1. Understand NewsNation (Formerly Current TV):
* Know the Brand: NewsNation is a news-focused channel aiming for objective and unbiased reporting. Understand their target audience (news junkies, cord-cutters, politically diverse viewers) and the types of programs they typically air.
* Study Existing Programming: Watch a variety of NewsNation shows. Analyze their format, tone, subject matter, production quality, and target demographic. This will help you tailor your show concept to fit their overall programming strategy.
* Identify Gaps: Look for gaps in their programming lineup. Is there a topic or perspective that they're not currently covering? Is there a unique format that would complement their existing shows?
2. Develop Your Show Concept:
* Unique Selling Proposition (USP): What makes your show different and better than anything else on the network or in the news landscape? Why should viewers tune in to your show specifically?
* Target Audience: Clearly define your target audience. Who are you trying to reach? What are their interests, needs, and concerns?
* Format: Decide on the format of your show. Will it be:
* News Segment/Clip: An investigative journalism clip for an existing show, maybe a regular contributor
* Talk Show/Panel Discussion: A host-driven show featuring interviews and discussions.
* Documentary: A long-form exploration of a specific issue or topic.
* Investigative Series: A multi-part series exposing wrongdoing or exploring complex problems.
* Other formats: Reality, comedy or travel are very unlikely
* Content Outline: Develop a detailed outline for several episodes. This should include specific topics, guests, segments, and overall narrative arc.
* Budget: Create a realistic budget for producing your show. Consider all costs, including personnel, equipment, location fees, editing, and marketing. Be realistic about funding options (self-funded, investors, etc.).
* Pilot Episode: Ideally, produce a pilot episode or a well-produced sizzle reel (a short, compelling video showcasing your show's concept and potential). This will give network executives a clear sense of your show's look, feel, and quality.
3. Prepare Your Pitch Package:
* Executive Summary: A concise overview of your show, highlighting its key features, target audience, and unique selling proposition.
* Treatment: A detailed written description of your show, including the concept, format, target audience, episode outlines, and potential guests.
* Pilot Script (if applicable): A full script for your pilot episode.
* Budget Breakdown: A detailed breakdown of your production costs.
* Team Bios: Brief biographies of your key team members, highlighting their experience and expertise.
* Visuals: Include any relevant visuals, such as concept art, logos, or sample footage.
* Release Forms: Ensure you have acquired permission from any actors, or anyone mentioned.
4. Networking and Building Connections:
* Industry Events: Attend industry conferences, film festivals, and networking events to meet network executives, producers, and other industry professionals.
* LinkedIn: Connect with people who work at NewsNation (or other news stations) on LinkedIn. Start by researching their job titles and responsibilities to identify those who might be relevant to your show.
* Referrals: Ask your contacts if they know anyone at NewsNation who would be willing to review your pitch. A referral can significantly increase your chances of getting your pitch heard.
* Cold Emailing: While challenging, you can try cold emailing network executives or producers. Keep your email concise, personalized, and professional. Highlight your show's unique value proposition and explain why it would be a good fit for NewsNation.
5. Pitching Your Show:
* Target the Right People: Research the specific individuals at NewsNation who are responsible for acquiring new programming. This may include development executives, programming directors, or producers.
* Craft Your Pitch: Develop a compelling pitch that clearly communicates your show's concept, target audience, and potential for success. Tailor your pitch to the specific interests and needs of the person you're pitching to.
* Practice Your Pitch: Rehearse your pitch thoroughly so that you can deliver it confidently and persuasively.
* Be Prepared to Answer Questions: Anticipate potential questions that network executives might ask about your show, such as its budget, target audience, and long-term potential.
* Follow Up: After your pitch, follow up with the network executives to reiterate your interest and answer any remaining questions.
6. Legal Considerations:
* Intellectual Property: Protect your show's concept and characters by registering a copyright or trademark.
* Contracts: If NewsNation expresses interest in your show, be sure to have a lawyer review the contract before signing it.
Important Considerations:
* Persistence: Getting a show onto a network is a challenging and competitive process. Don't get discouraged if you face rejection. Keep refining your show concept, improving your pitch, and networking with industry professionals.
* Flexibility: Be prepared to adapt your show concept based on feedback from network executives.
* Professionalism: Maintain a professional attitude throughout the entire process.
* Alternative Platforms: If you are struggling to get your show on NewsNation, consider producing it independently and distributing it through other platforms, such as YouTube, Vimeo, or podcasting. This can help you build an audience and gain valuable experience.
In summary, getting a show onto NewsNation requires a strong concept, a well-prepared pitch package, effective networking, and a lot of persistence. Good luck!