The Media Mentor

Being haunted by ghosting

Fri, 10 Apr 2026 05:05:00 GMT

What are ghost jobs and how do you cope with ghosting? These are some of the key questions I answer in this latest episode.

If you are looking to expand your portfolio of work but concerned about your CV or need help with cover letters and interviews - then mentoring sessions are available via the website.

There are 6 pages of media jobs to browse and there is also a WhatsApp channel for job alerts.

If you have any questions about media careers or a story that you would like to share about job hunting, then please get in touch.

More details about The Media Mentor can be found here.

For all the latest job listings head here.

To get alerts on media jobs as they drop follow the MM WhatsApp channel here.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Moving beyond journalism

Fri, 03 Apr 2026 05:05:00 GMT

Michelle Morgan Davies is known as The PR's Friend and has expanded her work from journalism into supporting communications teams in getting their story told and expanding their coverage. Here we discuss how journalism work is changing and that we all need to build more of a portfolio of work when we are freelance/independent. Michelle talks about using those transferable skills and work-life balance as a mother as well as why journalism is becoming harder to have a sole income.

If you are looking to expand your portfolio of work but concerned about your CV or need help with cover letters and interviews - then mentoring sessions are available via the website.

There are 6 pages of media jobs to browse and there is also a WhatsApp channel for job alerts.

If you have any questions about media careers or a story that you would like to share about job hunting, then please get in touch.

More details about The Media Mentor can be found here.

For all the latest job listings head here.

To get alerts on media jobs as they drop follow the MM WhatsApp channel here.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Shaping a freelance CV and building your media portfolio

Fri, 27 Mar 2026 06:16:02 GMT

Freddie Clayton first came to me for mentoring advice in 2018 when he was in Argentina. He felt his CV needed a redesign and I helped get it into shape before Freddie then worked at the likes of The Telegraph and Sky Sports. But he moved away from sport and into news and the enviornment and returned to me for more guidance on getting that CV right a few years later. Listen to his advice about career paths and why using niche expertise can be a great way to land work.

If you have similar concerns about your CV or need help with cover letters and interviews then mentoring sessions are available via the website.

There are 6 pages of media jobs to browse and there is also a WhatsApp channel for job alerts.

If you have any questions about media careers or a story that you would like to share about job hunting, then please get in touch.

More details about The Media Mentor can be found here.

For all the latest job listings head here.

To get alerts on media jobs as they drop follow the MM WhatsApp channel here.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Podcasting and community

Fri, 20 Mar 2026 06:05:00 GMT

Podcasthon is the biggest charity event in the podcasting world. It's a fast-growing non-profit initiative that unites thousands of podcasters globally. There's no money involved it’s all about raising awareness for various charitable causes. This episode is made to support The Committee to Protect Journalists, an independent, nonprofit organization that promotes press freedom worldwide.

I talk about why this charity is important on this episode. My interview is with Elysia Brenner and Alex Graham, two people working on very different podcasts but with a similar key theme; community. We discuss why this is so important as well as careers and whether video is really a must.

Elysia's Star Wars podcast can be found here.

Details of Alex's Total Saints podcast can be found here.

If you want CV advice or help with cover letters and interviews then mentoring sessions are available via the website.

There are 6 pages of media jobs to browse and there is also a WhatsApp channel for job alerts.

If you have any questions about media careers or a story that you would like to share about job hunting, then please get in touch.

More details about The Media Mentor can be found here.

For all the latest job listings head here.

To get alerts on media jobs as they drop follow the MM WhatsApp channel here.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Teaching journalism and media

Fri, 13 Mar 2026 06:05:00 GMT

Dr James Mahon teaches at the Open University and has previously worked for the University of Stirling, University of Glasgow and University of the West of Scotland. His doctoral and postdoctoral work explores digital media and mobile journalism and here talks about how the industry is changing and how teaching needs to change at the same time. James has also worked extensively as a TV and radio reporter and presenter and shares his experience of a zig-zag 'career'.

If you want CV advice or help with cover letters and interviews then mentoring sessions are available via the website.

There are 6 pages of media jobs to browse and there is also a WhatsApp channel for job alerts.

If you have any questions about media careers or a story that you would like to share about job hunting, then please get in touch.

More details about The Media Mentor can be found here.

For all the latest job listings head here.

To get alerts on media jobs as they drop follow the MM WhatsApp channel here.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Taking risks and having belief

Fri, 06 Mar 2026 06:05:00 GMT

Charlie Roberts first came to me for advice in late 2023 and after a few mentoring sessions, working on CV and cover letters, he told me that he was moving from Australia to the UK and going to try and land a job in sport production. He had no opportunities lined up - but showed the determination and persistence to get a job at IMG.

If you need CV advice like Charlie did or help with cover letters and interviews then mentoring sessions are available via the website.

Also there are 6 pages of media jobs to browse. There is also a WhatsApp channel for job alerts as I find the listings.

If you have any questions about media careers or a story that you would like to share about job hunting, then please get in touch.

More details about The Media Mentor can be found here.

For all the latest job listings head here.

