Talking detail with show producer.
Brian StahlI was pretty excited to be a part of WSOC's Town Hall 'Conversation'…Television is clearly a lot different from my radio world. Can you say "Prep"?! Now, I 'prep' for my own show, but television prep takes it to an entirely different level. There is always the meetings before the meeting.
Met with the news director first (via phone) who gave me the official 'thank you' and reviewed with me what I'd be doing. Then the producer, again via phone, who lined up the interviews I'd conduct highlighting the panelists. As a former journalist, I was able to come up with my own questions.
Then meeting up with the photographer and panel guests to conduct individual interviews. Oh, and of course I did my own hair and makeup (like normal). And had to make sure I wore the right colors. As side note, solid colors look best on television. No crazy patterns, please.
In the evening, the producer would send over my scripts - that's what you hear as a story is shown on air. I cut my voice over at home (just like I broadcast my show) and then email to the producer.
Then there was the zoom call a day before the big day. I chatted with the news director, producer, director of photographer and the tech guy to review logistics, the agenda, what my questions would be and how I envisioned the conversation.
Finally, the big day. We were to meet two hours before showtime. At that meeting, I met mostly with the producer to review 'run-of-show.' That includes all the details from where I would sit, when we take breaks, the pre-show tease I'd do live with the news anchor, etc. The tech guys wired me up with microphone and the IFB (ear piece that allows me and producer to communicate).
Then it was showtime….3,2,1… You're ON!! Though a little nerve-wrecking, totally loved the experience and glad to play a part in the beginnings of change.
