The News Director's Office

On January 18th, 2021, 12 years after first walking through the doors at KTLA, Jason Ball announced he would be leaving the station to begin a new chapter of his life. After more than 2 years and 200 episodes of the podcast, Jason and Bobby enter the News Director's Office one last time to reminisce about the past and look towards the future. Jason opens up about his experiences in the news business, shares some of his favorite moments, and reflects on the many lessons learned throughout his career.

Laura Davis is is a professor at USC Annenberg School of Journalism. KTLA is partnering with Davis on a new project to expand the reach of local journalism. Laura discusses why she became interested in this project, and ways to innovate storytelling techniques. She discusses the role of social media has in how Millennials and Gen Z consume news. She also talks about Stylebot, a copy-editing chatbot she created for her students at USC Annenberg that is now used by newsrooms nationwide.

Earlier this week, KTLA News Director Jason Ball announced that he would be leaving KTLA after 12 years with the station. Moments after making the announcement, Jason spoke with the team from 5 Live, KTLA's digital streaming show, for this episode of the podcast. Samantha Cortese, Andy Reismeyer, Robert Puente, and Bobby Gonzalez talk about what makes 5 Live so unique. They react to Jason's shocking announcement, and Jason shares some of his plans for the next chapter in his life.

Ryan Faughnder is a film business reporter for the Los Angeles Times. In this episode, Ryan joins us to talk about some of the struggles the film industry has had during the coronavirus pandemic. He shares his thoughts on some of the solutions the major studios have implemented to weather the storm, including their use of streaming services. Ryan also tells us about the L.A. Times' new newsletter, "The Wide Shot."

Today on the podcast, we're counting down the most downloaded episodes of the year! First, KTLA tech reporter Rich DeMuro talks about the challenges of having to suddenly work from home, and shares some helpful tips. KTLA general manager Janene Drafs started her new job in Los Angeles at the beginning of the relentless year, and joined the podcast to share her insight on leading a news station during these times. Motivational speaker and author Mel Robbins joins us to talk about the power of failure, and KTLA reporter Wendy Burch opens up about her relationship with her son Brady. Finally, Perry Sook, President & CEO of Nexstar, gave a candid interview about the state of the company amidst the global pandemic.

On this Christmas Eve, we're looking back at some conversations with some of our KTLA family who have moved on to brighter things! CBS News correspondent David Begnaud shares compelling accounts from his reporting at on major events such as Occupy L.A. and his award-winning coverage of Hurricane Maria in Puerto Rico. Dave Malkoff, now at The Weather Channel, tells us about his reporting from Iraq at the end of Operation Iraqi Freedom. Elizabeth Espinosa, the executive director of communication for the Los Angeles County Sheriff's department, opens up about her special relationship with her brother. Long time KTLA photographer Gary Reyes looks back at his storied career, and shares what he is looking forward to in retirement.

Trevor Shirley is the Washington, D.C. , Bureau correspondent for Nexstar. He is now a frequent reporter for the KTLA Morning News. In this episode, Trevor shares what it's like reporting for multiple stations across the country. He also explains what it is like reporting on politics during an unprecedented election year. Jason, Bobby, and Trevor also discuss this year's rapid-moving news cycle. Trevor also talks about what it has been like joining the KTLA Morning team.

Craig Lucie is a former anchor at WSB in Atlanta, and the founder of Lucie Content, a company that provides media consulting, crisis communications and content subscriptions for businesses and non-profits. In this episode of the podcast, Craig joins us to talk about how his company runs similar to a newsroom when helping business tell their story. He also shares what it is like growing a company in the midst of the pandemic. Craig also highlights his work with the non-profit Top Dogg K9 Foundation, who provide service dogs for our veterans. He also details his recent experiences with COVID-19.

Suzy Exposito is a music reporter at the Los Angeles Times. She has also written for Rolling Stone, NPR, Pitchfork, and Revolver. Suzy joins us in the News Director's Office to chat about a number of topics including her time in the punk band Shady Hawkins, her love for karaoke, and more. Suzy also talks about spearheading the Latin music section at Rolling Stone, and why she decided to work at the Los Angeles Times. Suzy enlightens us about brujacore, the impact of Courtney Love, and the finer points of singing Morrissey.

Tim Lynn has been the pilot and reporter in the Sky 5 helicopter since 2009. After an accomplished career, Tim announced his retirement this week. Tim joins Jason in the News Director's Office to talk about his incredible career, including his enlistment in the United States Coast Guard and decades working in law enforcement. Tim describes what it's like piloting a helicopter, and he also shares details of his infamous 2012 emergency landing in Hollywood.

