Less Chatter, More Matter: The Communications Podcast

Mel Loy
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Communications expert, business owner, group fitness instructor...that's your podcast host, Mel Loy! In the Less Chatter, More Matter podcast, Mel shares tips on how to improve your communication skills, and interviews with the experts.In 2020, after almost 20 years in corporate communications, Mel (happily) took a redundancy from her full-time, executive corporate job and went out on her own, founding her communications agency, Cuttlefish Communications.These days, she's a sought-after speaker, workshop facilitator, and consultant, working for some of the biggest brands in Australia and popping up on speaker line-ups at conferences world wide. Expect short, entertaining episodes packed with valuable tips that will inspire you to try new things. Communication tips to improve your relationships at work, navigate crises, internal communication, and deliver change are top of the agenda.

  1. #161: Leader Communications - Part 5: Comms pet peeves (plus how to fix them) (ft. Prina Shah)

    23H AGO

    #161: Leader Communications - Part 5: Comms pet peeves (plus how to fix them) (ft. Prina Shah)

    This is the grand finale of our five-part leadership series, and we’re finishing with honesty. In this episode of Less Chatter, More Matter, we're once again joined by Prina Shah, host of Ways to Change the Workplace, to unpack the leadership communication habits that frustrate teams and quietly erode trust. We explore the gap between broadcasting and true communication, the rise of professional ghosting, the myth that everything is urgent, and the impact of late-night pings on workplace culture. We even discuss jargon and passive voice, meeting overload, forwarding emails without framing, and the damage done when leaders fail to align their words and actions. Throughout the conversation, we draw on behavioural science, change management and real-world corporate experience to explain why these patterns happen and how leaders can course-correct. Plus, we give you the lowdown on how they came to fruition to begin with. Remembering that every behaviour sends a message showcases exactly why leadership communication isn’t just about what you say but what you reinforce through your actions every single day... so, use this episode to remember those actions can be fixed! Listen in now.... and get in touch with your own pet peeves you want us to problem solve, too. Links mentioned in this episode: Prina’s websitePrina’s LinkedIn90 minute Strategy Power SessionPublic workshops and trainingLess Chatter, More Matter - Mel’s bookTemplate packsChange Isn't Hard! - Mel's bookSign up here to the fortnightly mail out of free resources!Say hi! Follow me on LinkedIn Find out what I'm up to Instagram Check out my website Ask a question

    55 min
  2. #160 Leader Communications - Part 4: Leading through change (ft. Prina Shah)

    MAR 4

    #160 Leader Communications - Part 4: Leading through change (ft. Prina Shah)

    Episode four of our five-part leadership series with Prina Shah explores one of the most critical skills modern leaders must develop: leading through change. With organisations navigating constant transformation driven by technology, shifting employee expectations, restructures and new strategies, change is now continuous and leadership has never felt more complex. In this episode, we unpack what change actually looks like in practice and why it’s far more than communication and training. We explore the five core elements of effective change, the importance of genuine consultation, and the evolving psychological contract between leaders and employees. You’ll hear practical frameworks to help you understand how different people respond to change, how to reduce resistance through co-creation, and why trust must be built through transparent, timely and thoughtful communication. We also chat about the risks of poor change management, and the critical differences between project management and change leadership alongside a plethora of other 'let me get on my high horse' activities.  So, if you’re responsible for leading restructures, strategy rollouts, system implementations or cultural shifts, we're offering grounded, practical insights to help you lead change with clarity, empathy and confidence. Stay tuned for the grand finale of the series, where we get into our biggest leadership pet peeves and what to do about them. Links mentioned in this episode: Prina’s websitePrina’s LinkedIn90 minute Strategy Power SessionPublic workshops and trainingLess Chatter, More Matter - Mel’s bookTemplate packsChange Isn't Hard! - Mel's bookSign up here to the fortnightly mail out of free resources!Say hi! Follow me on LinkedIn Find out what I'm up to Instagram Check out my website Ask a question

    44 min
  3. #159 Leader Communications - Part 3: Having tough conversations (ft. Prina Shah)

    FEB 25

    #159 Leader Communications - Part 3: Having tough conversations (ft. Prina Shah)

