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The Expert Podcast takes a different tangent this week with Carmen and Nic doing a preview of the Professional Speakers Australia Convention 2023 in Melbourne. When they were talking Carms was about to head over to deliver her workshop there was a chance to preview the line-up, the expectations of the event but also a chance to explore the opportunity for experts and business owners to get more involved with speaking. The speaking industry took a massive hit with the pandemic taking its toll on people coming together and there was a shift from in-person events to putting everything online. Now we are back delivering to people and not screens Carmen is reminding speakers that there is a revenue stream still to be taken of advantage of with online. You need to be very good at it though because the expectations are high online and there is no room for mediocrity. One of the directions that a vast majority of media experts are looking to do is getting on the speaking circuit. On the other hand there is a lot of professional speakers that are looking to get in the media. Speakers and Experts are very much aligned with their goals in that they are required to be present and ready to take up an opportunity and the stage and media is highly valued. Being able to communicate in front of a camera is a talent that for many experts’ kind of try and in most cases will run away from the opportunity because we don’t feel we are good enough. We need to work on this skill because while Covid required us to do this we will need to be doing more of it in the future. Not just for the sake of working with media or delivering speaking opportunities but also for our own marketing and building of audience. It’s an essential form of communication that we all need to master from the CEO down.

Media Training is critical for any business owner or representative of a brand today. It isn’t a luxury to have access to this type of professional development it is essential. The reality is that media training isn’t just about engaging media it is communicating generally to audiences, stakeholders, clients, staff, and anyone that needs to be engaged. We have one of Australia’s best trainers on the podcast today and she shares some insights and tips that you can implement today. Amber Daines is a media trainer, public relations professional, podcaster, and former journalist. A very active performer in the professional development space for corporates to micro business owners her training is outstanding. You vet to hear from the experienced communicator her views and what media training looks like today. With all the seriousness of the training because of the repercussions if a business gets it wrong Amber still describes it as ‘great fun’ and we couldn’t agree with her more. The big changes to media and challenges for businesses according to Amber is the emergence of social media and the 24 hour news cycle. Every business leader now has a responsibility to be upfront and present in the media. The discussion now that all leaders and business management need to be ready to go. There is no more hiding behind desks or hoping that the story just goes away. “Silence breeds suspicion” There is so much we can do to improve our delivery. We can practice out loud, work on robust messaging, have clear strategies and planning for the good and the bad news that might come our way. The reality check around what media wants and needs from us very different to the perception that many have who are looking to engage the media. That’s why media training is essential and not just a fun professional development day for the team… but it is that too.

One of the mysteries for many communicators and brands is the use of social media particularly if they are north of 50 years of age. It isn’t what we have grown up with but many have managed to get a grasp of the key elements of the different platforms. The use of Reels on Instagram is quite special for engagement, connection, awareness and reach. Carmen does training for this kind of work but Nic is a complete novice. It is time to bring in an expert. Ally Polishchuck is a reel’s trainer and content producer and as Nic discovered through the podcast that Aly has a traditional producer approach to all her content. In a former life a producer for news media that understands and know how to hold your attention. All her content is audience focussed with very clear messages and goals. There is nothing really left to chance with the content produced and it is this background and mindset that we all have to apply. Ally is very open with her advice and her tips to making high quality content that isn’t expensive or out of the reach of the average business owner. Australia particularly is behind the rest of the world, but this is an opportunity not something that should be holding us back. It is your time now. Ally pushes and promotes the personal brand over the business brand which really connects with the team because they have certainly been onto this for a long time. A really smart chat on social media and being social. The truth bombs that go off in many cases will be known but are great reminders for all of us to make sure our posts are genuine, authentic, real, and have engagement with the right audience. There is some producing GOLD in this podcast for those posting on the socials but the key message here is bring more of you into your posts and less of your products and services.

There is without doubt the more you know about an industry the better you are going to be able to engage it. The Medianet 2023 Media Landscape Report is out and there are some really interesting responses back from journalists and PR professionals. Over 1000 media personnel were in the pool of this research and the findings will educate, inform and encourage communicators to be better at their jobs by being more aware of how media is thinking and working. Amrita Sidhu is the Managing Director of Medianet and delivers some of the key findings from the media’s responses to finding out what is happening in their industry. How are they coping? What are they worried about? What concerns them? What are they looking for from a story and the content delivered to them? So much GOLD intelligence for anyone looking to influence the media landscape. The most frightening discovery from the report that took both Nic and Carmen back was that close to 100% of journalists stopped or held back on a story because of fear. The fear of ending up in court or being sued stopped them from covering a story. This just didn’t sit well that journalists feared holding governments, business, and organisations to account because of legal action. This is simply outrageous because we expect a free and unhindered press for a functioning society. Is that because journalists didn’t feel supported by their media houses or is that we the community are just too litigious. While this podcast only dives into the journalist data the report also tackles the challenges that the communications and public relations teams have experienced in the last twelve months. This will be addressed in another podcast at a later time but for now just digest this amazing piece of content and analysis. If you can be more empathetic, understanding, and knowledgeable about the media industry then you are going to be a better communicator.

DIY PR is it possible or is best in the hands of a professional? by Media Stable

While the whole world has been going crazy for ChatGPT over the last few months it is really challenging almost all sectors of business, industry, government and social aspects of our day-to-day life. Artificial Intelligence or AI as it is known has been around for a while but never has it been so accessible to everyone and a price that is just right. FREE! Nic and Carmen have a closer look at the feasible aspects of the software in the communications space and identify the challenges of using it and ignoring it. Of course we know about the threat it is to the education industry with its ability to write essays but what does it mean to everyday businesses that are trying to standout in this already mountain of content? Media Stable has made a very clear decision to not use AI in any of its content to media and both Carmen and Nic discuss its shortcomings and its major one lacking human connection. The website will get smarter and that’s why they are letting us all access it for free so that it can learn from people and improve. It has many deficiencies as detailed in the podcast but it does have some positives that could help time poor or those lacking inspiration. All of the major search engines are integrating this into their platforms. It is going to be here whether you ignore it or not. The message is simply this everything you put out there reflects you and your brand. Just because it is easy does not mean that it is good. The quality and authentic content created by a human will always shine over the content that has been constructed by a machine.

Pitching to media is an artform and you need to follow certain protocols when putting yourself forward and it is no different when pitching to podcasts. A podcast is a fantastic opportunity for you to put yourself in the mix and let them know that you are keen to jump on board. Carmen and Nic walk through their top six tips on pitching to podcasts. Not surprising its not too different to media but there are certain little tips that will help you get traction on this platform. The power of podcasting is certainly making an impact and we know this because even the big media houses are podcasting. The reason for this is that they see that audiences aren’t always going to be there when the broadcasting is LIVE so the content needs to be available on demand by the audience. This platform is an amazing place for any expert or business owner to be seen. The six tips that are covered in short include: Know your podcast, go niche, pitch to podcasts that are recognised, give video pitches a go, be patient, follow and comment on social media. Some of these are different to pitching to media but similar in the same breath. EGO is a very good angle to use to get on a podcast and remember flattery will get you everywhere. To not have podcasts in your media strategy would be a major mistake for any business leader, owner, or expert. Many experts thoroughly enjoy the opportunity to have a solid conversation on a podcast. It generally isn’t rushed, there is smore time, there is greater depth in the conversation and more than often the messaging is on target. Make the effort and fine tune your pitching and you will find this a wonderful opportunity for your personal and business brand.