Seema Mehta is a political reporter for the Los Angele Times. Seema joins us on the podcast to discuss the 2020 presidential election. From campaigning during a pandemic, to mail-in voting, to incoming results, Seema helps breakdown the various aspects of the election. Jason and Bobby also discuss Dolly Parton, and her connection to Moderna's coronavirus vaccine.

Joe Moeller is a reporter with KLAS-TV in Las Vegas, Nevada. A former KTLA intern, Joe joins the News Director's Office to talk about how far he has come since the days he was known as "Malibu Joey" by the KTLA Entertainment department. Joe talks about tackling the challenges and opportunities that would take him to Montana, Fresno, and Las Vegas. He shares what it has been like covering the coronavirus pandemic in Nevada. He also tells us about his report on President Trumps proposed wall at the U.S.-Mexico Border, which earned him a National Edward R. Murrow Award.

Reporter Carlos Herrera is the newest member of the KTLA family! He joins us (on his birthday!) to talk about his excitement to be back in his hometown of Los Angeles. Carlo opens up about the challenges of leaving his family to pursue his dreams of a journalism career, and the prid they have now that he has accomplished so many goals. Carlos also talks about his El Salvadorian roots, and reveals a local hot spot for El Salvadorian food. He also shares his experiences from his first couple weeks at KTLA.

Steve Holzer is a journalist and the host of the podcast It's Why We're Here: Finding the Path to Purpose. Steve is also a cancer survivor. He joins us in the News Director's Office to talk to us about his life journey, discovering purpose, and why he decided to launch his podcast. He talks about the changing paths we encounter in life, and how they can help discover why we're here.

Go, Dodgers! On this episode of the podcast, we chat with sportscaster Dan Hellie about the World Series and more! Dan explains what makes this World Series so different from past championships. He also shares what it's been like to be a sportscaster during the pandemic when all sports stopped. Dan tells us about his career journey, his podcast 'Helliepod,' and more!

On this episode of the podcasts, we're joined by the ladies of KTLA's newest show, LA Unscripted! Dayna Devon, Megan Telles, and Liberte Chan stop by for a conversation on what makes the show so special. They share some of their favorite moments from putting the show together, and reveal some of the fascinating things they have learned about Los Angeles along the way. The women open up about how they're are sharing their passions with their viewers, and explain what makes LA Unscripted unlike anything else on KTLA.

Leigh Spann is a meteorologist at WFLA in Tampa Bay, Florida. In this episode of the podcast, Leigh teaches us all about tropical storms and hurricanes, including Hurricane Delta, which currently threatens the Gulf Coast. Leigh also shares the life changing moment that lead her to becoming a meteorologist. She also tells us about her love for running, her unusual bedtime, and her lovable dog, Pickles!

On today's episode, we welcome Gene Kang, KTLA's newest reporter! A Chicago native, Gene has worked at news stations across the country including Texas, Kentucky, and Indiana. Gene shares why he is excited to finally call KTLA home, and explains what it's like starting a new job in the midst of a pandemic and major election. Gene also opens up about his family's immigration story, and about his evolving relationship with his father. We also chat about The Karate Kid, Buddhism, podcasting and hairstyles.

Maria Hinojosa is a the anchor and executive producer of the long-running weekly show Latino USA on NPR. She is also the founder, president and CEO of Futuro Media Group. Maria joins us on the podcast to talk about her career helping share the stories of the unsung heroes in America and abroad. She talks about the importance of reporting on Latino issues, and engaging others in the dialogue. Maria shares details from her new book, Once I Was You: A Memoir of Love and Hate in a Torn America, and the vulnerability it took to write it.

Thomas Roberts has been a respected television news veteran for over 25 years. He has worked at a variety of local, cable, syndicated and national platforms including NBC News and CNN. Thomas is now the new host of DailyMailTV, now in its fourth season. Thomas joins us on the podcast to discuss his career journey and the lessons he has learned along the way. He opens up about a number of topics including past sexual abuse and finding the strength to speak about it, career wisdoms he has gained from mentors, and what excites him most in his career.

We continue our look back at 2 years in the News Director's Office by revisiting some of the funniest guests who have joined us on the podcast. First, Jane Lynch tells us about how she ended up in some of the funniest films and television shows. Sherri Shepherd tells us about her time on "The View" and her relationship with Barbara Walters and the other women on the show. "Mean Girls" star Jonathan Bennett shares all about his hosting gig on "Cake Wars." Comedian Gary Janetti talks about his wildly successful Instagram page satirizing Prince George.

