Renowned PR strategist Pristina Alford, recognized by PR Week, Business Insider, and LA Business Journal, has launched Alford & Co. Public Relations, a minority-owned agency headquartered in Los Angeles. With a mission to amplify culture-driven brands, Alford & Co. blends storytelling, strategy, and media relations to elevate emerging and established voices across industries.

With 15+ years of experience leading high-impact campaigns for global brands and industry disruptors, Alford brings a fresh approach to PR—one rooted in innovation, authenticity, and cultural resonance.

A New Era in PR & Brand Elevation

Alford & Co. is already making an impact, executing campaigns for a diverse roster of clients in:

• Consumer & Lifestyle – UPROXX Studios, Turning Point Brands (Zig-Zag Rolling Papers)
• Business & Hospitality – Krystal Restaurants, FIXINS (Kevin Johnson’s restaurant venture)
• Social Impact & Talent – NBA stars Jaylen Brown & Jason Kidd’s The XChange initiative
• Arts & Entertainment – Glenn Kaino, Creature World, Grace Charis, Sagan Lockhart

"We’re rewriting the narrative of what a PR agency looks like," said Pristina Alford, Founder of Alford & Co. "As an Asian and Black Millennial female entrepreneur, I am committed to fostering innovation, authenticity, and empowerment. Culture drives the most influential brands today, and strategic, impactful storytelling is essential—Alford & Co. is leading the charge."

Comprehensive PR & Brand Strategy Services

Alford & Co. offers a full suite of services to help brands engage audiences and strengthen their presence:

• Public Relations Strategy – Custom campaigns tailored for brand elevation
• Brand Storytelling – Narrative development for deeper audience engagement
• Partnerships & Influencer Engagement – Strategic alliances with cultural tastemakers
• Special Events & Thought Leadership – Curating impactful experiences and industry influence
• Media Relations & Cultural Counsel – Navigating PR in an evolving media landscape

As the PR industry shifts toward authenticity, inclusivity, and culture-driven storytelling, Alford & Co. stands as a trailblazer in the space. With a visionary team and a bold approach, the agency is set to inspire the next generation of PR professionals and elevate brands to new heights.

With over 3.5 million startups, the U.S. leads the world in entrepreneurship, yet 20% of new businesses fail within their first year. As funding grows more competitive, credibility—not just innovation—is the key to survival. According to Gartner, enterprise buyers now prioritize trustworthiness and industry expertise over cutting-edge tech alone.

Karla Jo Helms (KJ), Chief Evangelist and Anti-PR® Strategist at JOTO PR Disruptors™, argues that the most successful startups don’t just innovate—they control their narrative and build undeniable influence. At Localogy 25 (L25) on March 23rd at Ohio State University, Helms will present:

“Anti-PR: The New Playbook for Controlling Your Narrative and Winning Market Domination.”

Her session will provide founders, investors, and startup leaders with actionable insights into navigating today’s competitive landscape.

Challenges Holding Tech Startups Back in 2025

1. The Tech Talent War

• Startups struggle to attract top talent due to Big Tech’s competitive salaries and benefits.
• Deloitte’s 2025 tech outlook highlights the "build-or-buy" dilemma, where larger companies acquire startups for talent, leaving smaller ventures without the resources to compete.

2. Partnership Pitfalls

• Strategic partnerships can accelerate growth, but enterprises are becoming more selective in 2025.
• Short-lived trends and weak agreements can lead to startups losing their ideas to larger competitors who absorb, rebrand, or sideline innovations.

3. Risk Management Blind Spots

• Many startups prioritize speed over security, leading to compliance and regulatory gaps.
• In 2025, enterprise buyers demand proof of resilience, meaning startups without a solid risk mitigation strategy risk losing deals.

The Anti-PR Advantage: Taking Control in 2025

JOTO PR’s Anti-PR approach offers startups an alternative to traditional PR, focusing on credibility, transparency, and strategic influence.

"The reality is this—whether you choose to play the PR game or not, you're already in it. The only question is: are you in control, or is someone else pulling the strings?" — Karla Jo Helms

At Localogy 25, Helms will share five core strategies to help startups take charge of their public image and market position:

1. How traditional PR lost its way—and how to turn it to your advantage.
2. Why media isn't about truth—it's about control (and how to take it back).
3. The Anti-PR method—making your company impossible to ignore.
4. How disruptors build influence without waiting for permission.
5. Real-world success stories of startups turning PR battles into market dominance.

