From Founder to Thought Leader: How to Position Yourself for Panels, Podcasts, and Press
You built the brand. You’ve got the story. Now it’s time to become the face of your brand.
In 2025, being a founder is about more than creating great products—it’s about sharing your voice, your perspective, and your expertise. Whether it’s a podcast interview, a panel appearance, or a quote in a major magazine, establishing yourself as a thought leader elevates not just your personal brand but your business as a whole.
At Polished Publicity, we specialize in helping founders transition from behind-the-scenes creators to sought-after experts. If you’re ready to step into the spotlight, here’s how to do it with polish and purpose.
1. What Makes a Thought Leader Today?
Being a thought leader doesn’t require having the biggest following or fanciest title. It’s about having a unique point of view, being clear on your values, and being willing to speak up about the issues that matter—both in your industry and beyond.
You don’t need to be everywhere, but you do need to be intentional. The most magnetic founders are those who lead with authenticity, strategy, and consistency.
Polished Tip: Focus on 2–3 core themes you want to be known for—whether it’s clean beauty innovation, brand-building as a woman of color, or empowering natural hair journeys.
2. Craft Your Signature Talking Points
If you’re serious about becoming a go-to voice in your space, you need crisp, compelling talking points that position you as an expert. These should go beyond your brand’s products and touch on:
- Your founder journey and purpose
- Your take on key trends or challenges in your industry
- Lessons learned, and advice for others
These are the soundbites podcast hosts and journalists are looking for—make sure you’re ready to deliver them with confidence.
Polished Tip: Practice your 30-second personal intro. It should be warm, polished, and leave them wanting to know more.
3. Media Training 101
Once the opportunity comes, are you ready to deliver? Media training is the difference between a good interview and a great one. It’s about learning to:
- Stay on message
- Handle tough questions gracefully
- Speak in quotable, energetic soundbites
- Show up with presence and poise
At Polished Publicity, we guide our clients through mock interviews and talking point prep so they feel confident in any spotlight moment.
Polished Tip: Your tone matters just as much as your words. Be warm, clear, and conversational—not robotic or rehearsed.
4. How We Pitch You to Podcasts and Panels
We don’t wait for opportunities—we create them. Our team strategically pitches founders to podcasts, panels, summits, and media outlets based on their expertise and vision. We make sure your media kit is top-tier, your bio is memorable, and your message is magnetizing.
Whether you’re a seasoned speaker or just getting started, we tailor every pitch to spotlight your unique story and value.
Polished Tip: Panel organizers and podcast hosts are always looking for fresh, diverse voices. Positioning yourself early gives you a competitive edge.
5. Real-World Results: The Power of Visibility
We’ve helped founders land features in top-tier publications, secure speaking opportunities, and build personal brands that open doors beyond their products. One founder went from “accidental influencer” to published author and panel speaker—simply by owning her story and allowing us to amplify it.
And you can do the same.
Are You Ready to Be Seen, Heard, and Remembered?
If you’re ready to go from behind the scenes to center stage, Polished Publicity is here to guide your transformation. We don’t just build brands—we build legacies.
👉 Let’s work together to make you the voice your industry needs. Book a strategy call today.