The Blog
Straight Talk From Someone Who's Been There
On addiction, gambling, confidence and facing the media, from Mark Aiston.
Helen knew exactly what she wanted to say about the book. She’d even written it on the back of a shopping receipt and tucked it between the pages.
But when she arrived at the library and heard everyo...
Picture an ordinary evening. Someone sits on the edge of their bed, dressed and ready for a gathering. They have checked the address and worked out where to park. Then the questions begin. Who will I ...
You want to meet people, but walking into a room full of strangers feels difficult. You think about going to an event, then decide to stay home. Afterwards, you wish you had gone. If this sounds famil...
You get home from a gathering and begin reviewing the evening. The introduction you hesitated over. The story you started, then cut short. The person you wanted to approach before they left. Somewhere...
Why “No Comment” Is a Risky Answer in a Media Interview
When a journalist asks a difficult question, “no comment” might feel like the safest response. It gives you a moment to escape an uncomfortabl...
Walking into an event where you know few people often brings a familiar worry. Who will you talk to? What will you say? If you are an introvert, the thought of introductions might leave you wanting to...
When someone you love is struggling with addiction, you often rehearse conversations they never hear. You lie awake searching for the right words.
You pick up the phone, then put it down. You want t...
I spent around 40 years working in television and radio. I presented sport, interviewed thousands of people and spoke to large audiences. Yet walking into a networking event often left me uncomfor
...Gambling harm often develops quietly. Money set aside for bills gets spent. Savings shrink. Financial pressure grows. The impact reaches beyond your bank balance, affecting sleep, work and emotional w...
When a crisis affects your company, respond quickly and acknowledge what has happened. Gather the facts, identify who is affected and appoint one spokesperson to speak with the media. If you are still...
Why Media Interview Preparation Matters for Your Business
A media interview gives you an opportunity to share your knowledge, explain your business and reach a wider audience. It also puts your commu...
Why You Should Never Bag Your Competition in a Media Interview
When a journalist asks about your competitors, it can feel like a chance to score points. It’s tempting to point out where they fa...