Byron Lane revisits us in the News Director's Office to talk about his debut novel, "A Star is Bored." The poignant and heartfelt book follows the story of a celebrity personal assistant, and is influenced by Byron's own experiences as the personal assistant for the late Carrie Fisher. Byron shares why he decided to write a novel, and why he wrote in an imaginative style. Byron also opens up about his relationship with Carrie Fisher, his recent engagement, and more.

Nancy Loo is the West Coast Bureau Correspondent for WGN America's News Nation in Los Angeles. Nancy's journalism career has taken her to cities all over the world including Hong Kong, Tokyo, New York City, and Chicago. Nancy is now back in her home state of California getting ready for News Nation's launch. Nancy shares stories from her career and some of the major stories she's covered. She also tells us why she is excited to be a part of News Nation.

We continue our throwback series celebrating 2 years of the podcast! Today, we look back at some of the most revealing interviews. We chat Henry DiCarlo about the emotional impact of his prostate cancer diagnosis. KTLA anchor Courtney Friel joins us to discuss why she decided to live a life of sobriety. L.A. Times business columnist and KTLA contributor David Lazaurs opens up about his struggle getting off antidepressants. Radio host Yesi Ortiz tells about the emotional journey of adopting her seven nieces and nephews.

Esmeralda Bermudez is a writer for the Los Angeles Times. She writes narrative stories about the lives of Latinos. Esmeralda joins us to talk about how she approaches storytelling, and some of the challenges brought about by COVID-19. She shares stories from the tapestry of people she has met in the community, and why it is important to share their voices. Esmeralda also opens up about how she engages with readers, and uses writing as an opportunity to open a dialogue.

We continue our throwback series celebrating 2 years of the podcast! Today, we look back at some of the most fascinating and educational interviews. We chat with Dr. Lucy Jones about earthquakes, and Dr. Robin George Andrews tells us about volcanoes and the Mount St. Helens eruption. Isha Sesay tells us about the lost schoolgirls of Boko Haram. Science reporter Denise Grady gives us a lesson about viruses. Michael Beschloss tells us the history of our presidents during times of war and conflicts. Lisa Pease takes us through her extensive research that aims to shed light on the mysteries behind the R.F.K. assassination. Nathan Masters shares some of the lost history of Los Angeles. Finally, we head to the stars with astronaut Charlie Duke and Neil Armstrong biographer James R. Hansen.

We continue our throwback series celebrating 2 years of the podcast! Today, we look back at conversations with some of the people who have donated their time, talents, and resources to charitable cause. Producer, actor, and activist Justin Mikita reflects with Jason on the AIDS/LifeCycle ride. Megan Henderson shares her experiences working with UNICEF in Kenya and Vietnam. Sheila Barry Driscoll tells us how The Billionaire Foundation's philanthropy is helping serve future generations. Justin Mayo opens up about the international charity organization Red Eye, and their work at the Watts Empowerment Center. Frank Buckley shares his personal connection with JDRF and their mission to cure juvenile type 1 diabetes. Richard Ayoub shares a day in the life of volunteering with Project Angel Food.

We continue our throwback series celebrating 2 years of the podcast! We've shared conversations with an array of people who have inspired us to do better, be better, or think differently. We look back at some of our most inspiring guests! First, Deepak Chopra shares his "rules" for posting on social media, and the possibility to experience higher consciousness. Mel Robbins explains the necessity of failure. "Radical Candor" author Kim Scott shares how you can be an effective leader without losing your humanity. Actor Danny Trejo expresses his gratitude for the success he has found after a troubled past. Alphonso David discusses the mission of the Human Rights Campaign.

This week, we're bringing in the big guns! Jason and Bobby are joined by Nexstar President & CEO Perry Sook. In this in-depth conversation, Perry discusses his career journey through the news business including his early on-air jobs, the purchase of his first television station, and the founding of Nexstar, now the largest television station owner in the United States. Perry also discusses the successes and challenges of running the company in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic, and his philosophy for ensuring continued success. He also shares details about WGN America's "News Nation," Nexstar's upcoming three-hour nightly national news program.