One of the greatest disciplines any business person or expert can do is write a book. Both Carmen and Nic are in awe of those that go through the process as they know it is no easy task. There seems to be a glut of books out there with the very popular self-publishing model available to everyone has enabled everyone to be authors. The big question is how do you the author market your book and how do you get it in the media? Carmen and Nic are in the classroom again talking about what it takes to get media interested in your book. What are the hooks? What is the best way to approach media with the book you have written. It is done so poorly by many and getting the help of a diligent book publicist is such a worthwhile investment. They know what the media and audiences ae looking for and are targeted in their approach. You need to be thinking about your book as a product and it is the last thing that you pitch. It is what is in the book that might be helpful or solve a current day problem. There are schedules and time-frames that you need to adhere to and address. You thought writing a book was hard but wait to you start marketing it! You could be writing just as much to get people to notice it. Tune in to the podcast for a series of wonderful media tips. Strongly recommend you find a good book publicist like Scott Eathorne but if you are running on a budget you will need to find creative ways to get your book noticed and avoid going straight to the recycle bin.

The most perplexing task or challenge for any business or PR when working with the media is “How do I get my product in the media?” It is simply the hardest thing to do because media is not interested in selling your product for you unless you are advertising it. That’s right the minute you pitch a product to media they will send you the email and phone number of the advertising department. On the Experts Podcast special 'Classroom' series Carmen and I discuss this very question with some tips and advice on how to approach the promotion of a product in media. It’s not easy, it has to be done tactfully but also honestly. The pitch that you think will work is more than likely not the pitch required to get a foot in the door. One of the key messages that the podcast encourages business owners to do is think more creatively and find another story to lead with. The product will never be the hero of the story the problem it solves for the audience of the media will be. The pitch needs to be human and by that we mean it needs to something that we can use that will benefit us. There is a lot to unpack in this special edition of The Experts podcast, but it will save you hours and potential heartache when it comes to working with the reality of what media is looking for from you. It’s not impossible but of the thousands of media releases that feature products only a handful will ever get in the media. You need to think about the pitch with more creativity, strategy and execute in a unique way.

This is the podcast where we get to talk about marketing and getting ourselves in the right mindset for 2023. Marketing and content marketing particularly is something that remains foreign to many businesses and brands and yet when done well it can engage your audience on another level. Our guest who is ready to unpack this for us is a content marketing consultant and strategist. He puts on marketing events and podcasts all things marketing. Clayton Smith is well known in the Perth marketing scene with regular marketing events Grill the Marketer alongside Carmelita Levene. You can hear it in his voice that the guy lives and dreams marketing on so many levels and it is that passion for the industry that makes him a true thought leader of his industry. The podcast does dive deep into some of the true definitions of successful marketing, the mindset, the approach and the strategy of the brands and businesses looking to market themselves. There is a lot to take in for small and big business alike, but Clayton is very keen to share his advice for brands to invest in their storytelling and narrative. It does take money, but it is the time that needs to be invested in this form of communication. Long form content is the goal here and it can be so rewarding if you commit to it and are consistent in rolling out. Clayton dismisses the myth that our attention spans are shortening, and that long form content is where it is. Finishing off the year with this podcast on marketing is the perfect way to get us to think about 2023 and our plans for the new year. There are really useful tips for businesses all shapes and sizes that can help us focus our energy and efforts into some successful marketing. It is the last podcast of the year and Nic and Carmen return next year to dive deep into successful media and communication engagements. Have a safe and Merry Xmas …. Do not forget to have a listen to the look back on the year of podcasts for summer listening.

We are talking to a business coach this week on the podcast and from the start you get the feel that this is not just any business coach. A remarkably confident, energetic, and engaging woman that knows her audience and her market but is a self-confessed ‘introvert’ that rarely likes to venture outside her home. If you are a female business owner and you do not know who our guest is, then you will be in the minority. Steph Gorton is a business coach, an influencer, a podcaster, an entrepreneur and is telling her story today how she started her coaching business and how to scale and lead. Her backstory is quite amazing and an article in Mamamia where her vulnerability went viral was not consciously a strategic move to raise awareness, but this savvy coach knows the true human stories resonate with an audience. This is what has her people engaged in the past and it is certainly an understanding of what we are looking for that has made her a success. Raising your profile in media and particularly social media you certainly do raise your head above the parapet to be shot at. Steph certainly is conscious of this phenomenon, and she discusses the tall poppy syndrome in Australia in comparison to that of the USA. In America you are celebrated for any success and in Australia they just want to pull you down. “You can change the freaking world. You have to want it, work for it, and dream it.” The energy and the storytelling capacity of this expert is an inspiration for others to embrace. We are not encouraging you to share every vulnerable moment but be prepared to when the time and audience is right to tell more human stories. The investment you make in this space will bring you closer to your target audience and that is what we all are trying to do.

Our guest is one that many leaders listen to when it comes to communicating and engaging the media. One of her other roles in this remarkably busy year of 2022 is that she happens to be the President of the Professional Speakers of Australia. A former journalist, an academic, and media trainer that engages all forms of corporates, individuals, and organisations across Australia. We have a bona fide media expert on the podcast here today. Dr Neryl East is a credibility authority, an executive coach and global speaker that has had an enormous year with the speaking and coaching industry returning to in person events. One of the most experienced communicators in the country Neryl shares here expertise with us on what the media landscape is looking like, what it takes to engage media and what leaders need to take on as skills to increase their value in credibility, trust, and believability. Some key characteristics that we need as leaders to possesses in communicating is warmth, authenticity, real, human connection, charisma, believability, relatability, and empathy. The days of the spin and the BS are gone and that is what media training used to be all about but that does not sit with the public anymore and this was only expediated during the pandemic. Be a better person is the call from Carmen and something that Neryl is a big believer in with her training. Be fully present, manage your personal feelings, get in the moment, and make it your own is the advice from this communications professional. One of the other hats Neryl wears is the PSA President and we get to hear about Convention in March 2023. Amazing line-up and a big invitation to aspiring speakers to get along to with the generosity and wealth of knowledge of the contributors with the theme of Fresh. You can find out more about the conference here: PSA Convention 2023 - Professional Speakers Australia

