03/26/2026
Most founders build their media list backwards.
They open a spreadsheet and start typing outlet names: TechCrunch, Forbes, Wired.
Then they blast a pitch to 200 journalists and wonder why nobody responds.
Here's what actually works:
A personalized pitch to 20 well-researched journalists beats a generic blast to 200. Every time.
The process isn't complicated. It doesn't require an agency or a $500/month database. What it requires is the right framework.
We broke it down into 5 steps:
→ Lock your story angle before you build anything → Find journalists through bylines, not directories → Tier your targets (Tier 2 and Tier 4 are where early-stage startups actually get coverage) → Track everything in a simple spreadsheet template → Maintain the list so it doesn't go stale before your next campaign
The founders who consistently get press aren't the ones with the biggest lists. They're the ones who know exactly who they're talking to and why.
Full guide here:
Build a targeted startup media list fast with a simple workflow, a spreadsheet template, and the right journalist tiers. Try OnePitch's free media list.
