Less Chatter, More Matter: The Communications Podcast

Mel Loy

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. #176 Making the case for 'why' in change communications

    Jun 24

    #176 Making the case for 'why' in change communications

    Ever noticed that one of the first questions humans learn to ask is also one of the hardest questions organisations struggle to answer: why? In this episode of the Less Chatter, More Matter podcast, we explore one of the biggest challenges in change communication: making a compelling case for change that people can actually connect with. Too often, change messaging focuses on the what and the how (timelines, implementation plans and project updates) while overlooking the one thing people are searching for most: meaning. Drawing on behavioural science, change communication principles and practical examples, we look into why people don’t automatically resist change, but they do resist change that feels unclear, disconnected or imposed on them. You’ll learn five practical ways to strengthen your “why” messaging, including how to explain what’s driving change, tailor benefits to different audiences, reduce uncertainty by talking about what isn’t changing, communicate challenges honestly and create a clearer picture of the future. Why? because people are far more likely to move when they know what they’re moving towards. So, you'll want to listen in now. Links mentioned in this episode: 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

    18 min
  2. #175 The evolution of communications and the addition of AI (Part 2) (ft. Adrian Cropley)

    Jun 17

    #175 The evolution of communications and the addition of AI (Part 2) (ft. Adrian Cropley)

    If you listened to last week’s episode, you’ll know we opened up a big conversation about AI, ethics and the changing role of communication professionals with Adrian Cropley. Now, in part two, we go even deeper. This episode tackles the question so many communicators are asking right now: will AI take our jobs? Rather than offering easy reassurance, Adrian shares a practical and thought-provoking perspective on what’s really changing in our profession; from the impact on entry-level roles and shifting career pathways, through to the skills communication professionals need to build to stay relevant. Together, we unpack the future of communication work, including AI literacy, governance, responsible use, strategic counsel, storytelling and why change communication may become one of the most valuable capabilities organisations can invest in. Adrian also shares a three-tier skills framework developed through insights from the Global Alliance that explores the capabilities communicators need to remain trusted, influential and irreplaceable in an AI-enabled world. If part one explored the changing landscape, this episode is about how we respond. So get listening now! Links mentioned in this episode: AI-use survey Adrian's LinkedInCropley Comms90 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

    24 min
  3. #174 The evolution of communications and the addition of AI (Part 1) (ft. Adrian Cropley)

    Jun 10

    #174 The evolution of communications and the addition of AI (Part 1) (ft. Adrian Cropley)

    What does the future hold for communication professionals as AI continues to reshape the workplace? In Part 1 of this two-part conversation, we chat with global communication leader Adrian Cropley AM to explore one of the biggest challenges and opportunities facing communicators today. Drawing on more than 35 years of experience, Adrian reflects on the major technological shifts that have transformed the profession, from the rise of email and the internet to social media and now artificial intelligence. Together, we go even further into the nitty gritty on AI this week to discuss why it's different, what lessons communicators can learn from previous waves of disruption, and why trust, ethics and governance are becoming increasingly important. The conversation explores the growing challenge of AI-generated content, misinformation and declining trust, as well as the role communicators can play in helping organisations adopt AI responsibly. Adrian also shares his thoughts on whether AI will replace communication jobs, the risks facing entry-level roles, and how communicators can reposition themselves as trusted advisors rather than simply content creators. You'll also hear practical insights on the skills professionals need to develop, including AI literacy, governance, ethical decision-making, strategic counsel, storytelling and change communication. This episode offers valuable perspective and practical guidance for navigating what's next... and so does next week's, so stay tuned for Part 2 of this conversation with Adrian Cropley. Links mentioned in this episode: AI-use survey Adrian's LinkedInCropley Comms90 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

    25 min
  4. #173 The public speaking and media interview comms skills everyone needs (ft. Theresa Miller)

    Jun 3

    #173 The public speaking and media interview comms skills everyone needs (ft. Theresa Miller)

