Insights on AI & Journalism from TV Veteran Joe Vasquez

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The media world is constantly shifting, and today, the mix of journalism with new tech, like artificial intelligence (AI), is a big deal. Recently, veteran TV news reporter Joe Vasquez shared some amazing insights with my BECA 375 class at SF State, opening up about how storytelling is evolving in our digital age and what role AI might play in the future of broadcast journalism. It was super enlightening!

Embracing AI in Journalism

Vasquez has had an incredible career spanning over 35 years, and he’s seen how much journalism has changed with new technology. From the boom in citizen journalism to the surge in video evidence, he’s emphasized the importance of adapting. One exciting shift we discussed is the role of AI in content creation. Tools like ChatGPT, Gemini, and Beautiful.ai are making it easier for journalists to draft initial content or put together slide decks, shaping the future of the field in fascinating ways.

While AI can make some tasks easier, Vasquez and I both agreed it’s important to keep a critical perspective. It’s tempting to lean on AI, but we risk losing that essential “human touch” that makes storytelling special. As Vasquez wisely mentioned, “AI can be a great help in generating initial content and visuals, but we definitely need to review and refine what it produces to ensure it fits the story’s purpose.” Technology is moving fast, and responsible experimentation will show us its true potential.

The Human Touch in Storytelling

Vasquez has a gift for weaving natural sounds and atmosphere into his storytelling, which makes his reporting come alive. Whether it’s the intense roar of a five-alarm fire or the smooth blues guitar playing during a wildfire, his stories draw you in, making you feel like you’re right there in the moment. “It’s one thing to see a cable car,” he said, “but it’s another to hear the ‘Doom, Doom’ of it. That sound takes you there.” Such an incredible way to connect people to the experience!

Even though AI can handle a lot of routine production tasks, it’s essential to remember that it can’t match the nuanced decision-making that comes from human experience and intuition. As Vasquez pointed out, “AI may simplify audio production,” but the art of storytelling truly needs that depth and authenticity only people can provide. The unique human touch is priceless, especially when journalists strive to connect with audiences on a real emotional level.

Maintaining Transparency and Accountability

One practical use of AI in journalism has been automating tasks like weather reports, which can streamline production. However, these tools are not without issues. “People in the newsroom found themselves questioning AI-generated content because it lacked a personal connection,” I pointed out, underscoring the importance of transparency in how these tools are used.

Vasquez believes journalism centers on capturing the authentic experiences and emotions of real people—something AI just can’t do. Many individuals possess incredible stories but lack the skill to tell them. That’s where journalists play a vital role, offering a perspective and voice that AI simply cannot replicate,” he said.

Lessons from Joe Vasquez: Commitment to Authenticity

Vasquez’s journey to journalism kicked off with an unexpected internship at a local TV station in San Antonio. With a mix of determination and a bit of luck, he landed the role and dove headfirst into news production. Early on, he learned just how crucial natural sound was for storytelling—whether he was covering quirky stories like the “finger-in-the-chili” incident or tackling serious reports on five-alarm fires.

One of Vasquez’s standout moments was reporting on a man playing blues guitar outside his burning house. It was such a powerful scene, capturing the human side of the event and showing Vasquez’s knack for finding the personal angle in every story. Stories like these remind us of the importance of looking beyond just the facts and focusing on the people involved.

Navigating Bias and Objectivity

The way news is covered has changed with the rise of citizen journalism and the abundance of video evidence. Journalists today must balance multiple perspectives, which can be challenging—especially during events like protests, where their own biases might surface. Vasquez brought this up, admitting, “I have a bias toward order.” He finds it tough to watch acts like breaking windows or throwing paint during protests. Still, he stressed the importance of sharing a balanced story. Recognizing these biases helps journalists stay objective and tell a fuller story.

Finding Your Unique Voice

For aspiring journalists, Vasquez’s message was straightforward: find your own vibe. He urged students to get inspiration from mentors, hands-on experiences, and practice. “I had a mentor early on who really made me appreciate the power of natural sound,” Vasquez shared. “Over time, I worked on my skills and learned how to tell a story that feels real and hits home.” This focus on personal growth is key for anyone wanting to develop their storytelling abilities.

The Future of Journalism: Balancing Innovation and Integrity

As media evolves, journalism’s future will undoubtedly blend traditional storytelling with emerging AI tech. By embracing these tools while staying true to what makes storytelling human, journalists can adapt to the challenges ahead and keep their audiences engaged.

Ultimately, journalism shines in its ability to tell stories that resonate and connect people through shared experiences. AI can be incredibly helpful, but it will never replace the unique perspective and creative flair that only a talented journalist can offer.

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