Crossroads This Week (CTW) publisher, Ryan Nesbitt, was recently named one of the Top 25 Under 35 in the North American newspaper industry by Editor & Publisher (E&P) magazine.
This is no small feat when you consider that the list includes representatives from major newspapers like the New York Times and Wall Street Journal.
While the publications themselves are quite different, there is something that each young professional featured has in common, says E&P.
“These are the leaders moving our industry forward.”
Ryan took on the role of publisher in 2016, after his father, Greg, retired from the position. And while the former publisher had created a solid foundation for CTW and sister publication the South Mountain Press, Ryan breathed new life into both.
“His dedication to producing the best product possible and his willingness to try something new inspires the best from his staff,” wrote his employees, who nominated Nesbitt for the award.
“That’s probably the part of this that feels the most rewarding,” said Nesbitt. “I was truly humbled knowing that the people I spend every day with think of me like that.”
He admitted that he was shocked when he found out he made the list.
“When I look at the list and see people from the New York Times, the Wall Street Journal and USA Today it is kind of unbelievable. I am beyond honoured to be mentioned in the same breath as these bright minds. And truthfully, I think you're only as good as those that you work alongside, and I work alongside the best.
Telling local stories
Nesbitt's desire to produce a quality product stems from the belief that the local paper plays an important role in the communities it serves.
“I believe we are the storytellers of our region. My vision has been to give people interesting, positive stories to read. As our world view gets larger by the day, I think weekly newspapers can remind us that there are people and events close to home that are worth talking about.
“It shouldn't always be about what's going on everywhere else. My vision is to look close to home, to our local communities, and the unique people who live here. What can we learn from our talented neighbours and friends? Those are the stories we aim to bring to life and we are the only place that people can read about them,” he said.
“Facebook doesn't write stories or invest in our communities...”
When asked about the increase in social media and the impact it has on the newspaper industry, Nesbitt says there is a need for both.
“The quick stream of information is fine, but will never give you the whole story. Knowing that people can post whatever they want shows it can't be fully trusted, which has been shown on the world stage. I think that newspapers have and always will be a trusted place to go to find out the facts and have them presented in a professional, reliable way.
“The truth is, Facebook doesn't write stories or invest in our communities, they don't buy tickets to local events, and they don't provide local jobs. If people want to advertise their event on Facebook so be it. I know we do good work and provide the best way to reach local customers at the best price point...” he added.
It can be challenging, though, to maintain the fine line between news and advertising; both are essential to maintaining a newspaper said Nesbitt.
“Newspapers are here to serve the communities and people they represent, and we're always thankful when people trust us to tell their stories. Our writers put a lot of time and care into telling these stories the right way and doing them justice. We are also appreciative of news tips and story ideas from our readers, that's where many of the most interesting ideas come from. Newspapers are the voice of our communities so I encourage everyone to give yourself a voice and reach out to us when you have a unique idea.”
“newspaper advertising offers a great value for the money”
But storytelling is just part of the equation. Without revenue to pay staff, the stories would remain silent.
“We are here to tell the stories of our communities, but we are also a business. And I really believe that newspaper advertising offers a great value for the money. So there is a line we need to draw and it is hard for people to come to terms with sometimes.
“We are always willing to work with community groups to promote their events in a way that cannot only satisfy their budgets, but make them a profit by getting more people through the door. A $40 ad to promote your event may bring in an additional 50 people at $10 each. That's just smart business.”
After hours
“As I've gotten older, I've found myself gravitating more and more to hobbies that allow me to express myself creatively. In the last year, I've begun making videos and short films, which started as a way to capture our vacations and turned into something that I am really passionate about.
I also enjoy painting, spending time with my beautiful wife Jill and watching my beloved Maple Leafs.”
The couple is expecting their first child in June.
Parenthood will be an opportunity for Nesbitt to lay a solid foundation of his own to pass on to his child, just as his father did before him.
“I really respect all that my father accomplished during his 40 years in the newspaper business. Being president of the Canadian Community Newspaper Association as well as Manitoba president for multiple terms, I felt I had big shoes to fill stepping into the publisher role two years ago.”
Ryan Nesbit concluded, “I've tried to follow the path he created and give it my own spin along the way.”
