EP 30. | From Army Boots to Media Maven: Nic Hayes on Navigating the Audacious World of Media

In this engaging episode of That's Audacious, host Lauren Clemett welcomes the insightful Nic Hayes, a media professional with an impressive three decades of experience spanning broadcasting, podcasting, storytelling, writing, and communication. Nic takes us on a fascinating journey, recounting his unexpected pivot from the discipline of the army and the Victorian Police Force to the vibrant realm of media. Nic's story underscores the often unpredictable paths that lead to fulfilling careers. His initial foray into media intelligence, monitoring the pulse of the news provided him with a unique perspective on the media landscape. He talks about the increasing pressure on media outlets to find credible experts and commentators and his pivotal observation that sparked the audacious idea for Media Stable, now a thriving business in its fourteenth year, connecting media professionals with trusted experts across various fields. Lauren and Nic delve into the significant transformations within the media industry over the years. From the era of faxes and the nascent stages of email to the seismic shift brought about by social media and the 24/7 digital world, Nic shares his firsthand experience of these changes, highlighting the paradox of our time – that we’re more connected globally yet increasingly disconnected on a personal level. The conversation navigates the challenges of the overwhelming volume of content and the constant emergence of self-proclaimed experts, requiring established relationships and trust. Key Insights from Nic Hayes: Authenticity Over Vanity: Forget flashy logos and focus on substance, journos can quickly identify genuine expertise versus superficial claims (Australian experts, leave the Fox News badges off your profile!) Relationships are Key: Building direct relationships with journalists is far more effective than relying solely on press releases if you want to become a known and trusted entity. Be Ready and Available: Media opportunities often arise with little notice, so being prepared and responsive is crucial. Provide Value: Offer journalists well-researched information, compelling case studies, and insightful opinions to make their job easier. A "ready-made package" increases your chances of being featured. Leverage Everything: Don't let your media moments go to waste! Share your interviews and features with your audience to build credibility. Understand Paid vs. Earned Media: Be transparent about any paid media opportunities and avoid misrepresenting them as organic features. Your integrity is paramount if you want to build a credible profile. Nic also sheds light on Media Stable and the Expert Registry platform that serves as an accessible entry point for those beginning their media journey, offering training and a profile visible to the media. Media Stable connects vetted experts with media professionals actively seeking credible sources and runs “Meet The Media’ events around the country. As the conversation draws to a close, Nic offers a powerful piece of advice: "Put your hand up. Say that you're ready. You are an expert. You are an award winner. Get out there and do it. Don't regret anything." His words serve as an empowering call to action for anyone ready to share their knowledge and make their mark in the world of media. Don't just be knowledgeable, be audacious! Get your voice heard. Find out more here: www.mediastable.com.au https://expertregistry.com.au/