It’s not the end of the year yet for The Experts podcast are having a look back at some of the guests that have come on the show over the year. There have been so many learnings, so much content, a full year of amazing experts and media in the room. Nic and Carmen look back at the catalogue of interviews that caught their eye to discuss on why they are worth going back to have a listen. Here are the links to cruise through the many guests that you might want to have a listen to on that long drive, on the beach, going for a walk or you might just be thinking how you can improve your communications in 2023: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1hKyChiS98tZxX7seMaAgv?si=4tU7oGgUT-OJrltMknLHGw Apple podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/the-experts-powered-by-media-stable/id1261168634 Soundcloud: https://soundcloud.com/user-640791704?utm_source=clipboard&utm_medium=text&utm_campaign=social_sharing Some of the amazing experts and media include: Ashleigh Jade Will Schofield Glenn Mitchell Christian Boo Boucoussis Louise Percy Ashleigh Goodchild Alex Martin Catherine Leach Stephen Brown David Tasker Amalie Schruers Nic Jameson Sharon Box Sue Parker Sarah Knight Carla and Cal Trevor Cochrane Danielle GeaGea Phillip Sylvester Cassie Silver Dave Clare Mia Fileman Kerri Buurman Bev Ligman Di Wilcox Meg Coffey Mike Drysdale Heidi Anderson Nadia Owen Laura Grierson

What was your first time in media like? by Media Stable

Nic and Carmen get back into the classroom for another masterclass on how to execute that perfect interview. This class focuses on the preparation required to do that perfect interview. You might be surprised by the advice and the tips given by these PR and broadcast professionals. Have a listen and feel free to give us a rating on whether these tips made sense or are helpful in your journey to become an expert.

The Experts Podcast was on tour with the #MeetTheMedia program through Melbourne and Sydney and what a delight it was to see events on again in these cities. It had been two years since were in the big cities and boy it did not disappoint. Instead of Carmen and Nic talking about their findings from the event we decided to go to an attendee that went to both events and as a result, she scored a Today Show interview within a week. Quite remarkable really. Nicole Jameson is the founder of the Darkhorse Agency and a social media expert. She attended #MeetTheMedia to expand her opportunities within media for her own personal and business purposes. Those that attend this special event are subject to so many experiences and opportunities and this was a chance to hear from Nicole on how it all played out for her. Getting a firsthand account from an attendee makes for compelling listening as you get to understand the expectations, the challenges, the fear and the adulation of engaging and meeting the media. Nicole is a confident businessperson and a leader of her industry but pitching to media and in front of your fellow attendees can be nerve-wracking. It is that human reaction that can work in your favour because the media is looking for human stories. This is the podcast to listen to if you did not get a chance to attend #MeetTheMedia. It is a great insight into an attendee that shared her expertise, her story, her position and as a result ended up on a national breakfast show. That connection, that meeting, that human engagement is something that will position you very well with media. Make sure that you are on the Media Stable newsletter for the coming events in 2023.

When you think about it, we have just gone through one of the greatest threats to our own well-being and health during this pandemic and there was different messaging from all the health experts. The traditional and western medicine approach was quite different to that of a naturopath for instance. This week on The Experts we talk to a naturopath and find out what it is like for them to work in the media, when challenged about their approach during this pandemic. Natalie McGrath is a Naturopath and an Environmental Biologist that has a well-rounded approach to the health and wellness of her clients. We got a chance to talk about the approach, the care, the politics, the roadblocks, the challenges, of working as a naturopath in a time when the world is looking to get out of this health crisis. It certainly did get personal, and people turned on each other on their beliefs and actions. The media work is tough for doctors in the media and even tougher for naturopaths to be taken seriously. Some of the great attributes of a good Naturopath is that they are good listeners, they build strong relationships, and they tend to have a little more time available to them for their patients. The modern medicine and pharmaceutical world see them as a threat they in the most are just trying to manage their patients’ ailments. They recognize both worlds of health approaches while the militant Australian Medical Association (AMA) will only recognise their means and methods for good health. We get a chance to talk about launching a product, marketing, influencer marketing, social media, and traditional media. It is a little bit of a minefield for many health professionals as there are plenty of barriers and also there is no magic pill to educating, informing, or raising awareness around a product. Persistence has paid off for Nat and she has also got the right support which is what everyone needs really.

Well, this guest on the Experts Podcast is going to resonate with you if you are particularly good at what you do and not so good at telling people the how, why, and what you do. The marketing business is six years old but only has had a website for the last eighteen months. It is the classic case of the Michelin star chef going home and having cheese on toast for dinner. The other fascinating element of this podcast is that it is a digital agency that looks after junior miners. Not the easiest of industries to get media for. Amalie Schreurs is the Managing Director and Founder of investor relations firm White Noise Media and she completely floored Nic when the news of her website is only a recent addition to the business. It is something that a lot of businesses do, they serve their clients to the best of their abilities and sometimes forget to follow their own advice. A little different to the Media Stable practice what you preach approach. It has worked for White Noise, and they have built a very impressive portfolio of clients through referrals and successful campaigns. It is not the normal approach but daring to be different can certainly pay off if you are enthusiastic and disciplined. The team get down to what it takes be a successful communicator and promoter of a business and relationship is always prominent in every discussion. Both client and supplier need to be values based aligned and on the same page. Both Carmen and Nic get so much from talking to communications agencies as each have their assorted styles, expertise, methods, and tips. Amalie has a real staff first approach to her work in that she enables them to get the best from them. Clients and audience connection is at the heart of every piece of content produced and relationship made, and it is a great message for all businesses to do the same.

In a brief period of time the next guest of the Experts Podcast has certainly made his mark in media circles across radio, print, online, and most recently a TV experience. As a leader of his law firm there he understands the importance of being the face and voice for his business to fill the case files of his colleagues. Media is not necessarily going to do this, but it does not hurt when it comes to being a known firm. It certainly helps you stand out. Alex Martin is a commercial litigation expert and owner of Taurus Legal Management. It is rare to find a lawyer that has such a keen sense of marketing and communication for his industry is not really known to be so initiative taking in this space. Alex explains to Carmen and Nic where this drive comes from, but it is noticeably clear that Alex has a sense of obligation also to be contributing to media on behalf of his industry. This is a classic podcast for all lawyers and professional services for that matter to have a listen and potentially follow the lead of Alex in positioning themselves as an expert in their field. It comes from a place where we can understand and learn from behind the scenes of a professional working with media. The mindset, the motivation, the planning, and the execution of that plan is at the highest level. Alex is keen, he is available, and is always looking to improve. His use of his media engagements and amplification of them in his circles is incredible and is certainly getting noticed. “If you don’t do media, go and shake a lot more hands and do a lot more meetings.” Many of us will have heard the saying “You are working too much in your business and not enough on it.” There is no way Alex can be accused of being this way with his business. His friendly, easy to understand way about him makes him a great ‘media asset’ for any media outlet that is looking for expert legal opinion. You will be certainly seeing more of Alex in the media.

