<![CDATA[chikmedia - ChikChat]]>

<![CDATA[chikmedia - ChikChat]]>Thu, 06 Aug 2026 12:24:29 -0700Weebly<![CDATA[Why Internal Communications Should Be Part of Every Business Strategy]]>Mon, 03 Aug 2026 22:37:54 GMThttps://www.chikmedia.us/blog/why-internal-communications-should-be-part-of-every-business-strategy

When people think about communications, they usually picture social media, advertising, public relations, or customer messaging. But one of the most overlooked audiences is sitting right inside your organization.

Your employees.

The truth is, your team can't represent your brand if they don't understand it. They also can't deliver a consistent customer experience if everyone is operating with different information. An internal communications strategy isn't just for Fortune 500 companies. It's one of the smartest investments organizations of any size can make.Before your customers hear about a new initiative, product, policy, or company milestone, your employees should.

Too often, organizations spend weeks crafting external messaging while internal teams learn about major announcements through social media or local news. That creates confusion, frustration, and missed opportunities. When employees feel informed, they become confident ambassadors for your brand. They answer customer questions more accurately, represent your organization more consistently, and help reinforce the culture you're trying to build.

Trust isn't created during annual meetings or company retreats. It's built through consistent, transparent communication. Employees want to know what's happening, why decisions are being made, and how changes affect them. Even when the news isn't perfect, honest communication creates credibility.

Silence creates something else entirely: Rumors.

When leadership doesn't communicate, employees fill in the blanks themselves. Rarely are those assumptions accurate.

An internal communications strategy isn't about sending more emails. It's about making sure the right people receive the right information at the right time through the right channels. That could include leadership updates, internal newsletters, employee recognition, onboarding materials, training communications, crisis messaging, or regular video updates. When these pieces work together, organizations experience stronger collaboration, higher engagement, and fewer misunderstandings.

One of the biggest mistakes we see is companies waiting until there's a crisis to think about internal communications. Whether it's a leadership transition, staffing change, organizational restructuring, or a public relations issue, employees deserve timely, accurate information. Having a communications strategy already in place means you're prepared instead of scrambling to decide who says what after something happens.

Every organization has a culture. Communication is what shapes it.

Culture isn't built by motivational posters or an annual employee appreciation event. It's created through the conversations leaders have, the information employees receive, and the consistency of the organization's messaging. When communication is intentional, employees feel connected to the mission. They understand expectations, celebrate successes together, and become invested in the organization's future. When communication is inconsistent, culture suffers.

Your employees are your most important audience.

Investing in an internal communications strategy doesn't just improve morale. It strengthens your brand, increases operational efficiency, reduces confusion, improves employee retention, and builds trust across every level of your organization.

At Chikmedia, we help organizations create communication strategies that keep employees informed, engaged, and aligned with your mission. Because the strongest brands don't just communicate with their customers. They communicate with their people first.

By: Meghan Rothschild, President of Chikmedia

]]><![CDATA[Speaking, Teaching, and Building Connections]]>Mon, 06 Jul 2026 14:50:33 GMThttps://www.chikmedia.us/blog/speaking-teaching-and-building-connections

Last month gave me two wonderful opportunities to connect with people in very different settings, both centered on communication, growth, and community.

In May, I was honored to speak at Self-Care at the Museum at Boston's West End Museum, an event organized by Your Mind Matters Global. The evening brought together community members for meaningful conversations about wellness, mental health, and the importance of prioritizing self-care in our personal and professional lives.

As someone who spends much of my time helping organizations and individuals build visibility and tell their stories, I shared perspectives on how our relationship with communication and social media can impact our well-being. We discussed ways to use digital platforms intentionally, establish healthy boundaries, and create a more balanced approach to staying connected in an always-on world. The event was a powerful reminder that taking care of ourselves is essential to showing up as our best selves for our businesses, families, and communities.

I also had the opportunity to travel to Cape Cod to lead a social media workshop for the Hampton Inn group. Hospitality professionals are constantly looking for ways to engage guests, strengthen their brands, and stand out in a competitive marketplace. During the workshop, we explored practical strategies for creating engaging content, building authentic online communities, encouraging guest-generated content, and using social media as a powerful storytelling tool.

What stood out most was the enthusiasm and commitment of the participants. The team brought great energy to the conversation and was eager to learn new ways to connect with guests and enhance their digital presence.

These experiences reinforced something I see every day through my work at Chikmedia: people crave authentic connection. Whether we're discussing self-care, public relations, branding, or social media, successful communication always comes back to building trust and creating meaningful relationships.

I am grateful for the opportunity to share my expertise with community organizations, businesses, and professionals across Massachusetts. Every speaking engagement is a chance not only to teach, but also to learn from the people in the room.

If your organization is looking for a keynote speaker, workshop facilitator, or social media trainer, I'd love to connect.

-Meghan Rothschild

]]><![CDATA[Celebrating Community Milestones Through Strategic PR and Marketing]]>Tue, 02 Jun 2026 15:00:00 GMThttps://www.chikmedia.us/blog/celebrating-community-milestones-through-strategic-pr-and-marketing

At Chikmedia, we believe every grand opening represents something bigger than a ribbon cutting. It is a story of growth, community investment, and the next chapter of an organization’s journey. This April, we had the opportunity to support two incredible clients as they celebrated major milestones with successful grand opening events in Western Massachusetts.

