As Presence News continues to grow, we regularly receive requests from publicists, talent managers, entrepreneurs, nonprofit leaders, authors, entertainers, athletes, and community members interested in participating in editorial video interviews.
One of the most common questions we receive is simple:
“How does Presence News decide who to interview?”
While there is no single formula, our editorial team considers a variety of factors when evaluating potential interview opportunities.
Our Editorial Mission
Presence News was founded with the goal of sharing informative, inspiring, and engaging stories that help audiences better understand the people, organizations, and ideas shaping communities.
Our interviews are not limited to celebrities or public figures. Some of our most meaningful conversations have been with business owners, nonprofit leaders, artists, athletes, authors, community advocates, and individuals with unique life experiences.
The primary question we ask is:
“Does this person have a story, perspective, experience, or impact that our audience may find valuable?”
We Do Not Rely on a Single Popularity Metric
Recently, a producer and talent manager asked whether Presence News uses IMDbPro STARmeter rankings when determining potential interview opportunities.
The answer is generally no.
While industry-specific tools may be useful within certain sectors, Presence News does not make editorial interview decisions based solely on entertainment rankings, social media follower counts, or any single measurement.
Instead, we evaluate a broader picture.
What We Typically Review
When considering a potential interview, we often look at:
Professional Background
We review an individual’s professional history and accomplishments over time.
Questions we may consider include:
- What projects have they been involved with?
- Have they demonstrated long-term commitment within their field?
- What have they been building or contributing to over the past decade?
We value consistency and meaningful work just as much as visibility.
Personal Website and Professional Footprint
A personal website, portfolio, business website, published work, or professional profile can provide helpful insight into an individual’s background and current activities.
We often review:
- Personal websites
- Business websites
- Published articles
- Professional portfolios
- Public speaking engagements
- Community involvement
- Creative projects
- How they overcame an obstacle or setback
These materials help us better understand someone’s story and expertise.
Audience Reach and Community Connection
While audience size alone does not determine eligibility for an interview, we do consider a person’s connection to an audience or community.
This may include:
- Community leadership
- Industry influence
- Social media presence
- Public engagement
- Professional networks
In many cases, a strong connection to a local community can be just as meaningful as a large online following.
Search Visibility and Public Interest
We may review publicly available indicators that suggest audience interest, including search visibility and general public awareness.
Search interest is not used as a requirement, but it can provide context regarding how often people are actively seeking information about a person, business, project, or organization.
Leadership and Business Experience
Presence News frequently interviews founders, executives, nonprofit leaders, and professionals who have built organizations or led initiatives.
Leadership experience often provides valuable lessons and perspectives that resonate with our audience.
Community Impact
One factor that consistently stands out is positive community impact.
Has someone helped others?
Have they created opportunities?
Have they contributed to their community, industry, or profession in a meaningful way?
Impact does not always have to be large-scale. Sometimes local contributions create some of the most compelling stories.
An Interesting Story
Sometimes the deciding factor is simply that someone has an intriguing story.
Not every interview has a large audience, major media coverage, or extensive credentials.
Occasionally, we meet someone who appears genuine, thoughtful, and interesting—and we believe our audience would benefit from hearing their perspective.
How Interviews Are Typically Scheduled
Presence News covers approximately two events per week on average.
Because our editorial team is already attending a variety of conferences, community gatherings, industry mixers, red carpet events, business functions, and public events throughout the year, many interviews are conducted during those existing assignments.
This approach allows us to maximize our resources while creating opportunities to meet a diverse range of people.
In many cases, if an interview request aligns with our editorial interests, we may simply coordinate the interview at an upcoming event that our team is already scheduled to attend.
Editorial Independence
Interview requests are reviewed individually.
Submitting a request does not guarantee coverage, publication, or an interview opportunity.
Likewise, an individual does not need to be a celebrity, executive, or public figure to be considered.
Presence News remains committed to editorial independence and seeks to feature a wide variety of voices, experiences, and perspectives.
Final Thoughts
At Presence News, we believe great stories can come from anywhere.
Some interviews have built successful companies. Others have dedicated years to serving their communities. Some are artists, entertainers, athletes, or innovators. Others are simply individuals whose experiences offer valuable lessons.
While metrics and professional accomplishments can provide useful context, they are only one part of the evaluation process.
Ultimately, we are looking for people who have something meaningful to share.
For interview inquiries, media requests, or collaboration opportunities, please contact the Presence News editorial team through the official channels listed on PresenceNews.org. Can fill out request coverage form – or contact us via Instagram, email… Thanks