Advertise on podcast: Media Savvy with Bonnie Taub-Dix

Most of us are not walking into a television studio to record video. We're in home offices and kitchens, using a laptop and whatever light the room gives us, and people judge our credibility in the first few seconds, before we've said anything worth judging. Bonnie walks through lighting, microphones, and camera angle, in the order to fix them, plus the one-minute test that catches every problem before you record anything that matters. Why light comes first, and why a window behind you makes you a silhouette The times of day that flatter, and why mixing a cool window with a warm lamp never works Sound as the thing that actually costs you your audience, and where to clip a lavalier The truth about those tiny handheld mics you see everywhere The hum you've stopped hearing, and what your microphone still picks up Eyes in the upper third, and why to look at the lens instead of your own face Backgrounds, blank walls, and when a plain one is the right answer The fifteen-second test: watch it muted, then listen with your eyes closed Mentioned in this episode Clip-on lavalier microphones, and why handheld mics are usually the wrong tool when you're recording alone. Connect with Bonnie Website: bonnietaubdix.com Book: Louder Than Likes: How to Amplify Your Expertise and Make Media Work for You LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/bonnietaubdix Instagram: @BTDmedia for media skills, @bonnietaubdix for nutrition Email: [email protected] Next episode: How to create a soundbite, because you can have perfect light and perfect sound and still say something nobody can use.

You studied biochemistry, medical nutrition therapy, food science, and clinical rotations. Nobody sat you down and explained how to talk to a journalist, what to wear on camera, or how to build a soundbite that lands. Bonnie kicks off a new series on the media skills that actually matter, starting with the one people write off as superficial: how you look on camera, and why it shapes whether an audience trusts you before you open your mouth. In this episode: Why dietitians stayed invisible while doctors became the media faces of health The language media speaks, and why clinical precision often gets cut from the final piece The moiré effect, and why small stripes and tight checks sabotage your message Jewel tones that read well on screen and flatter a wide range of skin tones The all-white and all-black traps under studio lighting When your personal brand style works, and when to call the studio first Mentioned: Louder Than Likes: How to Amplify Your Expertise and Make Media Work for You · Media training course at btdmedia.teachable.com · Questions or bookings: [email protected] Subscribe today so you don't miss the rest of the series.

Have you ever wondered why some podcasts seem to build devoted audiences while others struggle to get noticed? It turns out... it's not just about having a great voice, an expensive microphone, or even amazing guests. This week on Media Savvy, I sat down with Jeff Dauler, a self-described Podcast Architect, and our conversation completely shifted the way I think about podcast strategy. We talked about:  What a Podcast Architect actually does  The biggest mistakes new podcasters make  Why downloads aren't the only metric that matters  Jeff's brilliant "Win With One" philosophy for growing loyal listeners  Reviews, monetization, and what's next for podcasting Whether you already host a podcast, are thinking about starting one, or simply want to understand how great content grows an audience, I think you'll take away ideas you can use immediately.  Listen wherever you get your podcasts. And while you're there, I'd love for you to hit Follow so every new episode of Media Savvy lands in your feed. I have some incredible guests—and conversations—ahead.

Calling Yourself This? Let's Talk About That Someone said it on stage, matter-of-factly, like a settled fact: there's no such thing as a Media Dietitian. Bonnie couldn't respond in the moment, so this episode is her answer. She agrees with part of it. It's not an official credential, no exam, no board, no certificate. But neither is content creator or nutrition communicator, and those get claimed without hesitation. Her concern is that dietitians hear a comment like that and quietly decide they're not there yet, waiting for some invisible milestone before they let media count as part of their work. In this episode: Why "Media Dietitian" isn't a credential, and why that doesn't make it any less real What actually counts as doing media (it's broader than you think) Bonnie's own first interview, and how confidence was built over time, not handed to her Why the real question isn't whether the title exists, but whether it describes the work you're already doing Connect with Bonnie: Bonnie’s proven media training course: How To Work With Media and Make The Media Work for You: https://btdmedia.teachable.com/p/media-masterclass  Bonnie’s website: https://betterthandieting.com  BTD Media Makers News Digest: https://bonnietaubdix.kit.com/d4132ece48 Follow Bonnie on Social Media:  Instagram:@bonnietaubdix and                        @BTDmedia X (Twitter): @eatsmartbd Facebook: @BonnieTaubDix.RDN Threads: https://www.threads.net/@bonnietaubdix  Bonnie’s Books: Read It Before You Eat It - Taking You from Label to Table      Louder Than Likes: How to Amplify Your Expertise and Make MediaWork for You Get in touch: [email protected]

