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North America

My Summer in Ukraine Announced

RAW TRAVEL’S “MY SUMMER IN UKRAINE” SERIES TO PREMIERE IN APRI

Four-Part Docuseries to Premiere on Broadcast TV Before Hitting Film Festival Circuit 

NEW YORK, NY: January 18, 2024 – AIM Tell-A-Vision® Group (AIM TV), producers of the nation’s most-watched travel show, Raw Travel, announced plans to premiere a four-part docuseries entitled “My Summer in Ukraine beginning April 27 for four weeks through May 19, 2024, on broadcast syndication. Later, a film version will tour a film festival circuit. 

Based on Raw Travel Producer and Host Robert G. Rose’s travels in Ukraine in the summer of 2023, the film explores what it’s like to travel in a war zone as Rose profiles various humanitarians, filmmakers, soldiers, and inspirational Ukrainians.

Rose traveled to several hotspots such as Odesa, MykolaivKharkiv, and a harrowing trip to Kherson City, where he and his cohorts came under mortar fire from Russian munitions. 

The trip coincidentally timed during some key moments, including arriving just days after the Russian explosion of Ukraine’s Kakhovka Dam, which flooded numerous farms and villages, killing dozens and displacing tens of thousands of Ukrainians. Rose and his friends were also just a few miles from the Russian border when Wagner head Yevgeny Prigozhin made his ill-fated coup attempt against Russian dictator Vladimir Putin

Rose and his crew were able to film evidence of Russian war crimes and atrocities, as well as garner rare access to an early version of a Ukrainian Kamikaze Drone School and a top-secret military hospital where recent amputee soldiers were undergoing therapy. They spoke to numerous individuals held captive by Russian troops or with traumatic tales of survival. 

However, “My Summer in Ukraine” is far from a sprawling tragedy. Rose filmed heartwarming scenes at orphanages and humanitarian centers, and a particularly moving moment when Raw Travel Ukrainian refugee videographer Anastasia Zui reconnected with her father in Kharkiv after he’d spent many harrowing and dangerous weeks fighting in Bakhmut. 

A trailer is at MySummerInUkraine.com, and a newly launched website, RawTravelUkraine.com, features content, tips, and information on ways to take action to help Ukraine while learning crucial history and facts. The site will also be a portal for booking media interviews or engagements of vetted experts with unique stories to share. 

“Opinion polls and social media likes don’t inform my morals. Assisting Ukraine in its fight for freedom is the honor of my lifetime so far,” Rose said. “They have sacrificed so much. I’ll never abandon them, and we will help them with their fight for victory and rebuilding for as long as it takes. Ukraine must and will win, and the US and the rest of the civilized world must continue our support and never normalize Putin’s brutal tyranny and horrific war crimes,” Rose continued.

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ABOUT RAW TRAVEL TV

Raw Travel is an adventure travel & lifestyle series showcasing socially and environmentally aware, independent travel. The series weaves together themes of eco-tourism and voluntourism (giving back) with underground music and authentic culture uniquely. Since 2013, the show has raised funds and highlighted dozens of non-profit organizations helping the unhoused, orphaned children, people with disabilities, displaced refugees, etc., as well as encouraging earth stewardship, sustainable living, and travel with a purpose. 

Each weekend the show is broadcast in 185 U.S. cities on major broadcast affiliates and several international territories (Asia, Africa, Europe…). It can also be found on several major airlines. AIM Tell-A-Vision Group produces the show and oversees its domestic and international distribution. Visit RawTravel.tv for more information. 

ABOUT AIM TELL-A-VISION GROUP

AIM Tell-A-Vision (AIM TV) Group is an independent production, content, and distribution company founded by media veteran and entrepreneur Robert G. Rose. Since 2000, AIM TV has produced and distributed positive, compelling content that reflects a mission of presenting “Media That Matters.” Visit AIMTVGroup.com for more information.

ABOUT ROBERT G. ROSE

Robert G. Rose is an independent media entrepreneur and travel journalist. During his travel journalism career, Rose has traveled to dozens of challenging, politically charged destinations to film, including Haiti, Cuba, China, and Vietnam (all while undercover), Colombia, Georgia (including Russian-occupied territories), as well as Russia (2010) and Ukraine before and during Russia’s full invasion. Rose spent a month in the summer of 2023 filming in Ukraine, documenting his experience traveling with volunteers, interviewing soldiers and civilians, some while subject to Russian bombs and munitions. 