Why Anti-PR Matters for Startups

Beyond messaging, Anti-PR helps startups:
Navigate risk and protect their long-term interests
Secure high-value partnerships aligned with their mission
Tailor crisis communication to different audiences
Differentiate themselves in a saturated market

"Success in 2025 requires more than just brand awareness—it demands differentiation, resilience, and a proactive approach to reputation management." — Helms

Startups that master credibility, trust, and influence will be the ones that thrive in 2025 and beyond.

With over 1 billion active users, Instagram remains one of the most powerful platforms for businesses, advertisers, and content creators. However, success on Instagram isn’t just about posting regularly—it’s about understanding the audience.

Who are Instagram’s primary users? What age groups, gender demographics, income levels, and geographic locations drive the most engagement? How can businesses use these insights to optimize ad campaigns and content strategies?

Ayrshare’s new report, Instagram Demographics 2025: Key Audience Insights and Statistics, provides a comprehensive analysis of Instagram’s evolving user base. These insights help brands and marketers craft data-driven strategies that maximize engagement and ROI.

Why Instagram Demographics Matter for Marketers

Understanding who is using Instagram and how they engage with content allows businesses to:

Optimize ad targeting by focusing on locations and age groups that engage the most.
Refine content strategy based on audience preferences and engagement trends.
Measure campaign success by tracking demographic shifts over time.
Enhance influencer collaborations by selecting influencers with the right audience match.

With Instagram’s user base constantly evolving, staying informed about demographic trends is essential for staying ahead of the competition.

Instagram Demographic Insights for 2025

1. Age and Gender Breakdown

• Instagram continues to be dominated by younger users, but usage among older demographics is growing.
• What’s changing in 2025? Ayrshare’s report dives into how age groups are shifting and what that means for brands.
• Gender insights: Do men and women engage with content differently? Understanding these patterns helps optimize messaging.

2. Geographic Distribution

• Instagram has a global reach, but engagement rates vary across different countries.
• The report highlights which regions are experiencing the highest growth and how brands can leverage location-based marketing.

3. Income and Spending Behavior

• Instagram users spend more online than users of many other social platforms.
• Ayrshare’s data reveals which income brackets are most active and how that translates to advertising potential.

4. Engagement Trends

• What types of content drive the highest engagement in 2025?
• How do user preferences change based on age, gender, and location?
• The report breaks down story views, reel interactions, and post engagements to help brands refine their strategy.

How Businesses Can Use Instagram Demographics to Succeed

1. Data-Driven Ad Targeting

• Use demographic insights to fine-tune ad placements, ensuring the right audience sees your message.

2. Optimized Content Strategy

• Tailor content to specific age groups, locations, and engagement behaviors.
• Adjust posting times and formats based on when and how users interact with content.

3. Smarter Influencer Partnerships

• Choose influencers whose audience aligns with your brand’s target demographics for better ROI.

4. Competitive Advantage

• Stay ahead of competitors by leveraging real-time demographic shifts to inform your marketing approach.

Instagram continues to evolve, and so do its users. Ayrshare’s Instagram Demographics 2025 report provides the latest insights to help brands, marketers, and advertisers stay ahead in a competitive digital landscape.

With data-driven strategies, businesses can create more impactful content, smarter ad placements, and better customer experiences—ultimately driving real business results.

In an era where businesses struggle to see measurable ROI from digital marketing, Surch Digital, a leading digital marketing agency, has introduced a game-changing initiative: the "Double Down Guarantee." This performance-based promise ensures that clients achieve their targeted lead volume and SEO rankings—or Surch Digital works for free until they do.

This bold new approach is designed to give small and medium-sized businesses in home services, medical/aesthetic practices, and law firms the confidence to invest in marketing without the fear of wasted spending.

Why the "Double Down Guarantee" is a Game-Changer

Many businesses hesitate to invest in digital marketing because of uncertain returns. With rising competition in industries like home services, healthcare, and legal services, achieving strong lead generation and SEO rankings is more crucial than ever.

