Talk Time is a weekly online TV talk show co-hosted by Shawna Randolph and Sean Burke. Together they, along with guests, cover a variety of topics, from pop culture to healthy living. This series introduces the team. Today, meet co-creator and host Shawna Randolph.
Shawna is most well known in as a popular television news journalist. Shawna also has an in-depth career history as an award winning communications specialist, spokesperson, and media relations trainer/coach. She is the proud recipient of a very exclusive Woman of the Year Award for Business Excellence from Consumers’ Choice.
Why did you launch Shawna Randolph Communications?
I launched the company during my second maternity leave from the job I was currently holding at the City of Edmonton (where I went after retiring as a CTV Edmonton news anchor). While I was on leave, I decided that I didn't want to work full-time anymore. I wanted to provide media relations training and other general communications services to clients instead. The two clients that I secured when I launched my company were the City of Edmonton (to continue as their media relations trainer/consultant as a contractor), and the Edmonton Humane Society, where I handled all of their media relations/communications duties from 2008-2013.
Why did you co-launch Talk Time?
I launched it as a fun project to bring joy to folks. The show is intended to bring smiles to those who are interested in what's buzzing on social media; and to provide valuable physical, mental and financial health advice and guidance.
What are some of the contributing factors to your success and how do you stand out from the competition?
I feel that is my extensive experience of being both a seasoned journalist and media relations specialist, coach and spokesperson. I have a combined 30 years’ experience in these industries and I also have a current understanding of news media culture, deadlines, pressures, etc. Few others have that much combined experience and strong, current connection to the media.
Discuss the importance of reputation management in the news, social media and online
It is crucial for individuals or organizations to always be transparent, accessible, honest, and accountable. If not, members of the public will have little trust or confidence in them. Public respect and trust are the keys for success when interacting on social media, during media inquiries, and via their websites.
What is your greatest challenge at the moment?
My greatest challenge is the transition to working with my clients in person, such as my media relations training seminars. I have spent a year and a half primarily providing my services virtually. It will be a challenge to get back to that routine, although I am excited to "feel the room" again during my engaging sessions!
What do you love the most about what you do?
I get so much satisfaction in seeing, hearing, and reading about my clients' comments during media interviews, or stories when they get it right and keep a positive public perception. I also love when my clients are pleased with their coaching once I have completed working with them. They tell me that they learn so much, and in such a welcoming and non-intimidating environment.
What do you love about your business community? How can the business community best support you?
I love that many people in the Capital Region are so focused on supporting local. I do my part to support local as much possible and appreciate when others do as well. I think the community could best support me by spreading the word about my services, and by reaching out to me if they would like media relations/public speaking coaching.
What’s next for you, your company, and Talk Time?
I will continue offer both in-person and virtual support to my clients. As for Talk Time With Sean & Shawna, we will be launching Season two in September, thanks to Great West Media, who posts our show segments on its community news websites across the province. Our second season will be even more entertaining and educational. If anyone is interested in sponsoring the show, we are planning some super sponsorship recognition opportunities, so just let me know!
You can find Shawna online and on Twitter, Instagram, and LinkedIn. Talk Time’s social feeds are also on Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook.
