1) Tell us about your TV background?
I have worked in local TV in Washington, DC for 30 years, the first 15 for FOX5 where I was Executive Sports Producer and the last 15 at Comcast SportsNet where I was the Managing Editor. I currently teach sports TV production at the Philip Merrill College of Journalism at the University of Maryland.
2) Craziest memory from your first TV job?
Craziest memory from first job: driving FOX5’s company van (full of TV equipment) from Washington DC to San Diego for our Redskins Super Bowl coverage.
3) What are you favorite types of stories to cover?
My favorite type of stories are ones that involve interesting, dynamic people and/or something that educates and/or entertains and/or peaks interest in some way. It is always about and always will be about the story and how you tell it. Always look for a great story but if it’s not a great story per se, look for a memorable person or aspect of the story or visual…something, anything… to include in your story to make it memorable. It’s not always possible (some stories by nature are cut and dried but you should always try to make your story stand out)
4) What makes a reporter or reel memorable?
I’m big on passion. It’s my favorite word in the English language and what I look for above all else when I’m hiring someone. If you are passionate about your job or a story that you are covering, it will show and that makes all the difference in the world.
5) Why Coach?
Because the great fun of this business is collaborating with people, working as a team. Teaching and learning moments are collaborative moments. Let’s have some, and we’ll both be better for it.
To work with Joe and our DC team, email us at info@reelmediagroup.tv.