To get alerts on media jobs as they drop follow the MM WhatsApp channel here.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Making LinkedIn work for you

Fri, 27 Feb 2026 06:05:00 GMT

Debbie Ford believes LinkedIn works best when it feels like a conversation, not a performance. She created The Chichester Social in 2016 to help companies make the most of the platform, because she felt too many treat it like a megaphone. On this episode we talk about how to avoid that and how to maximise the platform for your job search and networking. The key bit of advice? Be authentic.

Debbie's full of more great advice, so give it a listen to help shape your LinkedIn strategy during the very boring job hunt and application process. You can read her blog on whether to pay for the premium service here.

If you are finding the hunt for work frustrating and exhausting and want help to sharpen your applications, then mentoring sessions are available via the website.

Also there are 6 pages of media jobs to browse. There is also a WhatsApp channel for job alerts as I find the listings.

If you have any questions about media careers or a story that you would like to share about job hunting, then please get in touch.

More details about The Media Mentor can be found here.

For all the latest job listings head here.

To get alerts on media jobs as they drop follow the MM WhatsApp channel here.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Spinning plates - managing the world of freelancing

Fri, 20 Feb 2026 06:05:00 GMT

This week my guest is Andrea Fox, who presents the news on Absolute, as well as being a Continuity Announcer at ITV. Her career has also included voice-over work, teaching, presenting and being a Tech-op. We discuss what it is like to be freelance and the lessons Andrea has learnt. We find out about managing yourself well and being reliable and trustworthy and how building your brand that way is critical.

If you are unsure about freelancing or are stuck in a job and want advice and support about the next career step, then mentoring sessions are available via the website.

Also on the website are 6 pages of media jobs to browse. There is also a WhatsApp channel for job alerts as I find the listings.

If you have any questions about media careers or a story that you would like to share then please get in touch.

More details about The Media Mentor can be found here.

For all the latest job listings head here.

To get alerts on media jobs as they drop follow the MM WhatsApp channel here.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What makes a podcast a podcast?

Fri, 13 Feb 2026 06:05:00 GMT

This week my guest is Jon Weeks, a freelance podcast producer, presenter and journalist who came to me for CV advice in 2021 and soon landed a job at the Evening Standard producing their daily podcast. Jon talks to me about the move from radio news into podcast, moving from a full-time role to being freelance and how the world of podcast is being transformed and shaken up by video.

If you want advice and support about the next career step like Jon did, then mentoring sessions are available via the website.

Also on the website are 6 pages of media jobs to browse. There is also a WhatsApp channel for job alerts as I find the listings.

If you have any questions about media careers or a story that you would like to share then please get in touch.

More details about The Media Mentor can be found here.

For all the latest job listings head here.

To get alerts on media jobs as they drop follow the MM WhatsApp channel here.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What is good editorial judgement?

Fri, 06 Feb 2026 06:05:00 GMT

This week I take questions from Seong-Jae Kong who has moved from South Korea to the UK and is studying journalism at the University of Westminster.

Seong-Jae wants to know how you develop newsroom skills without being in a newsroom, whether you should specialise or develop multiple skills and talks about his recent BBC interview and what he learned from the experience.

If you have questions like Seong-Jae then drop me a line to take part in a future episode.

If you want some advice and support about the next career step then mentoring sessions are available via the website.

Also on the website are 6 pages of media jobs to browse. There is also a WhatsApp channel for job alerts as I find the listings.

If you have any questions about media careers or a story that you would like to share then please get in touch.

More details about The Media Mentor can be found here.

For all the latest job listings head here.

To get alerts on media jobs as they drop follow the MM WhatsApp channel here.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

To B2B or not to B2B?

Fri, 30 Jan 2026 06:05:00 GMT

Phil Clark has worked in B2B journalism for the last two decades and tells me why it's an underated sector and how it can help people develop investigative skills and many others. We discuss what attributes you might need and how networking is a vital part of the role, plus how the industry is changing.

If you want some advice and support about the next career step then mentoring sessions are available via the website.

Also on the website are 6 pages of media jobs to browse. There is also a WhatsApp channel for job alerts as I find the listings.

If you have any questions about media careers or a story that you would like to share then please get in touch.

More details about The Media Mentor can be found here.

For all the latest job listings head here.

To get alerts on media jobs as they drop follow the MM WhatsApp channel here.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Moving From Journalism Into Podcasting

Fri, 23 Jan 2026 06:05:00 GMT

Apparently 2026 is the new 2016! So this week I chat to Emily Uchida Finch, who first came to me for advice in 2016. We find out how she's doing ten years later and what her journey has been like. Emily talks about working for an international broadcaster, moving into local journalism and how she broke into podcasting. There are many valuable lessons that she shares, from my initital advice to making herself available for work outside of her 9-5 job.

If, like Emily did, you want some advice and support then mentoring sessions are available via the website.

Also on the website are 6 pages of media jobs to browse. There is also a WhatsApp channel for job alerts as I find the listings.

If you have any questions about media careers or a story that you would like to share then please get in touch.

More details about The Media Mentor can be found here.

For all the latest job listings head here.

To get alerts on media jobs as they drop follow the MM WhatsApp channel here.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Old Media, New Audiences: Struggling to Connect

Fri, 16 Jan 2026 06:05:00 GMT

In this week's episode it's all about creating journalism in a world of changing consumption. Matt Capon is a freelance video journalist who lectures at City, St George’s University of London and the University of Northampton. He thinks a lot of content production by traditional outlets is missing the mark. Here we talk about why and the evolving dynamics between traditional media and new digital platforms.