ABOUT “MY SUMMER IN UKRAINE”

“My Summer in Ukraine” is a four-part documentary series filmed during Robert G. Rose’s travel to Ukraine in the summer of 2023 with Anastasia Zui, a Ukrainian-based cinematographer, as they traveled through various parts of Ukraine, such as Kharkiv, Kherson, Mykolaiv, Odesa, Irpin, Bucha and more with humanitarians, soldiers and more.  The documentary seeks to show a unique side of war that most are not aware. Tragedy, resilience, sorrow, and exceeding joy. “My Summer in Ukraine” will premiere on April 27, through May 19, 2024, on broadcast TV before hitting the film festival circuit. 

Categories
North America

Short History of Ukraine PDF

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North America Public Relations

ROBERT ROSE TO BE FEATURED AT WARM UP UKRAINE

 – Travel Producer & Host to Speak at Fall 2023 Fundraiser for Ukraine in San Francisco –

NEW YORK, NY: October 5th, 2023 – AIM Tell-A-Vision® Group (AIM TV), the producers of the internationally syndicated television series Raw Travel®, announced that Robert G. Rose, the Executive Producer and Host of the series will be a featured presenter at Warm Up Ukraine: Fall, a multimedia fundraising event to showcase Ukrainian culture through music, art, talks, and activities.

The event will occur on Saturday, October 14th, from 11 AM until 8 PM at the Midway in San Francisco. From 11 AM until 3 PM, the event willfeature talks on “Transformations for Good” from Ukrainian and American veterans, doctors, documentarians, volunteers, tech entrepreneurs, and more.   

During his talk, Rose will premiere the official trailer of “My Summer in Ukraine” from the forthcoming travel documentary series to debut via Raw Travel in 2024 and photos and inspiring anecdotes from his travel to Ukraine in the summer of 2023 during an intense time of war.

“I’m honored to be able to share my life-changing experience traveling through Ukraine this summer to help raise awareness and funds for such a great cause,” said Rose. “I went to Ukraine to give something of myself, but I received so much more in return. Good people of good conscience cannot stand idly by while others suffer needlessly. I hope we can inspire more people to help a country and people who need our support and assistance, now as much, or more than ever,” Rose Continued.

Warm Up Ukraine’s mission is to raise funds for urgent causes and create a positive influence in Ukraine and among the community in the Bay Area. The funds raised from ticket sales and donations will help provide critical supplies to battlefield medics in Ukraine and bring innovative professional education to Ukrainian veterans.


In addition to TED-style talks and presentations, attendees can enjoy live performances by renowned Ukrainian and international musicians and DJs, discover and acquire authentic Ukrainian artworks, taste delicious Ukrainian-inspired food and drinks, and attend a series of classes for adults and children.

Other presenters include Evgeniy Maloletka, Pulitzer prize-winning Ukrainian journalist and photographer, who will discuss documenting war crimes, and Yuliia Matvieieva, a therapist, discussing communicating with war-scarred veterans. Also presenting are T.J. Collins and Lesya Kalynska from the documentary film “A Rising Fury,” speakers and companies working with people with physical impairments and PTSD, representatives from the End Violence Partnership, and many more.

Among the artists whose prints will be for sale include Iryna Babanina, Maryna Maliarenko, Slava Babanin, Tetiana Kopytova, and Vidro (Andrii Bunyak) and the music program will feature the Fima Chupakhin Trio and more.

Warm Up Ukraine: Fall is organized by and will benefit Leleka Foundation and New Horizons Hub, 501(c)(3) non-profit organizations. Ticket sales and donations are tax-deductible. For tickets and more information, please visit www.warmupukraine.org.

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ABOUT RAW TRAVEL TV

Raw Travel is an adventure travel & lifestyle series showcasing socially and environmentally aware, independent travel. The series weaves eco-tourism and voluntourism (giving back) themes uniquely with underground music and authentic culture. Since 2013, the show has raised funds and highlighted dozens of non-profit organizations helping the unhoused, orphaned children, people with disabilities, displaced refugees, etc., as well as encouraging earth stewardship, sustainable living, and travel with a purpose.

The show is broadcast in 185 U.S. cities on major broadcast affiliates and several international territories (Asia, Africa, Europe…) each weekend. It can also be found on several major airlines.

AIM Tell-A-Vision Group produces the show and oversees its domestic and international distribution. Visit RawTravel.tv for more information. 

