The Entertainment Bureau

Conquerabia: The Struggle for Identity is an exhilarating plunge into the tumultuous and captivating history of Trinidad. From the moment Christopher Columbus set foot on its shores in 1498 to the spectacular handover from Spanish rule to Britain’s Ralph Abercromby, this masterfully fictionalised account breathes life into the birth of a nation, illuminating the pivotal events that forged its path.

Step into the shoes of Trinidad's earliest settlers and feel the weight of history as you navigate through the island’s most dramatic episodes. Experience the chilling reign of the island's first British governor, Thomas Picton, whose ruthless governance and the horrific torture of young Luisa Calderon cast a dark shadow over the fledgling colony. Feel the tension and the triumph as the shackles of slavery are broken, transforming the island and igniting the indomitable spirit of its people.

As you turn each page, you'll be transported to an era often eclipsed by tales of America, Jamaica, or Haiti. Conquerabia: The Struggle for Identity offers an unparalleled exploration of Trinidad’s rich history, capturing the essence of a significant epoch in the island's journey to becoming the vibrant, affluent paradise it is today. This novel is not just an historical recount; it is a living, breathing tribute to the resilience and fortitude of Trinidad’s people.

With every twist and turn, Conquerabia immerses you in the trials and triumphs of a nation in the making. It’s a compelling testament to the spirit of Trinidad and a vivid portrayal of the enduring struggle for identity. Get ready to be enthralled by a story that’s as dynamic and spirited as the island itself.

About the Author

"Conquerabia" draws inspiration from author Diane Hinds' life on the island from 1975 to 1979. Her father, Rev. Kenneth Hinds, and her mother, Lenore Dottin, emigrated to the UK for Kenneth to train at a theological college. After his ordination at St Albans Abbey by Archbishop Bob Runcie, the family returned to their homeland, where Kenneth served as a Clerk in Holy Orders. This vibrant four-year chapter deeply influenced Diane, fueling her creativity.

Diane Hinds is an accomplished entertainment publicist whose career could be a fascinating story in its own right. She is also a mother of two adult children and lives with Sickle Cell Disease.

Ends.

About 10 years ago I had the great honour to be a Visiting Lecturer at the University of Westminster, teaching undergraduates on its BA:  Public Relations and Advertising course, focusing on its Campaigning and Persuasive Skills module.

There have been many films and TV programmes which explore the subject of Public Relations and all that’s involved in exercising it with Thank You For Smoking (2005) my favourite film which explores a lobbyist for Big Tobacco.  It’s written and Directed by Jason Reitman and based on the 1994 satirical novel by Christopher Buckley.

By chance I watched the first episode of a TV drama that upon first viewing, didn’t hold me.  Too violent and gory, but it was my daughter who suggested I persist as ‘it’s about public relations mum’, she encouraged me.  I’m glad I did.  Poor Ashley!!!

"The Boys," an Amazon Prime series based on the comic book by Garth Ennis and Darick Robertson, has garnered significant attention for its unflinching and often grotesque portrayal of superheroes. Unlike traditional superhero narratives, "The Boys" presents a world where superheroes, or "Supes," are managed by a corporate entity, Vought International. The series provides a dark and satirical look at the world of public relations (PR), highlighting the power and manipulation involved in shaping public perception. Here's an exploration of the various aspects of PR as depicted in "The Boys."

At the heart of Vought International’s operations is the meticulous crafting of superhero personas. Each Supe’s image is carefully curated to maximise public appeal and profitability. Homelander, for instance, is portrayed as the quintessential all-American hero, embodying patriotism and moral righteousness. This carefully constructed image contrasts sharply with his true, sociopathic nature.

PR Lesson: In the real world, public figures and brands often present an idealised version of themselves to the public. "The Boys" exaggerates this concept to show how PR can mask darker realities behind a polished facade.

Crisis management is a recurring theme in the series. When a Supe’s misdeeds come to light, Vought’s PR team swiftly moves to control the narrative. For example, when A-Train’s drug abuse is exposed, the company spins a story to mitigate the damage to his and Vought’s reputation. Similarly, when Homelander's atrocities are revealed, efforts are made to reframe the narrative or distract the public with other news.

PR Lesson: Effective crisis management involves quickly addressing issues, controlling the story, and sometimes deflecting attention. The show demonstrates both the power and ethical ambiguity of such strategies.

"The Boys" also delves into the manipulation of the media to serve corporate interests. Vought wields significant influence over news outlets, ensuring favourable coverage of the Supes while burying negative stories. This control over information flow is a critical component of their PR strategy.

