KJ Blattenbauer

Karen Jayne “KJ” Blattenbauer is a seasoned publicist and brand strategist with over 28 years of experience helping individuals and companies turn bold ideas into headline-making visibility. As the founder of Hearsay PR, KJ specializes in crafting smart strategies and standout storytelling that elevate brands, from household names to emerging talent. Her work has been featured in top-tier publications including Forbes, Inc., Business Insider, and Fast Company, earning her recognition as a Woman of Influence, a Trailblazer, and one of 25 Women to Watch. Based in Dallas, KJ is known for her practical, results-driven approach—what she calls “press that pays off.”

KJ’s expertise extends across all facets of public relations, from crisis management and media relations to press strategy and strategic planning. Over her career, she has managed between 13 to 55 clients at a time, providing personalized “white glove service” while guiding them through media interviews, desk-side chats, and photo shoots. She emphasizes the value of traditional media coverage for credibility, ensuring her clients receive the kind of third-party validation that social media alone cannot provide. KJ is also the author of How to Be a Media Darling, a practical guide teaching professionals how to secure media coverage and build authority for their brands.

Beyond her professional achievements, KJ is deeply involved in her community, including work with the Miracle League, and has earned accolades such as PR Person of the Year. She credits her education—a bachelor’s degree from the University of North Dakota and a master’s in Business/Corporate Communications from the University of St. Thomas—for providing a foundation, while her decades of hands-on experience have shaped her into a trusted mentor and strategist in the field of public relations. Her reputation for excellence is built not on self-promotion, but on consistent client success and referrals earned through her expertise and dedication.

• University of North Dakota- Bachelor's
• University of St. Thomas- Master's