ABOUT AIM TELL-A-VISION GROUP

AIM Tell-A-Vision (AIM TV) Group is an independent production, content, and distribution company founded by media veteran and entrepreneur Robert G. Rose. Since 2000, AIM TV has produced and distributed positive, compelling content that reflects a mission of presenting “Media That Matters.” Visit AIMTVGroup.com for more information.

ABOUT LELEKA FOUNDATION & NEW HORIZONS HUB

Leleka Foundation is a non-profit that supports Ukrainian military medics with equipment and supplies. Since 2014, Leleka has raised over $8 million and provided thousands of first aid kits, backpacks, medical evacuation vehicles, and hospital supplies. With Leleka Ukraine, we work with front-line medics and are recognized as one of the most trusted and effective organizations in this area. Funds from Warm Up Ukraine: Fall will be used for equipment and supplies for field medics. Visit https://www.leleka.care/ for more information.

New Horizons Hub is a non-profit organization that supports veterans in rebuilding their lives by providing them with the education and essential skills needed to pursue a rewarding career in the tech industry. Visit https://www.horizonshub.org/ for more information.

Categories
North America

Raw Travel Wins Two Telly Awards for Steadfast in Ukraine

RAW TRAVEL WINS TWO TELLIES FOR “STEADFAST IN UKRAINE” – For Ten Seasons I resisted nominating Raw Travel for any awards, for a variety of reasons I won’t get into. However, I felt it was finally time to allow the people who worked on the very special “Steadfast in Ukraine” to garner some well-deserved recognition. Some shows may be titled “Solo in…” but they are anything but. Television is a collaborative medium, and thankfully so, as I enjoy nothing more than working with fellow creators to hopefully create something of value.

Congratulations to Creador Pictures (Editing), BtOVEN Music (Sound Design), Chaliwa Music + Sound (Audio Mix), Anastasia Zui (Videographer) Julia Avramenko (Consulting Producer), for winning the Silver in “TV – Travel & Tourism” and the Bronze for “TV – Video Journalism.”

Also, a shout out to fellow Telly Award winner Mickela Mallozzi of “Barefeet with Mickela” who convinced me to apply, proving she’s broad-minded and big-hearted enough to know it’s all about “coopertition”, not competition. Press Release Below:

RAW TRAVEL’S “STEADFAST IN UKRAINE” WINS AWARDS
Visit to Ukraine During Wartime Wins Two Telly Awards in Two Categories

NEW YORK, NY: May 31st, 2023– AIM Tell-A-Vision® Group (AIM TV), producers of the nation’s most-watched travel show, Raw Travel®, announced their episode “Steadfast in Ukraine,” featuring a visit to wartime Ukraine garnered two Telly Awards. The episode won a Silver Telly in the Television, Travel and Tourism category and a Bronze Telly in the category of Television, Video Journalism.

The special episode featured Executive Producer, Writer, and Host Robert G. Rose as he and Ukrainian refugee videographer Anastasia Zui traveled from Poland to film in Western Ukraine. Anastasia, a talented cinematographer and regular member of the Raw Travel crew, is a twice-displaced refugee from the Donbas region. In the episode, she continues from Lviv to Kyiv to reunite with her mother for the first time since fleeing the country with her young brother. At the same time, her father serves in the military.

The episode also documents the difficulty and misery of crossing borders during wartime and an impromptu “off-camera” interview with an anonymous escapee from then-Russian-occupied Melitopol. There is also a life-affirming on-camera exchange with a recently injured Ukrainian soldier and an emotional visit to the ever-expanding Lychakiv Cemetery, where recently killed soldiers are buried. All set among the unpredictability, suspense, and drama of air-raid sirens as Russia fires missiles into Ukraine.

But the show’s primary theme is the Ukrainian people’s steadfast, optimistic, and hopeful spirit as they bravely fight for survival and freedom.

In addition to Anastasia and Robert providing videography and direction, the episode was edited by Renzo Devia, Executive Producer at New York City-based Creador Pictures, and sound designed by New York City-based BtOVEN Music. The episode was audio mixed by Chaliwa Music + Sound in Miami, Florida. Julia Avramenko, a Ukrainian television professional living in New York City, provided Consulting Production services.

“Winning awards is never our objective, especially in this case,” says Robert G. Rose, Producer and Host. “However, I felt it was important for the creatives on this special episode to be recognized for their work and professionalism, especially under the circumstances. I’m grateful for the Tellys for recognizing their achievements,” Rose continued.

