Shelly Horton is a powerhouse of confidence, empowering others to speak up, step up, and shine. Her diverse skill set as a TV Presenter, Media Personality, Journalist, MC, and Entrepreneur turned Media Trainer, makes her an invaluable resource for anyone looking to find their voice and inner Beyoncé.
Despite coming from a small country town, Horton has blazed her own trail with a relentless drive and a fierce determination. Her accomplishments in the Sydney scene are a testament to her passion and ambition, and her reputation as a media expert and mentor continues to grow.
I went from the red soil to the red carpet. – Shelly Horton
It’s clear that Horton’s journey serves as an inspiration to others, showing that with hard work, perseverance, and a willingness to take risks, it’s possible to achieve great things. Whether you’re looking to build your personal brand, refine your public speaking skills, or launch your own business, Horton’s guidance and mentorship can help you reach your goals and shine brightly.
Shelly Horton is an accomplished media personality, known for her roles as host of 9Honey’s Talking Honey, He Said/She Said, and the Married at First Sight spin-off chat show, Talking Married. She has also been a regular contributor to several Channel 9 programs, including TODAY, TODAY EXTRA, 3pm News, and Weekend TODAY for over five years.
Horton’s informative and entertaining opinion segments have earned her a loyal following, and her expertise in the media industry is highly valued. Her ability to engage with audiences and deliver insightful commentary has made her a sought-after guest for various television programs and events.
Overall, Horton’s extensive experience and versatility as a media personality have made her a valuable asset to the industry. Whether she’s hosting a show, delivering an opinion segment, or appearing as a guest, she has a unique ability to inform, engage, and entertain her audience.
BACKGROUND
It’s surprising to learn that the flamboyant Shelly Horton, who is now based in Sydney, actually spent her formative years in a small country town called Kingaroy, located in Queensland. With a population of just 5,000, it’s a far cry from the bustling metropolis of Sydney where Horton has made a name for herself.
Despite coming from humble beginnings, Horton’s ambition and drive led her to pursue a career in the media industry, eventually leading her to the bright lights of the big city. Her success is a testament to the fact that with hard work, dedication, and a willingness to take risks, it’s possible to achieve great things, no matter where you come from.
Horton’s story serves as an inspiration to anyone who may feel limited by their surroundings, showing that with passion and determination, it’s possible to overcome any obstacle and achieve your dreams.
BUSINESS
Shelly Horton is a highly regarded journalist, TV presenter, and MC, as well as the founder of her own production company, ShellShocked Media. In addition to hosting media and presentation courses, she also provides guidance on improving one’s confidence and skills to excel in both virtual and face-to-face meetings and appearances, empowering individuals to unleash their inner power.
Through ShellShocked Media, Horton has developed a reputation for delivering highly effective training programs that go beyond traditional presentation and media techniques. Her focus on building confidence and improving skills has helped many individuals achieve success in their respective fields.
Horton’s approach to media training is highly sought after, as she is known for her ability to connect with people from all walks of life and provide practical and actionable advice. Her passion for helping others reach their full potential is evident in everything she does, making her a highly respected and influential figure in the media industry.
PODCAST
Shelly Horton is not only an accomplished media personality and presenter, but also a passionate advocate for women’s health and lifestyle issues. In her role as host of the co-created health podcast, ‘Things you can’t talk about on TV’, she takes a refreshingly open and honest approach to discussing sensitive and often stigmatised health topics.
Through her unique blend of humour, relatability, and expertise, Horton aims to break down the barriers and stigma surrounding these topics, empowering women to take control of their health and wellbeing. Her advocacy work has helped to raise awareness of important health issues and create a more open and supportive environment for women to discuss these topics.
Horton’s dedication to improving women’s health and lifestyle issues has earned her a strong following and established her as a leading voice in the field. Her podcast is just one example of her commitment to creating positive change in the lives of others, and her impact on the industry is undeniable.
PRESENTER
Over the course of her impressive 25-year career, Shelly Horton has made her mark in various renowned media organisations. She has lent her talents to ABC Radio, TV Channel Seven, Fairfax, and even had the opportunity to work with Entertainment Tonight USA. Despite her demanding schedule, she has also managed to carve out time to deliver captivating and empowering keynote speeches both locally and internationally.
As an experienced presenter, Horton understands the essential elements of success across different platforms. She skilfully integrates her clients’ messages into her presentations, infusing her cheeky and honest delivery with creative flair. Her ability to engage audiences and deliver practical, inspiring content sets her apart as a speaker who leaves a lasting impact.
