A producer writes the majority of a newscast. The average 30-second script is 75 words.
Crunch the numbers and subtract the ad breaks, and a producer is on the hook for about 5,000 words of tight, clear, compelling copy for an hour-long newscast.
Doing that every day for five years really refines your writing chops.
Below are a handful of examples of newscasts I produced and projects I managed.
During my time in news, I won two regional Emmy awards for newscasts I produced/executive produced.
Special Report: The Studebaker Connection
I executive produced this 30-minute special on the historic Studebaker car company while at ABC57 in South Bend.
I helped develop the concept. I found and vetted sources, coordinated and oversaw video shoots, edited the script and approved the final cut. I also worked with other departments to help promote the special before it aired.
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FOX59 First at Four
This FOX59 Indianapolis newscast from November 2018 won an Emmy for Best Daytime Newscast from the National Academy of Television Arts and Sciences Lower Great Lakes Chapter.
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NewsCenter 16 at 11
This WNDU-TV South Bend newscast from 2017 showcases breaking news coverage.
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Frank Rotella 