to be adjusted to fit the new market’s culture and expectations for success. Establishing a local presence can also be very helpful. This might involve setting up partnerships, opening local offices, or even using the franchise model to build trust and credibility with new customers. While this strategy can be complex and require a good amount of resources, the potential for big growth and spreading out risks often makes it a worthwhile consideration for many businesses.

Read also: Public, Private, and Hybrid Cloud Computing: Which Model Fits Different Business Needs?

Tech as a Driver: The Role of Digital Transformation in Business Growth

Digital transformation involves using technology to make business processes better, improve how customers experience a brand, and generally drive growth. This can be a game-changer for businesses looking to expand their reach and operations.

Building a solid online presence through good websites, active social media, and effective e-commerce platforms can really expand how far a business can reach and attract new customers from all over. Using data analytics to understand what customers are doing and what trends are happening in the market can lead to much smarter business decisions and strategies. Also, bringing in digital tools and automation can streamline how things operate, cut down on costs, and make everyone more productive. Embracing digital transformation means being willing to invest in new technologies and adjust to ever-changing market conditions. It’s a continuous journey of adapting and evolving.

Choosing the right way to grow a business depends heavily on its specific aims, the resources it has available, and the current market conditions. Whether the choice falls on franchising, licensing, launching new products or services, forming strategic partnerships, expanding into new markets, or diving into digital transformation, each path offers its own chances and challenges. By carefully thinking through all the options and developing a clear, strategic plan, a business can successfully navigate its journey toward significant growth.

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