Mentoring advice and career guidance is available via the website.

Also on the website are 6 pages of media jobs to browse. There is also a WhatsApp channel for job alerts as I find the listings.

If you have any questions about media careers or a story that you would like to share then please get in touch.

More details about The Media Mentor can be found here.

For all the latest job listings head here.

To get alerts on media jobs as they drop follow the MM WhatsApp channel here.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Navigating your career after graduating

Fri, 09 Jan 2026 06:00:00 GMT

This week I chat to Sylvie Proffitt, who first came to me for advice in December 2020. Sylvie was struggling to navigate sports media after graduating from her degree course and was looking to expand her portfolio of work or find a full-time role. Within weeks she was working at BBC Sport and on this episode she talks about how I helped her prepare for interviews and shape her CV to demonstrate her skills and experience. Since then she has worked on a contract, freelance and in a full-time role and we talk about how her career path has not been what she expected - but how working in different roles has had great benefits.

Personal and confidential advice, like Sylvie had, is available via the website.

There you will also find blogs about CVs, cover letters and the January job hunt.

Also on the website are 6 pages of media jobs to browse. There is also a WhatsApp channel for job alerts as I find the listings.

If you have any questions about media careers or a story that you would like to share then please get in touch.

More details about The Media Mentor can be found here.

For all the latest job listings head here.

To get alerts on media jobs as they drop follow the MM WhatsApp channel here.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

New year, new job?

Fri, 02 Jan 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Welcome to Season 2 of The Media Mentor. I begin this series looking at the New Year job hunt. If you have vowed to find a new role in 2026, this episode covers some key tips. I look at how to layout your CV, the challenges of AI, what to write in a cover letter and how to handle panel interviews. Plus I look at the important things to consider when choosing a media course.

More personal and confidential advice is available via the website.

There you will also find blogs about CVs, cover letters and the January job hunt.

Also on the website are 6 pages of media jobs to browse. There is also a WhatsApp channel for job alerts as I find the listings.

If you have any questions about media careers or a story that you would like to share then please get in touch.

More details about The Media Mentor can be found here.

For all the latest job listings head here.

To get alerts on media jobs as they drop follow the MM WhatsApp channel here.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Key learnings, unheard bits and a dream job landed!

Fri, 19 Dec 2025 06:05:00 GMT

On this episode I pick out some of the key tips from the second half of Season 1. Plus I dip into some of the content I was unable to share from those interviews in the main series. You will hear advice on making a podcast for YouTube, why researching people you contact for work properly is important, making an award winning podcast and how some universities are looking to bridge the gap between academia, the media industry and more diverse local communities. Thanks to all this week's guests; Matt Deegan, Carl Hartley, Euan McNair, Gary Taphouse, Luca Hussain, Rhys Gunter and Teo Coroiu.

If you want some specific advice, then one to one sessions are available. Find out more here.

Also on the website are 6 pages of media jobs to browse. There is also a WhatsApp channel for job alerts as I find the listings.

If you have any questions about media careers or a story that you would like to share then please get in touch.

More details about The Media Mentor can be found here.

For all the latest job listings head here.

To get alerts on media jobs as they drop follow the MM WhatsApp channel here.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Building a career in sports media

Fri, 12 Dec 2025 06:05:00 GMT

This week I chat to Gary Taphouse, a football commentator with Sky Sports and other platforms. He talks about the best way to break into the industry and build those contacts. When to and when not to work for 'free', why getting the small things right matters and how the industry has changed in the last 20 years.

If you want some specific advice, then one to one sessions are available. Find out more here.

Also on the website are 6 pages of media jobs to browse. There is also a WhatsApp channel for job alerts as I find the listings.

If you have any questions about media careers or a story that you would like to share then please get in touch.

More details about The Media Mentor can be found here.

For all the latest job listings head here.

To get alerts on media jobs as they drop follow the MM WhatsApp channel here.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Your Questions 5

Fri, 05 Dec 2025 06:05:00 GMT

This week I answer questions from Eliska Janska and Antonia Johlen, who are studying journalism at the University of Westminster. Their questions focus on the challenges of making contacts and how networking is hard. How do you introduce yourself at industry events and what do you say? Why is networking so important? If that is something you struggle with, then listen for advice on how to manage those situations and maximise the conversations you have.

One to one advice is available via my mentoring sessions that are confidential and offer practical tips and guidance on advancing your media career. Find out more here.

Also on the website are 6 pages of media jobs to browse. There is also a WhatsApp channel for job alerts as I find the listings.

If you have any questions about media careers or a story that you would like to share then please get in touch.

More details about The Media Mentor can be found here.

For all the latest job listings head here.

To get alerts on media jobs as they drop follow the MM WhatsApp channel here.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Matt Deegan on podcasts and visualisation

Fri, 28 Nov 2025 06:05:00 GMT

On this episode my guest is Matt Deegan, an expert on radio, podcast and audio and at the forefront of the industry. Matt is Founder and Creative Director of the new media and radio consultancy firm, Folder Media. Outside of Folder, Matt also co-created Podcast Awards Ltd, which runs the British Podcast Awards (and others). He also writes a weekly audio newsletter and presents The Media Club Podcast.