If you watched 60 Minutes on Sunday and saw the women that were fighting for some justice and acknowledgement that we have a problem in the FIFO mining industry you will be drawn to this episode of the Experts Podcast. Our guest this week is seeking an understanding and truth behind the curtains that have been closed tight in the mining industry when it comes to sexual assault and discrimination in the mining industry. Becky Felstead is a photographer, podcaster, and former employee in the mining industry. Now looking to help educate, workshop, consult and advise in the space of diversity and rights on the mines. It just does not apply to the mining industry as Nic, and Carmen found out because it is happening in every industry. There has been a significant movement to stamp it out but there needs to be more action and less words. At the moment this topic of harassment and assault is making the front pages across many of the major mastheads particularly in Western Australia and Queensland. The drive and momentum of the #MeToo movement has certainly shone a light on the problem but industry is still struggling to make any impact on the problems. Becky is trying to drive change through education, consultation, mentoring and through her podcast The Resource Report. There are moments when Nic and Carmen are actually uneasy with the content from this interview, and it is confronting in separate ways. There is an understanding that businesses will struggle to meet the issues of discrimination, bullying, assault, and any kind of gender dominance in the workplace. There is a real head in the sand approach from a number of corporates and sometimes the greatest hurdles for change are women themselves which was a surprise in the podcast. You can be sure you will be hearing more from Becky in the media in coming years.

This is the podcast for all parents to listen to as the digital safety of our young people is crucial for good solid digital citizens. Our next guest on the podcast is a well-known parenting expert that has been there and seen it all particularly on the horrific side of human behavior gone wrong when it comes to poor parenting. The platform and software that all families can access and educate their children to work with online media in a safe and measured way. It is guiding and educating them not telling them what to do. “A third of children have accessed porn before the age of eight.” Claire Orange is a parenting expert and the developer and owner of DigiiSocial. A platform that is used at schools and in homes to educate and inform a child on correct online behaviour. What an insurance policy this is for parents when they are looking to introduce a digital screen or access to the outside world to their most precious assets. Their children. With Christmas just in front of us we need to be able to make smart decisions with the devices and protection. This is such an interesting chat that we need all parents to look at as we never had to deal with this in our time as young people. Bullying and the like happened in the schoolyard and was to a degree visible. Now it happens in the privacy of homes online. That is nothing in comparison to what the children have access to on the net including porn, language, inappropriate content, people that might not have the same values. “If we want our kids to be better online, we as parents need to be better with our online activity.” The Digiisocial.com product is for the 8–12-year-old as any parent knows you cannot tell a 14-year-old anything. The platform and the user experience are not only practical, but it has been created purposefully with the child in mind. The most appealing aspect of the product is that it is not out to just make money as the cost is minimal but, it really has the child in mind when it comes to being safe on the internet.

Family Law is a fascinating area of our legal industry as each case has a different level of emotion and unique factors that have been brought forward by each case. We have spoken to lawyers before that steer away from Family Law because it is very taxing on the mind and wellbeing. Our next guest has had her own Family Law firm for 18 years and walks us through the challenges and the behind the scenes of divorce, separation, and conflict resolution. Catherine Leach is the Principal at Leach Legal Perth’s largest Family Law firm and has been a lawyer herself for 30 years. Catherine has seen it all and has a particular way of dealing with and processing a dispute or a case that has been presented to her. Very quickly Catherine also debunks the myths that we might have when it comes to divorce such as the number of relationships that part ways is not at the 50% as suggested. The link to the property market is a real revelation. “Family Law is tied to the property price… when the property market is up so is the divorce rate. If you are going to part ways you want to part with something.” Carmen mentioned early in the podcast the need for lawyers in the media and how difficult they can be to find. Lawyers in their nature are busy and time poor. Catherine while does not lock away time in her schedule to write content certainly sees it as an important part of her working day. The content that is resonating with people is her leadership and personal pieces on LinkedIn because she is able to put a lot more of her in each post. Something that is exceedingly rare with lawyers. “People can relate to you more as a lawyer when they can relate to you as a human.” An amazing insight into this fantastic legal practitioner and also the industry that she works in. We tap into the myths and the perceptions of an area of law that we all hope that we do not go down the path of. Catherine shares amazing advice from a divorce lawyer on what it takes to make a successful relationship with your partner which I can assure you is so valuable. The media loves lawyers as experts but the emotion and stories that a family lawyer can deliver has even greater demand.

Marketing for any business can be difficult particularly if you are a small business or if you don’t have the mindset to take on this critical element of your business success. Our guest on The Experts podcast this week is the marketer for one of the most successful and dominating marketing firms in Perth. She has recently come off presenting at State of Social and impressed both Nic and Carmen so much that it was time for a chat on the podcast. What can we do to improve the storytelling of our businesses and market them out there. Hayley Boneham is the marketing manager of Bonfire. A name that is renown in Perth for its reputation and its ability to make an impact particularly in the space of digital marketing. They tend to have a large footprint which is quite ironic when Nic asks of Hayley the prominence and importance of the billboard sitting on the corner of Hay and Thomas Streets. It’s their show piece and while it is traditional media highlighting digital media the irony isn’t lost on us. Hayley took on the marketing lead at Bonfire just before Covid and while the time was confusing at the beginning very quickly, we discovered it was essential for businesses to put themselves out there and in front of their customers and clients. With just on two hundred clients, big developments brewing, this agency is making waves and continues to be a leader in the WA market. There is plenty to take from this podcast for all brands big and small. Marketing isn’t cheap and the results are never guaranteed but there is quite a variance between successful and poor performing agencies. Nic and Carmen really enjoyed speaking to Hayley getting her perspective on what it takes in this current environment. We are coming out of one of the most challenging times for any business and the future looks bright.

This is a little self-indulgent podcast with Nic being the focus after his company Media Stable recently turned 10 years old. The podcast brought in Tamara Cook from events company Known Associates who recently celebrated 15 years. Such enormous business milestones that it was a good chance for Carmen to quiz the key learnings from these two business owners. Carmen dives deep into the mindsets, the lessons, the advice, the takeaways, the motivators, the drive to get to these key moments in your business. Very quickly we learn that there is business gold for other business owners that might feel that they are struggling or have felt the similar pressures and challenges of Nic and Tamara. This is a really fun chat that the three business owners Carmen, Nic and Tamara who had a chance to pause and reflect on their business journey. There are many surprise responses to the biggest mistake and proud moments from both Nic and Tamara. Hiring staff, paying yourself, outside help, working in unusual times have all been challenges that all businesses have faced over their time. There is very much a family and friendship theme for both businesses that have reached their milestone and it is this theme that is responsible for their success. It is critical for the joy, the outcomes, and results for their clients. There is fun and laughs right through the podcast and you can sense that both businesses are all about that. It doesn’t feel like work at all.

