Nancy Chen
May 17, 2012, Nancy reported directly to Doug
As a reporter, I had the pleasure of working with Doug for about a year and can say he’s one of the greatest mentors I’ve had. He pushed me every single day to raise the level of my work, coaching me on all aspects—from newsgathering to shooting to writing and to editing. He transformed me completely as a multimedia journalist and taught me to appreciate shooting as an art and editing as storytelling. Doug’s ability to be supportive but still continually strive for more is incredible. Any reporter would be extraordinarily lucky to learn from him. I would not be where I am today without him.
James Koh
December 22, 2011, James reported directly to Doug
Doug was truly a gifted leader in the newsroom.
Competitive as hell, his fire and spirit were infectious without being overbearing.
But it was his intuition and intelligence that really set Doug apart.
He knew exactly how to motivate, adapting his approach to the situation and the person. Sometimes harshly, other times with a much softer, empathetic approach.
His understanding of the product is unique in that he understands that good video will generally beget good stories.
To that end, he worked EXTENSIVELY with photographers to improve the product from that end. This is in addition to working with producers and reporters to improve writing.
With his guidance ANY newsroom will see dramatic improvement in both the product as well as the overall morale.
Nineveh Madsen
CMO at OPENVPN, INC. & Private Tunnel + Founder & CEO of HER magazine
September 22, 2009, Nineveh reported directly to Doug
Doug Barden is one of the most professional and passionate News Directors I've worked for. He is dedicated to excellence and has a keen news sense. He knows how to manage without micromanaging. While he was my boss, he was also a great mentor that guided me through the ups and downs of being a journalist. He exemplifies the perfect balance of manager and mentor. I would work for him any day, and certianly hope we cross paths again.
Kirk Yuhnke
Morning Anchor/Reporter at KDVR - FOX 31
September 21, 2009, Kirk reported directly to Doug
I worked with Doug at KSTU in Salt Lake City. Doug was the assistant news director and I reported to Doug on a daily basis. He was a great manager. He really understood the challenges that we all faced in the newsroom. He was very good at motivating us and helping us to manage our time and workflow. I knew that I could approach Doug with problems, challenges or questions and Doug would take the time to help me out. I grew to respect Doug while working at KSTU and am proud to say he's become a friend over the years.
John Cádiz Klemack
June 9, 2008, John Cádiz reported directly to Doug
There are some managers that make you not want to even bother showing up for work. And there are others that re-ignite your passion for what you do. Doug is one of the latter. What made Doug different than any other manager I've worked for was his insistence that my work was my work. He never tried to change me, only helped to improve me. I can honestly say that I could never be where I am today with the guidance of Doug Barden. And to top it off, Doug is not only a former boss and colleague, but a true friend.
Toi Thornton
Anchor/Reporter/MMJ at KLAF/KADN News
February 27, 2017, Toi reported directly to Doug
Doug was my News Director for a little less than a year. He is responsible for the foundation of my journalism career and I will forever owe him. I literally watched Doug build an entire news department for a station that news didn't really exist at prior to him. He was not only a News Director, he was also a teacher. I learned many writing, shooting, reporting, and editing tricks from him. Doug was also a great leader and motivator! It was a pleasure having Doug as my boss!
Kristen Dray
News Reporter at KLAF (NBC) / KADN (FOX)
January 8, 2017, Kristen reported directly to Doug
How grateful can you be to the guy who gave you your first job out of college? The answer is infinitely; because the dominos, for me, started to fall because of Doug Barden.
Except the dominos fall in different directions, as Doug is the type of person who pushes you forward in more ways than one. Not only does he talk the talk, but he walks the walk, and leads by example. Doug illustrates firsthand that no task is out of reach and is the epitome of a "go-getter."
In his newsroom, every idea has an opportunity to be further explored. Doug constantly ignites the spark to keep the ball rolling. He's always thinking what else, what more and, in turn, rising to the new challenge that ultimately unfolds.
As a mentor, Doug has a way of seeing a greater potential in what people see in themselves; thus, encouraging the notion to do and be better. He will accept you as you are but will not allow you to plateau. In other words, Doug cracks the door but allows you to open it.
Doug values people, their God-given gifts, and the discovery for an individual's purpose. He would give you the shirt off his back and never a dishonest word out of his mouth.
