Michael is a true professional who brings years of experience from both the newsroom and corporate leadership. This unique background allows him to connect authentically with executives while delivering practical, high-impact coaching. His media training goes far beyond camera techniques. He helps leaders communicate their corporate narrative, stay on message under pressure, and project genuine confidence in their delivery. When we brought him in to prepare two of our executives for the year’s heavy schedule of investor presentations and media interviews, both participants left thoroughly impressed and with key techniques for adapting their messaging to the audience.

Michael Melling delivered highly relevant media training for our lawyers, providing clear strategies for handling complex situations. His calm, professional approach and use of practical examples made the sessions engaging and easy to understand. Our team left feeling more confident and prepared to manage media interactions. Highly recommend!

Michael worked with our team to develop a customized leadership media training program, in addition to supporting us with some individual training ahead of a major launch. With his extensive background working in senior leadership positions across the Canadian media landscape, Michael brings first-hand knowledge of the industry as well as a sharp business acumen that effortlessly garnered respect from our leaders. Couple this with his warm personality and collaborative style and we were quick to value Michael as an extension of our external communications team.

Michael helped members of our leadership team develop skills and craft messages that truly resonated with the media. His practical, hands-on approach gave our team the confidence to handle media interviews with ease. I wouldn't hesitate to recommend Michael; he is a true professional and a pleasure to work with.

StratOak Communications has been an exceptional partner to our senior leadership team. Michael's expertise, professionalism, and discretion stood out from day one. The media training he delivered was tailored, strategic, and highly effective—helping our leaders gain the confidence and skills needed to consistently deliver strong, professional results. StratOak gets it, and they get us. Highly recommended.

StratOak provided thoughtful and highly effective media training for our organization, drawing on deep experience and practical insight. Our team came away better prepared, more confident and well equipped to engage with the media.

Michael demonstrated exceptional skill in translating a complex subject matter into a clear, accessible, and visually engaging video series. His professionalism, attention to detail, and ability to convey intricate information with accuracy and creativity were invaluable to the project’s success. He was a pleasure to work with and delivered high-quality results.

I had the pleasure of working with StratOak in March of 2025. Michael Melling provided exceptional media training and provided practical tools that will continue to help build my confidence in front of the camera. I would highly recommend StratOak for those looking for professional, supportive, and useful media coaching. 

Michael helped me develop the skills to confidently public speak, present, and answer interview questions. His calm, kind approach allowed for a very comfortable learning experience.

Michael Melling of StratOak Ltd. delivered a concise, thought-provoking 45-minute session on the evolving media landscape, public trust in media, and key messaging tips. His practical guidance was engaging and immediately useful for directors navigating today’s communication challenges.

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