A human behaviour or body language expert is irresistible for media particularly when we get to digest and dissect the messaging of a politician during a federal election. It’s not just what you say it’s how you say it. The subtle body language movements can be interpreted and when we are finding out if they are telling the truth. Our next expert on the podcast cracked a record number of media engagements during the last federal election and remains in demand. Sharon Box is the Founder and Lead Behavioral Investigator at the Mind Hush Group and joins the Experts Podcast team to talk all things body language. An expert who is relatively new to the media has had a flying start but also one that she cautiously approached and has been determined to keep her own bias out of her findings. Sharon takes a moment to breakdown both Nic and Carmen in some of their body language quirks. This is actually quite confronting for both of them as it wasn’t planned but the feedback was very interesting and helpful. They were observations that neither of our hosts of the podcast were aware of and explained a lot about their true personality. Again, fascinating listening. Maybe one of the greatest media tips has been given by Sharon for all those that are a little nervous when it comes to working with media. There might be a bowel movement involved. This expert has been amazing as far as early success in the media with 18 media engagements in one month across various media forums. This very focused expert is keen to stay true to herself and has a very relaxed, but deliberate strategy on working with the media. You will be hearing a lot more from Sharon in the future

There are three industry experts that media loves more than others. If you are in the financial, health, or legal space you are in the most desired space for the value they bring to audience. In this episode of The Experts podcast we talk to a self-described ‘suburban law firm’ who has a real hands-on and personal approach to all things legal. The journey of this lawyer has been one that has an interesting touch in that he works alongside his sister Jacqui. I am not sure that there are many industries that you can collaborate with a sibling and be so successful, but our next expert has worked it out. Steven Brown is the Founding Director at law firm Lynn & Brown and been working in law for twenty-six years as a commercial lawyer. He has worked in about all the fields of law which has made him quite the media asset but there are certainly areas that he prefers to stay away from. One of the immediate characteristics you will notice quickly with Steven from start to finish of this podcast that he has an incredible business acumen and approach to the law. That is why Steven sees media and networking as an important part of the business. “I see it as brand awareness and important to be putting yourself out there. The media works with experts and it’s a good place to be seen. Long gone are the days that a law firm just does law. We are businesses and as the business lead this is very important for me to be a part of.” Never has there been a more unusual time during Covid for lawyers with more trial and client meetings conducted electronically but the chance of returning to this isn’t likely as we return to face-to-face and in-person trials. A shame as the system didn’t fall over because of covid and we have returned to the old way which the electronic aspects could have helped business. Steven goes on to talk about the challenges of running a law firm that has as much pressure on their workforce as any other industry. It has certainly been a time to exercise that business acumen. The most enlightening aspect of the podcast with this ‘Legal Eagle’ is that he gets it. He understands the importance of relationships, networking, media, and marketing. Many in the legal space haven’t got there or few might have aspects mastered, but not across all of them. Lynn & Brown might not be on the ‘Terrace’ but they sure have a ‘Terrace’ feel about them.

A real leader and leadership theme in this episode of the Experts Podcast looking at what it takes to be a CEO these days and what employees are looking for in their leader. Leadership looks vastly different in the corporate world today than it did a decade ago. There is more need for the executive to get out from behind the desk and get in front of their audiences. This new age leader does just this and we ask him the questions on why and how he does this. James Curtis is the CEO of Element a planning and advisory business that is behind an abundance of key projects here in Western Australia. James is the former CEO of Football West and has never been shy when it comes to working with the media. This is not a natural attribute for the majority of leading executives when it comes to working with media. Most business leaders would prefer not to engage but James celebrates the opportunity and is the best asset that the business has. One of first things you will note that James is a great storyteller and extremely comfortable giving his point of view with a sense of humour and clarity that is easy to understand. That is a skill that James has been working on across his time in stakeholder engagement or as an executive of a major sporting code. This has taken time, but James does more than that he invests and provides opportunity with the people in the business. Providing media training and communications strategies for the young footballers as they are the future. “Create a space that people feel they are valued and that they get the skills and support to thrive.” So many great messages for business owners from all sizes on empowering people around you to make your people ready for anything. Empower them to be the best that they can be and make them an asset for the business. This makes so much sense as theory but in practice it can prove to be difficult to do. There is no doubt that James is a new generation leader and certainly one to watch as he takes Element to new levels of success.

We have all heard about the great resignation but is it really happening or is just a myth that doesn’t really exist? It is a wonderful time for the employee and not so much for the employer, as there is a shortage of good talent. It is time to talk to the executive search recruitment specialists that are doing very well in this market. Businesses need help to find the right people and when they are not free flowing or on tap you will need more help from our expert today. Laura Grierson is a director of specialist recruitment firm Acacia who specializes in finding the right talent for leading businesses and firms in the country. Laura is a self-confessed control freak and enjoys the writing and opinion pieces more so than other media. One of the great assets for any expert is knowing their strengths and who might be better suited for other media. Laura is the written word while her colleague and business partner is the TV talent. Laura talks about her experience with the media and what kind of results have been derived from the media engagements that she has been able to produce. Servicing an industry that has been male and older has not always been a great playground for females or diversity, but industry has worked out the value this brings to all organisations. This is a wonderful time for a change in the guard when it comes to those in the executive suite and positions of power. “If you want to change the way something is done you can’t rely on those that have been doing it the way it has always been done.” Laura Grierson One of the real take aways you will hear in this podcast is Laura knows what she is looking for, what she is after. The media really lights up when they engage both Laura and her colleague Abi because they are smart, engaging, opinionated, and driven. These are such great assets to have when engaging media as an expert because too often it is too easy to not put your position forward in fear of offending. Laura is a wonderful media asset for any media outlet and engages in her true authentic style.

Nadia Owen by Media Stable

We have been searching to understand what is the meaning of good public relations and understanding what an individual and brand needs to do in a modern media? This week we chat with a veteran of communications and public relations who early in the podcast claims he wasn’t classically trained to work in PR. It is advanced brief of work and business approach that makes him an effective communicator for his clients. David Tasker of Chapter One Advisors has been at the Fremantle Dockers, the once dominating PR firm Professional Public Relations and now driver behind his own business. It is his business and strategic approach that many communications professionals are going to learn from. Brands will benefit from the reality of what it takes and what length someone needs to go to tell a story in the media. There is something for communicators, small and big business in this podcast. The breadth of knowledge from this PR professional is impressive and the discussion around relationships hits home well with the Experts Podcast team. The reality of the media environment, the connection with a journalist, understanding of the media’s working day and the boxes needed to be ticked off to get a story up. The calm and knowledgeable communications professional delivers some real home truths for media relationships to start, develop and prosper. David talks candidly about the health of the PR industry and where it is heading. The modern-day communication tactics all stem back to traditional communications disciplines. There is great encouragement for all and everyone to get involved in getting your story told but with one key message make sure that it is quality. Fascinating chat with David and he even offers his number up to help those that might be looking for advice. That is an offer certainly worth taking up.

