Three Milwaukee-area consumer media professionals shared their experiences and insight with Badger NAMA members in November.  The panel discussion took place in Milwaukee’s historic Third Ward.  Moderator Andrea Bloom, Vita Plus, grilled the panel to learn how ag communicators can most effectively use mainstream news to reach consumers. Panelists included Stephanie Graham of WTMJ TV, Gitte Laasby from the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel and Jeff Tyler of Clear Channel Radio. Some of the best advice was related to how to catch – and keep – their attention:

•  “Why do I care? If I am bored with your press release after 10 seconds, it won’t get on air. If it isn’t worth sharing in social media to friends, don’t send it to the media.” – Jeff Tyler

•  “Raw milk is the new black – if you pitch a story that will garner interest, we’ll cover it.  If people care, we care.” – Gitte Laasby

•  “An email with a follow-up call is the way to go. Don’t get gimmicky.  Be a real person if you want me to tell your story.” – Stephanie Graham

• “Be the expert between stories, not during the crisis. That’s how you get to be the go-to when I need real answers.” – Jeff Tyler