/mēdēə ·ˈmāvən/
noun: The most on-trend, in-style, on-point Canadians we know. The ones we look up to. The creative minds representing the Great White North. Our secret (and not-so-secret) MCMs and WCWs.
Are we the only ones obsessing over Canada’s growing media landscape? From groundbreaking journalists, to influential bloggers and the stars of the Canadian screen, we have everything and more in our amazing nation. This is why we have decided to give our readers the inside scoop on some of our favourite Media Mavens. Follow along as we learn about the newest trends and exclusive tips from some of the coolest Canucks around.
Lisa Hannam can be considered your go to source for all things health and wellness, with a little bit of travel thrown in for good measure! One look at her Instagram and you will get some major #FitSpo. Lisa was the Health Editor at Glow magazine before bringing her expertise to Best Health as the digital editor. Her work can also be found on fashionmagazine.com, readersdigest.ca and many more. You can stay up to date with her on Instagram and see below why she is one of our media mavens.
In one sentence, explain what you do?
I make things for people to read, listen to or view, and hopefully they enjoy it and learn something.
What does a typical day look like for you?
Ever since I made the move to digital full time, my days have become very repetitive, alternating between email, meetings, story building, story writing, photo sourcing, photo editing, newsletter writing, social post creating, and so on. No more one or two-month schedule. It’s like producing a daily magazine.
How did you get into this profession?
I remember being in school thinking that I’d love to be a copy editor at a newspaper. How amazing would it be to read all day and get paid for it? So, I went to university, studied English and French literature, lived in France and came back to go to Ryerson for the post-grad journalism degree. I worked and volunteered at magazines, newspapers and radio stations. I ended up dropping out of the program because I got a job as a research assistant at a men’s health magazine.
What are three words that best describe you?
I was recently told I was “based.” And here I thought I was “basic.” But in all seriousness, I try to be calm, funny and thoughtful.
What is your biggest challenge these days?
Writing and editing fast enough. Don’t get me wrong, I am fast – I just want to be faster.
What celebrity would you invite for drinks?
Chelsea Handler. We could work out with Ben Bruno first, and then go for drinks to replenish. I love people who laugh.
What’s your proudest accomplishment?
I don’t have one yet. But winning a journalism award was pretty cool.
What’s your favourite social media platform and why?
I love them all. I cannot pick just one.
What was your dream job growing up?
I would have loved to write quizzes for teen magazines.
Tell us about a moment in your career that helped you grow personally and professionally.
Working at Glow Magazine and with Shoppers Drug Mart was an amazing experience. It was the most creative group of “yes” people I have ever met. It’s where I learned how a team should play.
What tips do you have for people looking to break into the world of media?
I really don’t have advice. I feel like those who want it enough will get there. But if you’re wanting to make a connection or network, just ask someone to meet you for a coffee. Odds are they will. Worst case scenario: They say no. Oh, well.
What tips do you have for people working in public relations on how to work with the media?
Most people in public relations I’ve worked with don’t really need advice. They’ve taught me a thing or two. They work hard. They’re accommodating. They’re flexible. They are realistic. They’re honest. They communicate well. They’re patient. They react quickly. They are thorough. They know how to connect.
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