Eric Schurenberg
Eric Schurenberg, Founder of the Alliance for Trust in Media, explores the intersection of AI and ethical, fact-based journalism.
Join Jared S. Taylor for the latest episode of the Slice of Technology AI podcast, created in collaboration with HumanX. This week's guest is Eric Schurenberg, Founder at Alliance for Trust in Media.
Key Highlights
- Eric Schurenberg's Background: Former CEO of Inc. and Fast Company, now focused on combating misinformation.
- Inspiration for the Alliance: A reaction to the Capitol insurrection of January 6, 2021, and the global need for trusted journalism.
- Alliance's Mission: Rebuilding trust in newsrooms through research, innovation, and transparency initiatives.
- Media Literacy for Adults: Teaching critical thinking to combat misinformation and foster informed decisions.
- AI in Journalism: The benefits and challenges of artificial intelligence in shaping the future of media.
From Journalism Leader to Media Advocate
Eric Schurenberg, the former CEO of Inc. and Fast Company, transitioned from leading prestigious media brands to founding the Alliance for Trust in Media. His career pivot was inspired by the events of January 6, 2021, and a growing recognition of the dangers posed by misinformation. Driven by his belief in the role of journalism as a cornerstone of democracy, Eric now focuses on fostering trust and media literacy across the U.S.
The Alliance's Approach
The Alliance for Trust in Media works directly with newsrooms like Chicago Public Media, the Texas Tribune, and Minnesota Public Radio. By implementing innovations and improving transparency, these collaborations aim to rebuild audience trust. One notable project involves engaging rural audiences through direct communication platforms to address biases and foster transparency.
Empowering Adults with Media Literacy
Understanding the power of informed citizens, the Alliance has prioritized teaching media literacy to adults. Partnering with universities, civic organizations, and businesses, they equip individuals—especially non-digital natives—with the tools to critically evaluate news sources and resist misinformation.
The Role of Artificial Intelligence
AI has significantly impacted the media industry, from shaping ad targeting strategies to creating content summaries. While AI-driven solutions can increase efficiency, Schurenberg cautions against unintended consequences. He stresses the importance of ethical AI deployment, particularly in journalism, to avoid amplifying division or misinformation.