What if the most powerful tool in your media toolkit isn't your credentials, your data, or your perfectly polished talking points? What if it's something you already have, something no AI can replicate, something that has been connecting human beings since the beginning of time? It's your story. And in this episode, Bonnie makes the case that storytelling isn't a soft skill or a nice-to-have. It's a superpower, and every single one of us has one. In this episode you'll discover: Why storytelling activates the brain in a way that facts and statistics simply cannot, and what researchers mean by "neural coupling" Why you are already a storyteller, even if you have never once thought of yourself that way The kinds of stories that connect most deeply with an audience, from the mentor who changed everything to the mistake that turned out to be the best thing that ever happened to you Why practicing a story you have already lived is not optional, and the real difference between a memory and a story How to start your Story Stash, the simple habit that turns everyday moments into powerful content Why storytelling is magnetic far beyond the stage, in client conversations, business meetings, and yes, even at parties Bonnie's challenge for you this week: Identify one story from your life. Write it down. Tell it out loud to someone you trust. That's your first deposit in your Story Stash. Mentioned in this episode: Louder Than Likes: How to Amplify Your Expertise and Make Media Work for You by Bonnie Taub-Dix Available on Amazon: amazon.com/dp/B0GYJM6YB4 Want Bonnie's Media Confidence Guide? Send a paintbrush emoji  to mediasavvybtd.com and it's yours. Enjoyed this episode? Hit subscribe and leave a review. It takes two minutes and helps other health professionals find this show. Follow Bonnie: @bonnietaubdix | @BTDmedia

Lisa Lillien didn't set out to build a media empire. She set out to solve a problem she had herself: finding food she actually loved that didn't derail her goals. That's where Hungry Girl was born. And somehow, a simple newsletter to her friends became a brand, a community, a TV show, a book series, and a household name that millions of people trust. In this episode of Media Savvy, I sit down with Lisa to talk about what it really takes to build something that lasts. Not the highlight reel version. The real one. We go back to the beginning, to the days when she was writing a newsletter and wondering if anyone was actually reading it. We talk about how she figured out who she was talking to and what they actually needed. We talk about the media opportunities she said yes to, the ones she passed on, and how she decided which doors were worth walking through. And we get into something I think about a lot: the difference between growing an audience and genuinely connecting with one. Lisa has done the latter, and you can feel it in the way her community shows up for her. She also gave me one of my favorite cover quotes for my book, Louder Than Likes: How to Amplify Your Expertise and Make Media Work for You, so I may be a little biased. She said: "I wish I had a book like this 20 years ago. As someone who was once petrified of media, I know how intimidating it can feel to step into the spotlight. Bonnie Taub-Dix makes it approachable, practical, and empowering, with the kind of tips and takeaways that help you find your voice and use it with confidence.” This conversation will stick with you, too. If you've ever felt intimidated by media, unsure where to start, or wondered whether visibility is even worth the exposure, this one is for you. Connect with Lisa: hungrygirl.com  (Just look for Hungry Girl to find her books, her Instagram, her FB page — her incredible brand!)   Connect with Bonnie: Bonnie’s proven media training course: How To Work With Media and Make The Media Work for You: https://btdmedia.teachable.com/p/media-masterclass  Bonnie’s website: https://betterthandieting.com  BTD Media Makers News Digest: https://bonnietaubdix.kit.com/d4132ece48 Follow Bonnie on Social Media:  Instagram:@bonnietaubdix and                        @BTDmedia X (Twitter): @eatsmartbd Facebook: @BonnieTaubDix.RDN Threads: https://www.threads.net/@bonnietaubdix  Bonnie’s Books: Read It Before You Eat It - Taking You from Label to Table      Louder Than Likes: How to Amplify Your Expertise and Make Media                           Work for You Get in touch: [email protected]

I still remember one of my first TV appearances. I wore a flowered blouse, dangling earrings, and delivered soundbites that sounded more like a textbook than a conversation. Nobody pulled me aside. There was no roadmap. I learned by doing, by stumbling, and by watching the playback and wanting to disappear. That experience never left me and eventually, it became the reason I wrote Louder Than Likes: How to Amplify Your Expertise and Make Media Work for You. In this episode, I'm sharing the full story behind the book: why I wrote it, what's inside, why it’s perfect for you and why I believe visibility isn't a personality trait. It's a skill. And skills can be learned. We cover: The four R’s: Recognition, Reach, Revenue, and Results How to build a media presence that actually goes somewhere Magnetic messaging, soundbites, pitching, negotiating, and more Why so many brilliant health professionals are playing too small … and how to change that Grab the book: amazon.com/dp/B0GYJM6YB4 And as a bonus, claim your free companion workbook: Purchase the book, then DM me on Instagram @BTDmedia or email [email protected] with your proof of purchase and I'll send your workbook right to you. Until next time — speak up, show up, and be louder than the noise.

