Jillian Mele: From Emmy-Winning Journalist to Entrepreneurial Visionary
Jillian Mele is a distinguished American journalist, media trainer, entrepreneur, and thought leader whose career spans nearly two decades in broadcast journalism. Known for her role as a co-host on Fox & Friends First from March 2017 to October 2021, Mele has carved a unique path that blends media expertise with entrepreneurship. Her journey exemplifies dedication, professional growth, and the power of storytelling. Beyond journalism, she is making waves as a media trainer, founder of multiple businesses, and advocate for women’s professional development and confidence-building.
Early Life and Education
Jillian Mele was born on September 17, 1982, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. She was raised by her parents, Tom Mele and Roseanne Zlemek Mele, who provided a nurturing environment that encouraged education and curiosity. Growing up in Philadelphia, Jillian developed an early interest in communication and media, which ultimately shaped her career path.
Mele attended the University of Scranton from 2001 to 2003 before transferring to La Salle University, where she earned a Bachelor of Arts in Communication in 2005. Her academic foundation in arts and communication provided her with the skills needed to excel in journalism and broadcasting. Demonstrating a commitment to continuous learning, Jillian later pursued a Master of Business Administration (MBA) from La Salle University, completing it in May 2024. This advanced degree has been instrumental in her transition from media to entrepreneurship.
Early Career in Journalism
Jillian Mele’s professional journey began in smaller television markets, where she honed her reporting and anchoring skills.
WAGM-TV, Presque Isle, Maine
In September 2005, Jillian started as a sports anchor and weekend reporter at WAGM-TV in Presque Isle, Maine. She produced stories, planned, filmed, and edited video for on-air production. Her role also included presenting news and sports segments geared toward local audiences. This early experience provided her with hands-on skills in news production, live reporting, and sports coverage.
WIVT-TV, Binghamton, New York
From June 2006 to October 2007, Jillian joined WIVT-TV as a news anchor and reporter. She was responsible for writing, producing, and anchoring shows, along with researching and delivering weekly entertainment stories for both broadcast and web audiences. These formative years allowed her to develop versatility and on-camera confidence, laying the groundwork for her national career.
NBC10, Philadelphia
Returning to her hometown, Jillian joined NBC10 in Bala Cynwyd, Pennsylvania, in October 2007. Over a tenure of more than seven years, she became a news and sports anchor/reporter, covering high school football, local events, and major sports stories. She hosted the HS Blitz, a weekly football show, and co-hosted the 10! Show, a lifestyle and entertainment program. Her coverage of the 2014 Olympics earned her an Emmy Award, solidifying her reputation as a talented journalist.
National Profile: Fox News
In March 2017, Jillian Mele reached a major milestone by joining Fox News as a co-host on Fox & Friends First. Based in New York City, she reported headlines, conducted interviews, and delivered news segments to a national audience.
Fox & Friends First
During her time on Fox & Friends First, Jillian became known for her sharp reporting, approachable on-air presence, and ability to connect with viewers. She contributed to one of Fox News’ most-watched morning programs, enhancing the show’s credibility and audience engagement.
Departure from Fox News
After nearly five years, Jillian announced her departure from Fox News in October 2021. Her decision was motivated by a desire to focus on personal growth, further education, and entrepreneurial ventures. This transition marked the end of a successful chapter and the beginning of her new journey in media consulting and business development.
WPVI-TV: Philadelphia Return
In January 2022, Jillian Mele returned to Philadelphia as a news anchor/reporter for WPVI-TV (6ABC). She covered local news, conducted interviews, and delivered stories with the professionalism she had honed over years in national media. She remained with the station until March 2023, after which she shifted her focus to business ventures and media training.
Entrepreneurial Ventures
Jillian Mele has successfully transitioned from journalism to entrepreneurship, founding multiple initiatives that combine her media expertise with professional development.
Jillian Mele Communications
Founded in April 2023, Jillian Mele Communications offers media training, branding, business storytelling, professional presence coaching, and career development. Through this platform, she helps professionals across industries prepare for media interviews, public speaking engagements, crisis communications, and other high-pressure scenarios. Her approach is rooted in storytelling, emphasizing the power of narrative to inspire and influence audiences.
Skill Studio
In June 2024, Jillian launched Skill Studio, a catalog of online courses designed to help professionals level up their skills. The first course, The Professional Soft Skills Course, focuses on essential interpersonal and communication skills. The second course, The Presentation Skills Course, draws on Jillian’s broadcasting experience, offering over 100 tips and tricks for public speaking and presentations. Skill Studio reflects her commitment to empowering individuals to perform confidently in professional settings.
LemonRose Golf
Jillian is also the CEO and co-founder of LemonRose Golf, launched in September 2024 with her best friend and Chief Design Officer, Kristen Casey. The company is dedicated to making golf more inclusive for women while promoting confidence and fun through stylish apparel. LemonRose Golf is set to debut its apparel line in early 2026, emphasizing empowerment and community-building among female golfers.
Achievements and Awards
Throughout her career, Jillian Mele has been recognized for excellence in journalism:
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Two-time Emmy Award Winner:
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2014: Sports anchor/reporter for NBC10 Olympics special
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2016: Sports anchor for Breakfast on Broad tailgate special
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Successfully transitioned from journalism to entrepreneurship, earning recognition for media training and professional development programs.
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Built multiple businesses emphasizing empowerment, skill development, and inclusivity for women in professional and sports arenas.
Personal Philosophy
Jillian Mele’s professional philosophy revolves around storytelling and confidence-building. She believes in helping people shine, whether through media interviews, presentations, or public speaking. Her work in Skill Studio and Jillian Mele Communications reflects her passion for mentoring professionals, developing leadership skills, and fostering self-assurance in others.
She also emphasizes lifelong learning, as demonstrated by earning her MBA while managing a successful media career. This commitment underscores her dedication to growth, adaptation, and excellence.
Legacy and Impact
Jillian Mele’s career serves as an inspiration for aspiring journalists, media professionals, and entrepreneurs. She demonstrates that it is possible to transition successfully from traditional media to entrepreneurship, leveraging skills, experience, and networks to create new opportunities.
Her impact extends beyond journalism. By founding Skill Studio, Jillian Mele Communications, and LemonRose Golf, she fosters empowerment, confidence, and professional development for individuals across industries. Her work exemplifies how media expertise can translate into meaningful entrepreneurship that makes a difference in people’s lives.
Conclusion
From her beginnings in small-market TV stations to national prominence on Fox News and her return to Philadelphia’s WPVI-TV, Jillian Mele has consistently demonstrated skill, integrity, and innovation. Today, she continues to build businesses, mentor professionals, and advocate for women in sports and media. Her story is one of growth, resilience, and vision — a testament to what can be achieved with talent, hard work, and a commitment to making an impact.
Jillian Mele is not only an Emmy-winning journalist but also a trailblazer who inspires others to pursue excellence, embrace opportunities, and harness the power of storytelling to shine in any field.
