Looking to Get Back into the News Business?

August 14, 2025 by

Sure, there will always be TV news talent who have been in the ‘biz’ for seemingly ever. It’s the woman whom viewers have watched go from a young upstart to an established anchor. Or maybe it’s the well-known meteorologist whom viewers can barely remember as that shy guy at the beginning of his career.

This isn’t how it works for everyone though.

So if you’re a TV news reporter, anchor, meteorologist, or sports reporter looking to get back into the news business after some time away, you’re definitely not alone. And the most important thing you can provide to potential employers is an up-to-date demo reel.

Is a Demo Reel Really That Important?

Yes! As they say in the business, no demo, no job. That’s just a cold, hard fact. No matter how long or in what capacity you were previously working as TV news talent.

And your demo should be as current as possible. In other words, it should reflect the most recent material you did from your previous station as well as anything new that you shoot.

Now, if you’ve been out for a year or less and you updated your reel while you were still working, you can use your current reel. (Regularly updating your reel is important so that you have a reel ready in the event you are suddenly let out of a contract, you’re let go, or if you quit for personal reasons.)

If, however, you’ve been out for several years, you’ll need to cut a new demo. That means you’ll need to hire a service to help you and possibly use some old videos along with any new material you create.

The reason is simple. You may look different, and your skills may not be the same. And at the end of the day, nobody wants to see material that is outdated when applying for a job. It does not give an accurate representation of who you are now.

Are There Rules for Making a Demo Reel?

There are guidelines, but not steadfast rules for making demo reels. Experienced TV news talent agents typically offer certain recommendations to talent based on their career goals.

If you’re an anchor reporter, your reel should be in the 13- to 15-minute range. While montages are usually ill-advised for actors, this is not the case for news talent demo reels. As such, a montage that’s about 50% stand-ups in the field and 50% shots at the anchor desk is often advised. You should lead the demo after that with two blocks that showcase your area of reporting.

For a reporter, the average demo reel should be a little shorter, at about 9-10 minutes. It should begin with a very active minute and a half to two minutes of montage with active, engaging stand-ups demonstrating shots of walking and talking. This should be followed by three or four packages, preferably with live wraps. It’s critical you are in the story. If you’re a hard news reporter, you should also include a super feature story.

Are You Looking to Get Back into the News Business?

If you’re looking to get back into the news business, having a TV news talent agent can be incredibly helpful in opening doors for you.

A responsible agent can advise you on best practices for your reel. Furthermore, if you went on hiatus for important personal reasons, your agent can vouch for you, making potential bosses more sympathetic to your plight.

So if you’re ready to dive back in, contact longtime TV news talent agent Mort Meisner today. With over 30 years of experience, he has the skills and the connections to get you back on the broadcast news track.

Filed Under: Blog

Nationally-Renowned TV News Talent Agent Continues to Give All to His Clients

July 31, 2025 by

Being a TV news talent agent can be grueling work – both mentally and physically. And for many agents who have been doing the work for a couple of decades, they start slowing down, phoning it in, or simply retire.

Not nationally-renowned TV news talent agent Mort Meisner. With more than 30 years under his belt, Mort continues to be as engaged with his clients as he was when he first started – going the extra mile in placing clients where he knows they will thrive.

But for many news reporters, meteorologists, and sports reporters, this often means taking jobs in smaller markets as they hone their skills and build a name for themselves, all with Mort’s help.

The Story of Aaron Parseghian

Many young men and women come to Mort with the dream of working in their hometown. For some of these folks, their hometown is in a larger market like New York, St. Louis, Cleveland, or Detroit. For them, the journey often takes a little longer.

This is how it worked for Aaron Parseghian. His dream was to return to his hometown of Boston.

When Aaron signed with Mort, he was in Grand Rapids. He shared with Mort his desire to work in Boston, and Mort told him he’d need one stop before having a chance there. Aaron listened to and trusted Mort, so he accepted a position in Tampa. He would spend a few years there, gaining experience in this larger market while he and Mort put together a fantastic demo reel. One that would make him especially attractive in Boston.