PR Lesson: The relationship between corporations and media can significantly impact public perception. The series exaggerates this to underscore how media can be used as a tool for propaganda and misinformation.

Vought often exploits social issues to enhance the Supes' images. For instance, the company promotes Queen Maeve’s LGBTQ+ identity and Starlight’s feminist stance to appeal to specific demographics. While these moves are presented as progressive, they are ultimately driven by profit motives rather than genuine advocacy.

PR Lesson: Brands frequently align themselves with social causes to resonate with target audiences. "The Boys" satirises this practice, revealing the potential for exploitation when motivations are insincere.

The stark contrast between the public personas of the Supes and their true behaviours is a central theme. While the public sees heroes, viewers are privy to their morally bankrupt actions. This dichotomy underscores the disparity between crafted public images and hidden realities.

PR Lesson: Authenticity in PR is crucial. When the truth eventually comes out, the fallout can be far more damaging than if transparency had been maintained from the start. "The Boys" amplifies this concept to illustrate the potential dangers of deception.

Throughout the series, the ethical dilemmas faced by PR professionals are highlighted. The show’s character Ashley Barrett, who becomes Vought’s PR head, often finds herself torn between corporate directives and her own moral compass. Her journey illustrates the personal and professional conflicts inherent in the PR industry.

PR Lesson: PR practitioners must navigate ethical challenges, balancing corporate interests with personal integrity. "The Boys" presents a hyperbolic but thought-provoking portrayal of these conflicts.

"The Boys" provides a fascinating and extreme exploration of public relations, offering valuable insights through its satirical lens. It exaggerates real-world PR practices to highlight the power and potential pitfalls of managing public perception. As viewers watch the Supes navigate their carefully crafted public images, they are reminded of the complex, and sometimes dark, reality behind the polished veneer presented by public figures and corporations. In this way, "The Boys" serves as both entertainment and a critical commentary on the power of PR in shaping society’s heroes.

This is a must-watch show for entertainment or if you’re a PR student.  It’s well written, brilliantly acted and the special effects are clever, but it’s not for the faint of heart.  The three main characters for me are Homelander, portrayed by Anthony Starr, Butcher played by Keith Urban and Colby Minifie’s Ashley Barrett.  Be warned, there is liberal use of the C-word too!  I’m watching the first three series for the third time and can’t wait for season four.

Diane

Why should I hire a publicist?

1. Media Exposure: A publicist can help you gain exposure in various media outlets such as newspapers, magazines, blogs, and online publications. They have established relationships with journalists and editors, making it easier for you to get press coverage for your music releases, performances, or other activities.
2. Brand Building: A publicist can assist in shaping your brand image and narrative. They can work with you to develop a compelling story that resonates with your audience and helps differentiate you from other artists.
3.  Industry Connections: Publicists often have extensive networks within the music industry. They can introduce you to key players such as record label executives, music producers, and other influential figures who can help further your career.
4. Increased Visibility: With a publicist’s help, you can expand your reach and visibility beyond your current fan base. They can pitch your music to radio stations and playlists, helping you reach new listeners and potential fans.
5. Crisis Management: In the event of any controversies or negative publicity, a publicist can help manage the situation and mitigate damage to your reputation. They can advise you on how to respond and navigate sensitive issues.
6. Time and Expertise: Managing your own publicity can be time-consuming and requires specific expertise. By hiring a publicist, you can focus more on your music while leaving the promotional aspects to a professional who knows how to maximise exposure effectively.
7. Objective Perspective: A publicist can offer an objective perspective on your music and career. They can provide valuable feedback and strategic advice based on their experience working with other artists.
8. Event Promotion: Whether it’s a concert, album release, or other events, a publicist can help generate buzz and excitement around your activities, ensuring maximum attendance and media coverage.

In summary, a publicist can be a valuable investment for a singer/songwriter looking to raise their career and increase their visibility in the competitive music industry. They bring expertise, connections, and a strategic approach that can significantly enhance your chances of success.