Horton’s diverse media background and extensive experience have shaped her into a well-rounded professional. Whether she’s on the radio, television, or addressing a live audience, her dynamic and authentic approach captivates and motivates those who have the privilege of hearing her speak.
With her wealth of knowledge and knack for effective communication, Shelly Horton continues to be a respected figure in the media industry, both as a presenter and as a speaker who knows how to deliver messages that resonate.
EDITOR’S NOTE
At Heels Agency, we are passionate about sharing inspiring stories with our readers. We understand that now, more than ever, it is essential to infuse fresh energy and perspective to stay motivated. That’s why we are thrilled to introduce Shelly Horton, who will inspire and uplift you with her positive energy and outlook on life.
Shelly Horton is a vivacious and energetic individual who approaches every task with unbridled enthusiasm and unwavering commitment. During our recent conversation, I had the pleasure of experiencing firsthand her fearless and self-assured demeanour. Her passion for life is visible in all of her endeavours, and she consistently makes time to inspire others to push their limits, embrace new challenges, and navigate the post-COVID-19 world with confidence.
Shelly shares her personal journey and valuable insights on how to survive, thrive, and pivot during and post any crisis. Her contagious energy and optimistic outlook make her a remarkable source of inspiration, offering practical advice for individuals seeking to adapt and grow during uncertain times.
WHAT IT TAKES
DEMI: WHAT ARE SOME KEY FACTORS THAT CONTRIBUTE TO ACHIEVING SUCCESS?
To pursue my career path, I knew I had to make significant life changes. Leaving my hometown and everything familiar to me was a daunting but necessary step, and I relocated to Sydney. Starting at the bottom, I worked my way up and gained valuable experience in the industry. It was a challenging journey, and success did not come overnight. However, I knew that with hard work and persistence, I could achieve my goals. I believe that there are no shortcuts to success and that it takes determination and resilience to reach one’s full potential.
Over the past 25 years, I have dedicated myself to working in the media industry and success has not come overnight. It has taken years of hard work and loads of ambition to get to where I am today. I am fortunate to have regular TV presenting spots, opportunities for public speaking events, and to be the owner of my very own media company. But none of this would have been possible without my determination to make it happen.
PROUDEST MOMENT
DEMI: WHAT HAS BEEN YOUR PROUDEST MOMENT IN YOUR CAREER SO FAR?
TV presenting has always been my first love, and I’m grateful that it’s still a regular part of my week. However, my proudest moment to date has been starting my own business, ShellShocked Media. It’s my baby, and I’m incredibly passionate about it. I feel fortunate to have found the perfect work mix for me, combining all my passions, from MC gigs to Channel Nine presenting commitments and running my own business. I love every aspect of it.
Starting your own business is bloody hard, but it’s also very rewarding.
INDUSTRY BREAK
DEMI: WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE ABOUT ‘BREAKING’ INTO THE INDUSTRY?
There was no “break” or shortcut to my success. It took a lot of hard work and determination to get where I am today. I started with a journalism degree and gained valuable work experience before working my way up over the course of 25 years. It wasn’t always easy – I faced knock-backs and setbacks – but I never gave up. Journalism may seem glamorous at times, but it’s really a lot of hard work.
Don’t expect the highs straight away. Earn them.
CONFIDENCE
DEMI: WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO INDIVIDUALS WHO STRUGGLE WITH CONFIDENCE?
No one can be confident all the time, including myself. If someone is always 100% confident, they are likely not being realistic. However, confidence is a skill that can be learned and improved. I believe that by teaching specific tips and tricks, anyone can boost their confidence and have the tools to lift themselves up when they are not feeling their best. With practice and dedication, confidence can become a natural part of your personality and outlook on life.
Don’t expect the highs straight away. Earn them.
PUBLIC SPEAKING
DEMI: WHAT TIPS & ADVICE WOULD YOU OFFER FOR DELIVERING AN IMPACTFUL PRESENTATION?
To deliver a great presentation, my advice is to follow the 5Ps: Prior Preparation Prevents Piss-poor Performance. If you’ve put in the time and effort to prepare, rehearse in front of a mirror, and truly know your material, you’ll feel much more confident and prepared. Nerves often come from feeling unprepared or unsure of yourself, so the more you practice and prepare, the less nervous you’ll feel. Additionally, remember to engage with your audience, make eye contact, and speak with passion and enthusiasm about your topic. Finally, be yourself and let your personality shine through – that’s what will make your presentation unique and memorable.
FEARS
DEMI: DID YOU EXPERIENCE ANY FEARS STARTING YOUR OWN BUSINESS?
