Laura Duclos

We have big news in Tulsa! Today we're announcing The Tulsa Local News Initiative. With $14M in funding, including support from the American Journalism Project, this coalition of local leaders and journalists is investing in transparency, community dialogue, and trusted information for all Tulsans. This effort will expand the historic Oklahoma Eagle, strengthen Tulsa's #localnews sector with 20+ new jobs, and launch a new nonprofit newsroom in 2025. The newsroom will receive incubation support from the American Journalism Project to focus on its long-term sustainability and impact. At a critical moment for local journalism, this initiative reflects what's possible when communities come together to create a better future. Proud of the American Journalism Project’s work — through partnerships with local philanthropy, direct investment, and support from our Startup Studio — to help build a stronger, more informed Tulsa. https://lnkd.in/dY4RigsJ

163

8 Comments

Should you shut up during an election, or do more PR than ever? Some companies certainly seem to follow their civil service counterparts into "purdah" mode, going into hibernation. Others carry on like nothing is happening. I remember screening these kinds of calls when I was a full-time reporter. Here's a few points for consideration: ⏸ It is worth pausing any major campaigns you have planned for the days surrounding the election, especially if you rely on news reporters picking up your story. There is simply not going to be any room in news pages, and reporters from other sections of the paper might be busy filling in with political coverage too. 🔎 Take a good hard look at the election narratives. Is there a storyline you have a unique perspective or take on where it makes sense to speak up? Is there an issue that *isn't* being covered but really deserves to be? Is it worth potentially alienating one side with what you say? ⏩ If you want to be part of the election conversation, move fast. You can't take three days to respond to a party manifesto - or even three hours. Journalists are incredibly busy at this point so appreciate quick turnaround comments based on verifiable facts, not vague assertions based on anecdata. Prepare well so you can get your messages out rapidly. This is not easy. However audiences do swell around elections, so if you can get your voice into the news, it will be heard.

12

Did you know that Mississippi Black Pages (MBP) has a fantastic blog? We're thrilled to share valuable insights, inspiring stories, and resources to support Black-owned businesses in Mississippi and beyond. https://lnkd.in/gzh2AKGK From success stories to industry trends, our blog covers it all! Whether you're an entrepreneur, business owner, or just passionate about community empowerment, there's something for everyone. Stay informed, inspired, and connected with MBP's blog. Follow us for regular updates and be part of the conversation! 💬 Check out our latest articles and join the journey toward economic empowerment and success. Let's thrive together! #MississippiBlackPages #MBPBlog #BlackBusinessCommunity #EconomicEmpowerment #BusinessSuccess #StayInformed #StayConnected

11

2 Comments

Excited to share the new redesigned http://www.pbs.org! Check it out! Launched this morning, this new version of PBS.org features an updated look with dynamic visuals and a full-width video player. The redesign aims to increase audience reach by creating an immersive browsing experience with seamless integrated video previews to help users discover new content.  Additional redesign highlights are:    New “My Station” page highlighting local Live TV streams, most-watched shows in your region, and more from your local PBS station.  New genre categories navigation allowing users to browse featured and recommended content on topics like Drama, Documentaries, Home & How-To, Food, The Best of Passport, and many more.  New tabbed layout on show and video pages to more easily explore Episodes, Clips & Previews, and Collections.  New main/utility navigation with highlighted Donate button.  New badging for video thumbnails: New, Now Playing, and Up Next. 

207

19 Comments

Collaboration > Competition When I started my career, I had countless informational interviews with anyone I could talk to who remotely worked in public radio and audio storytelling. Almost everyone emphasized how competitive the field is. The jobs in my state were few and far between, and I felt discouraged that I'd ever be able to support myself through radio or podcasting. I began to see my peers as competitors. Their success felt like less opportunity for me, and I couldn’t fully appreciate their creative work without comparing myself. This mindset was bringing me down big time. Eventually, I realized something important: My peers weren’t my rivals—they were my collaborators. Their creativity sparked new ideas in me, their perspectives made my work better, and I began to see the truth: There’s enough room for all of us. Now, 10 years later, the podcasting and audio world is still competitive, filled with talented storytellers and journalists. But my perspective has changed. I no longer focus on scarcity — I focus on connection. So I’ll leave you with this: 💡 What can we learn from each other? 💡 How can we work together to create opportunities we can’t even imagine yet? Let’s lift each other up. Collaboration will always take us further. 🤝🎙️ #PublicRadio #Podcasting #AudioStorytelling #CareerDevelopment #Networking #GrowthMindset #WorkTogether

12

Now streaming on Peacock.

29

8 Comments

I have a thesis on professional comms that certainly most Public Relations ppl will fight me on - The days of structured + formal communication being effective are dying (fast) I thing 2 things are primarily driving this: 1. This is the type of output general AI creates, making it saturated 2. While everyone zigs, following the playbook of structured + formal comms, the messages that stand out will be off the cuff, casual & authentic People reply well to in-formal comms almost simply because they are different and feel authentic in a growing in-authentic world. My hot take: Infusing this type of insight into AI will be DANGEROUS

14

12 Comments

#Nielsen 's PPM ratings for #radio is now going to count an hour of listening as long as you listen to 3 minutes of content in that hour. New episode at kingofpodcasts.com or watching my YouTube and please like comment share and subscribe!

