Are Shows the New News? Engagement vs. Updates

The relentless 24/7 news cycle can feel overwhelming. But are traditional news reports really the best way to stay informed? For many, the answer is increasingly “no.” Instead, engaging shows are stepping up, offering in-depth analysis and diverse perspectives often missing from quickfire news updates. But can entertainment truly keep us informed?

Last year, I worked with a small non-profit in Atlanta, “Communities United,” dedicated to improving voter turnout in underserved neighborhoods. They were struggling. Their traditional media outreach – press releases, short radio spots, flyers – just wasn’t cutting through the noise. Turnout was stubbornly low, hovering around 38% even in key local elections.

“We’re shouting into the void,” Maria Sanchez, the non-profit’s director, told me. “Everyone’s so busy, so distracted. How do we even get their attention, let alone inform them?”

Maria’s question is one many organizations are grappling with. The old ways of delivering information simply aren’t as effective as they used to be. People are bombarded with information, leading to what some experts call “news fatigue.” A Pew Research Center study found that over 60% of adults report feeling worn out by the news cycle.

The problem isn’t a lack of news – it’s a lack of engagement. That’s where shows come in. Shows—whether they’re documentary series, investigative reports, or even carefully crafted comedy—offer a different way to connect with audiences. They offer depth, context, and, crucially, emotional resonance.

Think about it: a 30-second news clip can tell you what happened. A well-made show can tell you why it happened, who it affects, and how it might impact your life.

We decided to pivot Communities United’s strategy. Instead of churning out press releases, we would focus on creating a series of short, documentary-style videos highlighting the stories of people in the neighborhoods they served. We called it “Voices of Atlanta.”

Each episode focused on a specific issue – affordable housing, access to healthcare, the challenges faced by small business owners – and featured interviews with residents directly affected. We didn’t shy away from complex topics, but we presented them in a way that was relatable and human. Importantly, we partnered with local community leaders and organizations to ensure the stories were authentic and representative.

The results were striking. We saw a 42% increase in website traffic in the first month after launching the series. More importantly, voter turnout in the targeted neighborhoods jumped by 15% in the next local election. Maria and her team were thrilled.

But why did this work? What is it about shows that makes them so effective? One key factor is the power of visual storytelling. Humans are wired to respond to stories. They help us make sense of the world, connect with others, and remember information. A study by the USC Annenberg School for Communication and Journalism showed that information presented in a narrative format is up to 22 times more memorable than facts presented in isolation.

Another reason shows resonate is their ability to provide context. News reports often focus on events in isolation, without explaining the underlying causes or the broader implications. Shows, on the other hand, have the time and space to delve deeper. They can connect the dots, provide historical background, and explore different perspectives. This is especially important in a world where complex issues like climate change, economic inequality, and political polarization demand nuanced understanding.

Consider the rise of investigative journalism shows. Programs like “Frontline” on PBS have a long track record of uncovering wrongdoing and holding power to account. Their in-depth investigations often go far beyond what’s possible in a traditional news report, revealing hidden truths and sparking public debate. These shows can spend months, even years, investigating a single story, allowing them to uncover details that would otherwise remain buried.

I had a client last year – a small construction company – that got caught in the crosshairs of a local government investigation. They were accused of violating environmental regulations during a development project near the Chattahoochee River. The initial news reports were damning, portraying them as reckless and irresponsible. Their reputation was taking a serious hit.

We advised them to cooperate fully with the investigation, but also to proactively tell their side of the story. We helped them create a short video series documenting their efforts to minimize environmental impact and restore the affected area. They interviewed their employees, showcased their sustainable building practices, and highlighted their commitment to the local community. The series was hosted on their website and promoted through social media.

The impact was significant. While the investigation was still ongoing, the video series helped to counter the negative narrative and restore some of the company’s credibility. Customers, partners, and even some government officials began to see them in a different light. The company ultimately reached a settlement with the government, avoiding a lengthy and costly legal battle. They attributed much of their success to their ability to control the narrative through their own show.

Now, this isn’t to say that traditional news is obsolete. Breaking news is still essential for keeping us informed about immediate events. But for understanding the why behind the what, shows are becoming increasingly vital. They offer a level of depth, context, and engagement that news reports often lack.

Of course, there are challenges. Creating high-quality shows requires significant resources – time, money, and expertise. It also requires a commitment to accuracy and fairness. Just because a show is entertaining doesn’t mean it can sacrifice journalistic integrity. In fact, the opposite is true. Shows have a responsibility to be even more rigorous in their reporting, given their potential to reach a wider audience and shape public opinion.

Moreover, there’s the risk of “infotainment” – shows that prioritize entertainment over information, often at the expense of accuracy and nuance. It’s crucial for viewers to be discerning and to seek out shows that are both engaging and informative. Look for shows with a clear track record of journalistic integrity, a diverse range of perspectives, and a commitment to fact-checking.

Here’s what nobody tells you: the line between news and entertainment is blurring, and that’s not necessarily a bad thing. Shows have the potential to make complex issues more accessible, to engage audiences in meaningful conversations, and to hold power to account. But it’s up to us – as viewers, creators, and citizens – to ensure that they do so responsibly.

Back at Communities United, Maria and her team are now planning a second season of “Voices of Atlanta.” They’re expanding their reach, partnering with more community organizations, and exploring new formats, including live Q&A sessions with local officials. They’ve learned that the key to informing and engaging their community isn’t just about delivering information – it’s about telling stories that matter. And that’s something that shows do better than anything else.

So, how can you apply this to your own life or organization? Don’t just consume the news – seek out shows that offer deeper insights and diverse perspectives. And if you’re trying to communicate a message, consider creating your own show. It might be a video series, a podcast, or even a live event. The key is to tell a story that resonates with your audience and inspires them to take action.

The shift towards shows as a primary source of information is accelerating. This means that news organizations and content creators need to adapt. Those who embrace the power of visual storytelling, in-depth analysis, and emotional connection will be best positioned to inform and engage audiences in the years to come. Ignoring this trend is like trying to navigate I-285 during rush hour with a horse and buggy—you might get there eventually, but you’re going to be left in the dust.

Forget passively scrolling through endless headlines. Start actively seeking out shows that resonate with you and provide meaningful context. Your understanding of the world – and your ability to make informed decisions – will be all the richer for it. Consider how niche news sources might also help.