From nonprofits expanding their impact to businesses growing their footprint, our role at Chikmedia is to help clients maximize visibility, connect with their audiences, and create meaningful community engagement around moments that matter.

Supporting Impactful Client Events

Recently, Chikmedia supported both Girls Inc. of the Valley and the Applied Mortgage Team of HMA Mortgage during their grand opening celebrations. Each event brought together community members, partners, leadership teams, and supporters to celebrate growth and future opportunities.

While every client and event is unique, our approach remains the same: creating strategic public relations and marketing campaigns that help organizations tell their stories effectively and authentically.

For these events, our team helped amplify visibility through media outreach, event promotion, strategic communications, and storytelling that highlighted each organization’s mission, vision, and community impact.

More Than Public Relations

At Chikmedia, we are a full-service marketing and public relations agency focused on helping businesses, nonprofits, and organizations build stronger brands and stronger community connections.

Our services include:

Public Relations & Media Outreach
Strategic Marketing Campaigns
Social Media Management
Event Promotion & Communications
Brand Strategy & Messaging
Content Creation & Copywriting
Community Engagement Initiatives
Crisis Communications Support
Digital Marketing & Advertising

Whether a client is launching a new space, announcing a major initiative, hosting a community event, or building long-term brand awareness, our goal is to create marketing and PR strategies that generate real visibility and lasting impact.

Helping Clients Tell Their Stories

One of the most rewarding parts of our work is helping clients celebrate moments that reflect years of hard work, dedication, and service to their communities. Events like these are not just celebrations. They are opportunities to strengthen relationships, increase awareness, and create momentum for what comes next.

We are grateful to work with organizations that are making a difference across Western Massachusetts and beyond, and we look forward to continuing to help our clients grow through thoughtful marketing, strategic communications, and impactful storytelling.

]]><![CDATA[Owning the Narrative: Why Public Relations and Expert Positioning Define Modern Communications Strategy]]>Mon, 04 May 2026 18:27:29 GMThttps://www.chikmedia.us/blog/owning-the-narrative-why-public-relations-and-expert-positioning-define-modern-communications-strategy

At Chikmedia, we’ve always believed that a strong communications strategy is about more than just showing up online. It’s about shaping perception, building credibility, and ensuring that when your audience finds you, they already trust what you have to say. That’s where public relations and expert positioning come in. They are not “nice to have” add-ons. They are foundational to how modern brands grow, compete, and lead.

Public relations is often misunderstood as simply getting press coverage, but the reality is far more strategic. PR is about narrative control. It’s about identifying what makes your brand relevant and then placing that story in the right conversations, at the right time, with the right audiences. In a media landscape where outlets receive hundreds of pitches daily, thoughtful positioning and tailored messaging are what separate brands that get noticed from those that get ignored. When done well, PR doesn’t just generate visibility. It builds third-party validation, which is one of the most powerful drivers of trust.

Expert positioning works hand-in-hand with this. Audiences today are not just buying products or services, they are buying into people, perspectives, and authority. When a founder, executive, or brand consistently shows up as a credible voice in their space, it elevates everything else in the communications ecosystem. Content performs better. Media opportunities increase. Partnerships become easier to secure. This is why we prioritize helping our clients not only tell their stories, but own their expertise in a way that is visible, consistent, and unmistakable.

Our Work At Chikmedia

At Chikmedia, our approach has always been multi-layered, blending traditional public relations with modern digital strategy to amplify our clients’ voices in a meaningful way. We don’t believe in siloed tactics. Your media coverage should reinforce your social presence. Your social presence should reinforce your authority. And your authority should open the door to even bigger opportunities.

This is exactly what we’ve been seeing across our recent client work. Through strategic pitching, relationship building, and sharp messaging, our clients have been featured in meaningful media placements that align with their brand stories and business goals. These wins, highlighted on our LinkedIn page, are not random moments of visibility. They are the result of intentional positioning and a clear understanding of what each client stands for. Whether it’s securing interviews, contributing expert commentary, or landing feature stories, each placement builds momentum and compounds credibility.
What matters most is not just where you show up, but how you show up. A single feature can introduce you to a new audience, but consistent expert positioning ensures that audience remembers you. It signals that you are not just participating in your industry, you are helping define it. Over time, this transforms brands from service providers into go-to authorities.

We’ve seen firsthand how this impacts growth. Clients who invest in PR and expert positioning don’t just gain visibility, they gain leverage. Their sales conversations become easier. Their audiences arrive more educated and engaged. Their brands carry weight before they even enter the room.

This is why we continue to emphasize PR as a core pillar of any communications strategy. Social media, content marketing, and branding all play critical roles, but without the credibility that comes from earned media and a clearly defined expert voice, those efforts can only go so far. Public relations gives your brand a platform. Expert positioning gives it staying power.
At Chikmedia, our mission has always been to make sure your story is heard by the people who matter most. When PR and expert positioning are done right, your story doesn’t just get told. It gets remembered.

]]><![CDATA[Spring Marketing Trends for 2026: What Brands Need to Know]]>Mon, 06 Apr 2026 07:00:00 GMThttps://www.chikmedia.us/blog/spring-marketing-trends-for-2026-what-brands-need-to-know

Spring is all about fresh starts, and in marketing that means fresh strategies. As we move into 2026, brands that adapt quickly, think creatively, and respond to changing digital behaviors will stand out in a crowded space.