He would stay in contact with Mort, asking for his advice and guidance every step of the way.

The Benefit of Working with a Nationally-Renowned TV News Talent Agent

Mort believes it’s crucial that agents be upfront and honest with clients about whether they’re good enough (or will likely ever be good enough) for their hometown or dream market. In many cases, reporters or meteorologists might have what it takes to get to their dream market, but are unwilling to accept that it takes time. And without a willingness to learn and be coached in order to grow, they may never get there.

With so many years in the business, Mort could see that Aaron was a dedicated and hard worker and that he did have what it took. And it didn’t take long for Aaron to recognize that he had made the right decision in signing with Mort. In his words:

“Mort is an absolute rockstar and exactly the kind of person you want in your corner. He’s been both my agent and my friend for over three years now. From the start, he turned my goal of reaching a top 20 market into reality, quickly lining up interviews and securing an offer in Tampa that he successfully negotiated up.

When I set my sights on an even bigger goal, returning to my hometown of Boston, Mort was relentless. He made sure I was in front of the right people, coordinated interviews, and kept pushing through every hurdle until we landed the right fit.”

Of course, even though Aaron had developed an impressive reel, there still needed to be an actual opening in Boston.

Landing the Job in Boston

In the final year of Aaron’s contract in Tampa, Mort worked tirelessly with his ear to the ground trying to find not just any job in Boston, but the right one for Aaron. Meanwhile, Aaron continued to hone his skills and deepen his experience as a reporter.

Mort knew eventually they’d find someone in Boston who would fall in love with Aaron. As it turned out, two stations were interested in him. But there was only one job that was right for Aaron. The stars aligned and Aaron is heading back home where he’ll begin the first week of August at CBS-owned and operated station WBZ in Boston.

Aaron and Mort both credit the hard work each put into landing Aaron this well-earned and well-deserved position. It’s a true testament to teamwork.

Looking for a TV News Talent Agent Who Will Put You First?

As Aaron says of nationally-renowned TV news talent agent Mort, “I’m incredibly grateful for his unwavering dedication and hustle, and I look forward to continuing our partnership for years to come.”

If you’re a reporter, meteorologist, or sports reporter aiming for a new market but feeling stuck, contact Mort today.

And get ready to see what he can do for you.

Filed Under: Blog

Brooke Williams

July 14, 2025 by

Fast Facts

Name: Brooke Williams
Market: #123
Current Station: KATC
Current Title: Executive Reporter
Preferred Title: Anchor/Reporter
Experience: 9 Years

Agent Name: Steve Koles
Agent Phone: (248) 545-2222
Agency: Mort Meisner Associates

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Filed Under: Anchors & Reporters, Talent

National Vs. Local Broadcast News – Which Is Right for You?

July 1, 2025 by

If you’re considering working as a broadcast news anchor, reporter, meteorologist, or sports reporter, you may have questions about national vs. local broadcast news in terms of getting a job.

In both cases, having the ability to deliver an interesting story in a concise and compelling way is an obvious requirement. And you need to have the personality and the flair to resonate with your audience.

But there are some distinct differences between being a national news personality and a local one.

Local Vs. National Broadcast News

Even though the industry is evolving and adapting to the presence of online news, it still attracts bright and driven people on both the local and national levels. So which is right for you?

Broadcasting both locally and nationally is exciting work. This will give you a chance to be right in the action. Working in a newsroom, your job is dictated by deadlines. And you want to deliver the best story within the parameters of those deadlines.

When you’re not on camera, you’ll need to possess advanced research and writing skills as well as creativity and storytelling abilities. In addition, in both cases you’ll continue to broaden your knowledge on all sorts of topics and you’ll likely learn something new every day. There are some differences though.

Reach and Scope

National broadcasters have an audience of millions and can therefore have a part in shaping public opinion that could have a positive impact on society.

Meanwhile, as a local journalist, it’s your job to know what’s happening in your community and the people who keep things running. This makes you more deeply connected with where you live and the people around you. You know the intricacies of your community in a way that most don’t.