Show Notes: Media Confidence Isn’t Magic: Top Skills To Helps You Stand Out in Media with TJ Walker Here's happens when you sit down with one of the very first media trainers you ever worked with! In this episode, I’m joined by TJ Walker — a globally recognized media trainer who has coached everyone from CEOs to politicians… and yes, someone who once coached me in my early days. We talk about how media has changed (a lot), what hasn’t (more than you think), and the biggest mistakes people still make when they step in front of a camera or microphone. TJ shares practical, no-nonsense advice on building confidence, preparing for interviews, handling unexpected questions, and showing up in a way that actually connects. If you’ve ever wondered whether media skills are something you’re born with or something you can learn — this conversation will give you your answer. Key Takeaways: Media confidence comes from practice, not personality You don’t need perfect — you need preparation Strong soundbites are built, not improvised It’s not about you… it’s about helping your audience Today’s media world rewards those who show up consistently You can create your own opportunities — you don’t have to wait to be discovered Connect with TJ: Website: tjwalker.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tjwalkerpublicspeaking/  YouTube: TJ Walker Success   Connect with Bonnie: Bonnie’s proven media training course: How To Work With Media and Make The Media Work for You: https://btdmedia.teachable.com/p/media-masterclass  Bonnie’s website: https://betterthandieting.com  BTD Media Makers News Digest: https://bit.ly/BTDMediaMakers  Better Than Dieting Newsletter: https://bit.ly/BTDsubscribe  Follow Bonnie on Social Media:  Instagram:@bonnietaubdix and                        @BTDmedia X (Twitter):      @eatsmartbd Facebook: @BonnieTaubDix.RDN Threads: https://www.threads.net/@bonnietaubdix  Bonnie’s Book: Read It Before You Eat It - Taking You from Label to Table Get in touch: [email protected] Download a free chapter of Bonnie’s latest book

You know your stuff. But can you deliver it in ten seconds, clearly, confidently, and in a form a journalist can actually use? In this quick episode, Bonnie breaks down the difference between knowing your material and being ready to share it on deadline. She introduces the concept of a personal soundbite library: varied topics, one sentence each, practiced until it feels like yours. Because the journalists are out there looking for experts. This is how you make sure you're ready when they find you. What you'll take away: Why a knowledge gap and a soundbite gap are two completely different problems A simple three-step exercise to build your soundbite library today What it actually feels like to be truly media-ready Connect with Bonnie: Bonnie’s proven media training course: How To Work With Media and Make The Media Work for You: https://btdmedia.teachable.com/p/media-masterclass  Bonnie’s website: https://betterthandieting.com  BTD Media Makers News Digest: https://bit.ly/BTDMediaMakers  Better Than Dieting Newsletter: https://bit.ly/BTDsubscribe  Follow Bonnie on Social Media:  Instagram:@bonnietaubdix and                        @BTDmedia X (Twitter):      @eatsmartbd Facebook: @BonnieTaubDix.RDN Threads: https://www.threads.net/@bonnietaubdix  Bonnie’s Book: Read It Before You Eat It - Taking You from Label to Table

From Sidewalks to Soundbites: How Maya Feller Makes Media Meaningful for Everyone What does it take to turn everyday conversations into powerful media moments? In this episode of Media Savvy, Bonnie sits down with Maya Feller, MS, RD, CDN — nationally recognized nutrition expert, author of Eating from Our Roots, and a familiar face on national television — to talk about building a media presence that feels as real as it is impactful. Maya shares how she got her start in media, what it’s really like behind the scenes of major TV appearances, and how she prepares to deliver clear, confident messages under pressure. She also opens up about balancing expertise with vulnerability, using storytelling to connect with audiences, and why authenticity is her most powerful tool. You’ll also hear the story behind her creative “Ask a Dietitian” series — and how taking nutrition conversations to the streets changed the way she communicates with the public. Whether you’re pitching your first story or stepping onto a bigger stage, this episode will leave you thinking differently about how you show up, speak up, and connect. Connect with Maya Feller: Website: mayafellernutrition.com Instagram: @mayafellerrd Maya’s Book: Eating From Our Roots   Connect with Bonnie: Bonnie’s proven media training course: How To Work With Media and Make The Media Work for You: https://btdmedia.teachable.com/p/media-masterclass  Bonnie’s website: https://betterthandieting.com  BTD Media Makers News Digest: https://bit.ly/BTDMediaMakers  Better Than Dieting Newsletter: https://bit.ly/BTDsubscribe  Follow Bonnie on Social Media:  Instagram:@bonnietaubdix and                        @BTDmedia X (Twitter):      @eatsmartbd Facebook: @BonnieTaubDix.RDN Threads: https://www.threads.net/@bonnietaubdix  Bonnie’s Book: Read It Before You Eat It - Taking You from Label to Table Get in touch: [email protected] Download a free chapter of Bonnie’s latest book

