In this episode of PR/etty Average, Lucinda Bayly is joined by Gemma Acton, one of Australia's most respected media and finance voices, for a wide-ranging and insightful conversation on the ever-changing landscape of journalism — and how PR professionals can meaningfully adapt. With a career spanning global finance, broadcast journalism, and newsroom leadership at Seven Network, Gemma shares her perspective on the digital-first shift, the rise of social platforms as story sources, and the increasing importance of relevance and timing in media pitching. She offers practical advice on how PRs can better understand newsroom demands, choose the right journalists for the right angles, and build enduring, respectful relationships in an era of shrinking newsrooms and non-stop cycles. The episode also explores deeper industry challenges — from the emotional toll of frontline reporting to the exodus of early-career journalists into comms roles. Gemma speaks candidly about the resilience and passion required to build a long-term career in journalism, and the growing value of community-first storytelling across platforms like podcasts and social media.
Gemma Acton's website: gemmaacton.com
Follow us on IG: https://www.instagram.com/baylypr/
Follow up on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@baylypr
Visit our website: https://www.baylypr.com/
Thank you to Clearshot Digital for making this podcast possible: https://clearshot.digital/
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Popular Podcasts
Stuff You Should Know
If you've ever wanted to know about champagne, satanism, the Stonewall Uprising, chaos theory, LSD, El Nino, true crime and Rosa Parks, then look no further. Josh and Chuck have you covered.
Dateline NBC
Current and classic episodes, featuring compelling true-crime mysteries, powerful documentaries and in-depth investigations. Follow now to get the latest episodes of Dateline NBC completely free, or subscribe to Dateline Premium for ad-free listening and exclusive bonus content: DatelinePremium.com
Betrayal: Weekly
Betrayal Weekly is back for a brand new season. Every Thursday, Betrayal Weekly shares first-hand accounts of broken trust, shocking deceptions, and the trail of destruction they leave behind. Hosted by Andrea Gunning, this weekly ongoing series digs into real-life stories of betrayal and the aftermath. From stories of double lives to dark discoveries, these are cautionary tales and accounts of resilience against all odds. From the producers of the critically acclaimed Betrayal series, Betrayal Weekly drops new episodes every Thursday. Please join our Substack for additional exclusive content, curated book recommendations and community discussions. Sign up FREE by clicking this link Beyond Betrayal Substack. Join our community dedicated to truth, resilience and healing. Your voice matters! Be a part of our Betrayal journey on Substack. And make sure to check out Seasons 1-4 of Betrayal, along with Betrayal Weekly Season 1.