Opportunity to Meet Interesting People

As both a local and a national broadcaster, you will have the chance to meet interesting people. As a local news broadcaster, you’ll interview a wide range of diverse people who hail from a variety of backgrounds in your community. At the national level, you may be interviewing some very well-known and influential people who are changing the societal landscape.

This is an invigorating aspect of the job for those who are highly social. It’s energizing to be around and hear the stories of people from all walks of life.

Recognition

A national broadcast journalist is more likely to be recognized because of the sheer scope of their audience. But local broadcasters are quickly recognized in their communities where they’re making a direct impact.

In both cases, broadcasters interact with public figures, government officials, and other experts to expand their professional network.

Chance to Travel

Local broadcast news journalists have more of an opportunity to be out and about in the community than national broadcasters. It may not be every day, and it varies from job to job, but chances are you’re not going to be sitting in the same spot 40 hours per week.

At the same time, if you’re not as inclined to be out on the streets and would rather be part of a fast-paced environment and team that delivers timely and crucial information on a more erratic schedule, national news broadcast journalism may be more up your alley.

Ready to Explore a Possible Career in TV News?

If you find the perks of being in local broadcast news appealing, be sure to check out our blog on how to pursue these careers.

And if you’re already established in the business and are looking for a highly experienced TV news agent to take you to the next level, contact us today.

We’re all about the integrity in the news.

Filed Under: Blog

Sydney Gray

June 25, 2025 by

Fast Facts

Name: Sydney Gray
Market: #51
Current Station: WMC
Current Title: Anchor/Reporter
Preferred Title: Anchor/Reporter
Experience: 9 Years

Agent Name: Steve Koles
Agent Phone: (248) 545-2222
Agency: Mort Meisner Associates

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Filed Under: Anchors & Reporters, Talent

Challenges Broadcast Journalists Face in Today’s Media Environment

June 5, 2025 by

To say that today’s media environment is hyper-partisan is an understatement.

And many people are stepping away from TV news outlets and turning to social media platforms that further promote divisiveness with dis- and misinformation.

This climate has certainly increased the challenges broadcast journalists face.

Challenges Broadcast Journalists Face

The timing is far from ideal. Disengagement comes at the same time that Chat GPT and other generative AI are upending the norms of how content is generated and by whom. Plus, platforms are ridding themselves of the fact-checkers who once kept information relatively safe.

As such, broadcast journalists are digging into how to respond to this so that people can access important information they need to make informed decisions. The following actions are essential (but far from easy these days) for broadcast journalists to take.

Don’t Resort to Clickbait Journalism

Given the withdrawal of viewers, there’s an appeal to attract them with clickbait headlines or overly in-depth reporting. This is a guaranteed way to get noticed by TV news talent agents. But for all the wrong reasons. And you can be sure you’ll have a hard time getting placed with any respectable news outlet.

Good broadcast journalists with integrity prioritize facts over sensationalism and provide analysis and context that go beyond the headlines. They focus on stories that are of interest to the public and hold powerful entities accountable.

Maintain Objectivity

Broadcast journalists are under fire to present a fair and balanced story. Unfortunately, this often results in giving equal weight to claims that aren’t substantiated. And the number of fringe viewpoints seeping into the mainstream is ever-increasing – making the line between news and opinion blurry.

To maintain objectivity, broadcast journalists must prioritize factual information from verifiable sources when presenting both sides. Using clear and concise language also goes the distance in sensationalizing or editorializing a story.

Present Multiple Perspectives

Well-rounded reporting is crucial in establishing the credibility of a story. Even so, providing a variety of viewpoints without proper context can create confusion and undermine that credibility. Broadcast journalists must be able to identify credible sources based on relevant expertise and a proven track record. Any opposing views presented should be in the context of factual information that highlights areas of disagreement and consensus.

Allow the Facts to Speak for Themselves

Broadcast journalists – and in particular investigative journalists – serve a critical role in maintaining a democracy. They do this by uncovering truths and holding institutions accountable. In this polarized environment though, such reporting is often dismissed as biased based on the target of the investigation.