Raw Travel is currently in its Tenth Season of broadcast syndication and can be viewed in 180 U.S. cities in over 96% of US TV homes. Viewers have thus far helped raise over $20,000 to support grassroots organizations such as Care4Ukraine.org and Keep the Kids Learning, two organizations led by Joseph Nichols, an American logistics professional living in Ukraine. Viewers may visit RawTravelGiveBack.com to learn more and donate.

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Categories
North America

Raw Travel Presents – Let Freedom Ring in Ukraine!

RAW TRAVEL TV TO HELP FREEDOM RING IN UKRAINE!

Multifaceted Media Campaign Poised to Help Ukraine for the “Long Haul” –

NEW YORK, NY: June 1st, 2022 – AIM Tell-A-Vision® Group (AIM TV), producers of the nation’s most-watched travel show, Raw Travel®, announced “Let Freedom Ring in Ukraine” to help Ukrainian refugees. The multi-platform and multi-faceted initiative will provide grassroots, long-term financial, and tangible assistance to externally and internally displaced Ukrainian refugees and citizens affected by the Russian invasion. 

In June, producer, and host, Robert G. Rose will be filming in Paris, France, and then at the border of Poland and Ukraine with Raw Travel videographer and displaced Ukrainian refugee Anastasia Zui. Conditions permitting, they hope to go into Ukraine embedded with “Keep the Kids Learning” and “Help 4 Ukraine,” two small, independent organizations founded by American logistics engineer Joseph Nichols, living in Ukraine, and other Expatriates. The grassroots organizations are dedicated to helping keep Ukrainian refugee children and teachers in school and moving needed medicines and medical supplies from the US and Europe into Ukraine. 

On July 2nd and 3rd, 2022 just before USA Independence Day, Raw Travel will premiere a special episode entitled “Let Freedom Ring in Ukraine.” The special will feature updated, relevant Ukrainian segments that showcase the country before the 2022 invasion, along with updated narration and ways viewers can help. The episode will re-air on August 27th-28th. 

“Raw Travel offered valuable context to viewers when filming in Ukraine and the border areas of Russian-occupied Georgia in 2019,” said Robert G. Rose, Executive Producer and Host of the series. “Given our past coverage of Russian aggression’s consequences in both Georgia and Ukraine, we feel we can offer a unique perspective,” Rose continued. “I think we can show a different, potentially more uplifting angle of this tragedy that may inspire people to help the many good folks and organizations helping Ukraine on the ground, long after the raw emotion of Russia’s 2022 invasion has subsided, but the need persists.”

The “Let Freedom Ring in Ukraine” effort has already begun in a limited capacity

with on-air billboards and social media posts encouraging viewers to visit 

RawTravelGiveBack.com. The special web page is a constantly evolving, dedicated entry point for concerned viewers. There, they can get updates about Ukrainians featured in the show and donate directly to vetted organizations or buy specially designed Raw Travel “Let Freedom Ring in Ukraine” merchandise (shirts, mugs, glasses, etc.) benefitting the efforts of these organizations. 

Raw Travel’s milestone Season 10 begins September 19th, 2022. A trailer of Raw Travel’s Let Freedom Ring episode can be viewed https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nl88AHSCsGo

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ABOUT RAW TRAVEL TV

Raw Travel is an adventure travel & lifestyle series showcasing socially and environmentally aware, independent travel. The series weaves together themes of eco-tourism and voluntourism (giving back) with underground music and authentic culture in a unique way. Each weekend the show is seen in 174 U.S. cities on major broadcast affiliates and several international territories (Asia, Africa, Europe…). It can also be found on several major airlines. AIM Tell-A-Vision Group produces the show and oversees its domestic and international distribution. Visit RawTravel.tv for more information. 

ABOUT AIM TELL-A-VISION GROUP

AIM Tell-A-Vision (AIM TV) Group is an independent production, content, and distribution company founded by media veteran and entrepreneur Robert G. Rose. Since 2000, AIM TV has been producing and distributing positive, compelling content that reflects a mission of presenting “Media That Matters.” Visit AIMTVGroup.com for more information.

ABOUT KEEP THE KIDS LEARNING AND CARE 4 UKRAINE

Joseph Nichols is a US Citizen and logistics expert that has lived and worked in Ukraine since 2014. He and other US Expatriates are raising money for medical supplies and medicines distributed to Internally Displaced People (IDPs – Ukrainians displaced within Ukraine). They are also purchasing computers, books, and supplies to set up learning centers in Lviv, Ukraine, for children that the conflict has displaced. They have established transport lines across the Ukrainian/Polish border into most areas of the country and have received donations of supplies, equipment, and medicines. They are also offering space on trucks to other aid groups. Visit https://gofund.me/13be73ab and https://gofund.me/06fa1840 for more information on Keep The Kids Learning and Care 4 Ukraine. 

