We Survived Our First Show

I helped produce a full half hour newscast last night, and the experience was a whirlwind. As ATVN's Thursday lead producer this week, it was my job to organize the show's rundown, select and delegate stories to anchors, reporters, and MJs and make sure nothing went wrong. Good communication was key to making the day run smoothly and having a great show.

I quickly learned that there was no such thing as overcommunicating in the newsroom. From making sure MJs were getting the right b-roll, to being on the same page with Irene and Layne about our video elements and graphics for the show, it was my responsibility to make sure everyone knew what to do. In the afternoon we had some breaking news with the filmmaker of Innocence of Muslims being arrested. Just when I thought the rundown was final, it was time to float stories, and start hunting for good footage of the arrest. I had to delegate a writer and editor to the story and make sure everyone knew what changes were happening. 

Walking into the studio before the show, I felt a sense of relief and happiness. I knew we were about to have a great newscast. Now it was just time to get all the technicalities of a live broadcast down. The show went well, with just minor slip-ups here and there - all fixable things in the coming weeks. I am proud of myself and my team for making it through our first show. It will only get easier from here! I'm looking forward to a great semester full of learning, fun, and lots of news!