In this episode of the Fame-Ready Podcast, personal branding and PR expert Katrina Owens breaks down one of the most misunderstood strategies in the industry: paid public relations and sponsored magazine features.

Katrina shares why “pay to play” press isn’t fake, shady, or misleading when done with integrity — and how it can become one of the most powerful promotional touchpoints in your business when used strategically. From debunking common myths to showing you how to connect press to actual revenue, this episode is a behind-the-scenes look at how modern PR really works.

If you’ve ever wondered whether paid magazine features are worth the investment — or how to avoid wasting money on press that doesn’t convert — this episode will shift your perspective and show you how to use visibility as a growth tool instead of an ego boost.

Show Notes:

• Why paid PR is no different than influencer marketing or digital ads
• The real reason people think sponsored features are “fake”
• How to use paid magazine placements as a promotional touchpoint
• What not to say when sharing a paid press feature
• Why “honored to be featured” captions kill engagement
• How to use press to support a launch, event, book, or offer
• The difference between authority-building and audience growth
• Why paid PR should activate your existing audience, not replace marketing
• How to spot scam publications vs. legitimate paid features
• Why contracts and credit cards protect your investment
• How to choose the right publication for your brand level
• When paid PR becomes an ego move instead of a business move
• How Katrina consistently sees 3X ROI on paid PR placements
• Why strategy matters more than logos and headlines

Links Mentioned:

Fame to Fortune Challenge (5-Day Paid Challenge): https://knockoutdirective.thrivecart.com/fame-to-fortune-challenge-2026/

Join the Fame Ready Entrepreneur Program: https://katrinaowens.com/GROUP-COACHING

Big Brand Energy (2026 Events & Sponsorships): https://knockoutdirective.myflodesk.com/bigbrandenergy

Follow Katrina:

→ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/katrinaowenspr/
→ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/getfameready/
→ Threads: https://www.threads.com/@katrinaowenspr
→ LinkedIn: https://ca.linkedin.com/in/owenskatrina

If you’re ready to stop waiting for permission and start using PR as a real revenue strategy, this episode will show you how to turn paid visibility into powerful momentum for your brand.