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North America

Let Freedom Ring Coffee Mugs

Thanks everyone for your donations and for buying the exclusive Raw Travel designed “Let Freedom Ring” T-Shirts and Pint Glasses based on my photo of Freedom Square in Kyiv that I took in 2019.

You can order yours at our special merch page

or if you prefer, you may also donate at our GoFundMe Page

I’m including below the latest update from Joseph there, who is planning a trip back to the USA to gather medical supplies, etc. to take back. I hope to catch up with him in person or by zoom. My trip to Ukraine has been delayed a bit until early June, but it’s still on.

Thank you for all your support once again!

Here’s the latest update from Joseph at Care4Ukraine / Keeps Kids Learning.

As you might know, the areas we are starting these “pop-up” classrooms are located in the western region of Ukraine. Not only have IDP’s relocated from where the intense fighting is concentrated to cities like Lviv, Ternopil, and Uhzgorod, but also to the smaller villages. Recent attacks in the west have knocked out power in many places and our sister-site on GoFundMe – “Care4Ukraine” is beginning to address needs of IDP’s in these areas.
Many refugees are returning to Ukraine as the war drags on. Issues like the higher cost of living and separation from family takes it toll, and the choice to return begins to look better than being a refugee in a foreign country. It is now estimated that there are eight million IDPs in Ukraine, economic output is down more than 50%, and the conflict is growing more intense each day.

Thank you for your help. Joseph

UPDATE May 2nd, 2022 –

ROB INTERVIEWS JOSEPH NICHOLS OF “KEEP THE KIDS LEARNING” FROM UKRAINE – Rob caught up with Joseph via zoom, while Joseph was making a quick trip to Chicago to pick up some medical supplies to take back to Ukraine.

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North America

RAW TRAVEL ANNOUNCES UPCOMING SEASON 10 AS FINALE

200th Episode in 2023 Will Mark End to Remarkable & Unlikely Run

NEW YORK, NY: March 30th, 2022 – AIM Tell-A-Vision® Group (AIM TV), producers of the nation’s most-watched travel show, Raw Travel®, announced today that their upcoming Season 10 (2022-23) set to debut this September, will mark the show’s final full season of original productions. The show’s last season is scheduled to end in September 2023 with the production and broadcast of its milestone 200th episode.

The producers are currently editing the back-half of its ninth season (2021-22). Still, they have already begun filming for Season 10 and planning for the show’s finale season, which will feature a season-long celebration. 

The celebration will include “Look-Back” promos, trip and gear giveaways, and culminate with a big celebratory event in New York City to celebrate the show’s unlikely ten-season run.

The producers also announced that the show will continue in syndication with re-runs until at least September 2025, with Seasons 11 and 12 mining their library of 200 (primarily evergreen) episodes. Incumbent stations will have first-right-of-refusal to carry the library content. The library will also feature never-before-seen digital and broadcast content such as international segments, producer commentary, did-you-knows, behind-the-scenes, and refreshed content when appropriate. 

“This has been a surreal ride, and it’s far from over, but I see an exit ramp,” said Robert G. Rose, Executive Producer and Host of the series. “We felt strongly about presenting a new kind of travel show focusing more on travel than celebrity while communicating the importance of social responsibility wherever travel takes us. We haven’t achieved all our objectives, but there is time yet, and I can say the show long ago far exceeded my expectations. We’re excited about the future and producing our most memorable and important season to date with Season 10,” Rose continued.

Highlighting the importance of the show’s final season, the producers are planning a trip to the border of Poland and Ukraine to film a “Giveback” themed episode on the Ukrainian refugee crisis. They hope to showcase how travel and tourism, combined with giving back, can create a more fulfilling travel experience. They are also raising funds from viewers and fans to help refugees. Raw Travel visited and filmed in Ukraine twice in 2019 and offered valuable pre-war context to viewers. More information on their efforts to help in Ukraine can be found at RawTravelGiveback.com

Raw Travel’s milestone Season 10 begins September 19th, 2022, and the final broadcast will occur the weekend of September 16th and 17th, 2023. 

Season 10 One Sheet

Season 10 (2022-23) One Sheet

Seasons 11 & 12 One Sheet

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North America

Too Whack for Weekends

Too Whack For Weekends – Video

HOW DARE I?

