Meet Meili Cady

Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Meili Cady. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Meili, so many exciting things to discuss, we can’t wait. Thanks for joining us and we appreciate you sharing your wisdom with our readers. So, maybe we can start by discussing optimism and where your optimism comes from?

I get a lot of my optimism from my parents. They’ve always approached life with kindness and generosity, and that’s had a big impact on me. My dad has this steady optimism that’s taught me to look for possibilities even when things don’t go as planned. My mom brings an energy and enthusiasm that reminds me how much there is to appreciate in everyday life. I’ve come to realize that optimism is really about perspective. When you look for the good, you’re more likely to find it.

Thanks, so before we move on maybe you can share a bit more about yourself?

My background in journalism — reporting for CBS News Radio and anchoring at KIRO Radio in Seattle — taught me a lot about storytelling, messaging, and how to connect with an audience. Now, I bring that experience into my work in PR and corporate marketing communications.

What I enjoy most about my work is the mix of creativity and strategy. Whether it’s developing media relationships, writing impactful content, or shaping a brand’s voice across digital platforms, I love the challenge of finding the right message and delivering it in a way that drives real engagement. I believe that great communication is about more than just sharing information — it’s about creating a dialogue and building trust over time.

If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?

Adaptability – The ability to pivot and embrace change has been crucial throughout my career, especially when transitioning from journalism to marketing communications. Industries evolve, new challenges arise, and being open to learning and growth has allowed me to navigate these shifts successfully. My advice to those early in their journey is to stay curious and flexible — be willing to step outside your comfort zone, take on new challenges, and view change as an opportunity rather than a setback.

Storytelling – Whether in journalism or marketing, the power of a compelling story is universal. Knowing how to craft messages that inform, engage, and inspire has been instrumental in my success. To develop this skill, I recommend focusing on the fundamentals — understanding your audience, refining your writing skills, and learning how to distill complex information into clear, compelling narratives. Read widely, practice often, and never underestimate the value of authenticity in your storytelling.

Relationship-building – Strong connections have been invaluable to my career, from working with media contacts to collaborating with colleagues and mentors. Maintaining meaningful relationships has helped me navigate challenges and create opportunities. For those just starting out, my advice is to be an active listener, offer value where you can, and prioritize genuine connections.

By focusing on these three areas, I’ve been able to grow professionally and stay grounded in my work. Developing them takes time, but they are well worth the investment for long-term success.

Any advice for folks feeling overwhelmed?

When I feel overwhelmed, I take a step back and focus on breaking things down into smaller, manageable pieces. It’s easy to get caught up in the weight of everything at once, but tackling things one step at a time helps create clarity and momentum. Prioritizing tasks based on impact and urgency allows me to regain a sense of control and focus on what truly matters.

I also find that stepping away — whether it’s taking a walk, practicing mindfulness, or even just a few deep breaths — can make a big difference. Giving myself permission to pause and reset helps me approach challenges with a clearer mind and fresh perspective.

If I had one piece of advice, it’s this: be kind to yourself when things feel overwhelming. Acknowledge the stress, but don’t let it take over. Find what helps you reset — whether it’s organizing your thoughts, moving your body, or reaching out for support — and remember that even small steps forward can make a big difference

Contact Info:

• Twitter: https://x.com/meili_cady