Say My Name
Based on Melissa Baker’s book Sleeping Under the Bridge. Winner of…
Through storytelling, Dr. Mel Baker explores resilience, faith and the courage to rebuild. As an author and speaker, she shares lived experience and research to inspire reflection, hope and meaningful connection for those ready to transform their lives and lead with integrity
Dr. Mel Baker’s award-winning trilogy traces a journey from trauma to transformation. These books are for anyone navigating pain, purpose, and the long road to renewal.
Award-winning short film based on Sleeping Under the Bridge, Say My Name, created, co-written and produced by Mel Baker. “This movie has such a gripping presence.” – John B. Bronson (NYC).
I believe adversity can be transformed. My stories explore how courage, faith, and emotional clarity can turn loss into purpose and pain into growth.
Faith, for me, is both anchor and invitation. It’s how I search for meaning beyond circumstance. I weave spirituality with evidence, compassion and lived experience.
I write and speak about who we are in relation to others—how community, culture, and compassion shape healing, visibility, and hope.
Hope isn’t just optimism; it’s something we build. Through story and research, I explore how hope can be practiced, sustained, and reclaimed— even in uncertainty.
I translate decades of wellbeing research into narratives that connect mind, body and spirit. It’s where emotional truth meets academic depth.
I believe words can heal. Whether on stage or on the page, I use storytelling to create understanding, empathy and belonging.
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35 years of experience
56 countries spoken in
95 book and film awards
Dr. Rick Williams: Sleeping Under the Bridge
Her resilience, her unwavering determination to find hope in the face of unimaginable adversity, is both heart-wrenching and inspirational.”
Best Damn Film Awards, Winner: Best International Film & Best Drama (2023)
Building the Bridge taught me the true meaning of healing, and watching it happen in the life of a courageous woman was moving. This memoir is filled with lessons for anyone struggling with abuse and trauma.
Readers’ Favorite Review (Ruffina Oserio): Building the Bridge
A raw, open-hearted memoir that shows quiet strength in the midst of family secrets and trauma. Building the Bridge is a heartbreaking, emotionally resonant memoir that gives strength and grace to its readers and guides them toward self-healing.
Independent Book Review (Tomi Alo): Building the Bridge
I’m terrified of horses, but healing an ex-racehorse of its demons—and vice versa—was a powerful read. Amazing.
Jen: Conflict to Hope
Baker’s writing courageously and lucidly excavates deep emotional recesses… Stylistically explosive at times…the memoir is meditative as well. Baker is a talented, versatile writer whose frank book will resonate strongly with those facing similar issues.”
Kirkus Review: Sleeping Under the Bridge
A book about hope and how the human spirit holds onto life… With love and compassion, a life worth living can be found. A powerful read.
David Vernon, Stringybark Publishing, Sleeping Under the Bridge
Baker’s memoir examines the limitations of trying to outrun the past, even when doing good things in far corners of the world. The author is a skilled travel writer, and the missionary sections are often striking. …open-hearted memoir of faith, forgiveness, and travel.
Kirkus Review: Building the Bridge
I found it to be a gripping read of an honest, beautiful and sad account of the young life of a resilient survivor of parental abuse. It is frank, startlingly so, and a great insight into the mind and heart of an abuse survivor on the journey towards illusive healing.
Rev. Dr. John Reid: Sleeping Under the Bridge
You’ve proven you can do anything you want against all odds. You’re an inspiration to me and I’m sure to others.
Darrell Jones: Painting Beauty with the Ashes
Based on Melissa Baker’s book Sleeping Under the Bridge. Winner of…
Dr. Mel Baker explores why a leader’s legacy isn’t built in…
On the submarine, Mel had no escape from her persecutor. On…
Yes. She regularly speaks at conferences, community forums, podcasts, and digital events — both in Australia and internationally. Sessions can be delivered in person or virtually, depending on your schedule and format.
For book clubs, educational programs, or event giveaways, you can request copies of The Bridge Trilogy through the Contact page. Discounts may apply for bulk or organisational orders.
Ideally six to eight weeks in advance to allow time for planning and coordination, though last-minute requests are always considered where possible.