Public Relations Leader and Entreprenista, Ronica Cleary, on highlighting important and impactful stories
Describe your business in a few words:
I launched Cleary Strategies to provide public relations, media placements, & crisis management to leaders and corporations. I’m a former television journalist who most recently worked as a White House Correspondent and hosted a weekly political talk show for WTTG Fox 5. My goal is to help you and your brand earn the publicity you deserve for the story you’re destined to tell.
What was your background prior to starting your own business?
Prior to launching Cleary Strategies, I had a successful career in television journalism where I reported on programming that aired in some of the most competitive media markets in America: New York City, Philadelphia, and Washington, DC. Most recently I worked as a White House Correspondent for Fox 5 in Washington, DC, and hosted a Sunday morning political talk show, “Fox 5 On The Hill.” During my time as a journalist, I also reported on presidential campaigns, Capitol Hill, multiple Governors, and elections at every level of government. Beyond politics, I have reported on everything from challenging topics like the heroin crisis and crime to the light and fun like making cocktails and puppy spas!
Did you always know you wanted to be an entrepreneur?
Yes! Figuring out the type of company to start was the challenging part.
Take us back to when you first launched your business, what was your marketing strategy to get the word out, and did it go as planned?
My business is heavily referral based and only now (in my 4th year in business) am I investing in an SEO strategy and working to generate leads from outside of my network.
What is the accomplishment you are the most proud of to date?
Surpassing my income as a television journalist was an incredible milestone for me to reach. I am also very proud of hiring working moms to be on my team, and then giving them the flexibility and support they need to succeed.
Do you believe in work/life balance? What are some of your best tips?
I don’t think so. Entrepreneurship and parenting are all-consuming and life can be exhausting. But I feel fulfilled and thankful for the journey I am on and for the journey I have created for my life. There are seasons in life and my current season is a busy one. Reminding yourself that nothing is permanent helps when it feels overwhelming.
What have you achieved recently that you’d like to celebrate with our community?
Cleary Strategies recently booked more than a dozen media opportunities for Ukrainians and Ukrainian Americans to share their personal experiences after the recent invasion of their country. Our efforts resulted in bookings on CNN, Fox News Channel, Fox Business, Cheddar, and more. This work is part of #ClearyCares, pro bono support provided to those with limited budgets, but important causes that deserve media attention.
What’s next for your business? What can we expect to see over the next few years?
We’d like to continue to grow our roster of amazing clients so that Cleary Strategies can continue to be a go-to resource for journalists, bookers, producers, and hosts to call on when seeking experts and guests for stories or interviews.
What excites you about being an Entreprenista League member?
I enjoy memberships that empower women, foster friendship, and provide education. Entreprenista does just that!