State of Social is the premier social media event in Australia if not Asia Pacific. The event into its fifth year is a destination conference for all communicators and marketers across the country. The founder Meg Coffey believes this will be the biggest yet and has mix of international, interstate, and local marketing and communication professionals delivering their expertise to 900 plus delegates. If you want to know what the event is all about listen to Nic Hayes as he interviews three of the speakers in Meg, Mike Drysdale of Dear Storyteller, and co-host of The Experts podcast Carmen Braidwood who is presenting on the day. You will get a sense of what you can expect, what you can get, and what you will walk away with. This event is special and it is a destination conference for all that are looking to understand the latest trends, news, ideas, and thinking when it comes to digital marketing. State of Social is on the 23rd and 24th of August at Optus stadium Perth. Tickets via www.stateofsocial.com.au

Di Wilcox by Media Stable

Divorce and marriage breakups are a reality today that does not seem to be as big a deal as it once might have been but that is different if you are going through it. There is still stigma that comes with divorce and our guest today walks through the very elements of a relationship break up in her book Welcome to D-Town. A remarkably close and personal book that traverses through life after a divorce and guide to walk through the various stages of life after marriage. Beverly Ligman is an author, storyteller, journalist, and a media engagement manager at Media Stable. Most journalists will put down the writing of a book as goal, but Bev did not from the outset see this as her first book. No one goes into a marriage expecting it to break up, but the odds are not great. The book was cathartic for the author who wrote it to help others that might benefit from her experiences. The team explores the disciplines of drafting a book. It is something that many experts aspire to do, and Bev speaks of her experience writing, publishing, promoting the book. It is a lot of demanding work, and you need to go into it with the right mindset. The experience and the result certainly open doors and new opportunities that we do not normally get. There are fantastic storytelling tips in this podcast from the content creator Bev who shares her own experiences as a lifestyle journalist and driver of stories for members of Media Stable. The collection of experiences across different jobs and media houses has made Bev a better storyteller. We are the result of our experiences and while Bev’s first book would not have been what she was dreaming about as a young journalist you can be sure there will be more books coming from this author.

On The Experts podcast this week Nic Hayes and Carmen Braidwood talk to sports broadcasting royalty Glenn Mitchell. The Perth broadcaster who left the ABC eleven years and now hosting a breakfast program on Curtin Radio didn’t put up any guards or barriers to the questions thrown at him about his career and life generally. Glenn talked candidly on his departure from the ABC after twenty-one years, his battle with mental health and his ongoing work in that space. There was a lot of laughs and intriguing responses from the great broadcaster from his time calling cricket, Olympic Games, AFL, Commonwealth Games, and other sports needing his ability to tell an audience what is going on in words. Nic raises from the start of the podcast the frog joke Kerry O’Keeffe told and Glenn’s response to this is a classic. A joke that he shares openly with Kerry O'Keeffe “I spent 21 years at the ABC, covered Olympic Games, cricket, Commonwealth Games and the thing I remembered for most is sitting next to an idiot telling a story about a frog.” Mitchell is sharp, he is witty, and he is enjoying the media commitments that he has with the various media houses today including Curtin, SportFM, and Seven. That voice is as velvet as it was calling Australian Cricket, or The Olympic Games and you can hear that he is in a good place. Other topics The Experts team got to talk to Glenn about was who he believes are Australia’s greats in the broadcasting and commentating space. Glenn fell into commentating by accident but forged an amazing career over three decades and identifies who he thinks does it better than others. What his most memorable sporting moment might surprise you. The thirty minutes focus on Glenn Mitchell is certainly worth your time for sport, media, and broadcasting goodness.

For the first time in The Experts podcast history, we had the dump button ready for this forthright and passionate expert that lives and breathes LinkedIn. We are liberal with our language but when you get to know our expert well there is no filter. That is why she is the sought out after expert in the media when it comes to this professional platform for employees and employers. It is not just LinkedIn though that we see her working her charm across employment, recruitment, social media, branding, and communication. Sue Parker is from Dare Group Australia and is an advisor, trainer, and leader particularly in the field of LinkedIn. When we think of an expert that is always chasing earned media then Sue would be at the top. It is her understanding of the media cycle that makes her such an asset for the media. A majority of the stories that Sue has been quoted are the stories that she has initiated with the journalist. There so much GOLD in this podcast on what, who and how people are performing on social media. Sue often will take three steps forward and very rarely take a step back when explaining her view and position on topics. This no BS approach from expert is quite refreshing and if there is something that is not going well Sue will call it out. Both Nic and Sue have a certain passion for calling out those who pay for fake media and pretend to promote it as ‘earned media.’ It is straight-out deception. When we got Sue started on the hot topics there was nothing going to stop her. She is fast, fun, forthright, frantic, and fabulous. The woman is a fighter for those looking to communicate effectively and smartly. There is a lot of terrific tips for experts to avoid certain behaviours and encourage them to do more of. Without doubt the finger on the pulse approach that Sue has will make her a great ally for you and your business.

We have been on a theme the last two weeks looking at property and real estate and how to get finance for this. We have had decade of no increase in mortgage rates and there will be buyers out there that have not experienced a rise. The finance and mortgage industry has been under the microscope in recent years with a focus on the players in the industry. One of the experienced and best at the game joins us today on the podcast. Kerri Buurman from Buurman Finance one of Western Australia’s leading finance brokers has seen the changes, the trends, the highs, and the lows in an industry that has had its share of unfair scrutiny when the Royal Commission was focusing on banking industry. The industry is stronger and better for the experience and has come out of it well. Kerri is the founder of the Perth Property Hub which is a one stop shop with a panel of experts that are sharing expertise and content that helps them in the purchase of property through video. Real estate agents, land surveyors, accountants, finance, property management. It is through the use of video that Kerri is educating, informing, and providing a vital resource to buyers and sellers of property. Kerri has a voice that is very reassuring and comforting for the listener and you will hear this through the podcast. Kerri is very customer centric and a natural communicator that seems to come with all successful mortgage brokers that are looking to find a bespoke solution for each family looking for a home. Kerri is going to be a voice you are going to hear more from in media.

Property and real estate are always going to make it into media because it just reaches all audiences. When we sat down with our next guest the team discovered that she could have her own show ‘CSI Property’ that investigated the properties for fault, issues, problems, or compatibility for clients particularly those purchasing from afar. This sounded like so much fun and that is just a small part of what this expert does. Ashleigh Goodchild is an investor advocate, property manager, business owner, podcaster, founder of the PM Collective and that’s just her business life. At home there is six children and Carmen calls her the Carol Brady of the real estate industry. Ash is tireless and organised to a level that would make a President of a country blush. You will discover as you listen through the podcast that it is the joy that she finds in her work that doesn’t make it work at all. “There’s not one thing in my working week that I don’t enjoy doing.” Ash is a content engine that is producing enormous amounts of content to share with her networks. Her use of YouTube and short videos are fast, sharp and to the point without being over-produced. They are very real and authentic that have such an impact. The podcast PM Collective Podcast is a focus on the property management industry and the people that work within it. Something that didn’t exist before. There’s a lot for listeners to take away from this podcast. This is important content for all experts that might be struggling for content ideas, time, inspiration, motivation, or just enjoying what you do take a leaf out of Ash Goodchild’s book. You can hear it in Ash’s voice that she loves what her work and it is that joy that makes her such an approachable and successful businessperson.