    In part three of our five-part Leadership Communication series, we are joined again by Prina Shah, host of Ways to Change Your Workplace and author of Make Work Meaningful, for a deep and practical conversation about tough conversations. We explore why so many of us avoid difficult discussions at work. We start with a fear of conflict and people-pleasing tendencies, and move through to the discomfort of delivering messages we may not fully agree with. We unpack the psychology behind avoidance, including the concept of cognitive dissonance and how leaders can move toward greater alignment and integrity. The episode covers real-world workplace scenarios such as delivering bad news, responding to crises, addressing toxic behaviour, and navigating polarised views and misinformation. We also discuss how silence can unintentionally signal indifference or approval, why empathy must sit at the centre of any challenging conversation, and how leaders can create space for honest, respectful dialogue even when tensions are high. Then, we give you the practical strategies for approaching difficult conversations with clarity and confidence, even when you cannot change the situation. At its core, this episode is a reminder that leadership is not about avoiding discomfort, but stepping into it with courage and clarity. Listen in to get the lowdown. Links mentioned in this episode: Prina’s websitePrina’s LinkedIn90 minute Strategy Power SessionPublic workshops and trainingLess Chatter, More Matter - Mel’s bookTemplate packsChange Isn't Hard! - Mel's bookSign up here to the fortnightly mail out of free resources! Say hi! Follow me on LinkedIn Find out what I'm up to Instagram Check out my website Ask a question

    48 min
  4. #158 AI is here, and this is what internal comms needs to know (and do) (ft. Dan Sodergren)

    FEB 18

    #158 AI is here, and this is what internal comms needs to know (and do) (ft. Dan Sodergren)

    If you work in internal communications, you’ve probably wondered: is AI coming for my job? In this thought-provoking episode of the Less Chatter, More Matter podcast, we speak with futurist, author and media commentator Dan Sodergren about what artificial intelligence really means for internal communicators and why this moment represents both risk and extraordinary opportunity. Dan shares insights from more than two decades at the intersection of technology, workplace culture and human potential. From the rise of shadow AI to the dangers hidden inside poorly understood AI policies, he challenges communicators to think bigger, act braver and step into a more strategic role. Together, they explore: Why AI isn’t new — but its adoption curve is unprecedentedHow internal comms could be amalgamated, evolved or elevatedThe critical importance of training, trust and transparencyWhy emotional intelligence will outlast artificial intelligenceAnd how communicators can move from content creators to culture architectsThis episode is candid, energetic and at times confronting (with a tonne of insights, regardless) but ultimately, empowering. AI may automate the grunt work, but the human work, like the emotional intelligence, trust-building and change leadership are all more valuable than ever. That's where we come in. Listen in to find out how. Links mentioned in this episode: Dan’s LinkedInDan’s websiteDan’s upcoming CSCE AI on for Internal Comms event90 minute Strategy Power SessionPublic workshops and trainingLess Chatter, More Matter - Mel’s bookTemplate packsChange Isn't Hard! - Mel's bookSign up here to the fortnightly mail out of free resources! Say hi! Follow me on LinkedIn Find out what I'm up to Instagram Check out my website Ask a question

    41 min
  5. #157: Leader Communications - Part 2: Giving and receiving feedback (ft. Prina Shah)

    FEB 11

    #157: Leader Communications - Part 2: Giving and receiving feedback (ft. Prina Shah)

    In this second episode of this five-part series on people, change and leadership, we are joined again by Prina Shah to unpack one of the most emotionally loaded topics in the workplace: giving and receiving feedback. Rather than treating feedback as a simple leadership skill, this episode explores the deeper dynamics at play. Why do leaders avoid tough conversations? Why do some people spiral when they hear constructive criticism while others lean in with curiosity? And how do poorly designed performance systems unintentionally create competition, defensiveness or even dishonest behaviour? We examine the many forms feedback can take, from formal reviews to informal coaching moments, and challenge outdated approaches like the “feedback sandwich.” We share practical communication frameworks such as AIR and STAR-R, while also exploring the psychology behind feedback, including self-awareness, self-esteem, emotional processing and rejection sensitivity. This episode blends practical tools with honest reflection, reminding leaders that feedback is not just about correcting performance but about understanding human behaviour, creating accountability and supporting genuine growth. So, if you're keen to up your feedback skills, you should listen in!  Links mentioned in this episode: Prina’s websitePrina’s LinkedIn90 minute Strategy Power SessionPublic workshops and trainingLess Chatter, More Matter - Mel’s bookTemplate packsChange Isn't Hard! - Mel's bookSign up here to the fortnightly mail out of free resources!Say hi! Follow me on LinkedIn Find out what I'm up to Instagram Check out my website Ask a question

    38 min
  6. #156 Leader Communications - Part 1: Adapting your comms style (ft. Prina Shah)

    FEB 4

    #156 Leader Communications - Part 1: Adapting your comms style (ft. Prina Shah)