Here, we chat about whether a podcast needs to be video, how AI is going to impact audio and how you break into the industry.

If you are looking to get into media and need help on the journey, then advice and guidance is available here: https://www.themediamentor.info/services

There you will find sessions that you can book to help you create or revamp your CV, write cover letters more effectively or prepare for interviews. You can also book voice coaching, news writing and broader career assessment sessions.

The website also has 6 pages of media jobs to browse and there's a WhatsApp channel where the jobs are shared as I find them.

If you have any questions about media careers or a story that you would like to share then please get in touch.

More details about The Media Mentor can be found here.

For all the latest job listings head here.

To get alerts on media jobs as they drop follow the MM WhatsApp channel here.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Moving from freelance to a permanent role

Fri, 21 Nov 2025 06:05:00 GMT

On this episode I chat with Christian Smith, who came to me for mentoring advice in 2020. At the time he was a lawyer and aspiring journalist particularly keen on a career in foreign news, broadcasting, or long form journalism. Over the course of the next year or so we had a few sessions and Christian eventually worked for me and progressed through places like Times Radio and is now a Broadcaster and litigation editor at The Lawyer.

We chat about his path into UK media, how networking is vital and how freelancing can open doors to a permanent role.

If you are applying for media jobs or feeling stuck in your current role, get in touch for advice and guidance here: https://www.themediamentor.info/services

There you will also find 6 pages of media jobs to browse and there's a WhatsApp channel: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029Vb1iknl8fewtgb5bPU0X

If you have any questions about media careers or a story that you would like to share then please get in touch.

More details about The Media Mentor can be found here.

For all the latest job listings head here.

To get alerts on media jobs as they drop follow the MM WhatsApp channel here.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

BBC Trump-gate

Fri, 14 Nov 2025 06:05:00 GMT

On this 'emergency' episode I look at the problems for the BBC after a tumultuous week and how it managed to broadcast a doctored version of the Donald Trump documentary. To get an idea of life at the BBC I speak to Sanjeev Shetty, who worked there for 23 years. He talks about how the newsroom always felt a safer space for those on the left than the right. I also talk to PR professional Josh Wheeler to get a view on how the BBC has handled this crisis.

If you are feeling stuck in your career or just confused by a silence from all your applications, get in touch for advice and guidance here: https://www.themediamentor.info/services

There you will also find 6 pages of media jobs to browse and there's a WhatsApp channel: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029Vb1iknl8fewtgb5bPU0X

If you have any questions about media careers or a story that you would like to share then please get in touch.

More details about The Media Mentor can be found here.

For all the latest job listings head here.

To get alerts on media jobs as they drop follow the MM WhatsApp channel here.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The changing face to face of recruitment

Fri, 07 Nov 2025 06:05:00 GMT

We've reached 25 episodes of the podcast and this week I chat to Jo Wood, Managing Director of The Media Exchange recruitment consultant.

As you’ll discover Jo has had an interesting path into this sector and set up The Media Exchange in 1993.

We discuss what has changed since, how recruitment can be made more efficient and personal and where bias and discrimination is still sadly a major issue.

If you are feeling stuck in your career or just confused by a silence from all your applications, get in touch for advice and guidance here: https://www.themediamentor.info/services

There you will also find 6 pages of media jobs to browse and there's a WhatsApp channel: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029Vb1iknl8fewtgb5bPU0X

If you have any questions about media careers or a story that you would like to share then please get in touch.

More details about The Media Mentor can be found here.

For all the latest job listings head here.

To get alerts on media jobs as they drop follow the MM WhatsApp channel here.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Your Questions 4

Fri, 31 Oct 2025 06:05:00 GMT

This week I answer questions from Nour Mouhammed, a student studying journalism who moved from Syria a few years ago. Nour has vast experience from her home country but is unsure how that transfers to the UK media industry and joins me to discuss those concerns and ask other questions about the recruitment process.

If you have moved to the UK and are finding breaking into media hard, get in touch for advice and guidance here: https://www.themediamentor.info/services

There you will also find 6 pages of media jobs to browse and there's a WhatsApp channel: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029Vb1iknl8fewtgb5bPU0X

If you have any questions about media careers or a story that you would like to share then please get in touch.

More details about The Media Mentor can be found here.

For all the latest job listings head here.

To get alerts on media jobs as they drop follow the MM WhatsApp channel here.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Moving from Beijing to London

Fri, 24 Oct 2025 05:05:00 GMT

This week I talk to Robin Zhang about how he moved from China to the UK to study journalism and pursue his dream of working in UK radio. When he first came to me for support he had completed an MA at Cardiff University and was working as a volunteer in radio, but wanted to bridge that gap from student to a full-time job. Find out what we worked on to do that and what extra things Robin did to break into the industry. Since we first met Robin has worked for Times Radio, GB News and now BBC News.

If you have moved to the UK and are finding breaking into media hard, get in touch for advice and guidance here: https://www.themediamentor.info/services

There you will also find 6 pages of media jobs to browse and there's a WhatsApp channel: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029Vb1iknl8fewtgb5bPU0X

If you have any questions about media careers or a story that you would like to share then please get in touch.

