In this series, AdNews spotlights young talent in the Australian media, marketing and advertising sector. This time it's Broadsheet newsletter editor Holly Bodeker-Smith.
Time in current role/time at the company:
I came on board in late 2022 as Broadsheet's directory editor, working on our venue directory and as a coordinator for our editorial intern program. I learnt heaps and it was a real delight. About a year ago, I started working on newsletters, and was recently promoted to newsletter editor. I'll be building out Broadsheet's newsletter strategy and working across a few teams to make them the best in class. I'm excited to get stuck into it.
How long have you been in the industry?
I’ve been in media and communications for about six years. I was doing freelance writing alongside a retail job for a few years before that.
How did you get here? Was this always the plan?
Ah, the plan. My plan was to be a journalist. But consuming and making hard news all day wasn’t “it” for me. I was interested in the product side of editorial and learnt lots at inkl. It primed me for Broadsheet’s app editor and newsletter editor roles. When I stack both of those roles up against the original “plan”, they tick a lot of boxes – including being challenged every day.
Who is your right hand person/who guides you day to day?
Broadsheet’s director of reader revenue Leonie Dawkins.
What’s the best thing about the industry you work in?
It’s a constant grind, yes, but there’s always something new happening, which keeps me on my toes. A highlight is also getting to work with young writers through our intern program. This recent post by Gazette News’s Brad Esposito captured it beautifully for me.
And the biggest challenge?
There’s a lot of uncertainty and so many forces working against the industry. Beyond being a challenge, I just find these factors saddening. My career has sat in this era when journalism and magazines have become far more devalued than they were previously. That’s not to say I won’t embrace the challenge.
Whose job have you set your sights on in the future?
I’ve just landed in this new role, so I’m not thinking too far ahead yet. I’m really excited to build out Broadsheet’s newsletter strategy and grow our own audience.
Where do you turn for inspiration?
Books and magazines. I’m most inspired when I’m reading a lot. Also, the New York Times Cooking app, and cookbooks generally.
My favourite advert is:
I’ve always loved Oatly’s copy and design. But its current 'Oatly Dealer' campaign keeps grabbing me. It’s hyper-local, funny and feels very original.
Tell us one thing people at work don’t know about you?
I can eat a pie while driving a manual car.
In five years' time I'll be:
My hopes are that I’ll be a better friend, partner, family member and colleague to those around me. I love the role I’m in, and I hope I can say the same in five years, whatever I may be doing. Also, to be a better writer and cook than I am now.
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