2

Stopping Election Rigging: The Game Plan Revealed! Join us in this insightful discussion on the crucial efforts to prevent election rigging in pivotal states. Our speakers delve into recent actions taken to ensure fair voting, assessing key statistics and political strategies. Stay informed and empowered as we analyze the integrity of our democratic process! #ElectionIntegrity #VoterFraud #FairElections #VotingRights #PoliticalDiscussion #DemocracyInAction #NorthCarolinaVotes #RiggingPrevention #CivicEngagement #Election2024

1

Is Big Tech hampering our right to free speech in America? How can we think critically in an election year without falling prey to misinformation? On a recent segment of Vocal Point, I discuss these topics with veteran radio host Jerry Newcombe: https://lnkd.in/gk9eGs4X #BigTech #FreeSpeech #Election2024

2

Why Ethical Video Production is Non-Negotiable for My Company In honor of Labor Day, I’m highlighting a crucial aspect of ethical production: proper worker classification. While the article I’m referencing may be over a year old, its headline underscores the significant financial and reputational risks tied to worker misclassification. Every reputable accountant and lawyer I’ve consulted is clear: video production crew should be classified as W-2 employees. They use my equipment, work on my schedule, and at locations I determine. Yet, many competitors incorrectly classify their crew as 1099 contractors, saving money in the short term but exposing themselves and their clients to significant liability risks and hefty IRS fines. W-2 classification isn’t just a legal obligation—it provides workers compensation insurance and other pro-labor benefits that 1099 arrangements lack. For me, this isn't just a compliance issue; it’s a moral responsibility. It also impacts my bottom line, adding 23% to every dollar spent on crew day rates and overtime. I believe it’s my duty to care for the folks who work hard for me and my clients. Choosing an ethical approach isn’t just about following the rules; it’s about investing in people, supporting your mission, and creating a purpose-driven narrative that makes you proud ~ 💫 #LaborDay #EthicalProduction #VideoProduction

8

I recently conducted a personal experiment that has revolutionized my approach to news production. Using cutting-edge generative AI tools, I challenged myself to create a comprehensive visual news report on a breaking story in just one hour – a task that typically consumes an entire day. The results were astonishing. I was able to generate a draft script and visual elements rapidly. Then from script to generating the voice overs, images and videos and a basic edit the package was ready. This experiment has opened my eyes to AI's potential in augmenting our work, not replacing it. It's allowing us to handle time-consuming tasks more efficiently, potentially enabling deeper investigations and more comprehensive coverage. As we stand on this new frontier, I'm excited to explore how we can harness AI to enhance our storytelling and better serve our audiences. Next steps will be to automate the process and explore mass production to multiple platforms. What are your thoughts on AI's role in the future of journalism?

17

12 Comments

📢 Why should you say yes to podcasts, video interviews, and other media opportunities? 🎙️ I’ve put together a quick guide outlining the key reasons why media engagement can boost your visibility, credibility, and even help you reach new audiences. 🚀 Whether you’re a researcher, professional, or business owner, getting your message out there matters. Next time, I'll be posting about how you can adapt your message for the medium. 👇 Download the PDF or swipe through the carousel to learn more! #MediaTraining #Visibility #PublicSpeaking #ProfessionalDevelopment

8

1 Comment

Want the latest on the U.S. elections? Follow Newsweek for unbiased coverage and breaking news! Proud to be building an incredible team of editors dedicated to bringing you the facts—fast and fair. 🗳️ #USAElections #UnbiasedNews #BehindTheScenes #usa #myteam #newweek #politics 🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸 #Vote2024

4

Ready to make your short film on a tiny budget? Got you. Here are pro tips: Use free locations like NYC streets, focus on 2-3 well-developed characters, embrace natural light, and prioritize storytelling over expensive visuals. Remember, a great story always wins! Get out there and have fun, and let me know about your latest project in the comments. #FilmProduction #IndieFilmmaking #LowBudgetFilm #ShortFilmTips #FilmmakingHacks

10

Ready to make your short film on a tiny budget? Got you. Here are pro tips: Use free locations like NYC streets, focus on 2-3 well-developed characters, embrace natural light, and prioritize storytelling over expensive visuals. Remember, a great story always wins! Get out there and have fun, and let me know about your latest project in the comments. #FilmProduction #IndieFilmmaking #LowBudgetFilm #ShortFilmTips #FilmmakingHacks

2

Too many rules spoil the plot? The recent withdrawal of the second draft of the Broadcasting Services (Regulation) Bill has sparked mixed reactions in the media industry. While some see it as a positive sign, many remain cautious. Key takeaways: ➡ Relief, but not celebration: The extension of the consultation period for the first draft is viewed as a temporary reprieve. However, concerns remain about the first draft's content evaluation provisions, potential for censorship, and lack of clear guidelines. ➡ Seeking clarity: Industry stakeholders are eager to understand the government's true intentions. Is this a genuine move to incorporate feedback, or simply a delay tactic before implementing stricter controls? ➡ Call for open dialogue: Stakeholders demand for a more transparent and inclusive approach to media regulation. ➡ Focus on differentiation: A significant part of the industry reiterates the need for distinct regulations for linear TV and OTT platforms, acknowledging their fundamentally different models. ➡ Uncertainty persists: As the industry awaits the revised draft, a sense of uncertainty continues. Questions linger about how effectively feedback will be addressed and the potential impact on independent media and content creation. Let's discuss! #BroadcastBill #MediaRegulation #ContentFreedom Meanwhile for a deeper dive you can read exchange4media's hot take on the subject. Link is in the comments section.

21

2 Comments