Surch Digital’s "Double Down Guarantee" removes that uncertainty by ensuring:

Lead Volume Assurance – If the agreed-upon number of leads is not met, Surch Digital continues working at no additional cost until the target is reached.
SEO Ranking Assurance – If the business does not achieve page one rankings on Google within the promised timeframe, Surch Digital provides SEO services free of charge until the goal is met.

"We understand that investing in digital marketing can feel like a gamble," said Greg George, CEO of Surch Digital. "With our Double Down Guarantee, we’re putting the responsibility on us to perform. If we don’t deliver, we work for free until we do."

How Surch Digital Drives Guaranteed Growth

Surch Digital specializes in data-driven, customized marketing solutions that help local businesses dominate their markets. Their services include:

• SEO Optimization: Advanced search engine strategies to secure first-page rankings on Google.
• Google Ads Management: Optimized PPC campaigns to maximize lead generation and ROI.
• Social Media Advertising: Targeted ad strategies to engage and convert local audiences.
• Web Design & Development: High-converting, mobile-optimized websites for better user engagement.
• Google Business Profile Management: Enhancing local search visibility and boosting lead generation.

Industries Surch Digital Serves

The agency provides specialized marketing strategies for:

Home Services (Plumbers, HVAC, Electricians, Roofers, and more)
Medical & Aesthetic Practices (Chiropractors, Dentists, Med Spas)
Law Firms & Legal Services (Family Law, Personal Injury, Criminal Defense)
Local Service Providers (Accountants, Real Estate Agents, Financial Advisors)

Why Businesses Are Choosing Surch Digital

Unlike many agencies that provide generic, one-size-fits-all marketing, Surch Digital’s performance-based approach focuses on measurable results and ROI-driven strategies.

Benefits of Partnering with Surch Digital:
Guaranteed Performance: If results aren’t met, clients don’t pay until they are.
Custom Strategies: Data-driven campaigns tailored to specific industries and local markets.
Transparency & Accountability: No hidden fees, no vague promises—just real, trackable results.

"The lifeblood of any local business is a steady stream of leads," added Greg George. "With our guarantee, businesses can invest with confidence, knowing that their marketing dollars are protected."

Surch Digital’s "Double Down Guarantee" sets a new industry standard by eliminating risk and ensuring results. This commitment to transparency and performance makes them a trusted marketing partner for businesses looking to dominate their local markets.

For businesses ready to experience risk-free, results-driven marketing, Surch Digital is currently accepting new clients nationwide.

SurveyMonkey, the leading survey and forms platform, has introduced Connect, a no-code library designed to integrate survey data with widely used business applications. This new feature empowers users to automate workflows, enhance collaboration, and streamline data management without requiring separate integrations. Available across all plans, Connect allows businesses to maximize the value of their survey insights efficiently.

Features of SurveyMonkey Connect

1. Seamless Integration with Business Apps

• Connect survey responses directly to applications like Microsoft Teams and Slack, with Excel and Google Sheets support coming soon.
• Automate actions such as sending notifications and updating spreadsheets within these tools.
• Eliminates the need for third-party integrations, reducing setup complexity.

2. Centralized Access to Apps and Automations

• Users can discover integrations and automation options within a single interface.
• Eliminates the need to switch between platforms to manage survey data.
• Simplifies the process of leveraging survey insights across teams.

3. Automated Workflows for Efficiency

• Automate repetitive tasks, such as copying responses into spreadsheets.
• Minimize manual errors and delays in data processing.
• Optimize real-time collaboration through instant updates in communication tools.

4. Enhanced Data Insights and Collaboration

• Combine survey data with other sources to gain richer insights.
• Enable teams to work smarter with automated notifications in existing workplace tools.
• Improve response management for HR, marketing, and customer experience teams.

Use Cases of SurveyMonkey Connect

HR & Employee Feedback

• HR teams can instantly share employee feedback with relevant departments via Slack or Microsoft Teams.
• Enables faster follow-up and improved employee engagement.

Marketing & Customer Experience

• Automate the process of updating survey responses into Excel for in-depth analysis.
• CX teams can track and respond to customer complaints in real time through automated notifications.

SurveyMonkey’s Vision for Data Flow

SurveyMonkey CEO Eric Johnson emphasized that Connect bridges survey creation and workplace tools, eliminating data silos and enabling seamless workflow automation. By allowing data to flow freely into essential systems, SurveyMonkey continues to enhance user efficiency and decision-making capabilities.

