Crafting Authenticity: PR, Branding, and the Senora Era with Ann Dunning

Lisha Bell

Economic Opportunity Fund Manager @ PayPal | Investing in Underrepresented Founders | Podcast Host Sisters with Ventures| BT 20

Published Jun 29, 2024

Summary

In this conversation, Lisha Bell interviews Ann Dunning, co-founder of BLXPC and Vas Migas. They discuss the importance of PR for startups, the power of storytelling, and the creation of a successful brand. Ann shares her experience in the PR industry and how she helps startups grow through media strategies. She also talks about the founding of Vas Migas, a Latina wellness and beauty company, and the importance of creating an authentic community. The conversation touches on topics such as funding disparities for BIPOC founders and the challenges of balancing entrepreneurship with motherhood. They also explore the concept of 'Senora Era' and how it relates to ancestral traditions and slow living. It discusses the activities and rituals that can bring joy and calmness during challenging times. The conversation also highlights the idea of Senora Era as a rejection of hustle culture and emphasizes the importance of work-life balance. The guest shares advice for her younger self and provides information on how to follow her work on TikTok and her website.

Takeaways

PR is crucial for startups as it can make a significant difference in funding, user acquisition, and media attention.
Crafting a compelling story and pitching it to reporters can help founders create interest and reach their business goals.
Creating an authentic brand and community can set a startup apart from big brands and resonate with a niche audience.
Funding disparities exist for BIPOC founders, and media attention can help address this issue by increasing visibility and opportunities.
Senora Era is a concept that connects individuals to their ancestral traditions and promotes slow living.
Taking risks and stepping outside of one's comfort zone can lead to more opportunities.

Sound Bites

"Meet the PayPal mafia 3.0, the up and coming, hottest new angel investors, BIPOC angel investors, this side of Silicon Valley."
"Always get your story first and get it right. Media is going to help you not only get customers, but maybe more importantly, reach your business goals."

Chapters