Starting out in any industry, it’s normal to feel overwhelmed and doubt your abilities. Impostor syndrome can be a huge hurdle to overcome. I remember feeling like a fraud, like I didn’t deserve the opportunities I was getting. But the longer you work in your chosen field, the more you realise that almost everyone experiences these feelings at some point. It’s important to remember that it’s okay to feel scared and unsure, as long as you don’t let those feelings hold you back.
One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned is to silence my inner critic. Women especially tend to be incredibly hard on themselves and hold themselves to impossible standards. I try to remind myself that it’s okay to make mistakes and that I’m allowed to take up space in the industry. I’ve also found it helpful to surround myself with supportive people, whether that’s family, friends, or colleagues. Having a strong support system can make all the difference in boosting your confidence and pushing past those fears.
I believe fear is a natural part of starting a business, but it’s how you handle it that counts. For me, fear became a motivator to thoroughly assess all aspects of the business, from the market to the product. We conducted extensive research and development to ensure our products met consumer needs and preferences. One of our biggest fears was market acceptance, so we made sure to have multiple plans in place to mitigate any potential risks. In the end, all the hard work paid off, and our collection was well received by the market.
Tell that bitch to piss off.
SHELLSHOCKED MEDIA
DEMI: HOW IS SHELLSHOCKED MEDIA UNIQUE COMPARED TO OTHER MEDIA COMPANIES’?
ShellShocked Media is a dynamic and innovative video production company that specialises in media and presentation training. Our goal is to help individuals and businesses enhance their communication skills and develop effective messaging strategies. We believe that video is a powerful tool for storytelling, and we create inspiring, engaging and authentic video content that resonates with our clients’ target audiences.
At ShellShocked Media, we pride ourselves on our ability to deliver high-quality video content that is both informative and entertaining. We are passionate about producing videos that capture the essence of our clients’ message, whether it’s a product launch, corporate announcement, or a social media campaign. Our team of experienced producers, writers, and editors work closely with our clients to ensure that their vision is brought to life on screen.
What sets us apart from other video production companies is our fearless approach to tackling difficult topics and uncomfortable conversations. We believe that honesty and authenticity are key to building trust with audiences, and we’re not afraid to push boundaries and challenge the status quo. Our media and presentation training services are tailored to the unique needs of our clients, and we work closely with them to help them develop their confidence, presence, and messaging skills.
Whether you’re looking for video production, media training, or presentation coaching, ShellShocked Media has the expertise, creativity, and passion to help you achieve your goals.
PRESENTING COURSE
DEMI: CAN YOU TELL US ABOUT THE SHELLSHOCKED MEDIA TRAINING COURSE?
As someone who is frequently in the public eye, I understand the pressures that come with being on camera or in front of an audience. It’s not just about knowing what to say or how to say it, it’s also about body language, tone of voice, and making a connection with your audience. Many people who teach media and presentation training may have the knowledge and technical skills, but they may lack the practical experience and real-world insights that come from being in the spotlight.
My experience as a regular TV presenter and event MC allows me to bring a unique perspective to my training. I know what it’s like to be in front of the camera, to have an audience hanging on your every word, and to deal with unexpected challenges and curveballs. I also understand the importance of preparation, practice, and having a strategy in place to handle any situation that may arise.
At ShellShocked Media, we combine our practical experience with our expertise in media and presentation training to deliver a comprehensive and effective program for our clients. We provide personalised coaching and feedback to help individuals and teams improve their performance, gain confidence, and achieve their goals. With our help, our clients can develop the skills they need to excel in the public eye and achieve their full potential.
If you want beige you’ve come to the wrong place.
BUSINESS OWNER
DEMI: HOW DOES HAVING YOUR OWN BUSINESS BENEFIT YOU?
As I reflect on my journalism career, I realise that most of my conflicts at work stemmed from my problem with authority figures. I was never one to shy away from an argument, and I often found myself disagreeing with my bosses. However, instead of letting this conflict continue to affect my career, I decided to take control of the situation and become my own boss.
Being in charge of my own destiny and charting my own course has been one of the most thrilling experiences of my life. It has allowed me to take ownership of my work and to pursue my passions without being held back by someone else’s vision or opinions. I have found that being an entrepreneur requires a unique set of skills and mindset, such as taking calculated risks, having a clear vision, and being able to adapt to change.
Having my own business has also allowed me to have a greater impact on the world around me. I have been able to create job opportunities and contribute to the growth of the industry. It has been a challenging journey, but one that has been incredibly rewarding. Overall, I can confidently say that becoming my own boss was the best decision I ever made.
Sometimes I feel like wearing a superhero cape to work.
KEY TO SUCCESS
DEMI: WHAT ARE SOME OF KEY FACTORS THAT CONTRIBUTE TO BECOMING SUCCESSFUL?