More details about The Media Mentor can be found here.

For all the latest job listings head here.

To get alerts on media jobs as they drop follow the MM WhatsApp channel here.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Solving the recruitment problem

Fri, 17 Oct 2025 05:05:00 GMT

This week we look at how the recruitment process can be improved. How do we stop it feeling like an abyss when you send out applications? How do we make it feel more human? Are CVs and cover letters the only way to vet candidates?

Euan McNair is Aegon UK’s Talent Acquisition, Employer Brand & Inclusion Director and he discusses how the company recently recognised a need to overhaul its hiring process and made some major changes. It's led to a whole new approach to the hiring process and now Aegon is recruiting more efficiently and from a wider pool of talent.

Listen to find out what it put in place to achieve this.

If you find the recruitment process a challenge and want advice about how to have more success, find out more about The Media Mentor here: https://www.themediamentor.info/services

There you will also find 6 pages of media jobs to browse and there's a WhatsApp channel: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029Vb1iknl8fewtgb5bPU0X

If you have any questions about media careers or a story that you would like to share then please get in touch.

More details about The Media Mentor can be found here.

For all the latest job listings head here.

To get alerts on media jobs as they drop follow the MM WhatsApp channel here.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Taking a media job on the other side of the world

Fri, 10 Oct 2025 05:05:00 GMT

On this episode I talk with Rhys Gunter, who worked at the likes of the BBC, Talk TV and GB News before moving to Australia, where his latest project is the award-winning Dear Rachelle podcast.

As a radio production student in London, Rhys landed shifts with News UK in his second year, and talks about managing the work life balance of that as well as dealing with strong personalities, embracing student radio and why he chose to move to Australia.

If you would like some neutral support like Rhys did, find out more about The Media Mentor here: https://www.themediamentor.info/services

There you will also find 6 pages of media jobs to browse and there's a WhatsApp channel: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029Vb1iknl8fewtgb5bPU0X

If you have any questions about media careers or a story that you would like to share then please get in touch.

More details about The Media Mentor can be found here.

For all the latest job listings head here.

To get alerts on media jobs as they drop follow the MM WhatsApp channel here.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Media and the class divide

Fri, 03 Oct 2025 05:05:00 GMT

On this episode I talk to Luca Hussain, Head of Programmes at Creative Mentor Network.

It's a charity that wants no class ceiling in the UK's creative industries. It supports people aged 16-25 from lower socioeconomic backgrounds who are trying to get into the industry and also helps companies become more accessible for those young people.

We discuss why that is so important, the barriers that exist for those young people and how all of us can make a difference and try and change that.

If you would like some neutral support and advice about your career, find out more about The Media Mentor here: https://www.themediamentor.info/services

There you will also find 6 pages of media jobs to browse and there's a WhatsApp channel: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029Vb1iknl8fewtgb5bPU0X

If you have any questions about media careers or a story that you would like to share then please get in touch.

More details about The Media Mentor can be found here.

For all the latest job listings head here.

To get alerts on media jobs as they drop follow the MM WhatsApp channel here.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Becoming a radio presenter

Fri, 26 Sep 2025 05:05:00 GMT

On this episode I talk to Isaac Kong, host of the podcast Chatter Beans. Isaac came to my course on radio and podcast at City Lit in London and would love to host a radio show. So I invited him on to ask questions about the industry and how you can try and break into radio in 2025. We discuss the state of the industry, how best to showcase your skills and what the future of radio might look like.

If you would like some neutral support and advice about your career, find out more about The Media Mentor here: https://www.themediamentor.info/services

There you will also find 6 pages of media jobs to browse and there's a WhatsApp channel: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029Vb1iknl8fewtgb5bPU0X

If you have any questions about media careers or a story that you would like to share then please get in touch.

More details about The Media Mentor can be found here.

For all the latest job listings head here.

To get alerts on media jobs as they drop follow the MM WhatsApp channel here.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

A mindful approach to AI

Fri, 19 Sep 2025 05:05:00 GMT

Joining me on this episode is Laura Mai Edwards. Laura-Mai decided a few years ago to take a career break, having been in various corporate roles for over a decade, most recently Chief of Staff in Editorial at a global news agency. During this career break she travelled back to her home country of Jamaica, spent time in Colombia and re-trained as a coach and yoga teacher. These were skills she always wanted to utilise but never felt she was in the right environment to pursue them. Using these skills, she set up her business, Root Beginnings, which helps you to create intentional space for self-discovery through somatic coaching, seasonal workshops and retreats. Laura Mai has recently been working on a project to help people adapt to the world of AI - where she is weaving these skills in - and I wanted to find out more.

I don't do yoga or take you on trips to South America but if you would like some neutral support and advice about your career, find out more about The Media Mentor here: https://www.themediamentor.info/services

There you will also find 6 pages of media jobs to browse and there's a WhatsApp channel: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029Vb1iknl8fewtgb5bPU0X

If you have any questions about media careers or a story that you would like to share then please get in touch.

More details about The Media Mentor can be found here.

For all the latest job listings head here.

