The story of Phyllis Caddell, founder and lead strategist of PCPR Communications, is compelling and inspiring in the dynamic landscape of PR and strategic communications. Born into a family deeply entrenched in the juxtaposition of the creative and corporate worlds, Phyllis’s journey is a testament to the power of resilience, faith, and the courage to pivot when life throws unforeseen challenges your way.
Growing up in Los Angeles, California, with a father who was an entertainment manager/promoter and a mother, a legal negotiator, Phyllis was introduced to the enthralling world of entertainment and the intricate dance of corporate negotiations at an early age. While the law industry intrigued her, it was the vibrant pulse of the entertainment sector that truly captivated her spirit. This early exposure laid the groundwork for what would become a remarkable career.
Phyllis’s academic journey took her through the realms of radio and television, but it was an introductory course in public relations that ignited her passion, prompting a decisive shift in her academic focus. Her foray into the world of PR and communications saw her gaining valuable experience across multiple record labels and entertainment companies, setting the stage for the entrepreneurial leap that would define her career.
The inception of PCPR Communications was born out of necessity and resilience. After facing repeated layoffs in corporate PR positions due to budget cuts, Phyllis turned a period of professional uncertainty into an opportunity for growth and independence. With a modest investment from her younger sister, Dayna Caddell, she acquired the essential tools needed to launch her own PR firm. From these humble beginnings, working from her bedroom with just $500 and a prayer, Phyllis embarked on a journey that would see her overcoming challenges with tenacity and unwavering faith.
Phyllis’s break came with her first client, Tommy Ford, securing his appearance on The Oprah Winfrey Show—a moment that catapulted her career and established her as a credible force within the entertainment PR industry. Her ability to bridge the gap between faith-based and mainstream entertainment, recognized by Essence Magazine, underscores her innovative approach to PR and communications.
Beyond her professional success, Phyllis’s mission is to inspire, educate, and gently disrupt any industry she touches. Her commitment to mentoring young women in PR, despite facing challenges from employees such as betrayal and dishonesty, highlights her dedication to fostering transparency and honesty within her company and the industry at large.
Phyllis Caddell is not just a publicist; she is a best-selling author, ghostwriter, university expert content developer, and adjunct professor. Her academic achievements, including an M.A. in Organizational Communications, an M.S. in Internet Marketing, and a B.A. in Public Relations, complement her extensive professional experience, making her a formidable force in her field.
Her approach to life and business is encapsulated in her motto, “If you don’t ask, you don’t know.” This philosophy has guided her through the highs and lows of her career, always reminding her of the importance of curiosity, persistence, and the courage to seek out new opportunities.
Phyllis Caddell’s story is more than just a narrative of professional success; it’s a blueprint for navigating the uncertainties of life with grace and determination. Her journey from being laid off to leading a successful PR agency is a powerful reminder of the transformative potential of faith, resilience, and the willingness to pivot in pursuit of one’s dreams. As Phyllis continues to inspire, educate, and disrupt, her legacy serves as encouragement for aspiring professionals everywhere, proving that with tenacity and belief in oneself, anything is possible.
Published by: Nelly Chavez
