Mark David Ryan's PhD thesis on Australian horror films received extensive media coverage from national broadcast, print, and online news outlets. This media coverage directly led to invitations to write a journal article and book chapter, edit a journal theme, and participate in media commentary. Ryan advises academics to pitch angles that interest the media, simplify research explanations, and be cautious about what is shared publicly, as the media may misconstrue findings or ask unexpected questions. The benefits of media coverage include rapidly disseminating knowledge, reaching broader audiences, legitimating research, and supporting interdisciplinary and industry partnerships important for academics.