Melissa Smith is the voice behind Mad Mel’s Mic Podcast, a raw and heartfelt podcast that gives listeners an unfiltered look at life with PTSD, recovery and resilience. Known for her honesty, humour and unwavering openness, Melissa transforms deeply personal struggles into messages of hope and strength. Melissa was diagnosed with PTSD after serving 18 years in the NSW Police.

After spending multiple stays in a Mental Health Hospital, navigating life with and without anti depressants, Melissa began speaking publicly about the messy, imperfect reality of her mental health journey. Through her podcast and live talks, she shares stories that are as vulnerable as they are empowering - from the impact of trauma on family life to the courage it takes to rebuild your identity, one small step at a time.

Melissa’s presentations blend relatable story telling, practical coping strategies and and inspiring belief that you don’t have to be “healed” to help others. Whether she’s speaking to schools, community groups or mental health conferences, her mission is simple: to help people find their voice in the middle of chaos, and to remind them they are not broken, they are becoming.