Have you ever wondered how health information spreads through both traditional and social media?

In this episode, I sit down with Rod Whiting, a media trainer and communications coach with over 40 years of experience as a broadcaster and journalist. Rod spent 25 years at the BBC as both a reporter and presenter, and now hosts a weekend show on Boom Radio. He’s also the founder and administrator of the popular Facebook group ‘Loving Your Garden’, which has over 450,000 members worldwide. Together, we explore how health information is communicated through both traditional and social media.

Rod shares his insights on the evolution of journalism, from reactive reporting to original, proactive storytelling. We also cover how social media platforms like TikTok, LinkedIn, and Twitter are reshaping the way people consume health news - and the challenges of navigating misinformation in this space.

Throughout the conversation, we share practical tips on building credible relationships with media professionals, how to pitch stories, and the power of simple, engaging storytelling to make health messages stick. Plus, we offer actionable strategies for healthcare professionals looking to stand out in the crowded digital space and connect with the public on a more personal level.

Whether you're a healthcare professional or just curious about the role media plays in shaping health conversations, this episode is full of insights you don’t want to miss!

Episode Highlights:

[00:00] Welcome to the Beatwise Podcast

[00:36] The evolving role of journalists in healthcare

[01:43] Different types of journalism and their impact

[02:46] How to build strong media contacts in healthcare

[04:36] The challenges of condensing complex health information

[06:54] Best practices for pitching healthcare stories to journalists

[08:12] The rise and influence of social media on health news

[12:45] Navigating the world of misinformation on social media

[13:54] The power of direct messaging for building credibility

[14:17] Researching and verifying credibility on social media platforms

[15:59] Why following the right people on social media matters

[17:19] Social media challenges for healthcare professionals

[18:58] Rod’s favorite healthcare professionals to follow online

[19:37] The portrayal of healthcare in mainstream media

[22:31] How to tell an effective, relatable story in healthcare

[24:31] Engaging with mainstream media to improve healthcare communication

[25:03] Closing thoughts: Bridging the gap between healthcare and media

• If you’d like to learn more about the media training offered by Rod Whiting, you can reach out to him via his website here!

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Disclaimer:

The content of this podcast is for informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Always consult a healthcare professional before making any changes to your diet or health routine.

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