24 Editor-in-Chief
What is it Like Being an Online Editor-in-Chief
On this episode of the Unboxing Careers Podcast, Greg Zakowicz unboxes the career of an editor-in chief of an online media company with Joe Keenan.
Guest: Joe Keenan is the editor-in-chief of the Retail and Travel Group at NAPCO Media, which includes Total Retail, Retail tech Insights, and Women in Retail Leadership Circle. Joe also hosts the Total Retail Talks podcast.
Connect with Joe:
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In this episode, Greg sits down with Joe Keenan, Editor-in-Chief at Napco Media, to discuss the ins and outs of digital journalism. From his career path to advice for aspiring journalists, Joe shares valuable insights into what it takes to thrive in this ever-evolving industry.
What we discuss:
Joe Keenan's Journey into Journalism
Career Progression in Digital Media
A Week in the Life of an Editor-in-Chief
The Rewards and Challenges of Journalism
Advice for Aspiring Journalists
Misconceptions in the Digital Journalism Industry
Lessons Learned in the Industry
The Importance of Relationships in Media
The Role as Editor-in-Chief
The digital media landscape has evolved dramatically, and Napco Media stands at the forefront of this transformation. Joe explains what Napco Media does and details his multifaceted role as Editor-in-Chief. From overseeing content to managing events, his responsibilities are diverse and integral to the success of three key brands.
Joe begins by explaining what Napco Media does:
Napco Media is a B2B media company covering various industries, particularly retail and travel.
Joe oversees three brands:
Total Retail
Women in Retail Leadership Circle
Women Leading Travel and Hospitality
As Editor-in-Chief, Joe's responsibilities include:
Managing content production across websites, newsletters, events, podcasts, and research reports.
Ensuring content is high-quality and engaging for the audience.
Coordinating live in-person and virtual events.
Joe describes his job as being the "eyes and ears" of everything published under his brands, from articles to event content.
Career Evolution Into Digital Journalism
Many careers take unexpected turns, and Joe's path to digital journalism is no exception. From aspiring sports writer to Editor-in-Chief in retail media, Joe's journey is a story of adaptability, resilience, and a willingness to explore new opportunities.
Joe's journey to digital journalism wasn't linear. Here's a quick breakdown:
College Beginnings: Joe majored in journalism and initially aspired to be a sports writer.
First Job: Joe started as a sports reporter for a regional newspaper.
Unexpected Change: When the newspaper folded, Joe pivoted to a copy editing role in a technical field.
Joining Napco Media: Joe joined Napco Media in 2007, working on a print magazine that eventually evolved into a fully digital-first platform.
Key Takeaway: You may not always end up where you plan, but being open to opportunities can lead to rewarding and unexpected paths.
What an Editor-in-Chief Does Each Day
What does a typical week look like for someone at the helm of multiple media brands? Joe walks us through his weekly responsibilities, shedding light on the balance between meetings, content management, and event planning.
Joe shares what his typical week looks like:
Meetings: A large part of his role involves managing teams and planning events.
Content Oversight: Ensuring newsletters and website content go out on time.
Event Planning: Curating speakers and sessions for in-person events.
Podcast Hosting: Joe also hosts Total Retail Talks, interviewing leaders in the retail space.
While the work itself can be repetitive, Joe finds that the ever-changing content and industry keep things fresh.
Career Progression in Digital Journalism
Wondering what it takes to climb the ranks in digital journalism? Joe outlines the career path from entry-level positions to leadership roles, offering a clear roadmap for those aspiring to reach the top.
For those aspiring to be an Editor-in-Chief, Joe outlines the typical career path:
Start as an Associate or Copy Editor: Entry-level roles involve basic editing and content production.
Move to Managing or Senior Editor: With experience, take on team and project management responsibilities.
Executive Roles: Progress to leadership roles like Executive Editor or Editor-in-Chief.
Pro Tip: Focus on learning and improving your writing skills, as expertise in a particular industry will come with time.
Advice for High School and College Students Interested in a Career in Journalism
Are you a student who loves to read and write but unsure about pursuing journalism? In this section, Joe offers practical advice for high school and college students to explore their passion for writing and discover if journalism is the right fit for them.
If you're a high school or college student considering journalism, Joe offers this advice:
Read and Write Regularly: Practice makes perfect. Be a voracious reader and writer.
Join School Publications: Contribute to your school newspaper, yearbook, or magazine.
Seek Internships: Gain real-world experience and build a portfolio of published work.
Be Proactive: Don’t hesitate to reach out to mentors or professionals for advice.
Challenge: Don't rule out industries you think you have no interest in. Joe admits he never imagined working in retail journalism but has come to love it.
The Rewards and Challenges of being an Editor
Every career has its ups and downs, and Joe candidly shares what he loves most about his job, as well as the tasks he'd happily leave behind. His perspective provides a balanced view of life in digital journalism.
What Joe Loves Most:
Providing content that people find valuable, whether it’s articles, podcasts, or event presentations.
Building strong relationships with his team and peers over the years.
What He Likes Least:
Repetitive manual tasks, like building spreadsheets for events.
Despite occasional monotony, Joe finds satisfaction in seeing the results of his hard work, like successfully executed events or engaging content.
Common Misconceptions About Journalism Today
Is journalism really dead? Joe addresses some of the biggest misconceptions about the industry, emphasizing how media has evolved and adapted to the digital age.
Joe highlights two key misconceptions:
Journalism is Dead: While the industry has changed, it’s not disappearing. Instead, it has shifted to digital platforms and live events.
Digital-Only Focus: While digital is crucial, in-person events and connections are still highly valuable.
Joe emphasizes the importance of innovation, as media companies must constantly adapt to survive in a competitive landscape.
Final Thoughts: Follow Your Passion
Joe’s story is proof that passion and adaptability can take you far. In this closing section, he encourages young professionals to stay curious, take initiative, and keep an open mind about where their career may lead.
Joe’s story proves that careers often take unexpected turns. His advice to young journalists:
Be Curious: Keep learning and improving your craft.
Be Open: Don’t dismiss opportunities just because they seem outside your interests.
Take Initiative: Reach out, network, and learn from those with more experience.
Takeaways For Those Interested in a Career in Journalism
A strong foundation in reading and writing is crucial for aspiring journalists.
Internships and involvement in school publications are key for gaining experience.
Digital journalism has shifted focus from print to online and event-based content.
Building relationships in the industry can accelerate career growth.
Creativity in writing may be limited in B2B journalism, but skills are transferable.
It's important to be open to opportunities outside of initial interests.
Networking and seeking mentorship can provide valuable insights.
The media industry is evolving, and adaptability is essential for success.
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