This is by far the worst and most toxic station I ever worked for, and it’s not even close. The station is extremely unorganized. Melissa Medalie sets the tone for the chaotic newsroom. She claims to have an open door policy. But bringing up concerns always leads to responses that feel dismissive and manipulative. She’ll blame you for situations you’re trying to resolve.
While working here, this person experienced
An Overall Toxic Work Environment
Certain anchors were allowed to yell at reporters and speak to them in disrespectful ways, and nothing was done to address it.
There was also a lack of accountability from leadership. When decisions created problems or hurt morale, I rarely saw acknowledgment or any effort to improve things. If you’re not an anchor at this station, or on the morning show, you don’t matter.
Negative. Condescending. Look up the reviews at previous stations she’s managed. It shows there’s a pattern.
While working here, this person experienced
An Overall Toxic Work Environment
As soon as one person is out, someone’s schedule is being changed, and workloads are tripled. There is a cliche. If you’re young and single you should be fine. If not, be prepared to listen to how drunk one of them got with the group the night before.
Additional comments
It’s not a strong learning or development environment. Newer journalists are often expected to perform at a high level without adequate training, correction, or mentorship. Mistakes are more likely in this environment, yet constructive feedback and coaching are limited.
Staffing shortages contribute to high workloads and stress, but management practices further compound these issues. In particular, manager Lisa Burger frequently communicates in a condescending and dismissive manner. Feedback is often delivered without support or guidance, which discourages questions, learning, and professional growth.
Prospective employees are encouraged to read publicly available reviews from Lisa Burger’s previous stations to better understand recurring management patterns.
Employees are largely left to figure things out on their own rather than being intentionally developed. This is not a station I would recommend for early-career journalists or anyone seeking mentorship, support, or a healthy workplace culture.
Also don’t listen to Luke or Jacqueline.
Contract2-3 years, depending on the position. Some positions do not have contracts.
Station market rankbetween #1-2
News Director
Jennifer Smith
Review of News Director
I don't see how it could have been any better.
Additional comments
This station is a dream come true for young and old journalists alike. Under Bruce Carter and Brian Neal, who were named in previous reviews, the station was completely toxic. Employees were unhappy and morale was incredibly low. Under the current News Director, Jennifer Smith, everyone has a voice. She and all of the other managers, GM included, are all easily approachable and take the time to listen to any concerns... and address them right away. They give credit where credit is due, and also highly encourage everyone to give their fellow employees a "high five" on the newsroom chat platform, bringing attention to good work/attitude/contributions/ideas/etc. Employees, with with few exceptions, lift each other up and help each other out every single day, no matter the position, tenure or level of experience. It's a true team and employees really do enjoy coming to work every day! It's a unicorn, and I wish I had realized how good it really was before I moved to another market. I would have stayed put if I had known first-hand how other stations operate, and now hope to get back there someday. The grass isn't always greener... unless the other side is WLEX.
Scripps, on the other hand, isn't a great company to work for, but I'd still go back in a heartbeat if given the chance.