You would have heard the adage that ‘charity starts at home’ but you might not have heard of this one ‘marketing starts at home.’ This is what our next guest lives by who is prolific with earned media and her own podcast. The reality was that she didn’t have big buckets of money to promote herself or her business and she needed to do what she did best. It did help she is an exceptionally good writer and skilled in marketing. Mia Fileman is the founder of online marketing company Campaign Del Mar, host of the podcast Got Marketing and is based in Darwin. This had Nic stumped because the perception of Mia and her business was that she was a Sydney based agency with an entourage of staff. That is what Mia has created with her earned media across key media that is important for her to be seen in her industry. In fact, forty pieces of content were published last year across publications like Mumbrella, SmartCompany, Social Media Examiner, and the like. One of the key messages that Mia delivers and is one that resonates those businesses should put more emphasis on quality than quantity. The pressure is to keep posting across all the platforms both personally and professionally is exhausting. You must get that mix right because the value of the content and the time to put it together is not matching up. Mia has clear thoughts on the state of the marketing industry that has had its challenges both from a work and personnel level. There are useful tips in this podcast for business owners to get more involved with their marketing teams and approach with the right questions to ask and to get out from behind the desk. A more hand on approach is needed and this marketing expert certainly has her finger on the pulse.

With the dust settling on the 2022 Federal Election Australia has decided to put a new government in place with the ALP taking a majority hold of the lower house. The rise of the independents and the Greens has seen a shift in the political landscape for parties and voters. The media and the campaigning of this election didn’t look any different to what it did in the past ten elections, and this is a heads up to all in politics that this is going to change. Nic and Carmen break down some of the messages and campaign efforts of the major parties. The media gaffs and ‘gotcha’ moments were they significant or just a distraction? How did the environment hardly get a mention and why was Scott Morrison not able to win back the people? These were just a few of the questions the team addressed and looked at as being part of the reason behind the change of government. There is a significant theme of being human, empathy, real, and authentic. Something that politicians have a real issue with and fail on just about all accounts. The errors and mistakes made by the leader of then opposition Anthony Albanese might have just made him more human. The voters certainly didn’t punish him for those ‘gotcha’ moments. The real lesson for future elections is that the messaging needs to be more focussed around leadership, less negative campaigning as this isn’t a race to the bottom. The voters also are sending a strong message that the environment is important to them and the ‘climate wars’ that the two majors are having should be over now. With the lowest Primary vote for both major parties they both will need to shift their communications to attracting the mass middle again otherwise the rise of Teal and Green is just the beginning.

Our guest today knows full well that his expertise is not as easy as picking up a phone book or googling the number of a ‘fighter pilot’ here in Australia. You would think that all we might be talking about is the change of government or the horrors of the war in Ukraine. No, it is the premiere of Top Gun 2 and in between appearances on Seven’s Sunrise and Nine’s Today show our guest had a chat with Nic and Carmen. Christian ‘Boo” Boucousis is a former fighter pilot, a current author, speaker, human behaviour, and leadership expert and coach. He might be adding Australia’s greatest “newsjacker” to his title as never have we seen such a demand on his time for an appearance this week on radio, television, and print. To do the two breakfast TV programs you are either a sporting icon like Ronaldo or a superstar musician like Paul McCartney. The aviation industry is a fascinating one and the ‘fighter pilot’ is the pinnacle of that industry in the training and the lifestyle that comes with it. The training and the mindset of a pilot can be transferred to leaders of industry and that is what Boo has been doing with his business Afterburner. A fantastic program that is helping businesses make better decisions that might be under pressure or difficult circumstances. Not only is Boo a fascinating fella with an incredible experience to share and educate others on but he is also a top bloke. He understands the importance of mainstream media telling his story and will go out of his way to tell it Well. His interviews and media engagements on Seven and Nine are two of the best of the year by far that Media Stable have put forward and we are all desperate to see the film. “Carms it’s time we busted the tower.”

We are back in the classroom for the Experts Podcast second media lesson with our teachers Carmen and Nic. You get told a lot what to do but the team deliver their three best three tips on what not to do. Yes the little things that you can do that will improve your media performance. They have a deep and close look at the mistakes experts in the media make every day. This is a very useful podcast for anyone that is looking to perform their best in media like print, radio, television and online media. Enjoy this very special version of The Experts podcast where you get all the hottest tips from the PR and Broadcasting professionals.

No guest this week as Carmen and Nic discuss the very question that most business owners and communicators ask us the most. How do I become a media asset? Someone that the media goes to, seeks their opinion and advice. A person that is trusted and professional in their delivery to the media. This is something that many are aspiring to do. The three best pieces of advice that Nic and Carmen share are dissected and expanded upon for all to benefit from. Some will surprise, some will be quite simple, and others are a mindset that will need work. The theme though is very achievable for all who put a little work into it. Come and join Carmen and Nic’s best tips. Come into the Expert Podcast classroom and let’s get to work making you the best media asset you can be. There is homework for listeners to do and we hope that you enjoy this classic banter between the broadcaster and the PR professional.

Manners seem to have been left at the door these days and there are lot of factors that have caused this. Modern technology and communication platforms seem to be fertile grounds for rude and unruly behaviour. One of the earliest messages that I received in business was that it was better to be nice than it was to be mean. Very simple message but one that works to develop a respectful relationship with family, friends, and colleagues. Our chat this week on The Experts is all about etiquette and manners. Something all our politicians should tune in to. Louise Percy of the Percy Institute is a business that trains and teaches you manners and etiquette. Something that isn’t prolific anywhere these days and has become quite novel for those that are looking to stand out. Louise has a fascinating history working in media with some of Australia’s great politicians such as Malcolm Fraser and Paul Keating. This wonderful backstory has both Carmen and I sitting on the edge of our seats listening to what it was like for some of Australia’s best-known politicians when there was no social media or a 24-hour news cycle. There is a big difference between protocols, etiquette, and manners. Our expert Louise Percy breaks down each of these beautifully. In 1992 it started as a finishing school with a My Fair Lady approach to then becoming an Institute of International Protocol. The ability to communicate face to face has become difficult for many and the simple respectful behaviours seem to have been lost. It’s not just what you say, it’s how you say it, it’s your mannerisms, your body language. There is so many non-verbal cues that we are either delivering or not delivering that we need to work on. These are skills that need to be exercised. Etiquette is the choice to show respect. Louise says it all starts at the family dinner table where the skills and communication tools are learned. There seems to be a gap in this practice recently. Louise shares some wonderful tips on how to communicate with younger people and getting them to take an interest, demonstrate empathy and really connect with them. This is a delightful chat of respect, values, interest, intelligence, behaviour, and everything that builds solid relationships. Not just for the corporate and business world because there is a lot of people that are finding themselves in new relationship situations as they get older.

