Less Chatter, More Matter: The Communications Podcast

Hosted by Mel Loy

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Episodes

175

Latest episode

Jun 2026

Language

EN-AU

About the show

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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June 10, 2026Episode 17424 min

#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 LinkedInFind out what I'm up to InstagramCheck out my websiteAsk a question

June 3, 2026Episode 17335 min

#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 LinkedInFind out what I'm up to InstagramCheck out my websiteAsk a question

May 27, 2026Episode 17218 min

#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 LinkedInFind out what I'm up to InstagramCheck out my websiteAsk a question

May 20, 2026Episode 17135 min

#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 LinkedInFind out what I'm up to InstagramCheck out my websiteAsk a question

May 13, 2026Episode 17013 min

#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 LinkedInFind out what I'm up to InstagramCheck out my websiteAsk a question

May 6, 2026Episode 16927 min

#169 How psychological safety plays a role in comms (especially change comms) (ft. Dr. Samantha Rush)

Every day, we make around 35,000 decisions, of which most of them are fast, subconscious, and driven by emotion rather than logic. So what does that mean for how we communicate change?In this episode of the Less Chatter, More Matter podcast, we sit down with Dr. Samantha Rush, a cognitive decision-making specialist, to unpack how decisions are really made, especially in complex, high-stakes environments.Drawing on psychology, neuroscience, and her PhD research, Samantha explains why acceptability is the critical first step in any change. Before people adopt something new, they make a series of micro-decisions about whether it feels safe, what it means for them, and how it might impact their reputation or standing.Together, we explore:Why logic-heavy communication often falls shortThe role of psychological safety in decision-makingHow fear, uncertainty, and self-perception shape responses to changePractical ways communicators can design messages that actually landWhat influences whether leaders align to, and follow through on, decisionsThis episode challenges traditional approaches to change communication and offers a more human, realistic lens on how people think, feel, and decide.Links mentioned in this episode:Dr. Samantha's websiteDr. Samantha'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 LinkedInFind out what I'm up to InstagramCheck out my websiteAsk a question

April 29, 2026Episode 16818 min

#168 Communicating in uncertainty

"Oh, when things settle down" - this is an almost direct quote from every business, ever. However, do things actually ever settle down anymore? We went from COVID to mass shutdowns, fuel crises to wars... we can pretty well assume that we’re living in a time of constant disruption. Not to mention the workplace shenanigans with AI.So yes, organisations might continue to adapt, but the workplace is not a bubble. What’s happening in the world is showing up in how people think, feel, and perform at work.In this episode of the Less Chatter, More Matter podcast, we're looking into all the ways uncertainty affects the human brain... plus why it often leads to stress, fatigue, and decision paralysis. More importantly, we then share five practical strategies to help communicators and leaders provide clarity, reduce friction, and support their people through ongoing change.From acknowledging uncertainty (rather than avoiding it), to creating low-friction environments, reinforcing what’s stable, shifting mindsets toward adaptability, and amplifying the role of leaders.If you’re a communicator, leader, or change professional, this episode will help you rethink how you show up, and how you support others, when certainty is in short supply.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 LinkedInFind out what I'm up to InstagramCheck out my websiteAsk a question

April 22, 2026Episode 16718 min

#167 5 things every advocacy communication strategy needs

When we think about change communication, it’s often within the walls of an organisation in things like new systems, strategies, or restructures. However, advocacy communication operates in a very different environment, where audiences are not captive, attention is limited, and influence must be earned.In this episode of the Less Chatter, More Matter podcast, we explore advocacy as a form of change communication before we share the five essential elements that underpin effective advocacy strategies.We also explore the importance of audience segmentation, the power of relatable storytelling, and the role of behavioural science in shaping effective campaigns.Ultimately, this episode is one that can apply across any industry and any role, because we all end up having to work in an advocate position at some point! So, 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 LinkedInFind out what I'm up to InstagramCheck out my websiteAsk a question

April 15, 2026Episode 16635 min

#166 How to make your communications effective (ft. Lisa Partridge)

As AI continues to reshape the communication landscape, one thing remains unchanged: the need to put humans at the centre of how we communicate.In this episode of Less Chatter, More Matter, we welcome back Lisa Partridge, learning designer, facilitator and founder of Six Comms, to explore what truly makes communication effective in today’s workplace.On this episode, we unpack Lisa’s Six Cs framework: Connection, Curiosity, Compassion, Clarity, Customisation and Consistency. This practical model offers a powerful way to move beyond common communication myths, like assuming that sending a message equals understanding, or that more communication is always better.Lisa shares how communicators and leaders can build trust, create meaningful connections, and tailor their approach to cut through the noise of modern work environments that compete with AI, too. This conversation will give you the tools to communicate with greater impact, and stay effective in a world driven now by AI. Links mentioned in this episode:Lisa’s LinkedInSix Comms website90 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 LinkedInFind out what I'm up to InstagramCheck out my websiteAsk a question

April 8, 2026Episode 16529 min

#165 Current and future trends in change and change comms (ft. Janine Ellison)

Change has always been part of working life, but right now, it feels different. In this episode of the Less Chatter, More Matter podcast, we speak with Janine Ellison, experienced change leader and co-founder of Rethink Change, about how the profession is evolving and what that means for those working in it.Drawing on insights from five years of Rethink Change conference data and hundreds of submissions from practitioners across Australia and New Zealand, Janine shares what’s shifted in the industry. From post-pandemic connection and community, to innovation and AI, to today’s pressing concern: the sheer volume and frequency of change.We explore the paradox of the “invisible” change manager, the tension between go-live and true adoption, and why sustainable transformation depends on leadership ownership.The conversation also tackles AI head-on, challenging change professionals to define their own partnership with emerging technology rather than passively waiting for direction.Listen in now.Links mentioned in this episode:Janine Ellison's LinkedInRethink Change90 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 LinkedInFind out what I'm up to InstagramCheck out my websiteAsk a question