In this episode, investigative journalist Mark Albert dives deep into the pressing issue of misinformation and disinformation in the digital age. He and host John Bates explore how social media algorithms contribute to the spread of false narratives and why discerning news consumption is essential for a healthy democracy. Mark emphasizes the importance of supporting trustworthy journalism, shares eye-opening statistics about online disinformation, and highlights how foreign and domestic actors manipulate public opinion. Key Takeaways: - The Information Crisis: With more access to information than ever, we are also bombarded with misleading content. - Journalism's Role: Professional journalism plays a critical role in offering well-rounded, reliable news. - The Emotional Manipulation of Disinformation: Watch out for news that evokes strong emotions—this could be a sign of manipulation. - Polarization and Political Violence: Mark discusses the alarming rise in political violence and the dangerous division in society. - The Global Influence on US Elections: How foreign powers, including Russia, China, and Iran, aim to destabilize US democracy by spreading disinformation. Quote of the Episode: "If all you're consuming is ice cream, you're missing the nutritious information your mind needs." This episode is a must-listen for those seeking to better understand the complexities of our media landscape and how to be a more informed, responsible news consumer and citizen. Listen Now!
Mark Albert is the founder and CEO of Media Advisory Experts, a Washington, DC-based consultancy providing media training, crisis communications, earned media, storytelling and video production services to clients in the U.S. and around the globe. He and his team guide leaders on their path to amplify their stories in the media, coaching top executives from C-suite to founders.
Mark is also a Peabody and EMMY award-winning master storyteller with a 25-year journalism career distinguished by investigative and political reporting, innovative storytelling techniques, and creative communications. He's traveled the world for CBS News and reported from the White House, Capitol Hill and the US Supreme Court; created and led a national investigative unit for Hearst Communications; taught journalists in newsrooms in the US, Vietnam, and Pakistan; launched an online news startup and podcast about travel news and deals; and created a media database to drive countless earned media appearances. Mark has won some of the biggest honors in journalism while landing high-profile, national interviews, including with philanthropist and tech pioneer Bill Gates, government and political leaders at history-making moments, and visionary creators. He’s been invited to bring his energetic, passionate speaking to audiences around the world.
Mark has been to 86 countries so far – with a goal to visit them all
Find Mark at https://www.linkedin.com/in/markalbertreporter/ & https://www.mediamasteryexperts.com/