In a fast-changing marcomms world, these standout Substacks are quickly becoming must-reads for staying plugged into media, messaging, and industry moves. From insider media intel to unfiltered takes on the state of communications, these newsletters are written by pros who’ve lived it—and aren’t afraid to say what everyone’s thinking. Whether you're deep in agency life, working brand-side, or somewhere in between, here are five standout marcomms Substacks worth adding to your inbox.
Meredith Klein, Meredith & The Media
Meredith & The Media is your insider pass to the latest trends shaping the media landscape, brought to you by Meredith Klein. Through exclusive interviews with top journalists from outlets like The Wall Street Journal, Inc., and Digiday, Meredith reveals what truly drives coverage today. Designed especially for PR professionals, this newsletter delivers actionable insights straight from the source — helping you craft pitches that resonate and stories that get noticed. Whether you want to understand the shifting newsroom dynamics or hear firsthand what reporters are really looking for, Meredith’s deep connections and clear analysis make this must-read Substack a powerful tool for anyone navigating media relations.
Re:Pressed is the sharp, witty newsletter from Carrie Crecca Maitoza, aka the beloved Instagram meme queen Miss PR Piggy, who’s been deep in fashion PR for 17 years. With a blend of humor and honesty, she unpacks the quirks and challenges of the industry — from navigating shifting media landscapes to questioning the future of PR itself. Each week, subscribers get thoughtful essays that go way beyond the memes, tackling everything from editorial relationships to industry clichés with insight and a dash of sass. Whether you’re in PR or just curious about the behind-the-scenes hustle, Carrie’s voice is a refreshing mix of real talk and laughs, making Re:Pressed a must-read for anyone looking to decode today’s marcomms world. Plus, paid subscribers gain access to exclusive Q&As, group chats, book clubs, and even vent sessions with Carrie herself.
The Founder Flow is Lauren Kleinman’s forward-thinking take on how brands can scale through the evolving intersection of PR, media, and affiliate strategy. As the Founder & CEO of Dreamday and Co-Founder of Quality Media, Lauren brings a uniquely strategic lens to the marcomms world, offering clear-eyed commentary on everything from media diversification to brand-building in a fragmented digital landscape. Her insights are especially valuable for marketers navigating today’s complex mix of storytelling and performance. While grounded in business, Lauren also weaves in personal reflections on leadership and growth—adding a thoughtful human layer to her expert POV.
Under Embargo is a sharp, strategic read for PR professionals navigating a fast-changing communications landscape. Created by seasoned comms executive Johnna Muscente, the newsletter tackles the tough questions facing modern publicists—from why pitches go unanswered to how AI is reshaping media engagement. With nearly two decades of experience and a résumé that includes top-tier brands and bylines in The New York Times, WSJ, and Forbes, Johnna shares real-world insights, campaign breakdowns, and forward-thinking tactics that help marketers cut through the noise. Expect smart commentary, tactical advice, and conversations with comms leaders shaping the future of the industry.
On Background is an insider’s guide to the media moves and behind-the-scenes intel shaping the PR landscape. Created by Tanya Hayre Gillogley and Emilie Gerber, this Substack is trusted by thousands of comms professionals looking to stay ahead of industry shifts. Each edition delivers timely updates, informed analysis, and story-worthy insights from journalists themselves—making it a smart resource for anyone responsible for media strategy. With a loyal readership and a no-fluff approach, On Background offers the kind of information that keeps publicists one step ahead.
