How the Baltimore Times is Using AI to Engage Communities: Paris Brown Shares Her Strategy

Highlights:

1. Harnessing AI to Enhance Local Journalism
   [00:02:19] Paris Brown shares how the Baltimore Times uses AI for tasks like transcription, spell-check, and digital content management, enabling the team to focus on community engagement and in-depth reporting.

2. The 'Petals of Resilience' Project: A Case Study in AI Innovation
   [00:07:23] An exploration of how AI, VR, and AR bring the history of Black bicyclists in Baltimore to life, creating immersive experiences that engage diverse audiences.

3. Navigating Ethical Challenges in AI
   [00:05:02] The conversation covers ethical considerations of AI in journalism, including transparency, responsible use, and maintaining traditional journalistic standards.

4. Forming Strategic Partnerships to Drive AI Initiatives
   [00:22:59] Paris discusses how collaborations with tech companies enable the Baltimore Times to experiment with AI-driven projects like Zing Frog AI, enhancing their content and community impact.

5. Future-Proofing Journalism Through Technology
   [00:31:12] Paris outlines strategies for engaging younger audiences, creating new revenue streams, and sustaining local news through innovative technologies.

6. Advice for Journalists Entering the Digital Age
   [00:34:21] Paris offers practical advice on leveraging technology, maintaining integrity, and using social influence positively.

Top Quotes:

1. "AI is a tool that can help us be more efficient, but it can't replace the human element that makes local journalism so vital."

   • Paris Brown [00:05:30]
   
   

2. "Small newsrooms have the agility to experiment and innovate without the red tape of larger organizations."

   • Paris Brown [00:02:42]
   
   

3. "We’re not just using AI to tell stories; we’re using it to create experiences that connect with our community in new and meaningful ways."

   • Paris Brown [00:07:50]
   
   

Resources Mentioned:

• Petals of Resilience Project
• Google News Initiative
• Knight Foundation's AI and Journalism Report

Connect with Paris Brown:

• Twitter: @ParisBrown
• LinkedIn: Paris Brown
• Email: parisbrown@baltimoretimes.com

Connect with Yumi Wilson:

• Website: yumiwilson.me
• Twitter: @YumiWilson
• LinkedIn: Yumi Wilson
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