I'm lucky to have had the opportunity to learn under someone who has inspired so many. So here's to the domino you've tipped, and the many more that will fall.
Danielle Grossman
Evening Anchor, Managing Editor at KLAF-TV
December 23, 2016, Danielle reported directly to Doug
Doug is one of the most knowledgeable and positive people I have ever met in this business but his skills go beyond news. He is dedicated to everything he does and puts his heart into each and every project. He is a great leader and even better mentor. He is the kind of person that makes you want to succeed, excel and strive for bigger things in life. I am truly grateful I was able to work and learn from him at KLAF.
Collin Kushner
Weekend Sports Anchor/Weekday Sports Reporter at KLAF/KADN-TV (NEWS 15)
December 14, 2016, Collin reported directly to Doug
From the moment I met Doug Barden, I knew that I wanted to work for him. Doug has been a mentor of mine the last few years and my boss the last six months @ KLAF/KADN-TV. He gave me my first shot in commercial TV... and I haven't looked back. If you want something different... something you have never seen before... Doug is your guy! His work in TV news speaks for itself. He's always thinking outside the box, re-inventing the wheel so to speak. He takes his shots down field... and it always pays off. I can honestly say, I would not be where I am today without Doug's guidance last few years. From day one, Doug knew what I brought to the table. He didn't try and change me... All he wanted me to do was continue being myself. I will never forget what Doug has done for my career! I'll always consider him a mentor. But more importantly, a friend for life.
Carina Corral
Morning Anchor/Reporter at KSEE-TV 24
December 11, 2015, Carina reported directly to Doug
I've worked with many news directors and Doug, hands down, is one of the best. His ability to mentor, mold, guide and manage is incomparable. He has a way of pushing you to achieve your very best, in a way that is supportive and encouraging. I've personally seen him take some of the greenest, rookie reporters and turn them into newsroom stars who moved onto to top size markets. Doug leads his newsroom with a type of energy that is contagious. He takes care to build professional relationships with his employees that last far longer than their employment with him. He's a breaking news expert, a news industry innovator and a true newsroom leader who isn't afraid to pick up a camera or a microphone if the situation calls for it. He's helped shape the next generation of journalists and we are better for it. I haven't worked with Doug for three years, yet I sing his praises to this day. Hire him, you won't regret it.
Ron Yukelson
Chief Business Development Officer, Central Coast Service Area
December 6, 2015, Ron worked with Doug but at different companies
As the guy on the other side of the newsroom who worked with Doug to provide information on breaking news or pitching a story idea I found Doug to not only be fair but also someone I could always trust and be condident tnat if I provided context he would honor the confidentiality. I know Doug to run a solid newsroom, be a mentor to young reporters and put on a good broadcast consistently. He is one of the most fair and talented I have worked with in the past 30 years.
Katherine Worsham
Executive Producer of Digital & Special Projects at KSBY TV
December 2, 2015, Katherine reported directly to Doug
Doug has all of the qualities expected of a news director -- excellent news judgement, understanding of journalism ethics, good managerial skills -- but the strength of his leadership is in how he works with his employees. Doug is much more than a boss, he is a mentor and a collaborator. He expects the best from his employees and provides them with the guidance needed to succeed, pulling from his personal experiences in the field. He also knows when to turn to others with different experiences for feedback or advice. Doug doesn't just sit in his office, he's truly a member of the newsroom.
Doug is also always thinking toward the future, seeking out the latest resources to keep the newsroom at the forefront of technology and providing the consumer with the type of news they want.
Travis Clark
Sports Anchor/Sports Reporter at KSBY TV
December 2, 2015, Travis reported directly to Doug
Doug has a natural ability to build rapport with his employees on an individual level. So many times a manager will manage their staff one way. Not Doug, he understands that everyone is different, and as such, treats them that way. Me personally, he always went out of his way to help with whatever I needed along with building my confidence on air. I would work for him anytime.
Matt SantaMaria
December 1, 2015, Doug was senior to Matt but didn’t manage directly
Doug gave me a chance that not many in his position probably would have when he hired me as a sports director in 2013. He gave me sincere honesty from the first conversation we ever had and he gave me the opportunity and the guidance that I needed to grow as a person and as a sports director over the past 2+ years. I can not possibly say enough good things about him as a colleague and as a friend.