We begin our celebration of two years since the start of the podcast! We kick things off by looking back at our top 5 most downloaded episodes! Rich DeMuro shares some iPhone tips from his then-recently-released book. Screenwriter Dustin Lance Black shares an emotional story from his book Mama's Boy. Megan Telles recalls the moment in her career she found out she'd be coming to work at KTLA. Shally Zomorodi opens about putting her life on display on social media. A now health Henry DiCarlo talks about battling prostate cancer. We also hear from a couple of our bosses, Janene Drafs and Susan Tully.

Tiana Sanchez is an executive trainer, leadership coach, author, and the host of the podcast Like a REAL Boss. In this episode, Tiana joins the News Director's Office to discuss the changes and challenges to the new ways we work amid the pandemic. We also discuss diversity in the workplace, and addressing sensitive issues with empathy and honest dialogue. Tiana breaks down how to be an effective leader, using failure as a springboard for growth, and other topics on the road to success.

Mark Joyella is a writer and content creator at IBM, Forbes contributor, former television news anchor and reporter, and mental health advocate. Mark shares anecdotes from his time working in local news and how he developed his voice as a storyteller. Mark also opens up about why he chose to publicly speak out about his challenges with mental health, and why the industry needs to evaluate the way it addresses mental illness.

It's a KTLA Podcasts crossover! KTLA News Director Jason Ball and Producer Bobby are joined by Vanessa Martinez and Jackie Rodriguez of KTLA's "Friends with Friends" podcast. They reveal why they set out to watch all 236 episodes of the beloved television series "Friends," their favorite guests they've had on their podcast, and why they think the "Friends" fandom still endures 16 years after the end of the series. 'Friends' super fan Jackie tells us what the show means to her. 'Friends' newcomer Vanessa shares what it's like watching the show through a modern lens. Jason tells us what it was like living through the nineties at the height of the show's popularity.

John Walton is News Director for KTAL News and KMSS in Shreveport, Louisiana. John shares details about their Voices of Courage campaign, which aims to promote honest conversations surrounding race. He also opens up about his own experiences as a black man in the United States. John explains how his news team covers sensitive stories and issues in the community surrounding racial injustice, the coronavirus pandemic, and more.

Stephanie Scurlock is an anchor and reporter for WREG-TV in Memphis, where she has been working for 29 years. Jason and Stephanie reflect on their time working together at WREG-TV at the beginning of their careers. Stephanie also shares about the experience of covering the "West Memphis Three" murders from the beginning of the investigation to the end of the trials. Stephanie also talks about traveling with the Tennessee Air National Guard to Dakar, Senegal to report on a humanitarian mission.

Lisa Foxx is an on air host at 104.3 MYFM. On this episode, Lisa shares how she is using her platform on radio to give back to the community and inject positivity into the lives of others. She talks about the work she is doing with Project Angel Food and her participation in KTLA's upcoming Lead with Love: Project Angel Food Emergency Telethon. Lisa also gets candid about the career journey that led her to falling in love with radio, and other projects she's worked on throughout her career such as her role as a music supervisor and jumping into the restaurant industry.

L.A. Times columnist Sandy Banks joins us on the podcast to discuss her more-than-three-decades career at the newspaper. Sandy explains her mission as a journalist to write about people and communities that introduce us to one another and soften the lines that divide us. She describes what it was like working at the newspaper in 1979, why she decided to leave in 2015, and what ultimately brought her back. Sandy also reflects on how the industry has changed over the last 40 years.

Forty years ago on May 18, 1980, Mount St. Helens in Washington erupted, killing 57 people. It was the most destructive eruption in modern U.S. history. Today on the podcast, we're join by Dr. Robin George Andrews, a volcanologist and science writer. Dr. Andrews shares with us the details of the Mount St. Helens eruption. He also breaks down the science behind how volcanic eruptions occur, and why there is still much to learn about volcanoes.

Arash Markazi is a sports columnist with the Los Angeles Times. In this episode of the podcast, Arash shares how he continues to cover the world of sports during a time when, because of COVID-19, no sports are being played. Arash also talks about how athletes have been spending their downtime, and what he thinks sporting events could look like in a post-COVID world. He also reflects on highlights from his own career, including landing his dream job at the L.A. Times, interviewing the late Kobe Bryant, and how he is sharing the legacies of his role-models, sports journalists Allan Malamud and Jim Murray.

You know Chris Wolfe as the gregarious reporter from KTLA, but did you also know he's basically Indiana Jones? On this episode, Chris tells us all about his childhood in Singapore, trekking through the Himalayas in Nepal, and crawling up a pyramid in Cairo. He also talks about some of the big stories he's covered, such as the Michael Jackson trial and Hurricane Katrina. Chris also reveals the event that made him want to become a journalist.