I have been privileged to work in the broadcasting industry for most of my adult life. I began in local ad sales and progressed to management. My current role as a business owner and independent producer of Raw Travel TV has been the most fulfilling and eye-opening of all.

I have overseen all facets of a completely vertical (independent) television syndication service (production, ad sales, distribution, marketing, etc.) for over 22 years. I’ve worked with scores of general managers, programmers, and station group executives, as well as advertisers and related industries.

My company, AIM Tell-A-Vision Group, has strived to produce missing or under-served content in the grand and growing video landscape for over two decades.

Media that matters – I know that “media that matters” could sound glib and trite, but we genuinely pursue this mission. And because, at least with Raw Travel, my name and face are all over the show (and credits), I sometimes take it personally.  

This may be why I never, ever “mail it in.” Be it good or bad, I always strive to do my best. For Nine Seasons, I’ve done my best work as a commitment to our viewers, our affiliates, our advertisers, and myself. I wouldn’t be writing these words nine seasons in if it hadn’t worked.

The broadcasting industry and viewers have largely rewarded those efforts. Raw Travel has grown to become the nation’s most-watched travel show on commercial TV, and I owe a debt of gratitude to too many people to list.


THIS IS WHACK!

And there are so many caring and talented people in the broadcasting business, many of whom have become friends over the years. I’m grateful for what this business has given me. Therefore, I’m declaring “War” on “Whacked Weekends.”

I’ve watched the quality of weekend syndicated steadily decline over the years, and I’ve wondered “why”? Sports are on the weekends, and big-name event programming is on the weekends. Many families are all together and at home on weekends. Weekends are nearly 30% of an entire week’s schedule. Weekend programming can help lift weekday and local news ratings.

This is why I scratch my head when some broadcasters in some markets seem content to program shows that are borderline unwatchable or, in some cases, embarrassing. Sometimes directly after big-time sports or news with big-time lead-in audiences.

It can be the salacious, embarrassing content disguised as sports bloopers, or old content disguised as new, or content jammed with beyond the industry standard commercial load. These hurt stations more than an immediate clicking of the remote (or the powering up of the laptop or smartphone).

In each of these instances, the producer(s)/distributor(s) is betraying the trust of affiliates, advertisers, and most sacred of all, the viewers. To me, this is unforgivable anytime, but especially now when viewers have so many choices.

GREED IS NOT GOOD (TV)

Consider the long-time indie syndicator turned “mogul” cramming in more commercial interruptions than the industry standard. Often this is within programming that can, at best, be described as borderline watchable if it didn’t have a single, solitary commercial.  

The commercial interruption count comparison included doesn’t even take into account the numerous archaic but annoying interruptions advising the viewer, “don’t go away” or “we’ll be right back.” 

Given the sub-par quality of some of the shows this producer is putting out, it sounds less like an invitation than a threat or challenge to endure.  

We know this results in more clutter but more money for the producer. In the process of this naked display of greed and negligence, this incredibly self-serving and short-sighted approach sheds viewers (see research below). I’m assuming most stations want more viewers but are unaware of this issue.

Understandable with all the content, smaller and smaller staffs are tasked with overseeing. 

Are broadcasters aware of the bikini-clad girls that are jump roping or hula-hooping (or anything that requires bouncing and jiggling)? It’s a “sports blooper” show, or so we thought. 

Or of the minute-plus long end-credits that drive viewers away at the end of shows?

Or of the non-evergreen and dated content put out as fresh that is no longer relevant, much less compelling.

WEED THE WEEKENDS

I believe good weekend programming and a healthy, unique first-run ecosystem can help broadcasters compete against the onslaught of competition for viewer attention.  

We need more independent producers who work in a broadcast-first platform. And many of them are doing good work.

But for these good producers and programs to survive, they need room to grow.

Just as one weeds a garden so the vegetables can bear fruit, the same should be said for weekend programming. Stations need to weed out the lazy, the greedy, the inappropriate, and the just plain bad and plant more of the good.

Give the producers, programs, and stations the room to grow with more runs of the good stuff and less of the lousy cluttering up the landscape.

I created this “Too Whack for Weekends” video to hopefully bring some light-hearted attention to this issue.

As I said, I love this business and the people in it. It’s been very good to me.

But I’m getting a little long in the tooth for these types of causes. I could easily just bump along and not cause waves. However, I don’t think that is in anyone’s best interest, except perhaps the lazy, greedy, or incompetent producer.

So here we go! Go ahead and call me Don Quixote if you like. It won’t be the first time, and I won’t take offense.