    Whether it's a media interview, conference presentation, town hall meeting or leadership briefing, there comes a point in most careers when you need to speak with confidence under pressure. ... but what happens when the questions become challenging, the audience feels intimidating or the nerves start to take over? In this episode of the Less Chatter, More Matter podcast, we chat with media trainer, journalist and author Theresa Miller to explore what it takes to become an effective presenter and media spokesperson. Drawing on more than three decades of experience in journalism, broadcasting and media coaching, Theresa shares practical strategies for communicating clearly, confidently and authentically in high-pressure situations. The conversation covers why preparation is critical, how to stay focused on your key messages, and the role plain English plays in helping audiences understand and connect with what you're saying. Theresa also discusses how to navigate difficult questions, avoid common presentation mistakes and use your voice, body language and storytelling skills to strengthen your message. Listen to the podcast now to get the lowdown!  Links mentioned in this episode: Theresa’s websiteTheresa’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

    35 min
  5. #172 Pivoting as a communicator in an AI world

    May 27

    #172 Pivoting as a communicator in an AI world

    This episode of the Less Chatter, More Matter podcast has us uncovering what it means to be a communicator in an AI-driven world; plus, why the profession is entering a major period of transformation. Communicators are being challenged to rethink where their value truly lies as AI takes over the practical, often menial, tasks of our everyday. BUT! The future of communication isn’t about producing more of this content faster, in fact it's more about becoming trusted strategic advisors who help organisations build trust, navigate uncertainty and strengthen human connection. So, this episode helps map out this change with a new framework for the future communicator built around five evolving roles: reputation architects, risk and opportunity identifiers, stakeholder engagers, human connectors, and leadership coaches. We also look at the critical capabilities communicators need to develop to remain relevant, including adaptability, creativity, business acumen, strategic thinking and relationship building. Get ready to learn all about how communicators can position themselves to lead in an increasingly complex, AI-influenced world. Links mentioned in this episode: 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
  6. #171 Reputation as a business asset (ft. Bonnie Caver)

    May 20

    #171 Reputation as a business asset (ft. Bonnie Caver)

    In this episode of the Less Chatter, More Matter podcast, we are joined by Bonnie Caver, founder and CEO of Reputation Lighthouse, to discuss why reputation should be viewed as one of the most valuable forms of business currency. We explain the difference between reputation management and reputation architecture, sharing how communicators can help leaders intentionally build trust, strengthen culture, and protect corporate value. Bonnie also explores the growing impact of artificial intelligence on reputation, including how AI can amplify both positive and negative patterns across every stakeholder touchpoint. But, we all love a quick run down... so, in this conversation you'll learn how to: Position reputation as a strategic business assetApply the “Do, Say, Are” alignment modelUse pattern recognition to identify emerging risksUnderstand the reputational implications of AIElevate your role from content creator to trusted advisorBonus points: Bonnie also shares her top advice for communication professionals who want to increase their influence and help organisations thrive in an increasingly complex and AI-driven world. So, get listening now to get the inside scoop!  Links mentioned in this episode: Bonnie’s LinkedInReputation Lighthouse90 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

    36 min
  7. #170 Why communication isn’t always the solution (and when comms should say no)

    May 13

    #170 Why communication isn’t always the solution (and when comms should say no)

    Communication is often seen as the solution to every problem in an organisation. Low engagement, unhappy teams, backlash to decisions and somehow, the default response is usually “let’s communicate more.” ... what if communication isn’t the fix? In this episode of the Less Chatter, More Matter podcast, we explore the role of communicators as gatekeepers, and why that responsibility is critical to protecting both reputation and trust. You’ll learn why not every issue can or should be solved with communication, how poor or reactive messaging can actually make things worse, and what effective gatekeeping looks like in practice. From governance and consistency through to challenging ideas and pushing back on stakeholders, this episode unpacks how communicators can move beyond being order takers and step into a more strategic role. We also share practical ways to handle tricky situations, including how to say no without shutting people down, how to reframe conversations around audience needs, and how to speak the language of risk and reputation when dealing with senior leaders. If you’ve ever been asked to “just send something out” to fix a deeper issue, this episode will give you the clarity and confidence to respond differently... and why you have to in order to avoid being an order taker in a comms role. Links mentioned in this episode: 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

    14 min

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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