Danielle Lerner
Morning and Midday Anchor/MMJ at KNXV ABC 15
July 8, 2013, Danielle reported directly to Doug
Doug was only my News Director for a few months, but I learned such an incredible amount in that short time and I continue to learn from him today. Doug is passionate about the product and his employees, always pushing for the best while maintaining an approachable, compassionate demeanor. He's also a true team player, never hesitating to put in long hours or pick up a camera and help cover news in the field when needed. As an MMJ he showed me how to use video, editing and words to create compelling pieces. He also taught me to appreciate the art of being an MMJ, rather than seeing it as "a harsh reality of the business." Even though I work at another station now, Doug has always made himself available to offer advice, constructive criticism or even just a friendly ear! I would greatly welcome the opportunity to work for him again!
Bethany Tucker
February 18, 2013, Bethany reported directly to Doug
Doug was my news director at KSBY for less than a year -- and believe me, I wish it had been longer!
Doug is a positive and encouraging leader in the newsroom. He truly pushes you to be the best you can be, in turn, making the newsroom the best it can be. He's not afraid to hunker down and get his hands dirty either. If it means he needs to go out with a reporter to make sure he or she gets the shots needed to tell a story in the best way... he'll be the first to volunteer and make it happen.
Doug is a winner. Where he goes -- success follows. I would love to one day have the opportunity to work for him again!
Lou Enriquez
Photojournalist at Univision Communications Inc.
January 12, 2013, Lou reported directly to Doug
Doug is one of the most passionate and involved News Directors I have ever worked for. I witnessed this first hand while working under his leadership as a new Photojournalist joining his news team at KBFX/KBAK in Bakersfield, CA.
At every morning and afternoon news meeting, Doug was present with an open mind, ready to listen to our story ideas, provide his thoughts, and decide not only as a leader, but as a group which stories we all agreed would be the very best stories to investigate and report on.If and when the quality of my work was not up to our NPPA quality standards, Doug was there to ask what went wrong, listen, and how I could improve in the future. If I was trying to set up a LIVE shot from the field and things didn’t go as smoothly as planned, Doug was there via phone or IFB to find out what the problem was and how he could be of help to get it resolved.At 5pm and 6pm, Monday through Friday, you could count on finding Doug being glued to the televisions in our newsroom watching our news broadcast with the rest of the news team. I can guarantee that even while off the clock he would be watching each and every news
broadcast. Having a News Director that was always so involved expressed to everyone that all of us had to perform at our highest potential. We all had to make sure that our quality of work was the very best we could deliver and more. It was always about making sure that we could beat our competition where it hurts; ratings.As a result of working with and for Doug, he helped me become the best Photographer I could be. Although he is working for a different station now, the quality of my work continues to improve each and every day simply because at times I still feel that Doug is watching!
Therefore, I would definitely recommend Mr. Doug Barden for any leadership role. He has the qualities of being an outstanding leader and I will be forever grateful for his decision in making me a part of his team 2010.
Anthony Bailey
Morning Weather Anchor at CBS47
April 27, 2012, Anthony reported directly to Doug
During my time working for Doug I found him to be an exceptional leader.
Doug arrived in our newsroom with a goal of making our team the top rated news station in town. That is just what he did.
From photographers to reporters to anchors he devoted countless hours to helping people get better. His drive, competitiveness and determination spread across our newsroom.
Doug has a unique leadership style that allowed me to grow as a journalist. He went beyond just reading the final script; he was great about sharing ideas. From concept to the writing phase he was good at knowing what would grab people’s attention.
I truly enjoyed my time working on his team.
Keisha Courtney
Communications Manager at Head-Royce School
January 18, 2012, Keisha reported directly to Doug
With the changing world of news, news directors have to know what it takes to adapt and succeed. That is exactly what Doug does.
His guidance and encouragement led our team to achieve numerous awards including six Emmy's.
He wasn't the kind of news director who would sit around and boss orders. He was very hands on was always available to talk.
With Doug as a leader any newsroom will succeed.
Nicole Neumiller
November 29, 2011, Nicole reported directly to Doug
If there is one thing that Doug Barden knows, it is news. His vast knowledge of the business helped make my transition into television news a seamless one. He is good at fostering talent and encouraging his employees to grow. He constantly pushed me to improve and achieve seemingly impossible goals. I credit much of my success in this business to his guidance and encouragement.