    One of the biggest myths in leadership is that once you get the title, people will automatically listen. They won’t, and it’s not because they’re difficult or disengaged but rather, because communication doesn’t work that way. In the first episode of our brand new five-part series, we’re joined by leadership coach, author and podcast host Prina Shah to unpack one of the most overlooked leadership skills: adapting your communication style for your team. Together, we explore why there is no such thing as a one-size-fits-all approach to communication, especially when you’re leading humans, not robots. We start with real-world examples from leadership journeys, including the challenges of new leaders, peer-to-leader transitions, managing people older than you, and why “that’s just how I communicate” is never a valid excuse. You’ll hear practical strategies for understanding different communication preferences, using tools as guides (not labels), building trust through listening, and creating a shared “user manual” that helps teams work better together. The conversation also dives into context and why it’s critical for leaders to think of things like timing, environment and emotional load and why they matter just as much as the message itself. So, get listening!  Links mentioned in this episode: Prina’s websitePrina’s LinkedIn90 minute Strategy Power SessionPublic workshops and trainingLess Chatter, More Matter - Mel’s bookTemplate packsChange Isn't Hard! - Mel's bookSign up here to the fortnightly mail out of free resources!Say hi! Follow me on LinkedIn Find out what I'm up to Instagram Check out my website Ask a question

    29 min
  7. #155 Topic in Ten: Four ways to manage technology change using communications

    JAN 28

    #155 Topic in Ten: Four ways to manage technology change using communications

    Technology change is no longer optional; it’s constant, accelerating, and deeply human. So, we’ve covered it in the final episode of the Topic in Ten five-part All Things People Change series. We chat about one of the biggest drivers of organisational change: technology. From AI-enabled tools and retiring legacy systems to rapidly shifting skill requirements, technology change is reshaping how people work and how they feel about work. With global AI investment surging and nearly three-quarters of employees reporting change fatigue, this episode focuses on the role communication plays in helping people adapt. We share four practical, communication-led tips to improve adoption of new technology, including how to build digital confidence, shift the conversation from business benefits to user benefits, co-create change with employees, and reduce friction by making information easy to find and use. This episode will specifically help you move beyond a “here’s the new system” approach, to communication that actually supports people through it. Listen now. Links mentioned in this episode: Topic in Ten - have your say!90 minute Strategy Power SessionPublic workshops and trainingLess Chatter, More Matter - Mel’s bookTemplate packsChange Isn't Hard! - Mel's bookSign up here to the fortnightly mail out of free resources!Say hi! Follow me on LinkedIn Find out what I'm up to Instagram Check out my website Ask a question

    19 min
  8. #154 Topic in Ten: Four ways to communicate policy or benefits changes

    JAN 21

    #154 Topic in Ten: Four ways to communicate policy or benefits changes

    Too often, policy and benefits changes are treated as a tick-and-flick exercise. An automated email, a system checkbox, or a vague message telling people to “go look it up” is expected to do the job. However, that approach doesn’t lead to understanding, behaviour change, or reduced risk. Which is why this short, punchy Topic in Ten episode is all about the practical ways you can communicate policy and benefits changes so they’re not just read, but genuinely understood and applied. You’ll learn how to clearly show what’s changing and what’s staying the same, why simplicity in language and layout matters more than ever, how real-world scenarios bring policies to life, and why checking understanding goes beyond asking people to sign or click a box. So, get listening to this week's Topic in Ten.  Links mentioned in this episode: Topic in Ten - have your say!90 minute Strategy Power SessionPublic workshops and trainingLess Chatter, More Matter - Mel’s bookTemplate packsChange Isn't Hard! - Mel's bookSign up here to the fortnightly mail out of free resources! Say hi! Follow me on LinkedIn Find out what I'm up to Instagram Check out my website Ask a question

    10 min
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About

Communications expert, business owner, group fitness instructor...that's your podcast host, Mel Loy! In the Less Chatter, More Matter podcast, Mel shares tips on how to improve your communication skills, and interviews with the experts.In 2020, after almost 20 years in corporate communications, Mel (happily) took a redundancy from her full-time, executive corporate job and went out on her own, founding her communications agency, Cuttlefish Communications.These days, she's a sought-after speaker, workshop facilitator, and consultant, working for some of the biggest brands in Australia and popping up on speaker line-ups at conferences world wide. Expect short, entertaining episodes packed with valuable tips that will inspire you to try new things. Communication tips to improve your relationships at work, navigate crises, internal communication, and deliver change are top of the agenda.

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