SurveyMonkey Connect empowers businesses with effortless data automation, improving collaboration and decision-making. By eliminating the need for manual data handling, teams can focus on insights and action rather than administration. As business apps continue to evolve, Connect positions SurveyMonkey as a key player in no-code data integration solutions.

Joseph Studios, a leader in intelligence-based organic marketing, has announced the launch of ImagineNation, a full-service art and design agency. This strategic expansion enhances Joseph Studios’ ability to offer comprehensive branding, marketing, and design solutions, reinforcing its position as a holistic growth partner for businesses.

By integrating creative design with data-driven marketing strategies, Joseph Studios ensures brands not only reach their target audiences but also create lasting impact.

Why This Expansion Matters

1. Bridging Strategy and Visual Identity

• Joseph Studios combines data-driven marketing with high-quality design services through ImagineNation.
• Ensures seamless brand storytelling across all touchpoints.
• Enhances brand recognition and engagement through cohesive marketing strategies.

2. Comprehensive Service Offerings

ImagineNation’s Core Services:

• Brand Identity Development – Crafting logos, color palettes, and brand guidelines.
• Marketing Collateral – Designing brochures, catalogs, and social media graphics.
• Digital & Web Design – Creating websites, landing pages, and digital ads.
• Packaging & Environmental Design – Developing innovative packaging and experiential graphics.

Joseph Studios’ Core Services:

• Digital Strategy – Crafting targeted digital marketing plans.
• Content Marketing – Producing engaging, high-impact content.
• Social Media Marketing – Managing and optimizing social media campaigns.
• Search Engine Optimization (SEO) – Boosting organic traffic and visibility.
• Public Relations (PR) – Strengthening brand reputation and media outreach.
• Email Marketing – Running strategic email campaigns for lead generation.

The Impact on Businesses

1. Seamless Brand Consistency

• Unified branding and marketing strategies ensure a cohesive brand presence.
• Companies benefit from consistent messaging and visuals across all platforms.

2. Increased Audience Engagement

• By merging intelligence-driven marketing with creative design, brands enhance customer experience.
• Stronger storytelling and visual appeal lead to higher engagement and conversion rates.

3. Improved ROI and Growth

• Businesses gain access to a streamlined, data-backed creative process.
• Eliminates the need for multiple vendors, reducing costs and improving marketing efficiency.

With the launch of ImagineNation, Joseph Studios is redefining integrated marketing by merging strategic intelligence with creative excellence. Businesses can now leverage a full-spectrum approach to branding, marketing, and design, ensuring greater visibility, engagement, and long-term success.

Finding the right photographer is now effortless with the launch of RebookMedia, a user-friendly online marketplace designed to seamlessly connect photographers and clients. By eliminating the hassle of traditional booking processes, RebookMedia offers a streamlined solution for discovering, booking, and collaborating with photographers across various specialties.

Founder and CEO Anthony Escribens emphasizes the platform’s mission:
"Photography is an art, and booking a photographer should be just as seamless. We designed RebookMedia to empower photographers while simplifying the client experience."

Why RebookMedia Stands Out

1. A One-Stop Platform for Photographers and Clients

• For Photographers:
  • Gain visibility and exposure with a dedicated profile and portfolio.
  • Manage bookings without the need for third-party directories.
  • Receive leads and inquiries in one centralized location.
• For Clients:
  • Compare photographers by specialty, pricing, and reviews.
  • Book professionals with a seamless, hassle-free process.
  • Communicate and transact securely through the platform.

2. Diverse Photography Categories

Unlike niche-specific booking platforms, RebookMedia offers a broad range of photography services, ensuring clients find the right professional for their needs:

• Wedding & Event Photography – Capture special moments with ease.
• Real Estate Photography – Enhance property listings with professional imagery.
• Commercial & Branding Photography – Elevate business visuals for marketing success.
• Portrait & Lifestyle Photography – Book experts for family, newborn, or headshot sessions.

Features of RebookMedia

1. Comprehensive Photographer Profiles

• Display detailed portfolios, verified reviews, and service offerings.
• Allow clients to compare expertise and specialties easily.

2. Seamless Booking & Communication

• Book photographers without endless back-and-forth emails.
• Integrated secure messaging and payment system ensures a hassle-free experience.

