“You Got McDonald's Money?” And Other Black Mother Lessons In Pitching Journalist & Creator The Right Way

If you grew up with a Black mama, auntie, or grandma, you know that certain phrases were law. The sayings were so common we often bond over them on social media decades later. These classic sayings taught us discipline, respect, and the fine art of not testing our elders. But as it turns out, they also serve as the perfect guide for how to approach journalists and content creators before making a request.

Because let’s be real—some of y’all are out here making media requests with no clue what you're doing. And I really want to fix it.

“You got McDonald’s money?”

Nothing humbles a child faster than asking for a Happy Meal and hearing this question in response. Our mamas knew then what journalists and content creators know now: people love to ask for things without considering what it costs.

If you’re pitching a journalist for coverage, asking a content creator to promote you, or requesting any professional service, come prepared. Do they charge for brand collaborations? Are they freelance and depend on paid opportunities? Are you offering anything in return, even if it’s not financial? Exposure doesn’t pay bills, so make sure your request respects their time and talent.

“I’m not one of your little friends.”

Your favorite journalist or content creator may be personable on social media, but that does not mean you can slide into their DMs like you’re besties, demanding coverage or favors. This is a professional relationship, not a playdate.

Instead of sending a casual “Hey, can you write about me?” message, take time to craft a proper pitch. Address them by name, mention a story they’ve covered that relates to your request, and clearly explain why their audience would care. Respect their time, and they’ll respect yours.

“Because I said so.”

This one was the ultimate argument-ender. No follow-up questions, no explanations—just do what you were told.

With the media, however, “because I said so” won’t cut it. If you’re pitching a journalist or content creator, you have to explain why your story, event, or product is relevant. What makes it newsworthy? Why shoul their audience care? A strong pitch provides value, not just demands.

“Don’t embarrass me in this store.”

The public relations equivalent of this warning? “Don’t embarrass yourself in this inbox.”

If you’re reaching out to a journalist, do your research first. Nothing is worse than pitching a fashion writer about your new tech startup or asking a food influencer to promote your fitness app. Know their beat, their audience, and what kind of stories they cover. Otherwise, you’ll be the inbox equivalent of a toddler throwing a tantrum in Target.

“You better fix your face before I fix it for you.”

Or, in media terms, watch your tone.

If a journalist doesn’t pick up your story or a content creator doesn’t respond to your request, don’t get an attitude. The worst thing you can do is send a follow-up that sounds entitled or passive-aggressive. A simple “Just checking in” is fine; a “Wow, I guess you’re too busy to respond” is not.

Journalists and creators receive dozens (sometimes hundreds) of pitches a day. If they pass on yours, it’s not personal—just business. Keep it professional, and you may get a shot next time.

“Stay in a child’s place.”

Or in this case, stay in a requester’s place.

If you’re asking for coverage or collaboration, don’t overstep. You wouldn’t walk into a newsroom and demand a front-page feature, so don’t act like you’re owed free promo online. Similarly, don’t dictate how someone should tell your story. If a journalist wants to take a different angle or a creator has their own way of presenting your brand, respect their expertise.

“Go sit down somewhere.”

Sometimes, the best move after sending a pitch is to chill.

Following up once? Fine. Following up twice? Okay. Bombarding their inbox like a toddler who refuses to take a nap? Absolutely not. If a journalist or creator is interested, they’ll respond. If not, take the hint and move on to the next opportunity.

Reaching out to a journalist or content creator the right way is all about respect, preparation, and patience. Just like your elders didn’t tolerate foolishness, neither do media professionals.

So before you hit send on that pitch, ask yourself: Am I approaching this like the expert you want to be seen as or like a kid begging for McDonald’s with no money? If it’s the latter, go fix your approach—before they fix it for you.