• Darryl Sparey and Simon Murphy talk GEO
    Apr 15 2026
    If you’ve ever dabbled in the dark arts of SEO, you’ll understand the frustration, time, money and effort poured into results that don’t always stack up. Now there’s a new force reshaping search: Generative Engine Optimisation (GEO); the system underpinning how AI and large language models deliver answers. Nic sits down with Darryl Sparey from Hard Numbers in the UK and Simon Murphy from indigo murphy to unpack what all the noise is about. GEO may only be a few years old, but all signs point to it becoming the future of search and discovery. The conversation zeroes in on what really drives AI visibility: Earned media High-quality content Recognised expertise Proven authority In short, it’s not tricks or hacks as Darryl often refers. It’s credibility. Darryl and Simon come from different angles, but land in the same place. GEO represents a major shift for brands, communications teams, and PR professionals. Importantly, this isn’t a quick fix. You can’t bolt on a tool or widget and expect results. It requires patience, consistency, and a commitment to quality—but the payoff is long-term reputation and commercial impact. A word of warning: tread carefully. There’s already plenty of noise and questionable advice in the market. Make sure you’re working with credible operators. For CEOs and MDs, this is one to get your head around. For PR professionals and communicators, this is your opportunity to bring the C-suite with you—because this is an area that now demands attention. I have no doubt we will be covering this topic a lot more in the future. The reports referred to by Darryl: Coverage to Capital: Reputation in the Age of AI: https://www.hardnumbers.co.uk/research-reputation-in-the-age-of-ai Coverage to Capital: Category Recommendations in the Age of AI: https://www.hardnumbers.co.uk/research-category-recommendations-in-the-age-of-ai
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    42 Min.
  • Kathryn Taylor
    Apr 7 2026
    In this episode of #TheExpertsPodcast, we speak with Kathryn Taylor, CEO of EON Foundation—an organisation proving that location is no barrier to powerful storytelling and meaningful media impact. Working across some of the most remote communities in Australia, EON Foundation is transforming the health of First Nations Australians through practical, community-led initiatives. By focusing on growing fresh food, improving nutrition, and empowering local communities to take control of their wellbeing, the results have been both measurable and inspiring. This conversation challenges a long-standing narrative in mainstream media. Too often, coverage of Indigenous Australia is dominated by negative headlines. EON is changing that. With the influence of founder and communications expert Caroline de Mori, the organisation has built a storytelling approach grounded in human connection, hope, and real outcomes—earning strong engagement across multiple media channels. We also explore one of the key challenges facing the foundation: funding. While EON receives support from federal agencies and philanthropic partners, there remains a significant gap at the state level in Western Australia. With more than 40 communities waiting to access the program, the discussion highlights a critical point—prevention-driven health initiatives deliver long-term impact but require upfront investment. This episode is a case study in how not-for-profits, especially those operating outside metropolitan centres can cut through. Through strategic pitching, accessible messaging, and compelling case studies, EON is ensuring its stories are not only told, but heard.
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    37 Min.
  • Medianet Media Landscape Report 2026
    Apr 1 2026
    If you work in the communications space or even just have a general interest in the mood and where media is at this moment, then the Medianet Landscape Report is a must read. Amrita Sidhu, Managing Director of Medianet joins us each year to discuss the findings, and while many won't be surprising, the trends and differences each make for a must-read. Nic and Amrita dive into a few of the findings and some the changes year on year. Trust was a big theme particularly when AI and LLMs are involved. Both journalism and the communications industry have different concerns when it comes to the use and consumption of AI content. So much to dive into… Enjoy the podcast. Here is snapshot of the report and its key findings. Press releases are now the most used story source, used by 86% of journalists. This is followed by industry and professional contacts, used by 83% of journalists. 78% of respondents say that receiving AI-generated pitches decreases their trust in PR content, and 48% believe they can almost always tell if a pitch was written by AI. And yes, AI-generated pitches are making it into journalists' inboxes. 66% of journalists believe that PR professionals are important to their success. Especially when it comes to brining genuinely good stories and sources to them. The best way for a PR professional to build trust with a journalist they haven't worked with before is to show evidence that they understand the journalists' interests (60% of respondents). Social media as a source is declining in usage (from 76% in 2022 to 65% in 2025) with the biggest drop happening on X, dropping from 73% in 2019 to just 36% in 2025.
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    42 Min.
  • Only You - Dr Marny Lishman
    Mar 25 2026
    It wasn't that long ago we had this guest on the show for her last book, now, her new one is out in April called Only You; The unexpected gift of being alone. Dr Marny Lishman was only with us sixteen episodes ago with her book Crisis to Contentment and she's back with an absolute page turner. A true lived experience book, remarkably personal and a deep reflection of her own world where being alone was thrusted on her. In a time when the World Health Organisation in 2025 declared loneliness a public health priority this book could not be better timed. Immediately from the start of the conversation, you'll get a very clear understanding of why this book was written. You have permission to be alone, you can relish and own the moment. Society has an expectation that we need to couple up, but you first need to find contentment with yourself. There are so many hurdles, distractions, anchors, and reasons for us to react the way we do to being alone. This book will help change your perspective when it is only you. This is Marny's third book but it's the book she always wanted to bring to print, right from the start. It has taken time for the content to be consumable. It's not just the 50% of those from failed relationships and marriages; it is for everyone feeling lonely in all situations - both women and men. Being alone is not defined by gender, nationality, industry, family, or how much money you earn. It'll affect everyone. "The most important relationship you'll ever have is the one you have with you!" A wonderful read, being released on the 29th of April, available online and at all good bookstores.