After watching the video, please feel free to leave a comment or drop me a line at RawTravel (at) AIMTVGroup.com

ADDITIONAL RESEARCH BELOW:

Cynopsis 1/24/22

Eighty-five percent of TV viewers would be willing to hand over personal information like age, gender and location in exchange for fewer ads, according to a survey from Sharethrough. Other key data points in the report include:
· 66% of people indicate they don’t actively watch TV ads and grab their phone once a commercial starts
· 73% of respondents said they would pay more attention to the ads if they were better targeted to their interests, more diversified, and with less ads per commercial breaks
· 58% said they would use their TV remote to buy a product or get a coupon for a product they liked in a commercial

Cynopsis 1/25/22

It’s no secret that TV viewers don’t like heavy ad loads during their shows. But according to Hub’s “TV Advertising: Fact vs. Fiction” study, a heavy ad load not only leads viewers to say the number of ads during a show is unreasonable, but it also has a negative impact on their viewing satisfaction generally. Asked to rate the overall experience of watching the show – all things considered, not just ads – positive ratings went from 44% among those who saw 5 or fewer ads, to 33% among those who saw over 11 ads. Those who were most satisfied were those who found the ads relevant, with 58% giving a thumbs-up among those who said the ads had featured products that matched their interests.

NATIONAL AD INVENTORY COMPARISON

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North America

Sneak Peek Episode 901

Recently wrapped edit on Episode #1 (Ep. 901) of Season 9, premiering in October 2021. Here’s a sneak peek of Dubrovnik, Croatia.

Categories
Caribbean North America

Finally… Puerto Rico!!

I’ve visited Puerto Rico before. I always stated that technically correct fact. But truth be told, I remembered little about my first and only trip so many years ago. I remember it was a long weekend. I remember I stayed in the newer part of San Juan, ventured into Old San Juan for the day, and the next day rented a car to drive to Ponce where it proceeded to rain. That’s it. That’s about all I remember. What a disservice.

Ever since Hurricane Maria I’ve been itching to get back. Something about witnessing people recovering from a devastatingly miserable experience from afar moves me to get closer. Then there was an earthquake, then Covid. After a long absence from travel (20 months), now seemed the time. So I scheduled back-to-back trips “abroad.” First to Croatia, then to Puerto Rico. In both instances, I was hardly alone.

US travelers abounded in Croatia. That was surprising to me. US travelers abounded in Puerto Rico. That did not surprise me. Puerto Rico is, after all, for better or for worse, a US territory and there is no need to test for a Covid infection before returning to the mainland. I’m not sure if that’s what drew so many US travelers to Puerto Rico during their traditional off-season (the summer), if it was just pent-up demand for travel or the fact that no passport is needed. My hunch is it is a combination of all of the above.

But I did get a distinct impression that many first-time “international” travelers were in town, at least in Old San Juan this time. They were likely taking advantage of the good deals to be had as Puerto Rico welcomed back travelers from the mainland US.

Palacio Provincial Hotel Courtyard

But, alas, those were just my first impressions during a second trip. This time, my second trip to Puerto Rico would be the second impression that meant the most. This time I’d be filming with a crew of locals, and I’d be staying in the heart of Old San Juan, at the beautifully recently restored “Palacio Provincial Hotel.”

I was told that this beautiful, historic, building in the heart of Old San Juan was originally built in the 1800s and that it was a former government building before being restored fairly recently.

It did not disappoint. I loved the hotel’s classic style and old-school atmosphere of Spanish style courtyards and high ceilings- while simultaneously basking in the modern, almost luxurious features like an infinity pool, hot tub, gym, uber-comfy bed, modern hot shower, super fast wifi, etc.

Typical Puerto Rican Cuisine at Restaurant El Jibarito

But my favorite thing about Palacio Provincial was location, location, location. I was within walking distance of so many sites, great bars, and restaurants. Indeed, this trip, I felt a part of Old San Juan.

Almost every morning, I’d head to the corner coffee and pastry kiosk at the park nearby and get a Cafe Negro (black coffee) con Mallorca sandwich pastry. Or I’d hit up the Restaurant El Jibarito nearby for an authentic, down-home Puerto Rican lunch.

Or visit the Poets Passage on open mic night. Here I’d be treated to traditional poetry slam from poets as far away as Minnesota; or some Brazilian Batucada fused with Puerto Rican Plena and African drumming from a surprise musical act Baturepike who simply rocked the place.

