Charlyne McWilliams in Rick’s Room

In this episode of Rick’s Room, Rick Grant sits down with longtime communications professional and former journalist Charlyne McWilliams for a conversation about communication, media, positivity, and finding ways to use your gifts.

One of the central themes of the conversation is the misconception that communication simply means speaking. McWilliam argues that effective communication requires much more. She explains that many people assume that because they are talking, they are communicating. In reality, communication is intentional. Great communicators think carefully about what they want to accomplish and how their audience will receive the message.

They deliver messages that matter to their audiences. She argues that individuals who focus on positive contributions not only improve their own lives but also help create healthier communities and stronger relationships.

Transcript Highlights

Rick Grant: Welcome back to Rick’s Room, the podcast designed to recreate those conversations that happen at the end of a busy conference day when you finally get a chance to sit down and talk with someone you’ve wanted to connect with.

Today’s guest is an old friend and one of the best professional communicators I know, Charlyne McWilliams. Charlyne, thanks for joining me.

Charlyne McWilliams: Thank you, Rick. It’s wonderful to catch up with you.

Rick: What’s happening in your life right now?

Charlyne: Right now, I’m focused on what I call “Junecember.” My daughter is moving from fifth grade to middle school, so we’re dealing with promotions, concerts, rehearsals, and all the activities that come with the end of the school year.

I’m also wrapping up a year as PTA president, which means retirement parties, picnics, and lots of events. It’s busy, but it’s rewarding.

Professionally, I’m helping clients with communications and branding projects, both within the mortgage industry and beyond. One of the things I love about communications is that the skills transfer across industries. I get to help people and organizations I genuinely care about.

Rick: What do you wish people understood about communication?

Charlyne: I think many people assume that if they’re talking, they’re communicating.

They’re not thinking about what they’re saying, who they’re saying it to, or what outcome they’re trying to achieve.

Good communication is intentional. You need to understand your audience, define your goals, and deliver your message strategically. Communication isn’t just about speaking clearly. It’s about making sure the right message reaches the right audience in a way that achieves your objective.

Rick: One thing I always appreciated about working with you was how easy you made my job as a reporter.

Charlyne: That’s probably because I was a journalist before I worked in public relations.

That experience taught me how reporters think and what audiences need. Today, I help clients identify the stories that matter and present them in a way that serves both journalists and the audience.

My goal is always to help people communicate information that others genuinely need.

Rick: What are your thoughts on today’s media environment?

Charlyne: Journalists are under tremendous pressure. Many newsrooms have fewer resources, and reporters are expected to cover multiple topics simultaneously.

At the same time, there’s pressure to attract readers and viewers. Sometimes, that focus on attention can overshadow authenticity.

It’s important that communicators and journalists stay focused on delivering accurate, useful information that helps people make informed decisions.

Rick: How should people deal with the constant flood of information?

Charlyne: We all know that sensational stories attract attention.

But I think it’s incredibly important to focus on what’s good, what’s positive, and what brings joy into our lives.

That doesn’t mean ignoring problems. It means refusing to let negativity dominate your thinking.

When we focus on positive actions and positive relationships, we treat ourselves and others better. That attitude spreads. It strengthens communities and improves lives.

I know that may sound idealistic, but I genuinely believe it.

Rick: What’s next for you?

Charlyne: I want to get back into podcasting and do more work with my voice.

I’m interested in voice acting, audiobook narration, course narration, and other voice projects. I’ve been fortunate to have a voice people respond to, and I believe that when you’ve been given a gift, you should find a way to use it.

Rick: I couldn’t agree more. Authentic human voices still matter.

We’ve been talking with Charlyne McWilliam, one of the finest communicators I know. Be sure to connect with her and follow her work.

Charlyne, thanks for spending time with us.

Charlyne: Thank you, Rick. I appreciate you.