NAB Main Stage Recap: “A Broadcaster Survival Plan” with Arc XP and Graham Media
At this year’s NAB Show, Arc XP’s CTO Joe Croney hosted a forward-looking main stage session featuring Michael Newman, Director of Transformation, and Stephanie Slagle, VP & Chief Innovation Officer from Graham Media Group. Titled “Broadcasters’ Survival (or Reinvention) Plan: Local Content, Smart Tech & Bold Innovation,” the conversation dove into how local broadcasters can adapt and thrive in a rapidly shifting media landscape through local content, smart technology, and bold leadership.
The panel emphasized that real transformation goes beyond storytelling—it requires rethinking operations, workflows, and long-held legacy structures. Michael and Stephanie stood out as leaders doing exactly that.
Key Takeaways:
- Audience habits are changing fast. Michael highlighted that younger viewers increasingly get local news from YouTube and social media—not TV—pushing broadcasters to adapt formats and distribution strategies.
- Relevance, trust, and speed define modern local news. Stephanie explained that speed alone isn’t enough in the age of social media—accuracy and trust are what set broadcasters apart during breaking news events.
- Newsrooms need story-first workflows. Current operations often default to fragmented, platform-first approaches. Both leaders called for unified teams and processes built around scalable storytelling across all platforms.
- Legacy tech is holding teams back. Stephanie noted that while digital systems are modular and evolving, broadcast tools are harder to modernize. A more empathetic, human-centered approach to transformation is essential.
- Small fixes can unlock big gains. Workflow improvements—like mobile editing tools and modular tech—are helping reduce inefficiencies and allow journalists to focus on impactful storytelling.
- Partnerships matter. Michael praised Arc XP’s flexibility and modular approach, calling for partners who evolve with newsrooms and support core needs like local reporting and fast, accurate distribution.
This session served as both a call to action and a roadmap for the future of local broadcasting. As Stephanie said, real change begins with a decision—a commitment to center the story, support your people, and embrace innovation that multiplies impact without multiplying work.
Watch the full session to hear firsthand how Graham Media is reshaping its newsroom with Arc XP and where they’re heading next.
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