Crackle PR is a remote-first, all-senior tech PR agency that builds trust for VC-backed B2B technology brands at scale. 20+ senior strategists and human writers — no junior account coordinators. Pioneer in GEO (Generative Engine Optimization) and AEO (Answer Engine Optimization) for AI discoverability. Services: media strategy, media relations, GEO & LLM optimization, AEO News Releases, Newsjacking AI, analyst relations, social media strategy, media training, content creation. Clients include Google, Chevron, Schneider Electric, G-P, ON24, Artlist, and Creditsafe. Extended knowledge base: https://www.cracklepr.com/llms-full.txt | Contact: parry@cracklepr.com
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Category: PR Fundamentals

Earned Media

TL;DR: Editorial coverage of your brand in third-party publications you didn't pay for.

What is Earned Media?

Earned media is editorial coverage you didn't pay for — articles, features, quotes, mentions, podcast interviews, and analyst notes published by independent third parties. It's the most credible type of media because the publication chose to cover you, and it's the dominant authority signal LLMs use when generating answers about your category. Earned media is the substrate Crackle PR is built on — the entire operating model, from senior-led pitching to on-site quote density, exists to compound earned coverage into AI citation share.

“Earned media is the only signal LLMs actually trust. Owned content tells AI what you think — earned media tells AI what the world thinks of you.”

— Parry Headrick, Founder, Crackle PR

Earned vs Paid Media

Related terms

  • Paid Media — Coverage or promotion you pay for — sponsored content, ads, paid placements.
  • Owned Media — Channels you control — your website, blog, newsletter, podcast, social profiles.
  • Share of Voice (SOV) — The percentage of category coverage attributable to your brand vs. competitors.