This week on the podcast we talk purpose and what it means to businesses and how it can help them become better at what they do both internally and externally. You will quickly gather that our guest has a lot to offer to small, medium, and big business in understanding what we do and why we do it. It’s a fascinating chat that anyone that is in leadership or owns a business should go through the exercise of discovering more about themselves. Too often we are caught up in our business and not working on our business. Dave Clare is an author, coach, speaker, and trainer in all things purpose. When you listen to Dave riff about the very core things that he is obviously passionate and enthusiastic about you can hear it in his voice (and Canadian accent) that he is an engaging speaker and presenter. His ability to break down complicated thinking or theories that a business owner might have is clearly conveyed back to them in what they can understand but maybe more importantly what their customers “who they choose to serve” can easily understand. The chat has so much value, but this did catch the attention of our co-hosts Carmen and Nic when Dave started talking about SHIT values. An acronym that every business seems to claim as their values, Service, Honesty, Integrity, and Trust. These are the very core for every business and should be taken as a given. It’s the values that are unique to you and your business you need to make sure are published and adhered to from the top down that will make you stand out. The way Dave articulates this is again why all businesses need to get coached regularly through this process. Without doubt this podcast will make you think. The other gold that you should be looking out for is the FLOW. Another great message hit home is that employees are looking for coaches and not bosses. Make sure you learn the number one rule don’t call your employees “staff”, a mistake Nic Hayes is not likely to repeat. Right from the start of this chat we are working on our business which you can play along by asking the same questions with your business. If you can get Dave into your office to look at your purpose and values, be assured the effort and the investment is well worth it.

It wasn’t that long ago that our guest on the Experts Podcast was a face that you will remember as a journalist on the very popular television current affairs program Today Tonight. Her journey has taken her on a new path to work behind the scenes telling other stories but there was one story that she needed to tell. Her own. This very brave woman has documented and recorded her challenges and trials of getting pregnant and starting a family. It is one of the most personal stories that is told that has an incredible response with those that are experiencing similar issues. Cassie Silver is in the studio talking to Carmen and Nic and it doesn’t take long before you start to hear the raw emotion in the storytelling of this former journalist and now content producer for brands via her own production company Silver Lining & Co. There is even the occasional interruption from the very joy that Cassie will describe has her greatest accomplishment, her son Stan. Cassie started a podcast “What to expect when you are injecting?” a focus on infertility, IVF, miscarriage, health, and motherhood. A very raw and authentic podcast of the emotions, the tragedy, the wins, the real issues that a family experiences. It has been so powerful. One of the great messages amongst many that we get to hear from Cassie is her determination to deliver authentic stories that we all can take on board in our own content production. Her podcast is a classic example of that but that has now carried over into her work as a ‘storyteller’ for her clients across a broad section of sectors. The quality of the work improves, and the audience can connect with real storytelling in a very deep and meaningful way. The personal touch is very special, a very human story is so powerful. If you can do this as an expert with your content, then you will be successful. It’s very hard not to get emotional around this topic and the feedback that Cassie has received over her time has made it all that more rewarding. What did start as an exercise of helping her get through the experience by doing a podcast has been a support for people all over the world. The bravery to be so open, so candid about something so private is an inspiration to so many. It is fascinating that Cassie’s job was always to tell other people’s stories, but it was her own that has changed everything.

Danielle Geagea by Media Stable

While in media we can see so much is changing but there is so much that hasn’t. There are elements of communication that will remain the same forever and the very basics are never lost. Sure, the platforms are changing, the audiences have greater choice, and we are experiencing very unusual times. This week we talk to a veteran of media, a producer across radio and television. He has also dabbled in the corporate communications world which really gives this expert a well-rounded approach to communications. Phil Sylvester is the General Manager of Media Stable based in Sydney and his pedigree of media is quite phenomenal. Having worked with some of Australia’s most influential presenters and programs he now controls the east coast region of Media Stable supported by a very capable team of journalists and engagement managers. Phil is a student of ‘earned media’ and ‘content marketing’ in fact Phil was doing it long before a term was coined for it. There is a reason why corporates and big business like to employ media people and journalists. They get communication. From the start of the podcast Phil is filling us with content gold and you can hear the messages come out from this great storyteller. His experience and high energy and love for media is rare these days particularly from the behind-the-scenes space of an agency like Media Stable. Not short of an opinion or a position he certainly has made an incredible mark on the experts that frequent the services of Media Stable. They have benefitted with greater engagement, better pitches, and storytelling. Even crafty communicators and teachers of media Carmen Braidwood and Nic Hayes felt like they got a good old-fashioned communications lesson from Phil. Experience and relationships are everything in media and we get to hear from a master in this podcast. While the trends will continue to change the fundamentals of communication don’t. We must be better in this space and be careful that you don’t get caught up in the glitz and glamour of those pretending that they know media and communications.

Our guest on The Experts is an academic and a successful media commentator. He understood early that it wasn’t good enough to just write for journals and keep the opinion and position on matters strictly to the lecture theatre. It is critical for any expert that they make sure that they are known, are prepared to comment and be available. Three critical characteristics of a successful expert. The very first television appearance for this United States politics expert was with Derryn Hinch on his Sky News show. He nailed it! Associate Professor Aiden Warren from RMIT got his start in media not because of the media team at RMIT. In fact, they had to contact him after he appeared on Melbourne talkback radio station 3AW. The media engagement was setup by his friend at Media Stable and they have been putting him forward to media ever since. Aiden walks through his experiences of engaging media and has many useful tips to help first timers to work with mainstream media. The chat quickly turns to reluctance from academic experts to be more media savvy and get themselves known despite the obvious benefits that come with building your personal brand. Nic recalls a podcast chat with Dr Kathryn Shine of Curtin University and the steppingstone for female academics to put their hand up to represent their field of excellence or expertise. This is one big pep talk for more academics to be more accountable in mainstream media and start sharing their thoughts and opinions in media. There is so much more academics and great theory driven educators can be doing in mainstream media. Following the advice and example of Aiden would be a good start for many in the education sector and don’t rely on the University media team. In the most they are ineffective, out-of-date and have very few valid media connections. It’s your personal brand so you want to be responsible for it.

A chance for Carmen Braidwood and Nic Hayes to properly catch up and have a chat about each other. A deep dive into what each brings to the table when it comes to working with the media. What they bring to the communications cycle and how to prepare, pitch and engage media. Some might say this is a little ‘self-indulgent’ but after listening to the two of them you get to understand a little better where they sit in the media cycle. Carmen is a media professional and without doubt the podcast has picked up to new levels of quality and value for the listener. Her business “Confidence on Camera” is critical in a world where so much content is presented online and in video format. The ability to produce, present, and amplify your messages and opinions through the lens has become so critical for small and medium sized businesses. Nic has worked in media 25 plus years now and predominately behind the scenes in the media intelligence sector, PR, journalism and now running Media Stable a platform where experts and media connect through quality content. A tool that media and businesses have been using over the last decade and getting great results for their personal and business brand. The chance for Carms and Nic to riff without notice is what they will both say is the most fun. You listen to them each week interviewing a fascinating expert or media but what is it that each of them does? What do they enjoy? Where did it all start? It’s a good little insight into the two presenters of The Experts from where they have been, where they are and where they are going.

Trevor Cochrane by Media Stable