From smarter AI integration to authentic short form video and social first shopping experiences, here is what businesses should focus on this season.

1. Ethical AI Is the New Standard
Artificial intelligence is becoming a powerful tool in modern marketing, but it should never replace the people behind the strategy. AI can support research, streamline workflows, analyze data, and help generate ideas. What it cannot replace is human creativity, emotional intelligence, and authentic brand storytelling. As more brands adopt AI tools, the focus is shifting toward responsible and ethical use. Audiences value transparency. They want to know that real people are guiding the messaging, shaping the voice, and making thoughtful decisions.

AI works best when it enhances your team’s capabilities rather than replacing them. It can speed up processes and uncover insights, but it still requires human oversight, originality, and strategic direction.

Spring strategy tip: Use AI to support brainstorming, research, and optimization, but keep your creative vision and final messaging in human hands. Your audience connects with people, not algorithms.

2. Short Form Video Continues to Dominate
Short form video remains one of the most powerful tools for capturing attention. Platforms like Instagram Reels, TikTok, and YouTube Shorts reward content that feels native, relatable, and engaging. Highly polished ads are giving way to content that feels real. Behind the scenes clips, educational snippets, quick tips, and personality driven videos are outperforming overly produced campaigns.

Spring strategy tip: Focus on strong hooks in the first few seconds and create content that feels natural to each platform rather than repurposing the same video everywhere.

3. Social Media Is a Sales Channel
Social platforms are no longer just places for awareness. They are full shopping ecosystems. Consumers are discovering products, reading reviews, and making purchases without ever leaving their favorite apps. Optimizing your content for in app discovery is just as important as traditional search engine optimization. Clear captions, keyword rich descriptions, and tagged products all increase visibility.

Spring strategy tip: Make it easy for your audience to move from inspiration to purchase in just a few clicks.

4. Authenticity Wins Every Time
Today’s audiences value transparency and relatability. They want to connect with brands that feel human and approachable. User generated content, client testimonials, and partnerships with micro influencers continue to outperform celebrity endorsements. Smaller creators often build deeper trust with highly engaged communities.

Spring strategy tip: Highlight real stories. Show your team. Share your process. Let your brand personality shine.

5. Visibility Matters More Than Clicks
Marketing is shifting from chasing website traffic to maximizing visibility across multiple platforms. Many consumers interact with brands through social feeds, previews, and AI powered summaries before ever visiting a website. That means your messaging must be clear, concise, and impactful wherever it appears.

Spring strategy tip: Create content that delivers value even if someone never clicks through. Make every post informative, memorable, and aligned with your brand identity.

Final Thoughts
Spring 2026 is shaping up to be a season of smarter strategy, stronger storytelling, and deeper personalization. The brands that succeed will combine data driven insights with authentic, human centered content.

At Chikmedia, we help businesses turn trends into results. If you are ready to refresh your marketing strategy this season, let’s build something powerful together.

]]><![CDATA[FEATURED CHIK: Jill Moccio Connors]]>Mon, 02 Mar 2026 23:05:22 GMThttps://www.chikmedia.us/blog/featured-chik-jill-moccio-connors

What began as a small idea with just 12 women-owned businesses has grown into a thriving community movement. Jill, founder of Babes, Brews & Browsing, has built high-energy, charity-driven events that now welcome more than 600 guests and unite a powerhouse network of 60+ incredible women. For Jill, supporting local - especially women-owned businesses -isn’t just important, it’s vital, and leading this community has been one of the greatest honors of her life.

Tell us a bit about your company! What do you do? What is your mission?

Babes Brews & Browsing is a group of Local Women Owned Businesses that come together to take over different venues for a day of upscale shopping, live music, great food, and beverages! Back in March 2024, I organized my first ever Charity event for Shriners Children’s New England at the Starting Gate at GreatHorse, in Hampden. I had 48 women owned businesses and live music. It was such a hit that I did it again on Nov 30, 2024… then Nov 29, 2025… and our next scheduled one is Nov 28, 2026. We keep growing in attendance , I now work with sponsors from local businesses, I brought in not only music but we also have complimentary spa and salon services, and a 360 photo booth. Back in July 2025 I hosted Sunsets & Socials for Shriners Children’s New England - more of a smaller scale as the big November events have about 600+ guests, this one was 175 guests. We enjoyed passed hors d’oeuvres, a dinner station, live music and 8 women owned businesses from Babes Brews & Browsing! In March I am hosting a 90s Boom! An upscale nightclub type event at The Starting Gate at GreatHorse! I just keep growing in momentum and these events are so well received in the community. In the last JUST two years , we have raised just under $80,000 for SCNE in my son, Jackson’s Honor. My reason and my why is him, and with the support of the community and the incredible women I get to surround myself with, skies the limit on the impact we do and continue to do within the area for our children who need the best care only Shriners Children’s can provide no matter the financial situation these family’s are in.

How did you get started with your business?

Babes Brews & Browsing was an idea I had as I am super small business in the area and have been involved in hundreds of events as a vendor. I wanted to build something different. A family. I preach community over competition. This group started with just 12 women owned businesses and now I have over 60 that I can call friends and get the pleasure of working with. People have really enjoyed this journey as they see the difference within our group. You’re getting relationship when you shop and support us.

