Journalism boils down to these three things: knowing who, when and what to ask; reporting in the most honest, economic phrases possible; and, occasionally, knowing when to tactfully – if not gently – insert further analysis into a story for the betterment of the listening or reading public. These are the tenants of our profession.
In my years at Kenyon College, I divided my time between the study of English literature and the production of the written word at The Kenyon Collegian. During that time, I also found my way into the studios of WKCO, and learned the broadcasting ropes with my weekly, late-night jazz show, Miles to Go Before I Sleep. It wasn’t long before I realized it was unnecessary to serve two masters: I could combine my talent for writing and my love for radio into a career in broadcast radio.
In my professional career, thus far, I’ve learned to fill many roles and balance reporting, writing, producing, and anchoring newscasts across AVC Communications’ six radio stations each and every weekday. Acting as an intrepid, “one-man band” newsroom has taught me not only to multi-task and work smarter on the best of days, but to adapt and improvise when unexpected situations inevitably arise. I’ve also taken great pride in reorganizing the daily news schedule, creating fresh news products, designing and improving web content, and establishing the company’s social media presence – all to the end of distributing timely information that best suits the public’s need.
I began my pursuit of journalism almost a decade ago for the thrill of being able to put my words down in print. I explored the field further when I realized how much insight I could gather by having frank conversations with people of every status and creed. The more I have felt the yoke of the civic responsibility that accompanies the work, the more journalism has become a passion, and not just a profession to me. And now, I feel it’s time for me to begin the next chapter of my pursuit of our craft.
This website contains a copy of my resumé, an assortment of audio and writing samples, and a smattering of some of the notable projects in which I've been involved.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Best Regards,
Z. Daniel Barnett
