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    Creating Your News Diet

    by Meghan Kowalski on 2024-06-12T08:00:00-04:00 | 0 Comments

    When it comes to the news, it’s impossible to keep up with everything. There are way too many places to get the news and even more stories and topics to follow. It's easy to be overwhelmed.

    When "traditional" sources, like newspapers, were dominant, information about current events came out in a routine and timely manner. You could count on the morning paper (or evening edition) to keep you up-to-date. Radio and, then, television increased how often news was available, but the number of outlets was still limited. Then the 24/7 news cycle took over with the rise of CNN and other news-dedicated stations. Suddenly, news seemed to happen all the time. Channels were trying to fill their schedules. Things only sped up with the rise of the Internet. Current events were everywhere.

    Now, everyone can be a news creator. Smart phones have led to an "on all the the time" environment. Even you can be a news creator who shares what they see through places like TikTok.

    No wonder it feels like it's impossible to keep up. To keep things manageable, we recommend crafting a balanced and informed "news diet." By curating a few news outlets and topics, you can focus your consumption which helps you stay informed without getting overwhelmed. Here are a few of our favorite best practices:

    • Set Limits - Pick one international, one national, one local, and one hyperlocal source to follow.
    • Mix It Up - Follow a mix of traditional (newspaper, TV, radio) and emerging (newsletters, TikTok) sources to get a well rounded look at events.
    • Create a Routine - Pick a time or two each day to catch up or save stories to read later.
    • Find Balance - It's easy to fall for the algorithm or stick in your bubble. Consider reading one source outside of your normal area. 
    • Fact or Opinion? - News sources publish both kinds of information. Opinions are great, but not at the expense of the truth.
    • Be Critical - Recognize the bias and agendas of certain publications and information sources. Fact check and verify what you read.

    If you want to learn more about creating your news diet, sign up for our webinar on June 14! All registrants will get a link to the recording.


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