What do you feel is most important for other to know about your business?

I want people to know that I lead with my heart always. I work hard to bring people together for good. I am a woman who wants my neighbor to do better than me. I believe there’s room for everyone at the table of success. I believe that supporting local businesses, especially women owned businesses is vital to the community and it’s an honor to be someone who brings events to the local area and most importantly it’s a privilege to bring beautiful charity events that are so much fun and so incredibly important.

How would you describe your leadership style?

My style is simple. Be a friend, support, show up, refer, recommend, speak highly of others, respectfully. I believe we are a team, I just happened to be the one who began it, but we are all a vital part of the group. I recognize and I know that we wouldn’t be as successful as a group in these charity events and other events if it wasn’t for each one of these women.

When you were growing up, what was your ultimate dream job? If it's this, how does it feel to have met your dream? If it was something different, how did your dream change over time?

I never really knew who or what I wanted to be. I always found myself in different customer service type jobs, as I love working with people. For me - being with the public lights me up. I love bringing a smile and a laugh to someone, I love making people feel special because they are, I enjoy making people feel seen. I became a stay at home mom and I loved every moment of it, when my son turned 4..5yrs old I slowly started going back out in the world with my new business Hustle & Heart, and I knew that this was my path. I was my own boss, I could still be the best mom for my son, always home for him, but I could also get back out there with the public and bring those laughs and relationships back. And in the last 5yrs it has taken off into something I never knew I needed or could do.

Every business owner faces challenges. How are you empowered to overcome yours?

To be honest, I really haven’t had any challenges. I have an extremely supportive husband, I don’t have a storefront so I am allowed to dictate where I am with my business and items, I can be choosy in that aspect, as far as Babes Brews & Browsing, the only obstacle is that vendor events are everywhere, the scene is saturated. So I make sure that my events are next level, different, events you want to be at. Especially the charity ones. It’s important to continue to wow my guests. And I do believe I do just that each and every time.

Tell us (in one word) how you would describe your boss-chik business!

Unstoppable.

Anything else we should know about you, your business, or just a fun fact?!

I definitely am a person who lives out loud and I am really proud of my growth and the growth of both my businesses!

Where You Can Find Her:
Facebook | Email

]]><![CDATA[Why Small Businesses Need Strategy, Not Just Hustle]]>Thu, 12 Feb 2026 21:42:30 GMThttps://www.chikmedia.us/blog/why-small-businesses-need-strategy-not-just-hustle

Small business owners are some of the hardest-working people out there. You’re wearing every hat, making decisions on the fly, and often operating in survival mode. But here’s the truth many don’t want to hear: hustle alone is not a strategy. And without a clear strategy, even the most passionate business can stall, or fail.

At Chikmedia, we see this every day. Talented entrepreneurs with incredible products or services struggle not because they lack effort, but because they lack a plan. Strategy is what turns effort into momentum.

Strategy Creates Focus in a Noisy World

Today’s digital landscape is overwhelming. Social media platforms, algorithms, email marketing, PR opportunities, SEO, paid ads, we get it, it’s a lot. Without a strategy, small businesses often chase everything, spreading time and money too thin. Strategy provides clarity. It helps you identify where to show up, how to communicate, and who you’re actually trying to reach.

When you have a strategy, decisions become easier. You stop asking, “Should I try this?” and start asking, “Does this support my goals?” That shift alone saves time, reduces burnout, and increases impact.

Strategy Protects Your Brand

Your brand is more than a logo or color palette; it’s how people experience your business. Without strategy, messaging becomes inconsistent, visuals drift, and the brand story gets muddy. This can confuse your audience and erode trust, especially in moments of growth or crisis.

A strong strategy ensures that everything you put into the world, from Instagram captions to media interviews, aligns with your values, voice, and long-term vision. Consistency builds credibility, and credibility builds loyalty.

Strategy Turns Marketing into an Investment

Many small business owners see marketing as an expense because they don’t see immediate results. Often, that’s not a marketing problem, it’s a strategy problem. Throwing money at tactics without a clear plan leads to frustration and wasted resources.

With strategy, marketing becomes intentional. You know your goals, your metrics, and your audience. You’re not guessing, you’re building. Over time, this approach delivers measurable returns and sustainable growth.

Strategy Helps You Grow - On Purpose

Growth without strategy can be just as dangerous as no growth at all. Hiring too quickly, expanding into the wrong markets, or saying yes to every opportunity can stretch a business beyond its capacity. Strategy allows you to grow with intention, aligning expansion with your mission, systems, and resources.
It also gives you a roadmap. When challenges arise, and they always do, you’re not reacting emotionally. You’re responding strategically.

The Bottom Line

Small businesses don’t fail because owners don’t care enough. They fail because they’re doing too much without direction. Strategy is not a luxury reserved for big corporations; it’s a necessity for small businesses that want to last.

At Chikmedia, we believe strategy is the foundation of everything: branding, communications, crisis management, and growth. When you invest in strategy, you’re not slowing down - you’re setting yourself up to move forward with confidence, clarity, and purpose.

Because hustle may get you started, but strategy is what keeps you standing.

