The 2025 Annual Conference Workshops and Presentations
DAY 1 of 2
Thursday, May 1, 2025
8:00 - NOON Registration
9:00 - 11:00 AM Morning Workshops
9:00 - 10:00 AM
Artificial Intelligence (AI) Impact on Broadcast & Government Meeting Workflows
Explore how artificial intelligence (AI) is reshaping the future of community media. This session will highlight the growing impact of AI on broadcast and government meeting workflows — including intelligent playout scheduling, content metadata and tagging, meeting summaries, agenda generation, advanced search, production and editing, generative content, audience engagement, and accessibility for captioning in multiple languages, Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG), Secondary Audio Programming (SAP), Audio Description (AD). Ideal for community media managers, operators, producers, and technologists looking to understand and leverage the power of AI in modern media operations.
10:15 - 11:15 AM
AI and Media
Artificial Intelligence is rapidly changing how local media teams work and create. From generative video tools to workflow automation, AI can help small stations and government communicators do more with less. Join Emmy-winning producer Erich Archer and operations strategist Dana Healy as they share real-world examples of how AI is being used today to support storytelling, efficiency, and community engagement.
Getting the Most Out of Modern Automation – Beyond Channel Playout
Today’s automation tools go far beyond traditional channel playout. This session dives into how community media centers can harness modern automation to save time and streamline scheduling, content acquisition, live and VOD streaming, website & app publishing, social media posting and integration, archiving, accessibility, and channel branding. Discover practical strategies and real-world examples to help you save time, expand viewership, increase accessibility, and even generate new sources of revenue. Learn how modern tools can allow you to focus more on storytelling and community outreach while letting automation handle the rest.
11:00 AM - 6:30 pm Exhibit Show Open
Noon - 1:15 PM Opening Lunch and Keynote Presentation
Welcome
Scott Mealiff, President, WCM Board of Directors
Ross Rowe, Chair, Midwest Region of the Alliance for Community Media
Keynote Presentation: Lights, Camera… Income! Turning Your Local Media Center Into a Money-Making Machine
Think your local media center is just for hobbyists? Think again! In this lively and actionable keynote, Dannelle Gay—TV host, syndicated columnist, and award-winning media producer—shares the secrets to transforming community resources into income streams. From podcasting and video content to branded series and sponsorships, learn how to monetize your passion projects, build your personal brand, and unlock the full potential of your media center. If you’re ready to cash in without selling out, this session is your new playbook.
1:30 - 5:00 PM Afternoon Workshops
1:30 - 2:30 PM
IP Networking for PEG: A Practical Guide to NDI
Ever feel lost in a sea of IP addresses and network cables? This session is designed to equip PEG producers with the fundamental knowledge of computer networking, tailored specifically for video production environments. We'll break down the basics, from understanding IP addressing and network topologies to troubleshooting common connectivity issues. In today's evolving production landscape, NDI has revolutionized video workflows, enabling seamless transmission of high-quality video and audio over standard IP networks. We'll delve into the practical applications of NDI in PEG settings, exploring how it can streamline your production process and enhance your capabilities.
Podcast Power: Creating Engaging Content & Building Your Audience
"Ready to launch or elevate your podcast? This session dives deep into the art of crafting compelling audio content and mastering effective distribution strategies to build a loyal and engaged audience. We'll explore the essential elements of a successful podcast, from defining your niche and developing a unique format to mastering audio production and storytelling techniques. Learn how to create content that captivates listeners and keeps them coming back for more."
2:30 PM - 3:00 PM - Time to network and visit the exhibitors.
3:00 - 4:00 PM
WCM PROGRAM FUND MEETING
You are invited to attend this meeting of the WCM Program Fund as we discuss new ideas. Help us develop ideas for a series of short videos on Do It Yourself Government: The American Dream.
We hope to tap into the concerns of our times while explaining how the federal government works.
Podcast Engineering: Mastering the Technical Side of Audio Excellence
Beyond compelling content lies the crucial foundation of high-quality audio. This session is designed for podcasters who want to elevate their productions by mastering the technical aspects of podcast creation. We'll delve into the intricacies of audio engineering, equipment selection, and workflow optimization to ensure your podcast sounds professional and engaging.
TBA #3
4:15 PM - 5:00 PM
WCM ANNUAL MEETING
5:00 - 6:30 PM Exhibitors Reception
Meet and talk with Our Exhibitors and join us for appetizers, drinks and good conversation.