What happens when the opportunity you’ve been working toward finally arrives… and it’s everything you asked for… but something inside you hesitates? In this episode, I share a real client story that turned into a powerful integrity conversation. The contract was strong. The visibility was exciting. The money was real. And yet there was that quiet inner voice asking, “Is this right for me?” This isn’t about labeling foods as good or bad. It’s about alignment. It’s about what happens when your professional philosophy, your public positioning, and your paycheck intersect. If you believe all foods can fit but also believe credibility matters… if you teach moderation and joy but worry about perception… if you’ve ever felt tempted and conflicted at the same time… this episode is for you. Because sometimes the biggest decision isn’t whether a brand is “healthy.” It’s whether the partnership feels true to you. You’ll walk away with the questions I use with clients to navigate gray zones, renegotiate responsibly, and protect long-term credibility without shrinking from opportunity. If you’re building visibility and brand offers are starting to come your way, this episode is your compass. And by the way… you’re looking mighty media savvy today! Connect with Bonnie: Bonnie’s proven media training course: How To Work With Media and Make The Media Work for You: https://btdmedia.teachable.com/p/media-masterclass  Bonnie’s website: https://betterthandieting.com  BTD Media Makers News Digest: https://bit.ly/BTDMediaMakers  Better Than Dieting Newsletter: https://bit.ly/BTDsubscribe  Follow Bonnie on Social Media:  Instagram:@bonnietaubdix and                        @BTDmedia X (Twitter):      @eatsmartbd Facebook: @BonnieTaubDix.RDN Threads: https://www.threads.net/@bonnietaubdix  Bonnie’s Book: Read It Before You Eat It - Taking You from Label to Table Get in touch: [email protected] Download a free chapter of Bonnie’s latest book

In this lively conversation, I’m joined by Carolyn O’Neil, an original voice in nutrition media and a true powerhouse who has built a career that continues to evolve. We talk about what media longevity really looks like, how to reinvent yourself without starting over, and why credibility still matters more than chasing trends. Carolyn shares insights from her journey across television, writing, travel, and podcasting, along with the mindset shifts that have helped her stay confident, relevant, and trusted over time. In this episode, we discuss: What it means to be an OG in nutrition media How to evolve beyond TV into writing, travel, and podcasting What reinvention really looks like Why trust and credibility are still your most valuable currency How confidence grows through presence, not perfection The role professionalism plays in staying relevant over time Key takeaway: Staying relevant isn’t about being everywhere. It’s about showing up with intention, clarity, and credibility. Connect with Carolyn O'Neil: Carolyn’s Website: https://www.carolynoneil.com/  Carolyn’s Book: Southern Living Slim Down South Cookbook: Eating well and living healthy in the land of biscuits and bacon  https://www.amazon.com/Southern-Living-Slim-South-Cookbook/dp/0848742826  Carolyn’s Podcast: Watch What You Eat: https://thespoon.tech/watch-what-you-eat-with-carolyn-oneil/    Connect with Bonnie: Bonnie’s proven media training course: How To Work With Media and Make The Media Work for You: https://btdmedia.teachable.com/p/media-masterclass  Bonnie’s website: https://betterthandieting.com  BTD Media Makers News Digest: https://bit.ly/BTDMediaMakers  Better Than Dieting Newsletter: https://bit.ly/BTDsubscribe  Follow Bonnie on Social Media:  Instagram:@bonnietaubdix and                        @BTDmedia X (Twitter):      @eatsmartbd Facebook: @BonnieTaubDix.RDN Threads: https://www.threads.net/@bonnietaubdix  Bonnie’s Book: Read It Before You Eat It - Taking You from Label to Table Get in touch: [email protected] Download a free chapter of Bonnie’s latest book