]]><![CDATA[CONFIDENCE TIPS FOR THE NEW YEAR]]>Tue, 06 Jan 2026 16:30:00 GMThttps://www.chikmedia.us/blog/confidence-tips-for-the-new-year

It’s no secret, a new year has a way of shining a spotlight on what we want more of and the resolution lists to achieve those things. Today, scrap the resolutions, and let’s look at building your confidence with intention and action.

As emerging leaders, entrepreneurs, business owners, and professionals, confidence is often the difference between staying comfortable and truly growing.

Confidence is not about being the loudest voice in the room (which may shock some of you since I’m known to be loud, LOL) and it’s not about having everything figured out. Instead it’s about trusting yourself enough to take the next step, even when things feel uncertain.

Three practical ways to strengthen your confidence this year.

1) Start with clarity, not pressure

Confidence grows when you are clear on where you’re going. Pressure grows when you feel like you have to do everything at once. My suggestion, ask yourself:

What do I want more of this year?
What do I want less of?
What does success actually look like for ME right now?

The formula is simple. Clarity creates focus. Focus builds confidence.

2) Keep promises to yourself

Are you someone who keeps your word? That’s an admirable quality, but often we find that we do what we say we’re going to do for OTHERS and forget about ourselves. That’s why in 2026, one of the fastest ways to build confidence is to do what you say you are going to do for YOU.

This may seem scary. There’s only so much time to go around. So what happens is we tend to drop our needs to the bottom of the list… behind the boss, the client, the kids, the spouse, the Amazon driver (okay, maybe kidding on the last one but seriously why do we allow our own needs to be the last priority?) You don’t have to prioritize your needs in spite of all the others; you can start small. A few suggestions to do this:

Block time for one priority each week – literally put this in your calendar.
Finish something you’ve already started. This could be just the boost you need to keep going.
Follow through on one decision you have been putting off.

Every time you follow through, you reinforce trust in yourself. Confidence is built through action, not intention alone.

3) Put yourself in rooms that elevate you

Growth rarely happens by doing the same thing you’ve always done. Confidence often shows up when you challenge yourself. I recommend finding places and people who inspire you to be your bold self. This year don’t let it happen by chance, be intentional and…

Attend events where you can learn and connect from those you admire.
Seek out conversations with people who challenge your thinking.
Say yes to opportunities that feel slightly uncomfortable.

Remember, if you want to level up, you have to be willing to show up.

Don’t wait for another calendar flip

Confidence is not something you either have or do not have. It’s something you build, moment by moment, choice by choice. Don’t wait any longer, get started building your confidence today! Use this new year to give yourself permission to take up space, to be seen, and to trust that you are capable of more than you realize.

I often share with my POP!more and Chikmedia clients that confidence fuels possibility. And possibility is where growth begins. Here is to showing up fully this year!!!

- Jill Monson, Founder of POP!more and Associate Director of Marketing at Chikmedia

]]><![CDATA[A Year of Purpose and Power: Celebrating Chikmedia’s 2025 Wins]]>Mon, 15 Dec 2025 18:00:00 GMThttps://www.chikmedia.us/blog/a-year-of-purpose-and-power-celebrating-chikmedias-2025-wins

As 2025 comes to a close, I’ve been reflecting on a year full of growth, impact, and bold moves, both for me personally and for Chikmedia. It’s been a year that has challenged me, inspired me, and reminded me why I love what I do.

One of the highlights of the year was speaking at the Women in Development of Greater Boston’s Fall Kick-Off Breakfast. My talk, “Living Authentically: Finding Your Voice in a Noisy World,” was all about encouraging women to embrace their authenticity and show up unapologetically in both life and leadership. Standing on that stage, looking out at a room full of incredible women, I felt that energy, that connection, in a way I’ll never forget. It reminded me why storytelling, honesty, and vulnerability are such powerful tools for leaders.

I also had the opportunity to speak at MassMutual this year, sharing insights on communications, branding, and leadership presence. These moments allowed me to help others navigate their own professional journeys with clarity, confidence, and a sense of purpose.

Our client work continued to shine, with the management of the 2nd Annual For Fun Sake Pickleball Tournament, hosted by our longtime client Glenmoor by the Sea. I personally had a chance to spend about a week up in one of their beautiful cottages with breathtaking views. The Chikmedia team joined here and there and we all had a chance to enjoy the scenic coast of Maine while doing the work we love.

Our client PR accomplishments were at an all time high, securing dozens of earned media stories every month. We love highlighting the important work of our clients and getting them the attention they deserve!

2025 also brought the honor of being the only woman quoted in MassLive as an expert in crisis communications. Providing guidance on how organizations can respond effectively in high-pressure moments reminded me how critical transparency, preparation, and calm, strategic messaging are, especially when it matters most. It was incredibly rewarding to see my experience recognized in such a public way and to know that my perspective could help organizations think differently about communication during challenging times.

Chikmedia also grew this year with the addition of Julianne Fruscio as our new Content Producer. Julianne brought a decade of experience in brand strategy and storytelling for national brands, and her talent immediately elevated our work. Expanding the team is always exciting, and Julianne’s creativity has already strengthened our ability to deliver high-quality, impactful content for our clients.

Community has always been at the heart of what I do, so joining the board of the Dakin Humane Society this year was particularly meaningful. I’m thrilled to bring my communications and advocacy experience to support their mission of promoting animal welfare, education, and community care. It’s a role that reminds me how important it is to use my skills and platform to make a difference beyond the business world.