Running your own business can be very rewarding, but it does come with its challenges and pressures. As the owner, you are responsible for everything that happens in your business, from decision-making to taking responsibility for any mistakes or failures. Rejection can also be difficult to handle, especially if you’ve put in a lot of time and effort into a project. But learning to separate yourself from your business and not take things too personally can be a valuable skill to develop. It’s important to have a support system, and to learn from each experience, both good and bad, to improve and grow your business.
Regardless of whether it’s a new client or a new show, you always have to hustle for work and that means putting yourself out there for judgment. Rejection is a natural part of the process, and it can be really tough to handle. There have been plenty of times when I’ve been curled up in a ball, crying on the couch, wondering why I even bothered trying. But if you’re passionate about what you do, it’s hard to let those knock-backs keep you down.
Being in the public eye, whether it’s on TV or in any other form of media, can be especially challenging. You are putting yourself out there for the world to see and judge. Rejection in this field is ten times worse because it’s not just a rejection of your work or your pitch, it feels like a rejection of you as a person. That’s why it’s essential to have thick skin and a strong sense of who you are. You can’t please everyone, so it’s important to be true to yourself and your values.
I believe that being authentic is the key to success in any field. It’s easy to get caught up in trying to be what you think people want you to be, but in the end, it’s never sustainable. People can tell when you’re not being genuine, and that can do a lot of damage to your credibility and reputation. So, be yourself, even if it means you’ll face some rejection along the way. In the end, it will be worth it when you find success doing what you love, on your own terms.
But I say feeling vulnerable means you care.
ADAPT & PIVOT
DEMI: HAS COVID-19 IMPACTED YOUR CAREER OR BUSINESS & WHAT CHANGES HAVE YOU HAD TO MAKE?
Of course! I lost 80% of my work and my husband lost 100% of his! I cried every day for two weeks. And guess what? That’s okay and that’s normal! Everyone is being encouraged to pivot and recreate their company online. That’s not a pivot, it’s pirouetting like a ballerina on something strong. It’s exhausting!
I soon realised there was a newly created need in the market for people who were now forced to work from home for the very first time, and who were not familiar with virtual meetings and tools like Zoom or Teams.
With my TV presenting skills and my husband’s camera and lighting experience, this was the perfect time to start sharing some of our techniques on how to present oneself in the best possible light when in front of any camera or audience.
We completely changed our business model to meet market demands and created our first online course ‘Making Virtual Meetings Work’, where people can learn how to avoid all the virtual pitfalls of working from home like accidentally turning on a filter, so you look like a potato for an entire meeting.
So, in just two weeks I researched, produced, presented and my husband filmed and edited the course. It felt good to have a purpose. And it’s something most people need!
I now do my Channel Nine crosses via Skype. I do my media training via Zoom.
Currently, I also MC three virtual conferences, which is exhausting because as an extrovert, I get my energy from the crowd and this is just performing to a tiny camera lens on my computer, but hey it’s a new skill.
ONLINE WORKSHOPS
DEMI: HOW CAN INDIVIDUALS BENEFIT FROM SHELLSHOCKED MEDIA’S ONLINE COURSES?
During and post COVID-19, Shellshocked Media is offering two online courses specifically targeting those who want to improve their presenting techniques: “Making Virtual Meetings Work” and “How to Shine on Camera”. Additionally, they are offering one-on-one coaching sessions via Zoom to help individuals improve their presentation skills and adapt to the changing virtual landscape of the media industry.
1. Making Virtual Meetings Work: As virtual meetings have become the new norm with the rise of platforms such as Zoom and Google Hangout, we at Shellshocked Media are offering an online course called “Making Virtual Meetings Work.” We’ll provide you with tips on setting up your home office, help you look good on camera, and share some technical hacks, presentation tips, and the dos and don’ts of running virtual meetings. This course will help you nail the new normal of virtual meetings.
We’re all carrying a lot of extra anxieties right now. But having to step in front of your webcam for work doesn’t have to be one of them.
It’s for individuals who are running their business from home or corporates who have staff who are now working from home and are struggling with virtual meetings. It will help everyone feel more confident in front of a webcam.
2. How to shine on camera: The online media and presentation training program is designed to help individuals who need to present in front of a camera for work or media interviews. Through the program, I provide valuable tips on how to control your nerves, dress appropriately for success, and refine your key messages. By the end of the training, you will have the skills and confidence to deliver a professional, polished, and confident performance in front of the camera. Whether you are an entrepreneur, a corporate professional, or a media personality, this training program will equip you with the necessary tools to succeed in the world of media and presentations.