This is why broadcast journalists must uphold the highest journalistic standards and ensure that evidence is well-sourced and verified. In this way, they can allow facts to speak for themselves.

Are You a Broadcast Journalist Seeking Representation?

Broadcast journalists play a critical role in a healthy democracy. But the challenges broadcast journalists face in this divided landscape make their jobs all the more challenging.

If you’re an anchor or news reporter who’s committed to unbiased reporting, you need a TV news talent agent who shares this vision.

Mort Meisner is that agent. Contact him today to see how he can make you a name to remember (for all the right reasons) in broadcast journalism.

Filed Under: Blog

Matt Petrillo

May 27, 2025 by

Fast Facts

Name: Matt Petrillo
Market: N/A
Current Station: N/A
Current Title: Reporter
Preferred Title: Reporter
Experience: 10+ years

Agent Name: Mort Meisner
Agent Phone: (248) 545-2222
Agency: Mort Meisner Associates

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Filed Under: Anchors & Reporters, Talent

FAQs About Mort Meisner Associates

May 20, 2025 by

If you’re a TV news anchor, reporter, meteorologist, or sports reporter, you’ve probably heard of Mort Meisner Associates.

Mort is one of the most well-known and experienced TV news talent agents in the business.

So if you’re on the lookout for representation that’s a cut above the rest, we’ll answer the most FAQs about Mort Meisner in this post.

FAQs About Mort Meisner Associates

First of all, we want to start by saying that if you sign up with Mort Meisner Associates, you will be working one-on-one with Mort Meisner himself. Despite the name of the agency which sounds vaguely like one of those large law firms named after a big-time attorney who would never represent you, this is not the case with Mort.

He will be your guy.

So What Makes Mort So Special?

Mort has over 20 years of newsroom experience. He’s had direct experience as a major market news director, assistant news director, investigative producer, managing editor, and/or assignment editor is a great place to start.

Recognized as an industry expert, Mort is frequently quoted with regard to the news media and is cited in college textbooks on the subject. Many of today’s decision-makers, news directors, and general managers, worked with or for Mort during the span of his career. Relationships drive this business and since Mort has the advantage of knowing so many key players personally, he can reach them directly and get honest feedback on talent.

What Else Makes Mort Unique?

Mort thrives on the connection he has with his clients. Truly. You could call anyone on his impressive roster and they will verify this. With Mort, you’ll never be passed off to an administrative assistant. You’ll always be in the know about who’s viewing your reel and any interest it’s generating from station managers.

Even after Mort places talent, he’ll continue to critique your work and provide guidance to keep you on the right path to reaching your goals. He’ll use his experience and knowledge of the industry to negotiate on your behalf. Since he has a knack for breaking through all the noise of this industry, he’s able to secure you with the most beneficial salary and perks, signing bonuses, and professional development opportunities.

How Does Mort Find Job Openings?

Anybody can search websites for job openings.

But because Mort is so well-known in the industry, he has connections with news directors and management and is aware of job openings before they get posted. And since he is a long-established and respected agent, he’s regularly contacted by station talent recruiters and search firms inquiring about talent that would fit their needs.

In addition, he regularly attends industry events and conferences to stay familiar with the top networks, large broadcasters, and even local executives. He makes the extra effort to put himself out there so he knows what decision-makers want when they set out to hire talent.

Will Mort Help With My Reel?

Of course he will! Although it may not seem like it, a lot goes into coming up with a great demo reel for TV news talent. And your current demo reel may not be highlighting your talents in the best light.

When it comes to creating and critiquing reels, Mort is a true pro. He knows there are various “tricks” reporters can use to make their reels memorable to the average hiring manager and will help you produce a reel that will make you more marketable.

As a veteran in the industry, he does have certain recommendations he offers news talent depending on their career goals. The requirements for an actor reporter, for instance, will be different than for a regular reporter or a hard news reporter.

Will I Be Competing Against Mort’s Other Talent for the Same Job?

