Have you ever wondered what it would be like to be your own boss and run your own show?
For many communication professionals, the idea of stepping away from a secure in-house role to build a consultancy, freelance practice or small agency is both exciting and daunting. But what does that transition really look like in practice?
Join IABC Queensland for Owning It! Communication Leaders on Going Solo, a virtual panel discussion featuring experienced communicators who have made the leap from senior in-house positions to independent practice.
In this candid conversation, our panellists will share what motivated their move, how they navigated the uncertainties of starting out on their own, and what they've learned about building a sustainable business and career beyond traditional employment.
This is not a "go it alone" success-story session. Instead, we'll explore the realities of working independently — including the opportunities, challenges, trade-offs, fears and freedoms that come with owning your own business.
Whether you're actively considering a career change, curious about consulting, or simply interested in hearing how communication careers can evolve in unexpected ways, you'll gain practical insights and honest perspectives from those who have done it thoughtfully and deliberately.
What we'll discuss:
What inspired the move from in-house roles to independent practice
The realities of starting and running a communications business
Managing risk, uncertainty and self-doubt
Building a client base and professional reputation
Lessons learned about sustainability, growth and work-life balance
Advice for communicators considering a similar path
Who should attend?
Communication professionals at any career stage who are curious about consulting, freelancing, entrepreneurship or the future of communications careers.
Date: Wednesday 24 June 2026
Time: 12pm - 1pm
Location: Online
Cost: Free for IABC Members | $25 for non-members
Join us for an honest conversation about what it really means to own your career, own your business and, ultimately, own your show.
Panellists
Emma Boddington-Stubbs | Director, The EBS Effect
Emma Boddington-Stubbs is a communication specialist who helps leaders and organisations strengthen relationships, navigate change, and connect authentically with their audiences.
With more than 25 years’ experience across corporate, government and not-for-profit sectors, she is known for combining strategic thinking with emotional intelligence, practical communication advice, and a calm approach during complex or high-pressure situations.
Once described as a 'human labrador', Emma is also a serial volunteer, funeral celebrant, enthusiastic book collector, and lover of beach air and em dashes.
Mel Kettle | Leadership Communication Strategist, Mel Kettle & Associates
Mel Kettle is a strategist, speaker, and advisor helping organisations lead more clearly, communicate more humanly, and create sustainable success in an increasingly complex and AI-driven world. She works with leaders and teams to build the clarity, trust, connection, and sustainable performance modern workplaces now demand — without burning out their people in the process.
Mel is the author of Fully Connected and The Social Association, and host of the podcast This Connected Life. Known for combining strategic insight with practical humanity, she helps organisations rethink outdated leadership and performance models so people, culture, and results can thrive together.
Mia Fileman | Campaign Strategist, Founder Campaign Del Mar Founder
Mia Fileman is a campaign strategist, founder of Campaign Del Mar and host of the Got Marketing? podcast. With more than 20 years of experience across global consumer brands, government campaigns and founder-led businesses, she’s known for her strategic, commercially grounded approach to marketing and her ability to turn ideas into campaigns people remember.
Before founding Campaign Del Mar, Mia worked on brands including Vegemite, Kraft, Maybelline and BIC across Australia and Europe. Today, she works across strategic advisory, education, workshops, and speaking engagements, helping founder-led brands think beyond content calendars.