As a melanoma survivor, advocacy remains deeply personal to me. During Melanoma Awareness Month this year, I shared my story again to raise awareness about prevention and early detection. It’s work that I hold close to my heart: knowing that speaking out might inspire someone to take action, or even save a life, makes every effort worthwhile.

I also spent time sharing marketing and PR insights with the broader Massachusetts business community. Helping business owners build authentic messaging, cultivate trust, and rise above the digital noise has always been a passion of mine, and 2025 gave me countless opportunities to do just that.

And of course, this year marked 13 years of Chikmedia. Looking back on more than a decade of work supporting women-led and small businesses, I feel grateful, proud, and energized. What started as a small, passionate agency has grown into a team of incredible, creative women delivering strategy, storytelling, and bold ideas that make a difference for our clients.

2025 was a year of growth, leadership, advocacy, public recognition, creative expansion, and authentic storytelling. Looking ahead to 2026, I feel a renewed sense of purpose and excitement for what’s next. The momentum we’ve built this year is just the beginning, and I can’t wait to continue helping businesses and communities thrive in the years ahead.

~ Meghan Rothschild, President

]]><![CDATA[Meghan Featured as Voice in Crisis Comm Conversation]]>Mon, 01 Dec 2025 01:02:06 GMThttps://www.chikmedia.us/blog/meghan-featured-as-voice-in-crisis-comm-conversation

When a crisis hits, organizations often scramble to find the right words at the right time. Clear strategy and steady leadership become essential. That is why it was no surprise to see Chikmedia President, Meghan Rothschild, featured as a trusted expert in a recent MassLive story, “Dodge — or bite — the bullet? Media pros share wisdom for your next PR nightmare,” focused on navigating challenging communication moments. The article explored real world public relations lessons and invited seasoned professionals to offer guidance for avoiding the pitfalls that can make a crisis even more damaging.

Meghan was asked to contribute her perspective based on her years of experience supporting clients through complex and emotionally charged situations. Her insights centered on the importance of strong preparation, quick but thoughtful action, and the need for leaders to tell the truth even when the truth is uncomfortable. Her guidance underscored a point we emphasize often at Chikmedia. A crisis is not the time to hide. It is the time to communicate with clarity, compassion, and accountability.

While the piece included several respected voices, Meghan stood out as the only woman quoted. Representation matters, especially in an industry where leadership conversations can still lean heavily toward male perspectives. Her presence in the discussion reflects not only her expertise, but her ongoing commitment to elevating women in media, marketing, and communications. We're proud to see her voice valued in this important dialogue.

Crisis communication is never simple, but thoughtful strategy can make the difference between escalating a problem and rebuilding trust. Meghan’s inclusion in this feature reinforces what we see every day through her leadership at Chikmedia. Smart communication is powerful communication. It requires honesty, confidence, and the ability to guide others through stressful moments with calm professionalism.

We are thrilled to celebrate Meghan’s contribution to this community conversation and look forward to continuing our work helping organizations communicate with authenticity and purpose, even when the spotlight is intense. After all, that is when the right message matters most.

Thanks to Hillary Lynn Photography for this photo.

]]><![CDATA[Finding Freedom...]]>Tue, 18 Nov 2025 00:21:56 GMThttps://www.chikmedia.us/blog/finding-freedom-in-authenticity

Finding Freedom in Authenticity:
Reflections from My Keynote at Women in Development Greater Boston
By: Meghan Rothschild

On November 7th, I had the honor of serving as the keynote speaker at the Women in Development Greater Boston (WIDGB) Annual Breakfast, an inspiring gathering of brilliant, mission-driven professionals who are shaping the future of philanthropy and nonprofit leadership. Standing in that room, surrounded by so many dedicated women and allies, was both energizing and deeply humbling.

My keynote centered on a theme that has guided both my personal and professional journey: living authentically. It’s a phrase we hear often, but in practice, choosing authenticity can be uncomfortable, vulnerable, and even risky. Yet it’s also where our leadership becomes the most powerful. I spoke about what it means to bring our full selves into our work, our stories, our values, our identities, our imperfect humanity, and how authenticity strengthens not only our own sense of purpose, but also the relationships we build and the impact we make.

Throughout my career, I’ve learned that authenticity isn’t something you “arrive at.” It’s a practice. It’s a series of daily choices; choosing honesty over ease, choosing alignment over approval, choosing presence over performance. When we let ourselves be seen, we give others permission to do the same.

At the WIDGB breakfast, I invited attendees to think about the moments when they’ve dimmed their own light in order to fit in, and what might be possible if they allowed themselves to lead with more truth and less fear.
What stood out to me most that morning was the palpable sense of community in the room. Women supporting women. Leaders uplifting leaders. Strangers who instantly felt like collaborators. This is the kind of community where authenticity can thrive; one that celebrates difference, encourages vulnerability, and makes space for growth.

I’m deeply grateful to WID Greater Boston for inviting me, and to everyone who joined me in exploring the theme of living authentically. My hope is that each person walked away with something, an insight, a reframe, a spark, that will support them in showing up more fully in their own lives and leadership.

