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An Overall Toxic Work Environment

Competition matters most here. Couldn’t trust coworkers. ND wants to beat other stations always. Many times, we will be the only station to do a liveshot at a location. Have to convince them it’s unsafe, then get a mouthful and retaliated against for it. Newbies, don’t expect a steady schedule for at least a year. As for big things, this is a station with great branding that is trusted by viewers and gets the job done. Low pay for the market. Overall, not the worst. Not the best. They play favorites, just do your best to be one of them I guess.

Always check on a station retention rate, especially at a station that has a sunny amazing climate and is a top 15 market. If it has all that to offer and most people don’t stay, it may be worth inquiring as to why that is.

Racial Discrimination, An Overall Toxic Work Environment

The toxic environment was driven by poor leadership practices including favoritism, inconsistent accountability, and communication that often felt punitive rather than supportive. This led to high stress, disengagement, and low trust across teams. Racial discrimination was reflected in unequal enforcement of standards, disproportionate scrutiny of Black employees, and limited responsiveness when concerns were raised. These behaviors contributed to a workplace culture where equity and inclusion were more performative than practiced. Also there was inequitable promotion of minority on-air talent. Let's also talk about Kathy Hostetter, the General Manager. I've never seen someone in a leadership role with a lack of empathy on her level. She is the true definition of "I could give zero "Fs". One of the most evil people I've ever known or worked with. In the span of 3 years, over 20 employees were either terminated or were forced to resign due to her leadership style. She and Tanya are the primary reasons the morale is what it is there...combined with clueless and terrible leadership at the corporate level.

Prospective employees should understand that this station struggles with favoritism, poor communication, and inconsistent leadership. Workload expectations are high while support is limited. Many staff feel burned out, undervalued, and hesitant to speak up due to fear of retaliation or being labeled “difficult.” The culture does not encourage transparency or psychological safety.

I've worked at some terrible stations in the past, but I can say without question this was the worst experience I've ever had working in tv news. Avoid this place like the plague.

The building itself is dark, old and depressing. There have been past rodent and air quality issues. When concerns were raised they were dismissed.

Racial Discrimination, An Overall Toxic Work Environment

I write this review with the best intentions. The prior reviews are accurate. The current leadership, both news director and general manager have proliferated a very toxic work environment. If you are not the favorite, do not expect any opportunities for learning or growth. There is no constructive criticism, just bullying. Judy Slate has been reported to HR by at least 4 different employees and nothing changes. And from the words of the general manager himself, you are just a number on their payroll. I watched too many young journalists loose their spark and leave news all together because of this. Which is a shame because it is the most viewed station in Southwest Montana. I experienced daily harassment, and by the end of my contract was so beaten down and depressed I almost lost myself. There is no accountability here, no one will stand up for you. They are complacent to the abuse. There is no training program for newcomers, and you will be taken advantage of.

I suggest applying elsewhere until Judy Slate and Bobby Bachman retire.