Having a million followers on TikTok is a significant achievement and shows that you already have a strong online presence and a dedicated fan base. However, investing in a publicist can still be beneficial for several reasons, even with a large following on social media:

1. Media Outreach Beyond Social Media: While TikTok is a powerful platform for reaching a large audience, a publicist can help you expand your visibility beyond social media. They can pitch your story and music to traditional media outlets such as newspapers, magazines, TV, and radio, reaching audiences that may not be active on TikTok.
2. Professional Image and Branding: A publicist can work with you to refine your brand image and narrative, ensuring consistency across all platforms. This can help you attract opportunities such as partnerships, endorsements, and collaborations with brands or other artists.
3.  Industry Connections and Opportunities: Publicists often have extensive networks within the music industry. They can introduce you to industry professionals such as record labels, talent agents, and music supervisors for film and TV, opening doors to new opportunities and partnerships.
4. Event Promotion and Management: If you're planning live performances, album releases, or other events, a publicist can assist with promotion and logistics. They can help secure press coverage, coordinate media interviews, and manage publicity surrounding the event.
5. Strategic Guidance and Reputation Management: A publicist can provide strategic advice and guidance tailored to your career goals. They can help navigate challenges, manage crises, and ensure that your public image remains positive and consistent.
6. Long-Term Career Growth: While TikTok is a fantastic platform for building an audience, a publicist can help you translate that online success into long-term career growth. They can assist with developing a roadmap for your career, identifying new opportunities, and expanding your reach beyond social media.

In conclusion, even with a large following on TikTok, investing in a publicist can be a smart move to take your music career to the next level. They can provide valuable expertise, industry connections, and strategic support that can help you maximise your potential and sustain success in the competitive music industry.

When you're considering hiring a publicist for your music career, it's important to ask the right questions to ensure they are the right fit for your needs. Here are some key questions you should consider asking prospective publicists:

1. What is your experience in the music industry?  Understanding their background and specific experience within the music industry can give you confidence in their ability to navigate the unique challenges and opportunities in music publicity.
2. Can you provide examples of successful campaigns you've worked on?  Asking for case studies or examples of past successful campaigns can help you gauge their track record and see if their approach aligns with your goals.
3.  What is your approach to developing a publicity strategy for musicians?  Understanding how they approach developing a strategy can give you insights into their methodology and whether it aligns with your vision for your music career.
4. What media contacts do you have and how do you leverage them?  Publicists rely on their network of media contacts to secure coverage for their clients. Asking about their contacts and how they utilise them can give you an idea of their reach and influence within the industry.
5. How do you measure the success of a publicity campaign?  It's important to understand how they define and measure success. Whether it's through metrics like media placements, audience reach, or other key performance indicators, clarity on success metrics will help set expectations.
6. What services are included in your fee?  Clarifying what services are included in their fee structure (e.g., media pitching, press releases, event coordination) will help you understand what you're paying for and avoid surprises.
7. How do you handle crisis management or negative publicity?  Understanding their approach to handling challenging situations can be crucial, especially in the unpredictable world of music and entertainment.  
8. Can you provide references or testimonials from past clients?  Asking for references or testimonials can provide insights into their reputation and client satisfaction.
9. How do you tailor your strategies to different artists and genres?  Each artist and genre may require a unique approach to publicity. Understanding how they adapt their strategies to different clients can help determine if they can meet your specific needs.
10. What is your communication style and how often can I expect updates?  Clear communication is key in any professional relationship. Make sure you understand their communication style and how often they will provide updates on the progress of your campaign.

These questions can serve as a starting point for evaluating prospective publicists and ensuring that you find the right partner to help you achieve your music career goals.

Good luck in your search and don't be afraid to ask questions.  Publicists are there to help.

The Demise of the Business Landline: Are We Losing the Art of Communication?

In the age of rapid technological advancements and the rise of digital communication platforms, traditional business landlines are becoming a thing of the past. With the proliferation of smartphones, instant messaging, and email, the way we interact with each other has evolved dramatically. However, this evolution comes with its set of challenges, as the decline of voice-to-voice communication may have some unintended consequences. In this blog post, we explore the impact of the vanishing business landline, the reluctance of millennials to use traditional phone calls, and the message we may inadvertently be sending to each other: "I don't want to talk to you."

The Disappearing Business Landline

Once an essential tool for conducting business, the iconic business landline was the backbone of communication for decades. It provided a reliable and direct means of reaching colleagues, clients, and partners. However, with the rise of digital alternatives, such as Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) systems and mobile phones, the business landline has steadily declined in popularity.

The Rise of Digital Communication

Today's business landscape is dominated by email, instant messaging apps, and video conferencing tools. These digital alternatives offer unparalleled convenience and efficiency, allowing for quick exchanges of information and the ability to connect with people from all over the world in real-time. As a result, phone calls are often reserved for more critical or time-sensitive matters, while casual interactions have shifted to text-based platforms.

The Impact of Millennials

One of the most significant contributors to the decline of business landlines is the generational shift. Millennials, who make up a considerable portion of the workforce, have grown up in a digital age. They are accustomed to the ease and immediacy of texting and online messaging. For them, phone calls may feel intrusive, time-consuming, or simply outdated. (https://www.euruni.edu/blog/the-mute-generation-why-millennials-do-not-pick-up-their-phones/)

While millennials have been instrumental in driving technological advancements and shaping the modern workplace, their aversion to phone calls has implications for interpersonal communication within a business setting. A reliance on text-based communication might inadvertently lead to misunderstandings, misinterpretations, and a lack of emotional connection.