It’s for anyone who is about to step into the media or public eye (whether it’s willingly or unwillingly), business owners, leaders, experts, and specialists in any field.
WORKING REMOTELY
DEMI: CAN YOU SHARE YOUR PERSPECTIVE ON THE POTENTIAL LONG-TERM EFFECTS OF COVID-19?
The COVID-19 pandemic has definitely brought about a major shift in the way we work. While the lockdowns may be temporary, the changes in the work culture are here to stay. Virtual meetings have become the norm and I strongly believe that it will continue to be a preferred mode of communication even after the pandemic is over. With the technology at our disposal, we can make the same impact as a physical meeting while saving time and money. This shift to virtual communication will also result in cost-cutting for many companies. In conclusion, COVID-19 has forced us to adapt to new ways of working, and I believe that this experience will lead to long-term changes in the workplace.
Embrace the change and you’ll have the skills forever.
STAYING MOTIVATED
DEMI: WHAT STRATEGIES DO YOU USE TO STAY MOTIVATED & FOCUSED DURING COVID-19?
While the pandemic has been a challenging time, I have found motivation in reminding myself that it is not permanent and that we will eventually emerge from it. I also find inspiration in the resilience and adaptability of individuals and businesses who are finding new ways to navigate through these difficult times. Additionally, staying connected with loved ones, pursuing hobbies, and practicing self-care have helped me maintain a positive mindset and stay motivated.
I have been chanting “This too shall pass” (whilst also rocking on the couch) but it’s true, we will get through this together.
Shelly Horton’s exceptional personality and unwavering commitment to empowering others make her an inspiration. Her passion for self-improvement and ability to navigate uncertain times with confidence give hope to those seeking personal and professional growth. With her dynamic approach and unwavering dedication, Shelly stands out as a beacon of hope, especially during challenging times.
Shelly Horton shares the following insights on work, life & TV.
I love what we do because… It’s my passion.
Never be afraid of… Hard work.
My greatest talent is… I can say the alphabet backwards really quickly.
My biggest challenge is… Burnout.
I overcame that challenge by… Fly and flop holidays. Pick a place, fly there and flop by a pool for a week.
When starting a business one must… Prepare for ups and downs.
Most rewarding career moment so far… Starting my own business.
Best gig… Hosting my first solo TV show, Talking Married.
Celebrities I’ve loved working with… Lucy Lawless once let me try on her Xena Princess Warrior costume.
Funny MAFS moment … I got recognised in a nursing home because of MAFS, I didn’t expect that to be the target audience.
Most entertaining MAFS personality … Lizzie is my favourite MAFS star because she’s quirky and she drops truth bombs.
Favourite Netflix/Stan series or show… Killing Eve – ABC iView.
I Never go to work without … Breath mints and a positive attitude.
Never underestimate … A determined gal.
I hope to one day… Host my own TV show – The Shelly Show.
In my spare time… Cuddle on the couch with my husband and two rescue dogs Mr Barkley and Bella.
My favourite beauty products are… Lovely perfume by Sarah Jessica Parker, I’ve worn it for ten years.
Every girl needs… A pair of killer heels. Sophia Webster is my favourite shoe designer.
On perfection… It’s actually a mind fuck. I used to be proud to be a perfectionist but now I see it as a drawback. Perfection is boring. Colour outside the lines to get noticed.
I absolutely love… Performing to a crowd – either in person, on TV or online.
Happiness is... Rescue puppies!
Success means… Being proud of yourself at all stages.
What it takes... Hard bloody work. It’s as simple as that!
It’s important… It’s nice to be important, but it’s important to be nice.
On purpose… Purpose is ever evolving. Love yourself and listen to yourself.
The dream… Doing what I love and travelling to exotic places. I’ve been to 52 countries so far.
In hindsight… I would not change much except I would have loved to start my business earlier in my career. It provides me with so much satisfaction.
Tips & tools… Yes, of course. In my online courses and one-on-one coaching, I always teach a breathing technique that helps control nerves and makes you calm. It’s probably my biggest tip and skill I teach people. I use it myself.
My favourite quote is… 5P’s- Prior Preparation Prevents Piss-poor Performance.
What’s next… After COVID-19 I will hug every person I meet. I miss hugs so much.
Always… Be kind. Every time.
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ShellShocked Media: WWW.SHELLSHOCKEDMEDIA.COM
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“Thank you, Shelly Horton, for sharing your inspiring journey with us and our audience. Your enthusiasm, brilliance, and energy are infectious and a true testament to your dedication to your passions. You serve as an inspiration for all women who work, play, and laugh hard. Keep up the great work!” – Demi Karan, Heels Agency
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