Business

Find out how Steven McCoy is inspiring an entire generation of people who faced discrimination in life.

Published

4 years ago

January 5, 2021

The struggle you’re in today is developing the strength you need for tomorrow. Don’t give up. – Robert Tew

One of the harsh realities in America is that discrimination still active and the racism of behind the curtains of otherwise glamorous entertainment industry is sometime too obvious. But it doesn’t mean all hope is lost, there are still prominent voices that fight for such people and lead by example. Steven McCoy is one such public figure who is very active on this issue. He is very vocal about it and discusses it regularly on his show, “Sessions with Steven”.

Born and raised in New Jersey, Steven McCoy always wanted to become successful in the entertainmentbusiness but he faced the harsh reality quite early on. Despite the uneasy conditions, Steven completed his school education and graduated from Essex County College. He then studied Media Arts, Minor Creative Writing at NJCU (New Jersey City University). Later Steven started working for Walt Disney Company. At Disney it was initially just an intern but went to become Disney radio host and worked with Disney theatrical productions too.

Although Steven had a successful career going on for Disney, he felt that it was not enough. In his own words according to Steven, “Owning gives one the freedom to be authentic. You create the rules and I want to inspire people and to fight for their freedom and live life authentically.” With this inspiration Steven started his own entertainment business called, “Spoken Entertainment LLC” and produced his own show “Sessions with Steven”. Having the creative freedom of show gives you opportunity to discuss whatever you want and Steven uses his platform to discuss the broad range of issues in his show and since its inception he has distinguished guests like Stevie Baggs, Jennifer Holliday, Sheryl Lee Ralph and Giacomo Gianniotti. Steven has been one of the prominent voices for black lives matter movement and very vocal on behind the scene racism of the entertainment industry. His upcoming book titled “Sessions with Steven: The Lie I Almost Lived To Get Ahead” will have all of his past experience and inspirational tales of how he was able to overcome this too. You can learn more by following Steven on his IG: @stevenmccoy.

Business

Spynn’s PR Playbook for Startups Turning Funding into Market Leadership

Published

3 weeks ago

March 27, 2025

Matthew Wiles

Byline: Jennyfer Ann Valencia

The recent funding boom in India, where startups raised over $428 million between March 10 and March 15, 2025, reinforces the critical role of public relations (PR) in securing investor confidence and enhancing visibility. As competition intensifies, effective PR strategies help startups differentiate themselves and build a strong market presence.

Spynn, a PR agency for startups specializing in securing top-tier media coverage, enables startups to craft compelling narratives that attract investors and maintain a positive brand image.

The Role of PR in Startup Funding

A recent survey conducted by Spynn found that startups with a strong PR strategy are significantly more likely to secure funding rounds than those without. According to the research, nearly 70% of investors say media visibility and brand credibility helped their decision-making process. This highlights PR’s direct impact on a startup’s ability to attract investment.

PR helps startups articulate their value to investors by securing media coverage and highlighting their growth potential. High-profile placements lend credibility and set up startups’ potential, making them more attractive to investors. For instance, a well-publicized success story from a startup like Zolve, one of the top funding recipients, can drive further investor interest and strengthen its brand.

India’s funding surge spans sectors including Batterytech, Edtech, Gaming, Apparel, Aerospace, Manufacturing, Fintech, Energy, and Travel. While this presents opportunities, it also brings scrutiny. Startups must manage their reputations effectively, ensuring consistency in their messaging across media platforms. As a PR agency for startups, Spynn’s expertise in reputation management helps businesses navigate these challenges by maintaining a cohesive brand identity and reinforcing investor trust.

Establishing Credibility Through Media Placements

Research from Spynn also revealed that startups that get featured on Forbes, Business Insider, and other top-tier publications experience a 50% increase in inbound investor inquiries within six months. This shows the value of securing strategic media placements to reinforce credibility and market positioning.

Strong media coverage bolsters a startup’s credibility, reinforcing its market positioning and investor confidence. Spynn ensures startups secure coverage in authoritative outlets, helping them establish themselves as thought leaders. Beyond initial publicity, Spynn focuses on building long-term relationships with media, ensuring sustained visibility and brand consistency.

Spynn’s CEO, Matteo Ferretti, emphasizes the role of storytelling, “Effective PR is about coverage and creating narratives that resonate with audiences. Startups must highlight their unique value and demonstrate how they solve real-world problems.”

PR for Growth and Global Expansion

Spynn’s data indicates that startups leveraging international PR strategies are twice as likely to successfully attract foreign investors and expand into new markets. Media coverage tailored for global audiences enhances cross-border recognition and facilitates partnerships, making PR an essential tool for growth beyond domestic markets.

As Indian startups scale, a strong PR strategy facilitates global recognition. Spynn’s international media reach helps startups gain traction in new markets and attract foreign investors. This is especially crucial for sectors like Fintech and Edtech, where global expansion is key to success.

A well-executed PR strategy strengthens a startup’s digital footprint, ensuring a consistent and engaging presence across platforms. Matteo Ferretti highlights the importance of balance, “A successful PR approach integrates both digital and traditional media to maximize impact and audience engagement.“

Ethical Considerations and Future Trends

Transparency and ethical storytelling are vital in PR. Startups must ensure authenticity in their messaging to build lasting trust. Spynn upholds ethical PR practices that align with principles of sustainability and integrity.

Indian startups must adapt to evolving PR trends, including AI-driven outreach, digital media dominance, and deeper media relationships. As competition grows, startups that take advantage of PR will have a better standing for long-term success.

Spynn’s PR strategies equip Indian startups with the tools to navigate funding surges, enhance credibility, and drive growth. By securing impactful media coverage and managing reputation effectively, startups can strengthen investor confidence and expand their market presence. As India’s startup ecosystem evolves, PR remains an indispensable asset for sustained success.