Losing the Art of Communication

Voice-to-voice communication is a unique art that goes beyond mere words. It enables us to understand nuances, tone, and emotions, facilitating more profound connections with our colleagues and clients. Phone calls allow for spontaneous brainstorming, prompt decision-making, and the building of trust between parties.

By moving away from phone calls and favoring written communication, we may be missing out on these crucial elements. There's a certain warmth and human touch that comes with speaking directly to someone, which can foster camaraderie and understanding that might be challenging to achieve through text alone.

The Message We're Sending

The shift away from traditional phone calls in business may inadvertently convey the message, "I don't want to talk to you." Although this may not be the intent behind the preference for digital communication, the consequences remain the same. Colleagues or clients may feel less valued or important if their interactions are relegated to impersonal emails or messages.

Moreover, the decline of business landlines can impact customer service experiences. Automated phone systems and chatbots, while efficient, can be frustrating and alienating for customers seeking personalised assistance.

The Long-Term Consequences

In the long term, the diminishing use of business landlines and voice-to-voice communication could have far-reaching consequences. As the workforce becomes increasingly remote and global, maintaining strong personal connections is vital for fostering a cohesive and collaborative work environment.

Reversing the Trend

While the demise of the business landline may seem inevitable, there are steps we can take to preserve the art of communication:

1. Encourage Phone Call Etiquette: Emphasize the importance of voice-to-voice communication for meaningful conversations and relationship-building.

2. Use Calls for Complex Issues: Reserve phone calls for complex matters that demand nuanced discussion or for providing excellent customer service.

3. Balance Digital and Traditional: Find a balance between digital and traditional communication methods to suit different situations and preferences.

4. Develop Soft Skills: Invest in training programs that help employees develop active listening, empathy, and effective communication skills.

As the business landline fades into oblivion, it's essential to recognise the significance of voice-to-voice communication. While digital platforms offer unmatched convenience, we mustn't underestimate the value of direct interaction. By striking a balance between modern technology and traditional communication, we can foster stronger connections and maintain the art of communication in the evolving business world.

Traditional media continues to hold value in promoting talent in the arts and entertainment sectors, particularly in the case of heritage and legacy artists, for several reasons:

1. Wider Reach: Traditional media platforms, such as television, radio, and print, often have a broad and diverse audience base. They reach a wide range of demographics, including older generations who may be less inclined to engage with digital platforms. This wider reach allows heritage and legacy artists to connect with a larger audience and gain exposure to new fans who may not be actively seeking out digital content.
2. Credibility and Authority: Traditional media outlets often have established credibility and authority built over years of operation. When they feature an artist or endorse their work, it carries a certain level of validation and legitimacy. This can be particularly important for heritage and legacy artists who have a long-standing reputation and a body of work that has stood the test of time. Being recognised and promoted by reputable traditional media sources can help solidify their position in the industry and attract new opportunities.
3. Contextualisation and Narrative: Traditional media has the advantage of storytelling and providing context. Through interviews, profiles, and documentaries, they can delve into an artist's background, influences, and creative process. This deeper understanding of an artist's journey and body of work helps audiences appreciate their significance and legacy. It allows for a more nuanced portrayal that can capture the essence of the artist and their contributions, which can be harder to achieve in shorter digital formats.
4. Multigenerational Appeal: Heritage and legacy artists often have a fan base that spans multiple generations. Traditional media platforms offer an opportunity to bridge the generation gap by reaching both older and younger audiences simultaneously. They can introduce the artist's work to younger generations who may not be familiar with them, fostering appreciation for their contributions to the arts and entertainment industry.
5. Adaptation to Digital Platforms: While traditional media outlets have their roots in pre-digital eras, many have adapted and expanded their presence to digital platforms. They maintain their brand recognition and leverage their existing audience base while also reaching new audiences through online channels. By embracing digital platforms, they can combine the benefits of traditional media with the accessibility and interactivity of the digital world.

It is worth noting that traditional media should not be seen as the sole or exclusive means of promoting talent in the arts and entertainment sectors. Digital platforms, social media, and streaming services have revolutionised the industry, offering new avenues for artists to gain exposure and engage with their audience. However, traditional media continues to play a vital role in reaching a diverse audience, establishing credibility, and honoring the legacy and contributions of heritage artists.