Mona Loring’s passion for public relations began early, driving her to build one of the top entertainment PR firms from the ground up. With a vision to merge her expertise in talent representation with her spiritual journey, she created Conscious Hollywood, an innovative PR firm focused on elevating consciousness within the entertainment industry. From working on high-profile campaigns like the Oscars and Emmys to representing top talent like Garcelle Beauvais, Michael B. Jordan, Carrie Preston and Jenna Ortega, Mona’s journey has been marked by a deep commitment to helping her clients achieve their goals while making a positive impact.
“As women in business, we have the incredible opportunity to shape the landscape of our industries with authenticity and purpose. By embracing a conscious and supportive approach, we can bridge gaps and create spaces where our voices are heard and valued.” – Mona Loring
Takeaways:
Trailblazing Leadership: As the founder of a conscious PR firm, Mona Loring is pioneering a new approach that emphasizes mindfulness and integrity in the entertainment and wellness PR industry.
Empowerment Through Representation: Mona Loring prioritizes uplifting thought leaders, authors, and influencers in the conscious and entertainment space, creating a platform for authentically diverse voices.
Resilience in Challenges: Navigating toxic environments has taught Mona the importance of self-belief and the ability to overcome obstacles with grace.
Importance of Community: Building strong relationships and networks is essential for success, and Mona fosters a supportive environment for women in business.
Work Ethic and Innovation: A strong work ethic, effective communication, and thinking outside the box are critical habits that drive success.
Commitment to Growth: Mona advocates for continuous learning and self-care, understanding that personal well-being directly influences professional performance.
Inspiring Future Generations: By sharing her journey and insights, Mona Loring aims to inspire other women to pursue their ambitions and create meaningful change in their fields.
Can you start by introducing yourself and telling us in your words, about your inspiring story?
I’m Mona Loring, and I’ve been working in public relations for almost 20 years, helping talented clients build and elevate their brands in the fast-paced entertainment industry. My journey started with a deep passion for storytelling and a desire to create personalized PR campaigns that truly highlight the unique talents of the individuals I work with.
I founded MLC PR, which became one of the top entertainment PR firms, built from the ground up. Throughout my career, I’ve had the opportunity to work across a range of sectors including talent, music, lifestyle, and literary public relations, which allowed me to integrate my skills in artist development, image consulting, and business expansion. My love for seeing people succeed, combined with hard work and integrity, has led me to develop successful campaigns for incredibly talented people.
In recent years, my spiritual journey led me to launch Conscious Living PR, and later rebrand MLC PR as Conscious Hollywood. I realized the need to elevate the level of consciousness within the entertainment industry, and it became my mission to bridge the gap between entertainment, philanthropy, and wellness. It’s been incredibly fulfilling to use my intuition and passion to create positive change, not just for my clients but for the industry at large.
We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today.
I got to where I am today through hard work, determination, and being open to learning from every opportunity. When I started, no client was too small, and I made sure to gain something valuable from each experience. I learned that teamwork is key and that relationships are one of the most important parts of working in PR.
What made you decide to go into business for yourself?
I decided to start my own business because, although I appreciated the experience I gained working at a small children’s book publishing house, the growth opportunities were limited. I considered working for another PR agency, but forging my own path felt like the best option for me. It was difficult to get my foot in the door without much experience, and even though I wasn’t sure where to begin, following my heart and intuition led me to start my own PR venture—it was the only path that truly felt right.
How did you market your business when it was brand new?
Word of mouth, in-person networking, and eventually on social media through Myspace (yes, remember that?!) and then Instagram.
What is a typical day like for you?
A typical day for me can vary significantly. While office days often involve Zoom meetings, phone calls, and emails, they shift based on team collaboration, pitching needs, and research. On other days, you might find me at a photo shoot with a celebrity client or on a red carpet, guiding them through photos or press interviews. Sometimes, I’m traveling to meet a client for a talk show taping or a press junket. One of the things I love most about my job is that no two days are ever the same.
What are the three most important habits for being a successful entrepreneur?
The three most important habits for a successful entrepreneur are a strong work ethic, a clear vision, and mindfulness. Work ethic drives consistency and dedication, vision helps in setting long-term goals and staying focused on the bigger picture, and mindfulness fosters balance, awareness, and the ability to make thoughtful decisions even in the face of challenges.
If you had one piece of advice for someone just starting out, what would it be?
Never give up. You will face setbacks, but the key is to learn from them and strive to do better next time. Remember, it’s about the journey, not just the destination. Embrace each experience as a step toward your growth.
How do you prioritize self-care and well-being while managing the demands of your business?
I prioritize self-care and well-being while managing the demands of my business by making time for friends and family whenever possible. I exercise daily and practice meditation as often as I can throughout the week. My strong spiritual practice is truly what sustains me.
What challenges have you faced in the workplace, especially your experience in male-dominated environments?
In male-dominated environments, I’ve faced challenges where some individuals resort to bullying tactics, often tied to their expectations of outcomes or demeanor. However, I’ve also encountered many wonderful men in the industry. By consciously steering clear of toxic masculinity, I focus on positive interactions. I’ve learned that when you embody confidence and self-belief, any bully—regardless of gender—will ultimately back down.