Thanks to my local pals and film crew from Discover Puerto Rico, I’d eat very well (it was Rocio from the Spoon Experience who introduced me to my new favorite sandwich, the Mallorca) while venturing outside of Old San Juan frequently.

Our visit to the nearby beach community of Loiza was memorable for a few reasons. Mainly thanks to Rafi from the famous foodie Vlog and IG account La Mafia who showed me the ropes of eating Alcapurrías and Bacalaítos (two types of cuisine I’d never even heard of before).

Food Kiosk in Loiza

Rafi instinctively knew which local food kiosks were best and did the thinking for me. I’ve never interviewed anyone on the show with such an obvious knowledge and love of their local cuisine. We both did the eating, and I didn’t need to eat dinner that evening. I can’t speak for Rafi’s dinner that evening but given the performance he put in at lunch, I do recall wondering how the guy maintains any semblance of svelte appearance.

We also visited gorgeous Bahia Beach Resort to see the work the resort is doing to save Sea Turtles, Manatees, and various bird species on the island.

The “Alma De Bahia Foundation,” which translates to “the Soul of Bahia,” is their non-profit arm focusing on local sustainability through conservation initiatives and environmental education.

The Foundation works very closely with the residents and guests at Bahia to give back to our community and the natural environment. Our guide, Marcela, is an inspiring mixture of environmental warrior / marine biology nerd. She knows her stuff.

Marcela with one of the local dog rescues

Marcela kindly offered us a bonus tour of the rescue shelter for dogs (watch the show to see how that ties into saving wildlife) and their farm, where they grow fruits and vegetables for the resort and surrounding community.

Speaking of farms, I must be getting old because I have this inexplicable desire to get back to my farm boy roots these days. Which I find ironic considering my city boy ways (yes, I know, I’m far from a “boy” anymore, but you get the point).

Anyhow, one of my favorite day trips outside of OSJ was a visit to the town of Maniti to tour Frutos Del Guacabo . There I finally milked a goat successfully, putting the “great Romanian goat milking scandal” from Season 2 in the rear view mirror. I hope!

Feeling out my future?

I also learned a new term, culinary agriculture, which is a fancy way of saying that you’ll get to taste some delicious results of their cutting-edge hydroponic and natural farming methods.

Efran showed us how it’s grown. Chef Adrian showed us how it’s cooked. And , you guessed it, I showed them how it’s eaten.

Other day trips were on our agenda, like our trip out to El Hippie Waterfall in Naguabo. Unfortunately, it had rained earlier and created a situation where I wouldn’t be able to get into the raging water. But it made an alternative beauty that showcased just a taste of the tremendous power of nature (though most Puerto Ricans likely don’t need reminding).

The raging El Hippie Waterfall

We ended the “official” shoot with a trip to Fajardo. After I finally got my mofongo fix at a late lunch, we night-kayaked to the Nestor Martinez Luminescent Bio Bay, one of three in Puerto Rico and five in the whole world (all in the Caribbean). Because of the temperature of the water, light pollution, and overall climate change, the luminescent critters took some work to see. But my favorite thing about the whole experience was the relaxing kayak trip back (going with the current on the way back) and hearing the sounds of the water and coqui frogs singing. I could have stayed out there all night, if they’d let me.

But alas, I had to fly back the next day and get to work editing, writing scripts, backing up, and in general, getting ready for Season Nine. We were far ahead pre-covid but now are behind. But I’m so happy to be traveling again, and I’m so grateful for this opportunity to get a second opportunity to visit Puerto Rico.

Speaking of covid, I was very comfortable filming there. Most people I knew or worked with closely indicated they were vaccinated and the retail establishments, generally speaking, enforced mask policy. I was tracking the numbers, they were lower than where I live in NYC and far lower than parts of the unvaccinated USA. Puerto Ricans seem to understand tragedy, and more importantly, the resilience required to overcome tragedy. They did not seem eager to court more tragedy and seemed to understand the balance of living their lives, making a living, while doing everything possible to keep everyone, visitors and locals alike, as safe as possible. It worked for me.

BaturePike at Poet’s Passage in Old San Juan

Yes, I was only in Puerto Rico for five days, but thanks to so many, this second trip was far more memorable than the first. So when I say it feels like the first time, this is what I mean. Besides, if I forget any details, this time, for better or worse, we have it on video… well, most of it! And besides, it gives me a good reason to return.

See more photos of our adventure HERE.

Look for the first one of two episodes of Raw Travel’s trip to Puerto Rico to premiere in November 2021. Stay tuned to facebook, twitter, and RawTravel.tv/Episodes .