We recently connected with Melissa Rein Lively and have shared our conversation below.
Melissa, so good to have you with us today. We’ve always been impressed with folks who have a very clear sense of purpose and so maybe we can jump right in and talk about how you found your purpose?
In my 23 years as a public relations professional, I’ve poured my heart and soul into building a career that reflects my core values and a deep commitment to giving my clients a strong, authentic voice in today’s competitive media landscape. Through two powerful agencies—The Brand Consortium PR and America First PR—I’ve had the privilege to shape narratives, elevate brands, and champion the voices that deserve to be heard.
I started The Brand Consortium PR with a clear vision: to create a PR firm that would go beyond traditional strategies and deliver something truly impactful for luxury lifestyle brands. Over the years, TBCPR has become a powerhouse in the industry, representing some of the most prestigious names in lifestyle, real estate, hospitality, and entertainment. I wanted to build an agency that not only created visibility but crafted stories that resonated on a cultural level, stories that had staying power. My approach with TBCPR has always been a bit unconventional, blending creativity with strategy to ensure that every campaign has depth and relevance. For me, it’s not just about media placements; it’s about creating a lasting impression that aligns with my clients’ values and vision.
Founding America First PR in 2022 was a deeply personal and purpose-driven decision. I saw a gap in the market—a need for a PR firm that would stand up for conservative voices and protect the right to free speech. With America First PR, I’ve built an agency that is dedicated to ensuring that these voices aren’t just heard but celebrated. The firm embodies my belief in the American Dream, in freedom, and in the power of authenticity. It’s not just about creating headlines; it’s about protecting the values that make this country unique and providing a platform for those willing to advocate for those principles.
Throughout my career, I’ve learned that PR isn’t just about crafting messages; it’s about standing firm, even when it’s not easy, and helping others do the same. Whether through TBCPR or America First PR, my goal has always been to build something bigger than myself—a platform where brands, personalities, and movements can find their voice, tell their story, and connect with their audience in a way that’s both impactful and true.
Looking back, I’m proud of the work I’ve done, the people I’ve worked with, and the campaigns we’ve created together. Both of my agencies are extensions of who I am—TBCPR is the embodiment of luxury, creativity, and innovation, while America First PR represents my passion for freedom, resilience, and the American Dream. Together, they represent a lifetime of work and a relentless pursuit of purpose, and I look forward to continuing this journey, empowering others to tell their stories and leaving an indelible mark on the world of PR.
Let’s take a small detour – maybe you can share a bit about yourself before we dive back into some of the other questions we had for you?
Every day at The Brand Consortium PR and America First PR, we’re in the thick of it—crafting bold, unforgettable campaigns that turn heads and make waves. My team and I live for the thrill of taking brands, voices, and causes we believe in to the next level, and our work is anything but routine. We’re constantly strategizing, whether it’s creating a social media rollout that’s designed to stop the scroll, planning viral-worthy PR stunts that command attention, or building co-branding partnerships with the celebrities and influencers who align with our clients’ messages and values.
Our day starts with brainstorming sessions where anything and everything is on the table—big ideas, edgy pitches, and unexpected collaborations. Social media isn’t just about posting; it’s about making a statement, sparking a movement, and building a loyal following, post by post. My team and I craft every piece of content with impact in mind, ensuring it resonates deeply with the audiences we’re targeting.
Then there are the stunts—the moments that make brands go viral. From pop-up events to high-profile launches, we make sure our clients stay unforgettable and ahead of the curve. And because I love a good partnership, we’re always setting up killer collaborations between clients and high-profile personalities who not only expand their reach but also add real credibility and buzz to the brand.
For America First PR, it’s about more than media; it’s about leading a movement. We’re crafting talking points, prepping for media spots, and securing strategic placements to push America First values into the spotlight, unapologetically. This isn’t just PR; it’s changing the conversation, amplifying the voices that matter, and shaking things up in the best way possible. Every day is about pushing boundaries, making an impact, and doing PR like no one else can.
If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
Reflecting on my journey, the three qualities that have been absolutely essential are fearlessness, adaptability, and a sharp sense of timing. My career has been marked by multiple viral moments that put me in the public eye in ways I could never have anticipated. Each of those incidents taught me that being fearless—willing to take risks, stand my ground, and speak my truth—is a game-changer. In PR, you can’t be afraid to make noise or take a stance. My advice? Don’t wait for someone else’s approval; create the story you want to tell. Build the kind of brand that commands attention because it’s unapologetically real.
Adaptability is another skill I’d call crucial. In today’s fast-moving media landscape, especially when you’re facing the unpredictability of going viral, you have to be quick on your feet. For me, adapting wasn’t just about crisis management; it was about transforming those “incidents” into opportunities. Being adaptable means being open to new directions, re-evaluating strategies, and seizing moments that align with your purpose, even if they come from unexpected places. My advice for anyone starting out: learn to pivot without losing focus on your big picture. Build that skill now, and you’ll turn challenges into wins.
Finally, timing is everything. Knowing when to speak, when to take action, and when to wait is an art. Every one of my viral incidents happened because I knew when to step forward and capture a moment. Good timing isn’t luck; it’s intuition combined with understanding the landscape you’re in. My advice to newcomers is to study the rhythm of the industries you’re in. Understand when to move fast and when to play the long game. Time your actions with purpose, and you’ll make every move count.
For those starting their journey, focus on these three: build the courage to take calculated risks, develop the flexibility to adapt on the fly, and master the art of timing. These qualities have shaped my career and are the foundation of any unforgettable brand or viral story.
Okay, so before we go we always love to ask if you are looking for folks to partner or collaborate with?
Absolutely, yes! We’re all about working with anyone who shares our mission and is eager to make big things happen. At The Brand Consortium PR and America First PR, we believe in the power of a collaborative approach to creating real impact. Whether it’s clients looking to make waves, journalists telling important stories, non-profits championing change, or other PR and public affairs firms ready to cross-promote, we know that a rising tide lifts all boats.
For us, it’s about more than just getting results; it’s about building a community of people who are aligned in purpose and vision. We’re big believers in helping others achieve their goals, and we’re constantly looking for partners who bring fresh perspectives and energy to the table. Together, we can amplify each other’s strengths, reach broader audiences, and create meaningful, lasting impact.
If you’re passionate about crafting unforgettable, mission-driven campaigns or want a PR partner who values collaboration as much as you do, let’s connect. Working together, we can turn great ideas into powerful results and achieve something truly extraordinary. I’m accessible of course via my websites, www.thebrandconsortium.com, www.americafirstpublicrelations.com, my social media @melissarlively and via email: [email protected] or [email protected]. Or, if all else fails, you can ALWAYS text me: 602.384.4747.
Contact Info:
- Website: [email protected]
- Instagram: @melissarlively, @americafirstPR, @thebrandconsortium.com
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/melissarein/
Image Credits
Michael Franco
so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
