Smart Talk Series

Melissa Vela-Williamson, APR

The Smart Talk Series -- dive into communication strategies, tips, and principles using a 360-degree approach with your host Melissa Vela-Williamson. Melissa is an accredited public relations expert, entrepreneur, and national columnist. This series will focus on a theme over the span of six weekly episodes. Listen as Melissa dives into a topic on her own, interviews industry experts, and gives listeners a broad perspective to learn from. Communication is the foundation of professional or personal success. So anyone ready to hear real talk about how to better communicate on topics that matter is welcome!

  1. Episode 75

    Creating Your Niche with Jonathan Carone

    Resilience is key when you’re going all in on a niche. As external factors change, your passion and skills will help you stay afloat. Join Melissa as she kicks off season 12 with Jonathan Carone, the owner and creative director of Carone Designs and founder of Healthy Sports Parents. Listen as they discuss this season’s theme of finding your niche. About Jonathan:  Jonathan Carone has spent the last 10+ years helping organizations communicate more clearly, connect more deeply, and build trust with the people they serve. That's his day job at CaroneDesigns. But on the side, he's been building a new platform called Healthy Sports Parents. What started as a side project has become a fast-growing media platform with over 165,000 followers and 3M+ monthly views across social media helping moms, dads, and coaches navigate the world of youth sports with more empathy, perspective, and presence. Connect with Jonathan on LinkedIn  Topics covered: - Jonathan’s journey to his niche - The inspiration for Healthy Sports Parents - How to cut through the noise and connect with an audience - What HSP taught Jonathan about communications - Tips for using communication for good Resources mentioned:  - Carone Designs - Healthy Sports Parents - Parents 2026 Next Gen Awards - Opportunity Knocks - Pitch Ideas Like A PR Pro Digital Course - "Latinas in Public Relations: Shaping Communications, Communities, and Culture" - "Smart Talk: Public Relations Essentials All Pros Should Know" - MVW Communications

About

The Smart Talk Series -- dive into communication strategies, tips, and principles using a 360-degree approach with your host Melissa Vela-Williamson. Melissa is an accredited public relations expert, entrepreneur, and national columnist. This series will focus on a theme over the span of six weekly episodes. Listen as Melissa dives into a topic on her own, interviews industry experts, and gives listeners a broad perspective to learn from. Communication is the foundation of professional or personal success. So anyone ready to hear real talk about how to better communicate on topics that matter is welcome!

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