To get alerts on media jobs as they drop follow the MM WhatsApp channel here.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Recap

Fri, 12 Sep 2025 05:05:00 GMT

On this episode I look back at the series so far and reflect on some of the insight and advice I've shared.

Hear clips from all the guests I have had and pick up some brilliant nuggets of info.

If you would like some neutral support and advice about your career, find out more about The Media Mentor here: https://www.themediamentor.info/services

There you will also find 6 pages of media jobs to browse and there's a WhatsApp channel: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029Vb1iknl8fewtgb5bPU0X

If you have any questions about media careers or a story that you would like to share then please get in touch.

More details about The Media Mentor can be found here.

For all the latest job listings head here.

To get alerts on media jobs as they drop follow the MM WhatsApp channel here.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Building your personal brand

Fri, 05 Sep 2025 05:05:00 GMT

On this episode I talk about personal branding with Delia Rowland, who graduated with an MA in journalism from the University of Westminster two years ago.

Delia came to me to offer help on my social media accounts - in return for some advice and practical help in the job hunt.

Since then, she has written for the Mail Online and Reuters – worked with the agency SWNS – and been a copywriter at the UK's leading personal brand agency, Klowt.

Now she’s embarking on a freelance journey – and I wanted to find out more about how she built the confidence to do that - and how her personal brand was key to the journey.

If you would like some neutral support and advice about your career, find out more about The Media Mentor here: https://www.themediamentor.info/services

There you will also find 6 pages of media jobs to browse and there's a WhatsApp channel: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029Vb1iknl8fewtgb5bPU0X

If you have any questions about media careers or a story that you would like to share then please get in touch.

More details about The Media Mentor can be found here.

For all the latest job listings head here.

To get alerts on media jobs as they drop follow the MM WhatsApp channel here.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Being a mature media student

Fri, 29 Aug 2025 05:05:00 GMT

Have you thought of studying when you are older - returning to university or a media course after working for a number of years?

On this episode I am joined by Simon Woolcott, someone who did that aged 50. He embarked on a radio production course at the University of Westminster, having already worked in radio for a number of years. So what sparked the decision? And what did Simon gain from the experience?

If you would like some neutral support and advice about your career, find out more about The Media Mentor here: https://www.themediamentor.info/services

There you will also find 6 pages of media jobs to browse and there's a WhatsApp channel: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029Vb1iknl8fewtgb5bPU0X

If you have any questions about media careers or a story that you would like to share then please get in touch.

More details about The Media Mentor can be found here.

For all the latest job listings head here.

To get alerts on media jobs as they drop follow the MM WhatsApp channel here.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Your Questions 3

Fri, 22 Aug 2025 05:05:00 GMT

On this episode I am joined by Lucrezia Zito, a recent graduate from the University of Westminster.

She has been in touch to ask some questions about media careers after listening to the podcast. So I thought, why not get her on, to ask me those questions directly. We discuss whether you should do unpaid media work, how you can maximise your time as a media student and why demonstrating passion is so important.

If you would like some neutral support and advice about your career, find out more about The Media Mentor here: https://www.themediamentor.info/services

There you will also find 6 pages of media jobs to browse and there's a WhatsApp channel: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029Vb1iknl8fewtgb5bPU0X

If you have any questions about media careers or a story that you would like to share then please get in touch.

More details about The Media Mentor can be found here.

For all the latest job listings head here.

To get alerts on media jobs as they drop follow the MM WhatsApp channel here.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Life as a freelancer

Fri, 15 Aug 2025 05:05:00 GMT

On this episode I am joined by Carl Hartley, a broadcast journalist and lecturer of journalism at the University of Leeds.

On a recent trip to the university Carl showed me around the studios and we sat down for a bit of a chat about our lives as freelance journalists. I think some of our experiences and advice will help you if you are unclear about how to go about freelancing – or if you’re just graduated and don’t know how it can work.

If you would like some neutral support and advice about your career, find out more about The Media Mentor here: https://www.themediamentor.info/services

There you will also find 6 pages of media jobs to browse and there's a WhatsApp channel: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029Vb1iknl8fewtgb5bPU0X

If you have any questions about media careers or a story that you would like to share then please get in touch.

More details about The Media Mentor can be found here.

For all the latest job listings head here.

To get alerts on media jobs as they drop follow the MM WhatsApp channel here.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Turning an internship into a job

Fri, 08 Aug 2025 05:05:00 GMT

On this episode is Bella Jewell, who first came to me as a remote intern during the pandemic. She was soon getting paid work as part of the podcast team I created and moved on to freelance for the likes of Sky News, Euronews and various other large brands. Bella then came back to me for a Media Mentor session to look at how she could move from freelancing into a full-time role. On this episode we discuss how hard she found that transition and reflect back on how she maxmised her time as an intern with my news team to then get paid work.

If you would like some neutral support and advice like Bella, find out more about The Media Mentor here: https://www.themediamentor.info/services

There you will also find 6 pages of media jobs to browse and there's a WhatsApp channel: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029Vb1iknl8fewtgb5bPU0X

If you have any questions about media careers or a story that you would like to share then please get in touch.

More details about The Media Mentor can be found here.

For all the latest job listings head here.

