The Art of Integrating Media

Ready, Aim, 4, 3, 2, 1. For 56 years, I have written, spoken, sung, and created messaging for print, broadcast, stage, and studio. The art of integrating journalism, advertising, music, theater, acting, directing, producing, audio, video, and performance with responsible entrepreneurship is something I call Media Integrity.

Journalistic integrity was a hallmark of CBS — from Murrow to Pelley — until the human element of getting the story right became compromised. It all begins with preparation: getting ready, doing the homework, and mastering the art of the interview and the art of integrating media. Use all your senses.

1. Journal: No matter what, make journaling a daily habit — reading, writing, and a little math every day. If you have a task to do, homework is something you don't get paid for, but it pays off. Ask any teacher about lesson plans. Ready, AIM.

2. Listen: Listen to family, friends, and neighbors. Hear their pain points and ask the right questions about how, together, you can make a difference.

3. Vision: Cast and understand the signs of the times and the times of the signs. Objective planning with family, colleagues, and community on proactive ways to prevent forest fires is paramount to where we live, work, and serve — among other things.

4. Share: Share art, poetry, literature, and songs — at the library, recreation center, and community center.

5. Kinetic Kindness: Go for a creative walk. Literally run your errands in your sneakers. Join a Kinetic TAG Team — walking, talking, thinking, and acting. Clean a stretch of road together. Xeriscape a yard, or build a fence so deer won't destroy your trees and buffalo grass.

6. Take pictures, cook a meal, have a potluck, start a coffeehouse. Be involved in your community.

7. Record Home, Work, and Community Events. Observe the past, celebrate the present, and plan for the future.

Beattie Communications Studios is a network of organizations that serve communities through parks and recreation, education, arts and media, transportation, travel, and responsible entrepreneurship. We are seeking board members for the Colorado Chapter of the Leadon Family Foundation, Valley Parks and Recreation, and Sound Century Academy of Recording Arts and Broadcasting, through Think and Act Groups (TAG Team). To get involved, email Richard Beattie at RichardBeattie809@gmail.com.