Authenticity is not about perfection. It’s about alignment. It’s about the everyday courage to live and lead from who we truly are. And if November 7th taught me anything, it’s that we’re all walking this journey together.

]]><![CDATA[Meghan shares why...]]>Mon, 03 Nov 2025 23:34:26 GMThttps://www.chikmedia.us/blog/meghan-shares-why

Chikmedia Closes Every Year for The Holidays

Hi Chik friends,

Meghan here (a.k.a. President & Chief Bad Ass of Chikmedia). This may seem like it’s coming early but every year I get lots of questions about why we do an annual Holiday Shutdown. Predicting this year will not be different, I thought I’d take this early opportunity to share why I have chosen to do this for over the past ten years since beginning Chikmedia.

Why we pause

Every year around Christmas we shut down for approximately 10 days (the days between Christmas Eve and New Year’s Day). This is our intentional pause. It is a full team unplug, a chance to reset, recharge, and hit the next year ready to rock.

Here’s the deal: in the always-on, digital world of content, marketing and creative work, it is all too easy to stay plugged in, keeping up with client demands, algorithms, pings, social edits, brand launches and more. Rooted in wellness, our Shutdown is designed to push back against that pace.

We want each Chik to spend quality time with friends and family, reflect, unplug, maybe binge-read or hike or cook, and let their minds wander away from the day-to-day hustle. This isn’t just vacation, it’s strategic. I believe when you give creatives space to breathe they come back more alive, more inspired and more ready to innovate.

A real need for rest

Creative teams and marketing professionals are under real strain, but don’t take my word for it, here’s what the data says:

70% of professionals across media, marketing and creative sectors reported experiencing burnout in the past 12 months according to a 2024 study.
76% of creative leaders say they and their teams felt burned out by workload over the past year.

This info tells us something important: we’re in a field driven by ideas, fast-moving platforms, evolving client expectations; and if we don’t build in the rest, creativity falters, morale dips and innovation suffers. So our shutdown is preventative. We don’t want to wait until someone hits the wall. We’d rather skip the crash and revive the engine before we need it.

Why clients should care

You might ask: “Does a shutdown mean our projects stall?” Not at all. In fact, it means the opposite. Creating this space allows us to serve you at our best – not just delivering but over-exceeding. We plan far ahead, schedule accordingly, and let every client know our rhythm. And we come back with sharper vision, deeper clarity and the kind of creativity that only full replenishment allows.

We believe creativity thrives when each Chik is properly fueled. So yes, we shut down our offices for a bit. Because in a world that expects continuous output, we choose sustainable excellence instead. Who is ready to join us in giving yourself and your team permission to rest, reflect and return in 206 with intention?

Hears to a restful holiday season and a kickass new year!

~ Meghan
President & Chief Bad Ass

]]><![CDATA[FEATURED CHIK: KRISTIN PERAGINE]]>Mon, 27 Oct 2025 21:30:00 GMThttps://www.chikmedia.us/blog/featured-chik-kristin-peragine

Meet Kristin Peragine, Owner of KP Design Co. and upcoming Resin Artist. Kristin shares her story of how she turned her hobby into a small business, selling her art to over 20 shops across the country.

Tell us a bit about your company! What do you do? What is your mission?
I’m someone who loves gift giving and gets extremely excited to come across a keepsake that is perfect for someone I love. I’ve always loved that feeling of coming across something that’s just perfect for someone, as if it were made special for them. I wanted to create products that give people that same feeling when they come across my art: the joy of discovering something that instantly feels meaningful to give! So I started my company with a mission to make thoughtful gifting possible for everyone, especially those who don’t believe they have the magic “touch” when it comes to curating a gift.

How did you get started with your business?
I started experimenting with epoxy resin (the base material in all of my products) in 2023 with the goal of making birthday gifts for two of my best friends from college - they both have December birthdays and one of them was hosting a Christmas party at her new home in Massachusetts. During the summer, I discovered what epoxy resin can really do and I owe that to one of my cousin's childhood friends for introducing me to epoxy resin! My cousin’s friend and his girlfriend gifted both my aunt and cousin beautiful epoxy resin charcuterie boards when they were visiting for a BBQ and I fell in love with their masterpieces. I got the idea from them to make an epoxy resin charcuterie board just like theirs for my two friends for their birthdays. After spending hours watching Youtube videos and reading different “how-to” articles on Google, I couldn’t get it to look the same and I couldn’t even get the resin to harden - it was a complete fail. Shortly after, I was laid off from my full time job at the time and became determined to master the art medium of epoxy resin. I knew I needed to try and make something different then the original epoxy resin charcuterie boards that I saw at my cousins house, which is when I decided to add the epoxy resin to wooden charcuterie boards and create a totally different product. I practiced nonstop, sometimes even until 1am - I poured epoxy resin day in and day out and eventually mastered the craft.

What do you feel is most important for others to know about your business?
I want people to know how much dedication has gone into making this business what it is today. I still have a long way to go to build my business bigger, but every step I take is to create gifts that bring happiness to folks' lives.

How would you describe your leadership style?
I currently am a one-person show and don’t have any employees at the moment. My leadership style would be balanced; I would maintain composure and flexibility, but expect quality results without micromanaging.
If I did have a team I would aim towards creating and maintaining a hardworking atmosphere, ensuring each piece is meticulous, while having fun at the same time. Epoxy resin can be incredibly difficult to work with but at the end of the day, each piece I create needs to be as close to perfect as I can get it to be. If I had a team, I would need each of my employees to have this same mindset, but I’d encourage talking and laughter throughout the workday. I would want my employees to look forward to coming into a space where they are appreciated and feel important.