Sean Collins
Captain at Kern County Fire Dapartment
June 2, 2011, Sean worked with Doug but at different companies
Doug has been instrumental in assisting me with my needs to connect with the Public of Kern County. I very much appreciate his help in enabling me to work directly with reporters to get important safety messages out. Additionally, during emergency assignments Doug appreciates the system in which I have to work for the timely release of accurate information, this information has been passed down to his reporters and shows the leadership qualities that Doug brings to his organization.
Heather Armstrong
Anchor, WXOW, News 19 - ABC Affiliate
May 15, 2011, Heather reported directly to Doug
I worked for Doug Barden during the summer of 2010. It was a pivotal moment in my career. The experience I received at KBAK was monumental in giving me the confidence to pursue my current full time position. From the very beginning Doug mentored me....offering constructive criticism and challenging me to think outside the box.
It took months to get an interview with Doug, but I can honestly say, it was worth it. Doug runs a tight operation and demands the highest of journalistic standards.
Doug embodies all of the qualities you want in a leader. It was a privilege to work for him.
Laurie Schulte
Communications Specialist at City of Bloomington, MN
December 20, 2010, Laurie reported directly to Doug
Doug played a huge role in morphing me into the journalist I am today. After graduating from college, I had the passion but lacked the guidance it takes to succeed in this ever-changing, competitive business. After a short two months working a post-grad internship at KBAK, Doug helped me create a demo reel that landed me 15 phone interviews and a job within two weeks of sending my tape out. There is no doubt he knows talent, but his enthusiasm for sharing his wealth of experience is inspiring. I couldn’t ask for a better mentor.
Gregory Diette
Experienced Television Director
May 20, 2010, Gregory worked with Doug in different groups
Doug is an ambitious and innovative newsroom manager. While I did not report to Doug or his department, it was always a pleasure collaborating with him on our common objectives. It was widely known in the building what a great manager Doug was. Doug knows how to motivate a crew. When it comes to breaking news, Doug knows what it takes to get on first and accurate.
Micaela Choo
Digital Media Strategist at Utah Digital Services of The Salt Lake Tribune
November 19, 2008, Doug worked with Micaela in the same group
When I think of what makes the perfect business partner, I think of Doug Barden. He is always encouraging and asks "What can I do?." Starting a business is so difficult - particularly in television. That's why so many people in TV continue to work for others instead of branching out on their own. Doug took a risk and left the newsroom because he had a vision to create compelling television worldwide. He is honest, talented, creative and kind. It is an honor to call him a friend and a business partner.
Mark W. Roberts
Experienced Public Relations / Strategic Communications Professional
July 19, 2010, Mark W. reported directly to Doug
Doug is a talented, hardworking, and dedicated news manager. He brings great news judgment to the table and establishes a clear plan of action. He's able to manage a myriad of issues and quickly establish solutions that achieve results. But what truly sets Doug apart from others is his ability to manage a variety of personalities. He maneuvers around personal agendas and gets every member of the team working toward a common goal. If there is an art to being a good manager, Doug is a true artist in this regard. I highly recommend him.
Gene Kennedy
Evening Anchor 5,6 & 10pm WGEM-TV
September 29, 2009, Gene reported directly to Doug
The days I enjoyed going to work at KRNV were the days Doug Barden was there. He has some special gifts. Doug has a way of managing that motivates people. You know he's your boss but you know he's also part of the team, that you're in the challenge of the news day together. In this challenging time in the TV news business, there are VERY few people that I would move to a different city to work for. Doug Barden is one of those few. . He's been a mentor to me, a boss that doesn't micromanage and also has a very creative spirit that he brings to the table daily. I miss not working with him.
Nina Bouphasavanh
Producer | Writer | Consultant
April 5, 2010, Nina reported directly to Doug
I had the great honor of working for Doug Barden when I was just starting out as a news reporter/anchor in Cheyenne, Wyoming. As a manager, Doug is a combination of dedication, versatility, and compassion. He empowers his staff to strive for excellence on a daily basis and is always encouraging under all kinds of circumstances. He truly cares about the quality of work being produced and considers the personal and professional needs of those he manages. Doug is also willing to pitch in wherever and whenever necessary to create the best results for his organization. He would be a great addition to any team.