In this episode, Ryan Restivo, creator of the AI tool YESEO, delves into the evolving role of AI in journalism. He discusses how AI is currently used in newsrooms, from content personalization to automated text analysis. He introduces YESEO—a Slack-based app designed to enhance newsroom SEO. Ryan explains YESEO’s unique features, including its multilingual support, seamless integration with newsroom workflows, and its ability to provide SEO-friendly headlines and pre-publication analysis tailored to journalists’ needs.

Ryan also shares the tool’s growth since its launch in March 2023, highlighting its adoption by over 500 workspaces and its positive impact on both large and small newsrooms. Addressing concerns about data privacy, Ryan assures listeners that YESEO employs strong encryption to protect sensitive information, maintaining the integrity of journalistic content. He also offers insights on the future of AI in journalism and practical advice for aspiring journalists looking to adapt to the digital landscape.

Finally, Ryan outlines his vision for YESEO’s continued development, aiming to keep pace with the changing needs of newsrooms worldwide.

 

Episode Highlights

[00:02:15] – How AI is Used in Newsrooms Today
Ryan Restivo explores how AI tools are revolutionizing newsrooms by enhancing content personalization, automating text analysis, and optimizing story crafted and distribution. He provides real-world examples of these applications in action.

[00:07:30] – Introduction to YESEO
Ryan introduces YESEO, a free Slack app developed during his Reynolds Journalism Institute fellowship. Designed specifically for newsrooms, YESEO uses generative AI to suggest SEO-friendly headlines and streamline story processes in multiple languages, such as Spanish, German, and Japanese. Ryan explains how YESEO stands apart from other AI tools by focusing on journalists’ unique needs.

[00:15:00] – Unique Features of YESEO
Ryan highlights YESEO’s distinct features, including its integration with Slack, multilingual support, and tailored SEO suggestions for different newsroom requirements—from generating compelling headlines to performing in-depth pre-publication analysis.

[00:18:45] – User Growth and Impact
Since its launch in March 2023, YESEO has been adopted by over 500 workspaces, optimizing thousands of stories across various newsrooms. Ryan shares how the tool has empowered both large and small newsrooms to enhance their SEO strategies and improve workflow efficiency.

[00:30:20] – Privacy and Security Concerns
Addressing data privacy, Ryan explains that YESEO uses strong encryption to ensure all data remains private to the user, a critical feature for protecting unpublished stories and sensitive information, thus maintaining journalistic integrity.

[00:40:50] – Future of AI in Journalism
Ryan provides insights into the future of AI in journalism, forecasting gradual but significant changes in how AI tools will continue to shape storytelling, audience engagement, and digital adaptation in newsrooms.

[00:53:10] – Advice for Aspiring Journalists
Offering practical advice, Ryan emphasizes the importance of building a diverse skill set, including digital tools, analytics, and AI-driven content strategies, to stay competitive in today’s journalism landscape.

[01:02:00] – YESEO’s Future and Staying Ahead
Ryan outlines his plans for YESEO’s continued growth, focusing on adapting to the evolving needs of newsrooms and delivering ongoing value to journalists worldwide.

Guest Background

Ryan Restivo is the creator of YESEO, an AI-driven tool designed to optimize SEO for newsrooms via Slack. With over 15 years of experience in digital media, Ryan’s innovative work in AI has earned YESEO a finalist spot in the 2024 Online Journalism Awards for Excellence in AI Innovation.

Top 3 Quotes from Ryan Restivo

  1. “It’s not about replacing human judgment with AI; it’s about enhancing it with the right tools to better serve communities with accurate and timely information.”
  2. “Even though I don’t have a journalism degree, I’ve found my place at the table by solving problems for journalists. It’s all about finding those points where you can help people advance in their work.”
  3. “We’re still in the early stages, but the small steps we take today with AI could lead to massive advancements in how we deliver news and engage with communities.”

Resources for Listeners

Engagement Opportunities

  • Connect with Ryan Restivo on LinkedIn to learn more about his work with YESEO and innovations in AI for journalism.
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Stay tuned, stay curious, and stay informed!