When you were growing up, what is your ultimate dream job? If it's this, how does it feel to have met your dream?! If it was something different, how did your dream change over time?
When I was growing up I didn’t quite have a dream job, although, I can say I always wanted to work in an ice cream shop.

Every business owner faces challenges. How are you empowered to overcome yours?
My business faces many challenges: material issues, customer education, customer dedication, competition, or custom work demands. I am dedicated to continuing to anticipate challenges, while focusing on problem-solving, learning, and more importantly, remaining adaptable.

Tell us (in one word) how you would describe your boss-chik business!
Evolving!

Anything else we should know about you, your business, or just a fun fact?!
Fun Fact! I started my business using the work bench that was my grandpa's for over 20 years. My grandpa was an inventor; a hardworking, talented, and creative man who has his name on more than two patents. Working on his work bench reminds me where hard work and craftsmanship can lead.

Where You Can Find Her:
Website | Linkedin | Email

]]><![CDATA[Something Wicked...]]>Mon, 06 Oct 2025 17:13:19 GMThttps://www.chikmedia.us/blog/something-wickedly-wonderful

WICKEDLY WONDERFUL THAT IS!
Bewitched is coming to the Springfield Museums

Mark your calendar if you’re in the mood for a little magic this month and join us for Bewitched: A Haunting Evening at the Springfield Museums. Meghan Rothschild, Chikmedia President, is partnering with the Museums to help bring this spellbinding celebration to life.

DETAILS:

Thursday, October 23
6:00pm – 8:30pm
The George Walter Vincent Smith Art Museum at the Springfield Museums

This isn’t your average autumn outing. Guests will step into a night filled with mystery, music, and a touch of the supernatural. The evening will feature:

Culinary creations by Al Dente’s Catering,
Live music that’s sure to cast a spell on you, and
Interactive experiences that are equal parts eerie and elegant.

Curious what the future holds? You can find out with tarot card readings from Mirror Mirror Tarot.

Feeling daring? Be mesmerized by a witchy acrobatic performance from the talented artists at SHOW Circus Studio of Easthampton.

And because every good haunting has a story, the museum’s original founders, George Walter Vincent Smith and Belle Townsley Smith, are said to make a few mystical appearances of their own. The setting itself – a stunning gallery of global art and artifacts – provides the perfect backdrop for an evening that blends history, creativity, and a bit of Halloween magic.

This one-of-a-kind event captures exactly what we love about fall in Western Mass: community, creativity, and a dash of whimsy. Whether you’re attending with friends or flying in solo on your broomstick, Bewitched promises a night you won’t soon forget.

Tickets are limited, and reservations are required by October 16. Visit the Springfield Museums website to secure your spot before this enchanting evening disappears into the night.

Grab your cauldron (or cocktail glass) and prepare for a hauntingly good time. We’ll see you there… if you dare!

]]><![CDATA[WELCOME Julianne Fruscio TO THE TEAM!]]>Sat, 20 Sep 2025 20:36:27 GMThttps://www.chikmedia.us/blog/welcome-a-new-chikjulianne-fruscio

We are thrilled to announce the addition of Julianne Fruscio to our growing creative team, as a Content Producer. With over a decade of expertise in marketing strategy, social media, and brand development, Julianne brings a proven ability to craft impactful content that drives engagement, strengthens brand presence, and fuels growth.

Julianne is a seasoned marketing director, social media influencer, and expert in content creation, with extensive experience developing innovative campaigns for major brands including her work with Amazon and Comfrt. She specializes in brand positioning, storytelling, and creative direction, consistently producing results-driven content that captivates audiences and boosts conversions.

In addition to her corporate achievements, Julianne has built a thriving body positivity community, showcasing her talent for fostering authentic engagement and inspiring audiences. Her strengths in trend analysis, content planning, and visual production ensure that the brands she works with achieve consistent growth and lasting impact.

"This partnership with Chikmedia is beyond exciting and is such a good fit between two strong women marketing professionals in Western MA,” said Julianne. “I am in awe of Meghan and the Chikmedia team and what they have accomplished, so it truly is an honor to be part of the team. Creating compelling content and managing social media platforms is one of my passions and I can't wait to bring my creative vision to new and existing clients!"

Julianne’s appointment underscores Chikmedia’s commitment to expanding its creative capabilities and delivering high-quality, compelling content for its clients. As a Content Producer, she will play a key role in content strategy, brand storytelling, and multimedia production.

“We are so excited to welcome Julianne to the Chikmedia team,” said Meghan Rothschild, our President. “Her expertise in social media marketing and brand development, combined with her creative vision and passion for storytelling, make her an invaluable addition as we continue to grow and innovate.”

Julianne holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Integrated Marketing Communications from Ithaca College’s Roy H. Park School of Communications. Prior to joining Chikmedia, she served as Director of Marketing, Retention, and Field Services at Dominion Dealer Solutions, as well as Business Development and Marketing Specialist at Excelsior Integrated.

To contact Julianne you can email her at content@chikmedia.us.

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