Aaron Nolan is co-anchor KARK 4 Today in Little Rock, Arkansas and anchor of Newsfeed Now, a daily digital newscast that has recently focused on the coronavirus pandemic. Aaron joins Jason and Bobby to discuss what it's like as a journalist covering COVID-19, and how he is peeling back the layers of such an ongoing global story. Aaron also explains the differences between anchoring the digital Newsfeed Now Coronavirus: 'Facts Not Fear' program and a traditional television broadcast. Jason and Aaron also take some time to share about their Arkansas roots.

Sarah Carey is the editorial food director at Martha Stewart Living and the host of Everyday Food with Sarah Carey. She joins Jason and Bobby via Skype from upstate New York. Sarah shares show she discovered her passion for food and cooking after initially considering a career in photography. She reveals how she ended up working with Martha Stewart, and why her job still excites her after more than 20 years. As people find themselves spending more time in the kitchen amid COVID-19, Sarah shares tips and advice for those who may be starting to cook for the first time.

Chris Gialanella is the Los Angeles and Orange County group publisher for Modern Luxury Magazine, which includes publications like Angeleno Magazine, Riviera Magazine, Interiors, and more. Chris shares how the COVID-19 has affected the world of magazine publishing, and how people are reading more magazines now than ever. He also reveals details about Modern Luxury's new singular, special-edition "Hope Issue." Chris also shares how he found his passion for the publishing business after originally wanting to pursue a career in law & politics.

Kris Van Cleave, CBS News travel correspondent, began his news career as an intern at KTLA. In this episode of the podcast, Kris shares how he followed his career path to eventually find himself working in Washington, D.C. He also shares how the COVID-19 pandemic has affected his job as a journalist and travel correspondent. Kris also gives details about his KTLA mic flag collection.

On February 10th this year, Janene Drafs walked through the doors at KTLA as the new VP and general manager. On this episode of the podcast, she joins us remotely to talk about running a news station during the COVID-19 pandemic. She also shares her career journey in television, and what ultimately brought her to KTLA. Janene also reveals her philosophies on leadership, and tells us some of her favorite hobbies and free-time activities.

Jane Velez-Mitchell is a journalist, author, and activist. She is the founder of Jane Unchained, a digital news network for animal rights and the vegan lifestyle. On this episode of the podcast, Jane chronicles her career in journalism. She talks about how she started Jane Unchained, and why the topic of animal rights needs to be a bigger part of the global conversation.

On this episode of the podcast, Jason, Bobby, and reporter Christina Pascucci chat about KTLA's new Coronavirus Daily podcast. Bobby and Christina have been releasing daily podcasts exploring different angles of the COVID-19 pandemic. They have shared stories from U.S. citizens trapped overseas, teachers working to make a difference, nurses and physicians working on the frontlines, and more. They discuss some of these stories with Jason, including some of the silver linings they've found during these challenging times.

Cathy Heller is the author of the book Don't Keep Your Day Job: How to Turn Your Passion Into Your Career. She is also the host of the Don't Keep Your Day Job podcast. Cathy joins Jason and Bobby to talk about achieving happiness through finding your purpose. She also discusses how to ultimately to profit off your passions and build a career around doing what you love. Cathy shares stories from some of the people she's interviewed who have have achieved incredible success, including former Starbucks CEO Howard Schultz.

While Jason continues to hold down the fort at the News Director's Office, Producer Bobby and KTLA tech reporter Rich DeMuro are now working from home during the coronavirus outbreak. The three link up to talk about their varying experiences so far. Rich and Bobby also share the lessons they have learned about working from home while trying to not only stay healthy, but productive. Rich also offers up some high-tech solutions for some of the common problems of the home office.

As more and more Americans are encouraged to self-isolate to stem the spread of Coronavirus, Jason checks in with Producer Bobby, who has been working from home. They share some tips for those who may be new to working from home, and what can be done to help slow the spread of Coronavirus. Bobby also talks about the new podcast Coronavirus Daily he is producing with KTLA reporter Christina Pascucci.

Carolina Miranda is a staff writer for the Los Angeles Times. She covers a number of topics in the world of culture, including visual art, architecture, and film. In this episode of the podcast, Carolina joins Jason and Bobby to discuss how art intersects politics, race, and gender. She shares some of the exciting exhibitions and events happening around Los Angeles as part of her weekly "Datebook." Carolina also tells us about Henry Cobb, the late architect who would forever change the L.A. skyline.