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In this episode of Hack Your Own PR, we're joined by Melissa Reader, CEO of Violet, whose journey from profound personal loss to leading social change is nothing short of inspiring. Through Violet, Melissa is helping us all navigate life's final chapters with grace, humanity, and proactive planning.
Over the past year, Melissa's voice has been everywhere, from AFR, The Australian and ABC to SmartCompany, Mamamia, and Women's Agenda. Her work is not just about practical end-of-life planning but about igniting broader social conversations on ageing, living well, and preparing for what lies ahead.
Melissa shares how learning to DIY her PR, including her experience with Authority Brand and Meet The Media, and working with Hack Your Own PR host Odette Barry as a mentor, has amplified her message and driven real impact. We dive into the strategies behind her media wins, her approach to thought leadership, and why being proactive—whether for your media presence or your life—is a game-changer.
In this episode, Melissa shares:
- The importance of proactive planning: Whether it's for end-of-life care or PR strategy, preparing early can prevent stress and ensure clarity.
- How to DIY your PR effectively: Melissa explains why founders and social change leaders should learn the PR ropes themselves before outsourcing.
- Why testing and iterating is critical: She reveals how experimenting with messaging and being open to feedback helped her find a narrative that resonated widely.
Key Lessons:
- Plan ahead: Like preparing a birth plan, planning for life's final chapters or your PR strategy can make all the difference.
- Stay authentic in PR: Don't fully outsource your voice. Keeping close to your messaging ensures it remains true to your mission.
- Embrace feedback: Testing your messaging and refining it based on responses can lead to stronger, more effective communication.
Melissa Reader suggests avoiding:
- Vanity metrics in PR: Instead of chasing meaningless numbers, focus on measurable, tangible results.
- Avoidant language around death: Using direct and honest language helps normalise important conversations.
- Over-extending yourself as a change maker: Self-care and setting boundaries are essential to avoid burnout.
With her thoughtful approach to both social change and PR, Melissa Reader offers invaluable insights for changemakers, social entrepreneurs, and anyone looking to build a meaningful media presence.
Watch the Big Ideas Masterclass
https://diyprhub.mykajabi.com/Big-Ideas-Masterclass
Find Odette Barry online:
https://www.odetteandco.com.au/
https://www.instagram.com/odetteandco/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/odette-barry/
Find Melissa Reader online:
