Media Savvy with Bonnie Taub-Dix

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                       @BTDmediaX (Twitter):      @eatsmartbdFacebook: @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: mediasavvybtd@gmail.com
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                       @BTDmediaX (Twitter):      @eatsmartbdFacebook: @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: mediasavvybtd@gmail.com
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: linda@lindaugelow.com
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                       @BTDmediaX (Twitter):      @eatsmartbdFacebook: @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: mediasavvybtd@gmail.com
Download a free chapter of Bonnie’s latest book
 
 

Episode Summary:You don’t need to be in front of the camera to make media work for you. In this episode, Bonnie shares smart, actionable strategies for building credibility, visibility, and income — even if you’re the kind of person who prefers to stay behind the scenes.
Whether you write for brands, consult for companies, or lend your expertise to journalists, we’re discussing the countless ways to get seen (and paid) without ever going live. You’ll learn how to position yourself as a trusted voice, create value behind the curtain, and grow a career that works for your personality and your goals.
In this episode, you’ll learn:
How to build influence and income off-camera
The best behind-the-scenes media roles that pay well
Why introverts often make some of the strongest media contributors
How to confidently market yourself without feeling “salesy”
The simple mindset shift that turns visibility into opportunity
Mentioned in this episode:
Bonnie’s private media training sessions for personalized attention and guidance specific to your needs: contact Bonnie at mediasavvybtd.com 
Follow Bonnie on Instagram @BTDMedia
If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to:
Follow the Media Savvy Podcast wherever you listen
Leave a review — it really helps others discover the show
Share it with a friend who’s ready to make media work for them
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                       @BTDmediaX (Twitter):      @eatsmartbdFacebook: @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: mediasavvybtd@gmail.com
Download a free chapter of Bonnie’s latest book

Mic Shy? Camera Shy? No Problem: Why Media Isn’t Just About the Spotlight - Part I
When people think about “working with the media,” they picture TV lights, live interviews, or influencers pointing at captions on TikTok. But the truth? That’s only a small slice of what media is about.
In this episode, I take you behind the curtain of my own recent conference experience — where I wasn’t representing a brand, I was the brand. I’ll share what I learned from standing at my own booth, talking with dozens of dietitians and health professionals who admitted they weren’t pursuing media… not because they didn’t want to, but because they were afraid.
Inside this episode you’ll hear: Why fear of being seen holds so many experts back Why you don’t need a ring light, a blowout, or a million followers to be media savvy How media is about more than being on stage — it’s about getting your message heard in ways that fit you
If you’ve ever whispered to yourself, “media isn’t for me,” this episode is here to prove otherwise.
 Tune in to Part 2 next, where I’ll share the powerful off-camera media roles that could be your perfect fit.
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                       @BTDmediaX (Twitter):      @eatsmartbdFacebook: @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: mediasavvybtd@gmail.com
Download a free chapter of Bonnie’s latest book

When Gillean Barkyoumb came to me for media coaching, she was working full-time, raising two little ones (now three!), and dreaming of more. We created a strategy to help her carve out time for media work—and today, she’s a thriving entrepreneur and voice you’ll definitely want to hear from.
In this episode, we talk about:• Her journey from 9–5 RD to full-time business owner
• What gave her the confidence to start showing up in media
• How she balances business, family, and her popular Supper Club
• Tips for dietitians ready to pivot into media work
 Follow, review, and share if you loved this episode.And by the way — you're looking mighty media savvy today!
Connect with Gillean:
Instagram → @itsgillean
Website → www.itsgillean.com
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                       @BTDmediaX (Twitter):      @eatsmartbdFacebook: @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: mediasavvybtd@gmail.com
Download a free chapter of Bonnie’s latest book
 

Ever wonder how media exposure can actually pay your bills? In this episode of The Media Savvy Podcast, Bonnie Taub-Dix breaks down the real ways to turn media appearances into income — without paying a PR firm a dime.
From TV interviews and article quotes to podcasts, recipe development, sponsored content, consulting, webinars, and more — Bonnie shows you how to leverage your expertise, build credibility, and create multiple revenue streams.
She also busts common myths: ego-boosting media features won’t pay the rent, and you should be getting paid for your time and knowledge, not handing over cash to strangers.
Tune in for practical tips, mindset shifts, and real-life examples that will have you saying: “I can do this!”
Key Takeaways:
Why media is the front door — and where the money really waits inside
How to turn a single media feature into long-term opportunities
Behind-the-scenes ways to monetize your expertise even if you’re camera shy
The secret to landing paid gigs without paying a PR agency
How to position yourself for brands, webinars, speaking, and consulting
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                       @BTDmediaX (Twitter):      @eatsmartbdFacebook: @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: mediasavvybtd@gmail.com
Download a free chapter of Bonnie’s latest book

Most experts and entrepreneurs spend hours on Instagram or Facebook — but the real goldmine for media, business, and career growth is LinkedIn.
In this episode of Media Savvy, LinkedIn strategist Gisela Bouvier shares how to transform your profile into a powerful tool for visibility, credibility, and high-value connections. Discover how to:
Build a profile that attracts media and business opportunities
Connect with journalists, brands, and decision-makers
Use storytelling to grow your influence
Leverage LinkedIn’s hidden features to stand out
If you’ve been overlooking LinkedIn, this is your guide to making the most of the platform — and turning it into one of your most valuable business tools.
Listen now on your favorite podcast app or watch us on YouTube.
Get in touch with Gisela:
Check out her Media Reel here & download her Media Kit!
Gisela on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/giselabouvier/ 
Gisela’s email: gisela@giselabouvier.com 
 
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                       @BTDmediaX (Twitter):      @eatsmartbdFacebook: @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: mediasavvybtd@gmail.com
Download a free chapter of Bonnie’s latest book

Description:Feel like everyone else is already doing what you want to do? You’re not alone — but you are seeing it all wrong. 
In this solo episode, Bonnie shares how to reframe competition as a tool for growth instead of something that holds you back. You you heard that right, you rivals could be your teachers. You’ll hear why comparing your messy behind-the-scenes to someone’s polished highlight reel is never a fair fight, how to turn envy into education, and why today’s competitor could be tomorrow’s mentor or collaborator. Plus, Bonnie shares personal stories and strategies to help you stop shrinking and start reaching out.
In this episode:
Why competition can be healthy — and how to make it work for you
How to shift your mindset and learn from those you once saw as rivals
The truth behind social media “perfection”
Real talk about mentorship, collaboration, and connection
A nudge to reach out — and pay it forward
 Want more media tips? DM me MEDIA @BTDmedia and let’s get you seen, heard, and paid.
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                       @BTDmediaX (Twitter):      @eatsmartbdFacebook: @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: mediasavvybtd@gmail.com
Download a free chapter of Bonnie’s latest book