Matt Haycox, an entrepreneur and investor hosts PR and media networking events as well as podcasts titled ‘Stripping Off with Matt Haycox’ and ‘The Matt Haycox Daily.’
Campaign Middle East spoke to Matt about growth and innovation of the PR and media landscape.
Can you share some success stories, specifically in the realm of PR, media and marketing?
The unique nature of these gatherings boosts the visibility of the podcasts. By offering an alternative to conventional networking events, we create opportunities to connect with individuals who might otherwise decline typical corporate engagements.
Our latest endeavour, a monthly PR and Media brunch aboard my yacht on Saturday afternoons in Dubai Marina, has facilitated meaningful connections within the media and PR sphere.
Hosting events on a boat and curating unique experiences with celebrities or musicians increases our appeal, attracting a more enthusiastic audience and expanding our reach beyond traditional demographics.
For marketing and advertising professionals, these events present a chance to mingle with high-calibre individuals they might not encounter elsewhere.
With my network comprising CEOs, multimillionaires, and celebrities, attendees have the opportunity to forge meaningful connections in a relaxed yet impactful setting, cultivating relationships that transcend the boundaries of ordinary networking.
Tell us more about the All Star Sports initiative run by former Tottenham, Blackpool and Liverpool footballer, Kevin Stewart.
This initiative seamlessly integrates fitness, fun, and networking—three pillars central to my life. My aim is twofold: to provide an avenue for my staff and colleagues to prioritise their fitness journey amidst their busy schedules, while also fostering connections in a lively and enjoyable setting.
Our events serve as more than just workouts—they’re opportunities for attendees to expand their networks by inviting potential investors, clients, introducers, and media contacts.
It presents an opportunity to forge connections in a setting that diverges from the conventional networking scene. Meeting for coffee has its merits, spending 90 minutes sweating it out on a football pitch or conquering a fitness challenge elicits a deeper sense of camaraderie and connection.
What strategies have you used to differentiate the podcast?
Our distinctive tone of voice sets us apart. Consistent across our podcast and business operations, it embodies a unique style and authentic expression.
We eschew corporate conventions, fearlessly speaking our minds. In a world where many are stifled by the fear of judgement, we remain committed to authenticity, unwavering in our dedication to our content, audience, and beliefs.
While some may resonate with our approach, others may not, but staying true to ourselves establishes a clear positioning and attracts a devoted audience.
How do you approach branding and storytelling with your interviews?
While showcasing our guests stories is pivotal, we recognise our audience’s diverse composition, comprising entrepreneurs and individuals seeking self-improvement.
Therefore, we aim to make these stories relatable, extracting universal themes that resonate with our listeners. Whether it’s a celebrity sharing their successes, failures, or insights on mental health, we delve beyond the surface, extracting key takeaways applicable to our audience’s lives.
Our podcast fosters organic conversations with captivating guests, yet our ultimate goal is to provide actionable insights. For example, our episode featuring Ant Middleton, a two-hour journey through his military experiences and television ventures. While Ant shares grand narratives, we distil the essence of his story into actionable lessons applicable to anyone, ensuring our message resonates and inspires our audience.
How do you select guests who align with your brand ethos?
When selecting our guests, we seek individuals with captivating stories, a track record of achievement, and a relatable journey of success or overcoming failure.
They don’t necessarily need to be multimillionaires or global celebrities, but they must possess a level of success worth sharing. Ideally, they should also have their own audience, as their existing reach can amplify the impact of our show.
We prioritise authenticity and alignment with our values. We look for guests who are engaging, open, and honest, fostering deep and meaningful conversations.
What are your future growth plans?
We’re set to expand our events aboard the yacht, adding more dates to accommodate both daytime and nighttime crowds, including our successful PR and media brunches and diversifying with nighttime dinners to welcome guests from diverse industries.
We consistently stand out with our events, whether it’s the allure of our yacht or the dynamic atmosphere of our fitness gatherings.