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    37 Min.
  • Oliver Peterson
    Mar 18 2026
    The radio industry is highly competitive, and most broadcasters don't get the chance to part ways with their employer on their own accord (ask Kyle Sandilands). Our guest on The Experts podcast moved stations on his own terms and he couldn't be happier. Oliver Peterson was the Drive presenter on 6PR for 10 years before making the move to local rival ABC in the same role. Oli as he is affectionately known in Perth, is the youngest talkback radio host in the country and at the same time a veteran for the timeslot. He talks about his love of radio, his wonderful years spent at his now rival 6PR, and the gratitude he has to be able to do the job he loves. He is living the dream. Switching to ABC Drive wasn't an easy decision, but it was the right move for him both professionally, and for his family. He just loves talking to West Australians on their drive home. There's not a lot of change to the daily approach for the show, but there are small adjustments. No advertisements, he gets to play music, and the program is shorter, which compared to his old gig at 6PR isn't a bad compromise. You can hear how inspired he is, and how much enthusiasm and energy he has in the podcast - he is happy.
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    33 Min.
  • Who you will meet at #MeetTheMedia
    Mar 11 2026
    #Meet the Media: What Journalists Actually Want The #MeetTheMedia tour is locked in for 2026, with events across Brisbane, Perth, Melbourne, Sydney and Adelaide. But what do journalists really get out of it? In this episode, Nic Hayes speaks with three experienced media professionals who attend the series—not just as journalists, but as participants looking for stories, talent and fresh voices. Joining the conversation: James Willis – Host of Money News Georgia Holland – Consumer Editor, Seven News Luca Gonano – Head of News & Sport, 3AW They explain why #MeetTheMedia matters from the media’s perspective. While many assume the event is purely for attendees pitching their expertise, journalists walk away with something just as valuable: new experts, new story angles, fresh connections and a deeper understanding of the people behind the stories. It’s also one of the rare moments where journalists can step away from the daily news grind to connect with peers, exchange ideas and discover talent they wouldn’t normally encounter. If you’re planning to attend Brisbane, Melbourne or Sydney, this episode is essential listening. It’s a masterclass in storytelling, pitching and understanding what makes a story land with media audiences. Because great storytelling isn’t about selling — it’s about connection, relevance and telling human stories that matter. 🎟 Secure your ticket: https://mediastable.com.au/meet-the-media/
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    35 Min.
  • Carmen Braidwood
    Mar 3 2026
    This week on The Experts Podcast, former co-host Carmen Braidwood returns to unpack what may well be the LinkedIn post of the year and a conversation that has struck a nerve across the events industry. The topic? The ongoing practice of event organisers asking speakers, particularly women to appear on stage for free. With International Women’s Day on 10 March, calendars are filling with breakfasts, conferences, panel events and corporate celebrations recognising the progress of women, especially in the workplace. Yet behind the scenes, many experienced female speakers are still being asked to “donate” their expertise. In January, Carmen posted this on LinkedIn: “Hey women speakers: who’s already been asked to speak for free on International Women’s Day? I have. It’s disappointing that highly experienced women are still expected to donate their expertise.” She went on to share how a high-profile company once asked her to act as a media spokesperson in exchange for “the exposure”. An offer she declined. “Yes, there are times when a reduced or waived fee can make sense. But only when there’s a genuine value exchange. Write it into your contract. Make sure your worth is recognised.” Carmen and Nic break this down candidly and call on event organisers to rethink the expectation that professionals should work for free. Recognition without remuneration is not empowerment. The second major discussion centres on the growing importance of media training. Carmen, a sought-after confidence-on-camera trainer, has seen a significant surge in demand. As communication channels multiply and audiences grow larger and more unforgiving, the ability to present clearly, confidently and strategically has become essential. Importantly, Carmen doesn’t separate “traditional” and “social” media. It’s all media. Whether you are speaking to a journalist, recording a video, appearing on a panel or posting online — you are communicating in a public arena. Media training is no longer a nice-to-have professional development exercise. It is a business necessity in an environment where audiences are bigger, faster and less filtered than ever before. This episode challenges outdated industry norms and reinforces a simple message: know your value and be ready to communicate it.
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    33 Min.
  • Ashlee Harrison
    Feb 24 2026
    At just 21 years old, Ashlee Harrison set out to do something most people wouldn’t even contemplate, start a mental health charity. Seventeen years later, she is still leading it, and the impact is now being felt across generations of young Australians. Ashlee is the CEO of zero2hero, an organisation she founded after losing her stepfather to suicide. In this candid and insightful conversation, she reflects on the difficult early days, learning how not to run events and fundraising campaigns, and how persistence, structure and a business mindset helped her turn an idea into one of the country’s most respected youth mental health charities. Ashlee speaks openly about the barriers she faced getting the organisation recognised, the frustrations of working within established systems, and the importance of surrounding yourself with the right people including the influence of her mentor, the late Ros Worthington. Named Young Western Australian of the Year in 2016, Ashlee has become a trusted voice in the media on mental health. Her commentary is grounded not in theory, but lived experience, and that authenticity comes through in this discussion. We also explore parenting, social media, technology, and how lifestyle factors such as diet, fitness and connection play a role in wellbeing for young people today. This is an honest, practical and inspiring conversation with a leader who continues to shape how we talk about and support mental health in Australia. You can find out more about zero2hero: https://www.zero2hero.com.au/
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    43 Min.