To get alerts on media jobs as they drop follow the MM WhatsApp channel here.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Moving from journalism to comms

Fri, 01 Aug 2025 05:05:00 GMT

On this episode I talk to Emily Slater about moving from journalism into PR and comms. Emily had to travel with her husband because of his job and it led to a switch in her career. I ask her about her transferable skills and what she had to learn when first working in comms. Many journalists say it's moving to 'the dark side' but as we learn, it's very much not that.

If you would like some neutral support and advice about your next step, find out more about The Media Mentor here: https://www.themediamentor.info/services

There you will also find 6 pages of media jobs to browse and there's a WhatsApp channel: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029Vb1iknl8fewtgb5bPU0X

If you have any questions about media careers or a story that you would like to share then please get in touch.

More details about The Media Mentor can be found here.

For all the latest job listings head here.

To get alerts on media jobs as they drop follow the MM WhatsApp channel here.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Demonstrating passion

Fri, 25 Jul 2025 05:30:00 GMT

On this episode we talk about passion; how to demonstrate it and use it to help advance your career. Matthew Dunne-Miles first came to me as a client in November 2020. He was working in PR but wanted to return to journalism and content. About to turn 30 he felt he was at a key point of his career but needed guidance on how to present his skills and experience. He also wanted to work in podcasting so produced his own. A passion project that has led to him becoming the lead on production for The Laundry, the podcast connecting financial crime to the real world. He previously led 11:FS' Fintech Insider podcast and was co-creator of an original pop culture podcast series, featured by The Times, Podbible, Great British Podcasts, NME, and The Daily Mirror. That podcast demonstrated his passion and helped advance his career.

If you would like some neutral support and advice like Matthew, find out more about The Media Mentor here: https://www.themediamentor.info/services

There you will also find 6 pages of media jobs to browse and there's a WhatsApp channel: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029Vb1iknl8fewtgb5bPU0X

If you have any questions about media careers or a story that you would like to share then please get in touch.

More details about The Media Mentor can be found here.

For all the latest job listings head here.

To get alerts on media jobs as they drop follow the MM WhatsApp channel here.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Your Questions 2

Fri, 18 Jul 2025 09:08:40 GMT

On this episode I answer your questions about job hunting, covering CVs and what to put in a personal statement, plus we discuss how to deal with rejection. I am joined by Teo again to ask the questions. If you would like to appear on an episode to ask about careers, please get in touch.

To find out more about The Media Mentor visit the website: https://www.themediamentor.info/services

There you will also find 6 pages of media jobs to browse and there's a WhatsApp channel: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029Vb1iknl8fewtgb5bPU0X

If you have any questions about media careers or a story that you would like to share then please get in touch.

More details about The Media Mentor can be found here.

For all the latest job listings head here.

To get alerts on media jobs as they drop follow the MM WhatsApp channel here.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Media recruitment and the 'who you know' problem

Fri, 11 Jul 2025 08:22:21 GMT

On this episode we tackle the thorny issue of media recruitment and how ‘who you know’ is still so important. Is it a good or a bad thing? And how do you counter that if you are looking to break into the industry?

I chat to Colin Kelly, who runs PR training and consultancy company Comsteria. Colin's career in journalism began as a freelancer before staff roles at Scot FM, Real Radio, and Radio Clyde. He worked as a gadget and technology presenter with STV and as a presenter wth BBC Radio Scotland.

To find out more about The Media Mentor visit the website: https://www.themediamentor.info/services

There you will also find 6 pages of media jobs to browse and there's a WhatsApp channel: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029Vb1iknl8fewtgb5bPU0X

If you have any questions about media careers or a story that you would like to share then please get in touch.

More details about The Media Mentor can be found here.

For all the latest job listings head here.

To get alerts on media jobs as they drop follow the MM WhatsApp channel here.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Breaking into media when older

Fri, 04 Jul 2025 08:08:47 GMT

On this episode I chat to Leonie Zeumer, a German-born TV journalist and presenter now based in China. When Leonie first came to me in 2019 she had no CV and had just completed her NCTJ. She needed to start the process from scratch and make the move from a different sector into media, having re-trained in her late 20s. All of this whilst also being a non-native speaker in London. Here she shares some of the key lessons from those early sessions we had and what she has continued to learn since, as she's moved from London to Austria and now Beijing

To find out more about The Media Mentor, listen to episode 1 and to see how I could help your career head to https://www.themediamentor.info/services

On the webite you will also find 6 pages of media jobs to browse.

If you have any questions about media careers or a story that you would like to share then please get in touch.

More details about The Media Mentor can be found here.

For all the latest job listings head here.

To get alerts on media jobs as they drop follow the MM WhatsApp channel here.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Your Questions

Fri, 27 Jun 2025 05:30:00 GMT

On this episode I answer your questions about media jobs and media careers. With fewer vacancies being advertised right now - making sure you have a strong CV and good applications is critical. I talk about some of the key things you need to get right to do that.

To find out more about The Media Mentor, listen to episode 1 and to see how I could help your career head to https://www.themediamentor.info/services

On the webite you will also find 6 pages of media jobs to browse.

If you have any questions about media careers or a story that you would like to share then please get in touch.

More details about The Media Mentor can be found here.

For all the latest job listings head here.

