Fiona MacDonald

Media Training & Broadcast Coaching

Forty years of live radio. Still announcing bulletins on BBC World Service. Now helping others find their voice.

Video introduction coming soon
60–90 seconds: who I am, what I do, who it's for

The Short Version

When you're about to go live — whether it's a radio or television interview, a conference stage, or a crisis press conference — you want someone in your corner who's been there many times before.

I've spent four decades in BBC Radio, most of it broadcasting live, where there's no second take. For thirty years I've trained journalists, executives, charity workers, academics and spokespeople. I also work with the National Union of Journalists and help people prepare for everything from local radio spots to hostile international media.

Whatever your situation, I've probably seen something like it before.

What I Do

One-to-One Coaching

Preparing for a specific appearance? A high-stakes interview? A presentation that matters? We work through it together until you're ready.

Group Training

Workshops for teams, organisations and membership bodies. I'm used to rooms with mixed experience levels and different needs.

Broadcast Skills

Radio technique, microphone presence, speaking to time, staying calm when it matters — and most of all, keeping people interested in what you're saying.

Crisis Preparation

When the story is about you, the rules change. I help spokespeople and senior leaders prepare for the questioning they hope never comes.

Who I Work With

I don't specialise in one sector. The skills transfer.

I've trained people preparing for international podcasts, charity campaigns, academic media appearances, political interviews and everything in between. Some are seasoned professionals brushing up. Some have never spoken into a microphone or in front of a large audience.

The common thread: they all have something important to say and want to say it as well as they can.

Background

What People Say

"This is perfect for purpose. My colleague and I just watched the Vimeo and the written summary provided complements viewing perfectly."
— Koreen MacDougall, Talent Manager, Highland Council
"No one could cope with all that's been thrown at you at this COP. Don't know how you do it, but do it you do!"
— Vera-Lynn Watson, UNFCCC, Egypt
"Thank you for delivering such a valuable training session. I'll be sure to use all your tips as refreshers when they prep for interviews."
— Kimasha Williams, Sustainable Palm Oil Company
"I listened to my interview and paid attention to what you told me. The great comments shared by my colleagues were so useful!"
— Francesca Morgante, Head of Global Key Accounts, RSPO Europe
"You made me feel so at ease and encouraged to take part. I've come away feeling like a wee spark has come back. You were so incredibly engaging — I loved hearing about your experiences and the invaluable tips you've picked up throughout your career."
— Emma Maxwell, STV

Get In Touch

If you're preparing for something important, let's talk. No obligation, no hard sell — just a conversation about what you need and whether I can help.

Email Fiona