Learning the Ropes
In 1980 I burst onto the Vancouver television scene as host of Vancouver Morning, daily, hour-long talk show produced at CKVU Televison. Within two years I was promoted to prime time – as co-host of the station’s flagship show Vancouver where I remained until 1987. This experience provided an important training ground for learning the essential skills of interviewing, and becoming comfortable in front of the camera. For the first year I watched every program after it went to air. With a critical eye I noted what worked and what did not work and set out to learn my craft.
I loved the challenge of live television. But once I became confident on-air I realized that something was missing. I was ready to refocus my attention on social issues - the "people" side of life. I wanted to go back to my roots.
That's when I became the Family Columnist for CBC British Columbia Television's evening news. As Family Columnist I did in-depth stories about issues that affected children and families. Soon I was doing the same kinds of stories for the CBC Television network flagship program MIDDAY.
I loved the challenge of live television. But once I became confident on-air I realized that something was missing. I was ready to refocus my attention on social issues - the "people" side of life. I wanted to go back to my roots.
That's when I became the Family Columnist for CBC British Columbia Television's evening news. As Family Columnist I did in-depth stories about issues that affected children and families. Soon I was doing the same kinds of stories for the CBC Television network flagship program MIDDAY.