3. Free & Accessible Platform

• No hidden fees – Signing up and listing services is free for photographers.
• Clients can browse and book professionals at transparent rates.

4. Business Growth Tools for Photographers

• Customizable portfolios to showcase expertise.
• SEO-friendly exposure to drive bookings.
• Lead generation tools to connect with potential clients.

Empowering Photographers to Focus on Their Craft

RebookMedia is more than just a booking platform—it’s a growth tool for photographers. Whether independent freelancers or studio professionals, photographers can now:

• Attract more clients with optimized search visibility.
• Streamline their workflow by managing inquiries and payments in one place.
• Expand their business without worrying about logistics.

As Escribens puts it:
"Our mission is to provide photographers with the tools they need to focus on their craft while we handle the logistics."

RebookMedia is redefining the photography booking experience, making it more efficient, accessible, and beneficial for both clients and professionals. With diverse service offerings, intuitive booking, and business-friendly tools, it is set to become an essential platform for photographers looking to scale their careers and clients seeking high-quality photography services.

Datatonic has announced its partnership with the United Football League (UFL) to create a centralized data repository using Google Cloud’s BigQuery and Looker. This initiative aims to help the UFL analyze ticket purchasing patterns, optimize fan engagement strategies, and create high-value audience segments for ad buying.

The UFL, formed in 2024 from the merger of the XFL and USFL, operates as the premier spring football league. With vast amounts of ticketing, revenue, and marketing data, the league sought to establish a unified data foundation to unlock AI-driven insights and new business opportunities.

The Need for a Unified Data Platform

Previously, the UFL relied on black-box SaaS reporting tools that limited its ability to extract meaningful insights. By migrating to Google Cloud’s open data infrastructure, the league now benefits from:

• Faster data access – Reports that once took hours or days are now available in minutes.
• Comprehensive data integration – A centralized system consolidates ticket sales, marketing analytics, and fan engagement metrics.
• Scalability – The foundation supports advanced AI and machine learning models for future growth.

Cases Enabled by Datatonic’s Solution

1. Ticketing and Revenue Reporting

• Real-time insights into ticket sales performance.
• Revenue tracking across different teams, venues, and marketing campaigns.
• Improved forecasting for season ticket sales and promotions.

2. Fan Engagement & Personalization

• Analyzing fan behavior to tailor promotions and offers.
• Enhancing in-stadium experiences through personalized services.
• Creating audience segments for targeted engagement campaigns.

Future Opportunities for the UFL

With its new data infrastructure, the UFL is now well-positioned to explore additional use cases, including:

1. Targeted Marketing Campaigns

• Leveraging AI to identify high-value fan segments.
• Personalizing promotions for ticket sales, merchandise, and experiences.

2. In-Stadium Revenue Optimization

• Real-time tracking of concessions, merchandise, and VIP packages.
• Data-driven pricing and inventory management.

3. Sponsorship Activation

• Delivering data-backed insights to attract high-value sponsors.
• Enabling brands to target specific audience demographics with precision.

Strategic Data Partnerships for the UFL

The new platform aggregates data from multiple sources, including:

• Ticketmaster – Direct access to ticketing insights.
• Salesforce & Salesforce Marketing Cloud – CRM and customer engagement data.
• Live Analytics – In-depth fan behavior insights.

Datatonic’s partnership with Ticketmaster grants the UFL unparalleled access to ticketing data, allowing the league to enhance its fan engagement strategies with real-time analytics and predictive modeling.

A Game-Changer for the UFL

According to Jeroen van den Bergh, UFL SVP of Corporate Strategy and Business Intelligence:
"To be able to access data in moments, rather than hours or days, significantly benefits our fanbase as we find new ways to engage them and enhance their in-arena experience."

By leveraging Google Cloud’s ecosystem, including BigQuery and Looker, the UFL can now:

• Make faster, data-driven decisions.
• Enhance fan experiences through targeted engagement.
• Develop innovative solutions to drive revenue growth.

With the support of Datatonic and Google Cloud, the UFL is transforming its data strategy to enhance ticket sales, fan engagement, and marketing effectiveness. This partnership marks a significant step toward a data-powered future for sports organizations, enabling smarter decision-making and better experiences for fans.