FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
February 14, 2022
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Ann Marie Cumming
(202) 429-5350
amcumming@nab.org
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Allen will join Gordon Smith for Executive Leadership Series fireside chat
Washington, D.C. — Media entrepreneur Byron Allen and Gordon Smith, special advisor to the National Association of Broadcasters (NAB), will engage in a candid conversation about their unique careers and roles in the broadcast industry during a fireside chat on the Main Stage of NAB Show on April 27, 2022, at 9:15 a.m. in Las Vegas, Nev.
Allen, the founder, chairman and CEO of Allen Media Group / Entertainment Studios, which purchased THE WEATHER CHANNEL in 2018, and Smith, the former president and CEO of NAB, will discuss the steps in their professional careers that helped them achieve success during the NAB Show Executive Leadership Series session. Allen and Smith will also address their respective roles as advocates and leaders in the broadcast industry and the enduring value of local television in an ever-changing marketplace.
After starting his career as a comedian, Allen founded his media company in 1993, which now owns and operates 27 television stations in 21 markets, as well as 12 24-hour HD television networks and several streaming OTT/Mobile APPS including LocalNow. Allen also partnered with Sinclair Broadcast Group in 2019 to acquire 21 Regional Sports Networks (RSNs).
Allen’s Entertainment Studios produces and distributes Emmy Award-winning and nominated shows, as well as sells advertising for 67 broadcast and cable television programs. The company is also the first African-American owned multi-platform media studio producing and distributing wide-release motion pictures and content for all platforms and owns TheGrio, a digital, video-centric news platform devoted to providing compelling entertainment, news and lifestyle content for African-Americans.
Smith was NAB’s president and CEO from November 2009 to the end of 2021, when he transitioned into a senior advisor role. He previously served two terms as U.S. senator representing Oregon. He will receive NAB’s highest honor, the Distinguished Service Award, at the 2022 NAB Show.
Together, these two industry leaders bring more than 90 years of broadcasting and media experience to this in-depth NAB Show Executive Leadership Series event. Their insights and opinions speak to every level of the broadcasting business, and will give valuable points of view and examples that NAB Show attendees can utilize as the marketplace grows and evolves in new directions.
Qualified members of the media may apply for press registration here.
About NAB Amplify
Designed by the creators of NAB Show, NAB Amplify is the new digital hub for the media and entertainment community. With curated content, trusted insights and new product launches, NAB Amplify is the year-round destination to connect and interact with the global NAB Show community. Learn more at www.nabamplify.com.
About NAB Show
NAB Show, held April 23 – 27, 2022, in Las Vegas, is the premier event for content professionals in the media, entertainment and technology ecosystem. It’s the ultimate marketplace for those seeking to create superior audio and video experiences. From creation to consumption, across multiple platforms, NAB Show is where global visionaries convene to bring content to life in new and exciting ways. For complete details, visit www.nabshow.com.
About NAB
The National Association of Broadcasters is the premier advocacy association for America’s broadcasters. NAB advances radio and television interests in legislative, regulatory and public affairs. Through advocacy, education and innovation, NAB enables broadcasters to best serve their communities, strengthen their businesses and seize new opportunities in the digital age. Learn more at www.nab.org.