Can you share some of the most important lessons you’ve learned from your successes and failures in business?
Here are three of the most important lessons I’ve learned from my successes and failures:
Don’t Let Emotions Cloud Your Judgment: In the high-stress, high-stakes environment of entertainment PR, maintaining a level head is crucial. It can be challenging, especially when navigating intense situations, but working with clarity allows me to tap into my intuition more effectively. I wish I had learned this sooner, as it truly is a game changer.
Act from Love not Fear: While it’s easy to blame others for making self-serving decisions, I’ve come to realize that many individuals, myself included, often act from a place of fear or worry. Everyone is ultimately looking out for themselves, whether consciously or subconsciously, so it’s crucial to be discerning about whom you trust while also considering their perspectives. They are often self-protecting rather than out to get you, even when it feels personal. I try to remember to approach situations with love to counter this mindset, which consistently leads to better outcomes.
Learn to Rest, Not Quit: The saying, “When you’re tired, learn to rest, not quit,” resonates deeply with me. It’s easy for stress to cloud judgment and impact the quality of work. Finding a balance is vital to prevent burnout. While some may misuse rest as an excuse, I’ve learned the hard way that quitting is rarely the solution. Effective communication is crucial in PR, and fatigue can significantly hinder that.
What initiatives or actions do you believe are crucial for fostering a more supportive and inclusive business environment for women?
The initiatives I believe are essential for fostering a more supportive and inclusive business environment for women include understanding and compassion for the fact that women still represent a minority in many areas. Although PR is predominantly a female-focused field, we still face challenges rooted in long-standing patriarchal norms. This includes a lack of understanding regarding time off for parenting, menstrual cycles, and the often-overlooked challenges of perimenopause and menopause, which are rarely acknowledged in the business world. As a business owner, I strive to be as understanding as possible regarding the unique needs of women and to support their growth within the industry. While it can be challenging to manage a smaller business and ensure each employee is working efficiently, I aim to support their needs and also create opportunities for young women to advance and thrive in their careers.
How do you set your business apart from others in your industry?
I take pride in being a trailblazer, dedicated to bridging gaps and integrating a more conscious and mindful perspective into business practices. To my knowledge, I was the first to establish a conscious PR firm of my level and size, initially representing thought leaders, authors, and influencers in the conscious wellness and spiritual space. From there, I expanded into the entertainment industry by merging my talent agency into Conscious Living and creating the division Conscious Hollywood, which truly sets us apart. I believe there is currently no other agency with this specific focus.
What are the three most important habits for being a successful high performer or leader?
Strong Work Ethic: A great work ethic is fundamental to success. It reflects commitment, discipline, and a drive to achieve goals. High performers often go above and beyond what’s expected, which not only enhances their own productivity but also sets a standard for the team. This dedication fosters trust and respect among colleagues and clients, reinforcing a positive work culture.
Effective Communication: The ability to communicate well with others is crucial for any leader. Clear communication ensures that everyone is on the same page, reduces misunderstandings, and builds strong relationships. It enables leaders to articulate their vision, provide feedback, and inspire their team. Furthermore, effective communication promotes collaboration and encourages open dialogue, allowing for various perspectives to be heard.
Thinking Outside the Box: High performers and leaders who think creatively are often the ones who drive innovation and problem-solving within their organizations. Thinking outside the box involves approaching challenges from new angles, seeking unconventional solutions, and especially important in today’s world– embracing change. This mindset encourages adaptability and resilience in the face of obstacles. By fostering a culture of creativity, leaders can empower their teams to explore new ideas and strategies, leading to competitive advantages. Embracing diverse perspectives and encouraging unconventional thinking can lead to transformative results, especially in PR.
What social media platform is the best for business growth and why?
I believe Instagram is the best social media platform for business growth. It effectively connects you with like-minded individuals and potential clients while showcasing your work and the impact you have on others. By sharing client success stories, behind-the-scenes content, and engaging visuals, you can build a strong brand presence and attract a dedicated audience. Additionally, Instagram’s features, such as Stories, Reels, and hashtags, allow for increased visibility and opportunities to connect with a broader network, making it an invaluable tool for any business looking to grow.
Wrap-up/Conclusion:
As women in business, we have the incredible opportunity to shape the landscape of our industries with authenticity and purpose. By embracing a conscious and supportive approach, we can bridge gaps and create spaces where our voices are heard and valued. Establishing a mindful PR firm dedicated to empowering thought leaders and influencers has shown me the importance of representation and connection. We can navigate the challenges of toxic environments with resilience and compassion, fostering relationships that uplift and inspire. Effective communication, a strong work ethic, and innovative thinking are your tools for success. Together, I hope women can come together to cultivate an inclusive community that encourages us all to thrive and make a meaningful impact in the world. Your journey is unique, and with determination and a clear vision, you can pave the way for future generations of women in business.
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Melissa Stewart is the founder of SheOwnsIt.com. She is a Purveyor of Possibility, Entrepreneur Advocate and Coffee Addict. She believes that behind every successful woman is her story. What’s your story?