To get alerts on media jobs as they drop follow the MM WhatsApp channel here.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

AI and recruitment

Fri, 20 Jun 2025 05:05:00 GMT

On this episode we look at how AI is impacting the recruitment sector. Joe Watkins is the founder of AI Recruit, a startup he built to fix what he says is a broken system. With recruiters drowning in CVs and candidates unsure how to target each job, what role does AI play in that? Is it for good or bad? Joe gives us some tips on tackling autoamted systems and outlines what the future might hold for this sector.

To find out more about The Media Mentor, listen to episode 1 and to see how I could help your career head to https://www.themediamentor.info/services

On the webite you will also find 6 pages of media jobs to browse.

If you have any questions about media careers or a story that you would like to share then please get in touch.

More details about The Media Mentor can be found here.

For all the latest job listings head here.

To get alerts on media jobs as they drop follow the MM WhatsApp channel here.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Perseverance and gain

Fri, 13 Jun 2025 05:05:00 GMT

On this episode I talk to Ethan James, who first emailed me in November 2020 asking for a series of mentoring sessions. It was the height of Covid and a challenging time for Ethan and many of us. 5 years later and he is now doing very well in his career, working on Stephen Tries' podcast. But it's not been easy. We talk about how and why he did some media work for free after graduating and how it was critical to helping him advance. And how the difficult decisions have kept coming. As you’ll also hear, he’s a terrific character and full of great energy and has loads of good advice for you.

To find out more about The Media Mentor, listen to episode 1 and to see how I could help your career head to https://www.themediamentor.info/services

On the webite you will also find 6 pages of media jobs to browse.

If you have any questions about media careers or a story that you would like to share then please get in touch.

More details about The Media Mentor can be found here.

For all the latest job listings head here.

To get alerts on media jobs as they drop follow the MM WhatsApp channel here.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What is a career?

Thu, 05 Jun 2025 08:07:01 GMT

In this episode I discuss media careers and what that really means. I talk about the importance of practical advice in career development and speak to Dr. Eric Fraser, a psychologist specializing in leadership coaching and soft skills. Eric emphasizes the normalcy of feeling stuck in a career and the importance of learning to overcome it. He highlights the significance of confidence and assertiveness, a word I think is very important for media candidates. We also discuss the evolving nature of careers and how the traditional staircase type progression does not exist in many sectors now and that advice and guidance when you are young can be confusing.

To find out more about The Media Mentor, listen to episode 1 and to see how I could help your career head to https://www.themediamentor.info/services

On the webite you will also find 6 pages of media jobs to browse.

If you have any questions about media careers or a story that you would like to share then please get in touch.

More details about The Media Mentor can be found here.

For all the latest job listings head here.

To get alerts on media jobs as they drop follow the MM WhatsApp channel here.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

How do you bridge the gap from grad to job?

Fri, 30 May 2025 07:05:00 GMT

In this episode I talk to Elise McGinley who first got in touch with me in the autumn of 2024, struggling to land a full time role in journalism. Within six months she was working in her dream role. What was needed was some advice and guidance on how to maximise her experience and bridge the gap from graduate to employee. Hear how my advice re-shaped her CV and her mindset and enabled her to get the job she wanted.

To find out more about how I could help your career head to https://www.themediamentor.info/services

On the webite you will also find 6 pages of media jobs to browse.

If you have any questions about media careers or a story that you would like to share then please get in touch.

More details about The Media Mentor can be found here.

For all the latest job listings head here.

To get alerts on media jobs as they drop follow the MM WhatsApp channel here.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Who is The Media Mentor?

Fri, 30 May 2025 07:00:00 GMT

Meet David Spencer, a seasoned media professional with over 20 years of experience helping individuals navigate their media careers. In this inaugural episode, David introduces himself and the purpose behind The Media Mentor and this podcast. He also chats with Teo, a client aspiring to break into the media industry, discussing the challenges of job applications and career progression. Find out what length of CV is best and why you shouldn't be too hard on yourself if you find job hunting and applications daunting and confusing.

Key Highlights:

Understanding the role of a media mentor
Insights into crafting effective media CVs
Addressing common hurdles in media job applications

Whether you're a recent graduate or looking to pivot within the media landscape, this episode offers valuable guidance to kickstart your journey.

To find out more about how I could help your career head to https://www.themediamentor.info/services

On the webite you will also find 6 pages of media jobs to browse.

If you have any questions about media careers or a story that you would like to share then please get in touch.

More details about The Media Mentor can be found here.

For all the latest job listings head here.

To get alerts on media jobs as they drop follow the MM WhatsApp channel here.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Media Mentor Trailer

Thu, 10 Apr 2025 11:20:25 GMT

On this podcast we look at media careers and trends. I offer advice about media CVs, cover letters and job interviews, as well as how to move sectors, how to maximise an internship, the world of media freelancing and everything else that makes up the tough world of job applications and career progression. This is advice for starters and those more experienced who are feeling lost and confused.

I interview other experts on recruitment and how the process can be improved and I chat to people I have helped on their media journey over the last 20 years.

I also talk to experts in media about content and journalism and the creative industry more broadly.

More details about The Media Mentor can be found here.

For all the latest job listings head here.

To get alerts on media jobs as they drop follow the MM WhatsApp channel here.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.