Some agencies send one composite reel that features multiple clients for a job. Mort is not down with this. He believes in marketing you specifically for a job and not just lumping your reel in with other Mort Meisner Associates talent. Mort takes pride in matching talent with jobs that are tailored for them – based on the specifications of both the talent and the hiring manager. That’s why he focuses on sending out individual talent reels.

Now You Know!

We hope the answers to these FAQs about Mort Meisner have left you more informed. Whether you’re an aspiring broadcast meteorologist or a seasoned anchor, you should be getting the most from your TV news talent agent.

Your agent should be doing more than just placing you. He or she should be offering you guidance every step of the way.

So if you’re ready to see firsthand what Mort Meisner can offer you, contact him today.

Filed Under: Blog

TV News Talent Agent Mort Meisner Has Always Recognized Talent

May 7, 2025 by

Exceptional TV news talent has more than just great stage presence. While that’s a necessary component, there has to be far more than that.

That’s why talent agent Mort Meisner is frustrated that the industry is moving away from hiring singular talent and replacing it with teams.

And when it comes to recognizing true talent, he’s one of the best in the country. He’s found more than his fair share.

A Couple of Success Stories

When Meisner first started his agent business, one person who stood out among others was Craig Nigrelli. When Meisner met Craig, he had aspirations of becoming an anchor. He also had an agent who didn’t believe in him.

Meisner recognized he was rough around the edges, but believed he could do it. So Nigrelli fired his current agent and Meisner got him a morning anchor job quickly. Of the large pool of talent he now represents, Nigrelli continues to have Meisner represent him and is an anchor in Wichita.

As Meisner became further established as an agent, he was frequently approached by those not in the broadcasting industry looking to change jobs. Irika Sargent was one of those people.

Several years ago, she reached out to him and said she was an attorney who was interested in becoming an anchorwoman. Meisner recognized that she had all the necessary elements in place to make it as an anchor. He also recognized that it would take some time and told her that she’d have to take a major pay cut. Fortunately, Sargent was willing.

From there, she started in a small market in the south, moved up to Houston then eventually Miami. She is now in Chicago where she’s the top female anchor both in background and credibility.

Mort Meisner Has Always Recognized Talent

Of course, an agent isn’t solely responsible for a client’s success. There are always going to be those who have more natural talent than others. They’re just hard-wired for it. Still, no matter your level of talent, having an experienced agent can give you distinct advantages.

When Allen Devlin reached out to Meisner 3 1/2 years ago, he was a reporter at the NBC affiliate in Greenville, South Carolina. Demonstrating serious natural talent, he’d already won several prestigious awards. His goal was to get back to his hometown of Atlanta though. So he reached out to Meisner to figure out how to make that happen. Devlin had a fantastic reel that Meisner oversaw.

With that, Meisner was able to take advantage of his multiple contacts at the CBS affiliate and other stations in the market. Soon enough, there was a bidding war for Devlin’s services.

Recognizing true talent, several stations in the Atlanta market and beyond were courting Devlin. He landed seventeen interviews and received nine offers. He ultimately accepted one of those offers in his hometown of Atlanta. Since that time, he has continued to grow as a reporter and has become an outstanding anchor. Meisner continues to be his agent.

Championing for Every Client

Mort Meisner has always recognized talent and he continues to be a champion for news talent all over the country – fighting every day to ensure they get the benefits and the pay they deserve.

For a deep dive into how Mort started his career and became a true agent of change, you can read his memoir, Enough to Be Dangerous.

And if you’re a broadcast news anchor, reporter, sports reporter, or meteorologist ready to experience the benefit of working with one of the most experienced and well-connected TV news talent agents in the country, contact Mort today! He WILL do everything in his power to get your dream placement.

Filed Under: Blog

Jeff Pegues

April 22, 2025 by

Fast Facts

Name: Jeff Pegues
Market: N/A
Current Station: N/A
Current Title: Anchor/Reporter
Preferred Title: Anchor/Reporter
Experience: 20+ years

Agent Name: Mort Meisner
Agent Phone: (248) 545-2222
Agency: Mort Meisner Associates

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Filed Under: Anchors & Reporters, Talent
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