We were lucky to catch up with Alesa Gerald recently and have shared our conversation below.
Hi Alesa, really happy you were able to join us today and we’re looking forward to sharing your story and insights with our readers. Let’s start with the heart of it all – purpose. How did you find your purpose?
In my junior year of high school, I joined my school’s newspaper and yearbook team. There, I discovered my love for storytelling and strategy. It’s because of those skills that I chose to get my bachelor’s in journalism and public relations and later my master’s in digital strategy.
I’m lucky that those passions translate directly into what I do every day.
Great, so let’s take a few minutes and cover your story. What should folks know about you and what you do?
I’m a public relations and social media strategist who specializes in helping organizations tell meaningful, authentic stories that connect with the audiences who matter most to them. I’ve had the opportunity to work across nonprofits, corporate teams, political campaigns, and public figures. Each space gives me a different lens into how powerful communication can be when it’s grounded in purpose. What I find most exciting about my work is the impact: whether I’m building a brand’s digital presence from the ground up, crafting messaging that inspires community engagement, or leading campaigns that elevate underrepresented voices, I’m constantly reminded that great storytelling can spark connection, clarity, and change.
One of the things I’m most proud of professionally is my ability to translate complex ideas into accessible, human-centered narratives. From supporting a Pulitzer Prize-winning author to helping nonprofits strengthen their communications systems, I’ve been able to shape messages that resonate across very different communities. This versatility is a big part of my brand, meeting people where they are and helping organizations communicate with intention and empathy.
Outside of work, I’ve recently reignited my love for reading, and that passion has become a creative extension of my professional life. I started a TikTok account, @BookBestieAlesa, where I share book recommendations, reading reflections, and content that celebrates the joy of storytelling. It’s been a fun way to build community around something I love while blending creativity, content creation, and my lifelong relationship with words.
Whether through my professional work or personal projects, I’m focused on creating content that informs, inspires, and brings people together. As I continue growing my career, I’m excited to take on new collaborations, expand my communications portfolio, and explore new ways to use storytelling to make an impact.
Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?
First, the art of a follow-up question is one of the most underrated tools in communications. It’s essential for networking, building relationships, and truly understanding a client’s story. Sometimes clients don’t see the newsworthy angle in their own work, but asking the right follow-up can unlock the detail or insight that takes a story from ordinary to compelling.
My advice: Practice curiosity. Don’t rush to the next task. Listen closely, ask “why?” and “tell me more,” and challenge yourself to go one layer deeper in every conversation.
Second, in PR, writing is the entire job. Whether it’s drafting press releases, speeches, talking points, or social content, writing well (and often quickly) is what moves the work forward.
My advice: Read constantly, and write constantly. Study strong press releases. Ask for edits, not just approvals. And don’t be afraid to rewrite your own work.
Finally, multitasking has been essential. I often manage five or more clients at once while maintaining a full personal life — and at one point, even pursuing my master’s degree. The real skill isn’t doing everything at the same time; it’s spending time wisely and knowing what deserves your attention in the moment.
My advice: Build systems early. Use calendars or time-blocking. Protect your rest, because as a young professional, I can’t afford to burn out. And remember: balance is something you create, not something you wait to find.
What do you do when you feel overwhelmed? Any advice or strategies?
Public relations is consistently ranked as one of the most stressful jobs, so knowing how to reset is essential. I won’t pretend I never get overwhelmed, I do. But I’ve learned that what matters most is how quickly and intentionally I rebound.
When I feel myself getting overloaded, the first thing I do is write out every task in front of me. Seeing everything on paper helps cut through the mental fog. Then I look for one easy win, something small I can complete quickly. Finishing that first task usually gets me into a groove and builds momentum.
If I’m facing a creative block, I give myself permission to step away entirely. Forcing creativity rarely works. I’ll switch to a different task, change my environment, or just take a break. Honestly, my best ideas come to me in the shower, when I’m relaxed and not overthinking.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.alesageraldcommunications.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bookbestiealesa/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alesa-gerald-m-a-9b4745189/
- Other: Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@bookbestiealesa
Image Credits
OU Graduation Photo: Amina Switzer (https://www.instagram.com/aminaswitzerphoto/)
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