Not all reporters work the same way, and learning how to spot the difference can save you time, frustration, and a lot of unnecessary stress. In this episode, Bonnie breaks down the three types of reporters she’s encountered throughout her career, from true collaborators to rushed deadline-fillers to those who expect far more than they should. You’ll learn how to recognize each type early, how to respond professionally, and what to say when a media request crosses the line. Bonnie also shares practical language you can use to protect your time, set boundaries, and still maintain strong media relationships. Whether you’re new to media or have been doing this for years, this episode will help you approach interviews with more confidence and clarity. In This Episode, You’ll Learn: How to spot the difference between supportive, rushed, and problematic reporters Red flags that signal when a media request may not be worth your time What you can say to avoid unpaid labor and unnecessary aggravation How setting boundaries can actually increase respect Why not every media opportunity deserves a yes Resources Mentioned:  Bonnie’s proven media training course: How To Work With Media and Make The Media Work for You: https://btdmedia.teachable.com/p/media-masterclass  Follow Bonnie on Instagram for media tips and behind-the-scenes insight: @BTDmedia

Getting Quoted Isn’t the Win — Getting Invited Back Is Most people think landing a quote is the goal when working with media. But that’s only the beginning. In this short solo episode, Bonnie shares a behind-the-scenes moment that perfectly illustrates the difference between a one-time media appearance and becoming a trusted expert reporters rely on again and again. Drawing from decades of experience on both sides of the byline, Bonnie breaks down: The common mistake experts make when responding to journalists Why media works best when you treat it like a relationship, not a transaction What makes responses truly quote-worthy The small but powerful habit that makes editors remember you If you want to build long-term media credibility (not just chase clips), this episode is for you.  Listen now and start showing up like the expert editors love working with. Connect with Bonnie: Bonnie’s proven media training course: How To Work With Media and Make The Media Work for You: https://btdmedia.teachable.com/p/media-masterclass  Bonnie’s website: https://betterthandieting.com  BTD Media Makers News Digest: https://bit.ly/BTDMediaMakers  Better Than Dieting Newsletter: https://bit.ly/BTDsubscribe  Follow Bonnie on Social Media:  Instagram:@bonnietaubdix and                        @BTDmedia X (Twitter):      @eatsmartbd Facebook: @BonnieTaubDix.RDN Threads: https://www.threads.net/@bonnietaubdix  Bonnie’s Book: Read It Before You Eat It - Taking You from Label to Table Get in touch: [email protected] Download a free chapter of Bonnie’s latest book

Does public speaking make you sweat? Shake? Want to run and hide under the table? You’re not alone — and this week’s guest is here to help you flip the script on stage fright. Linda Ugelow (that’s YOU-guh-lo) is a speaking and confidence coach, vocal expert, and author of Delight in the Limelight. She once dreaded speaking herself — now she helps professionals, authors, and entrepreneurs turn fear into freedom in front of the mic, camera, or boardroom. We’re talking emotional fears, physical symptoms (hello, dry mouth and shaky hands), voice control, filler words, and the real reason confidence isn’t optional if you want to show up and stand out in your career. Whether you’re prepping for media interviews, workplace presentations, or just want to stop second-guessing yourself every time you speak up — this episode is for you.  Tune in to learn:  What fear of speaking is really about — and how to reframe it  Tips for calming your body and steadying your voice  How to stop using filler words without sounding robotic  The surprising link between posture, presence, and performance  Why your voice matters (even if you're not on stage) Because confidence isn’t just for the spotlight — it’s for every room you walk into. Connect with Linda Ugelow (YOU-guh-lo): Website: lindaugelow.com  Email: [email protected] LinkedIn:  LinkedIn profile Instagram: @lindaugelow Linda’s book: Delight in the Limelight: Overcome Your Fear of Being Seen and Realize Your Dreams   Connect with Bonnie: Bonnie’s proven media training course: How To Work With Media and Make The Media Work for You: https://btdmedia.teachable.com/p/media-masterclass  Bonnie’s website: https://betterthandieting.com  BTD Media Makers News Digest: https://bit.ly/BTDMediaMakers  Better Than Dieting Newsletter: https://bit.ly/BTDsubscribe  Follow Bonnie on Social Media:  Instagram:@bonnietaubdix and                        @BTDmedia X (Twitter):      @eatsmartbd Facebook: @BonnieTaubDix.RDN Threads: https://www.threads.net/@bonnietaubdix  Bonnie’s Book: Read It Before You Eat It - Taking You from Label to Table Get in touch: [email protected] Download a free chapter of Bonnie’s latest book