Effective Communication
May 24th, 2019These are just a few of the exchanges provoked by the Toronto Star’s recent publication of a commentary I wrote about the downside of filler phrases. Many of those who responded […]
read more...Clear speech advocate writes; Twitter sh*t storm erupts.Master Media Engagement
January 9th, 2019Are you a media whore? Or do you worry you might be labeled one by your colleagues – if not to your face, then behind your back? In the process […]
read more...In praise of academic media sluts – a New Year’s resolutionMaster Media Engagement
November 13th, 2018Prolific author, volunteer advocate on mental health issues, mother of four — notwithstanding the demands on Ann Douglas’ time implied by all of those roles, she also regularly makes time […]
read more...Interview tips from best-selling author and media interview veteran Ann DouglasMaster Media Engagement
October 30th, 2018Nancy Worth is a rock star in our world. After participating in one of our Writing Compelling Commentary workshops a little over a year ago, the University of Waterloo professor […]
read more...How journalists and universities can make it easier for experts to say “yes” to media interviewsOur Advocacy Work
January 17th, 2017Has your family doctor ever consulted a reference book while you were present? The first time my GP did so, I was stunned. Even though I’d sought treatment for a […]
read more...Why I’m happy my doctor doesn’t think she knows it allEffective Communication
August 18th, 2016As professional communicators who advise others on how to improve their ability to connect with audiences, colleague Sarah Neville and I have watched the astonishing ascension of political neophyte and […]
read more...Trump’s Terrifying Communication EffectivenessOur Advocacy Work
June 28th, 2016Most parents agree on at least one thing: they’d do almost anything for their children. For Steve Paikin, that means promoting a more gender-equitable media landscape. Many know Paikin as […]
read more...“Where, oh where, are all the female guests?”Master Media Engagement
May 31st, 2016It’s Tuesday morning and you’re busily catching up on work at your desk when the phone rings.. It’s a journalist wanting to ask you a few questions about some breaking […]
read more...Media Calling? Here’s What to AskMaster Media Engagement
May 9th, 2016Chances are, if you’re reading this, you’re in no danger of being characterized as a “rent-a-gob”. That’s the term CBC radio host, Robyn Bresnahan laughingly used last week to describe […]
read more...How prepared are you for a live radio or TV interview?Master Media Engagement
February 4th, 2016I’m sitting in a restaurant with my friend Frances. (Note that this blog post was originally published pre-pandemic.) A longtime print journalist and frequent guest on radio public affairs shows, she […]
read more...Are you uncomfortable calling yourself an expert?