The idea of bringing you Good News did not start with UpLift Media. Various reporters on small, medium, and even large networks at times get to do a segment that is considered a "feel good" story. That being said, any student of journalism knows the mantra, "if it bleeds, it leads." This crass but sadly accurate statement essentially means if you want ratings, views, and reactions then lead every newscast or front page headline with the negative and bloody reality of life. UpLift Media was created to go against that notion and buck traditional journalism rules to bring you exclusively good news. Perhaps we owe some of that inspiration to Nate Eaton, seasoned reporter and founding member of East Idaho News.
Nate got his start in his childhood home, pretending to forecast the weather in his garage so the desire to bring you the news was an early inclination. His professional career began shortly after graduating BYU Idaho with KIDK in Idaho Falls. Prior to his current position he also did a stint with WRIC in Richmond. Like most journalists he has done his fair share of traditional news stories. His Bio on the East Idaho News website boasts of his coverage of high profile stories such as:
The DC Sniper
Virginia Tech Shooting
Human Trafficking
Drug Stings
Presidential & White House Visits
Hurricanes, Floods, and Earthquakes
Plus interviews with: serial killers, celebrities, athletes, politicians, authors, and musicians
So his credentials abound before even mentioning the reason that Nate earned a spotlight from this very small, newly launched amateur media outlet. His work on segments like Secret Santa and Feel Good Friday are just outstanding, heartwarming, and very much in alignment with our media objectives. You can tell as Nate visits unsuspecting recipients of these news spots that he truly enjoys highlighting and rewarding people that are both in need but also contributing to their communities themselves. His infectious smile, tender-hearted approach, and personable manner in these pieces create a true sense of trust and relatability rarely found in today's main stream media personalities.
When deciding whether or not he should take the risk in launching the East Idaho News when many other offers from bigger cities and major networks were on the table Nate conversed with his wife, asking, "What if we go out there, launch EastIdahoNews.com and nobody visits the website? What if it fails? What if no one likes it? What if it doesn't work?" That was a quote from a January 2016 article where he informs his loyal following about the transition he was undertaking at the time. Since then the news network has more than succeeded, it is literally the stuff of viral video dreams. With close to 300K subscribers and over 160 million views on their YouTube channel alone, this "feel-good-news- story" peddler is doing quite well. And with the backing of an unknown Secret Santa and even Ashley Furniture, I think its safe to say things will only continue to trend upward. None could be more deserving of such success or a shout-out like this than Nate. Below is just ONE of his many wonderful news stories covering a Secret Santa recipient family from last year...
Most of the news stories covered on Uplift contain lots of detail. Peoples names, events, locations, and a full backstory. This one however, did not render much when researching and taking a deeper dive but perhaps that is ok because this narrative really could be anyone's story and even without specific details will encourage and uplift your spirits. What is known is the boy in the video is named Kowyn. He is wheelchair bound and clad in his Christmas morning PJ's holding a gift of vital importance that he wants to present to his step-dad. As the exchange occurs the onlooking family blurts out to the receiving dad, "You have to read it out loud!" The bearded man in a White Sox hat takes a handwritten note, lets his eyes focus on the words and soon he utters the contents out-loud as requested: "I want to thank you for always being here for me. Thank you for teaching me how to be a man like that. Thank you for always treating me like your son. You have always bee...
Its never fun when technical difficulties arise and prevent the show, concert, or sporting event from proceeding as planned. Most audiences are held captive as sound booth techs scramble to identify the issue quickly. That was the scene at a basketball game in the Columbus Ohio area between Waverly High and Portsmith West. This left kids and audience members standing at attention, some with hands over their hearts, others saluting in an awkward pause as the music never quite began. In the stands a talented man named Trenton Brown got an elbow nudge from his wife as if to say, "fix it honey." He knew exactly what she was doing because she of all people know how talented a singer he is adding to her prodding, "just start singing it" and he did exactly that. Soon the crowd joined in so that it was not just one man singing a solo. But even when fellow voices joined his, Mr. Browns certainly stood out and remained booming, proud, and beautifully patriotic. He took wh...
Teenagers Respond to Amber Alert, Help Police Catch Kidnappers Two Utah teens just happened to be in the right place at the right time as their cell phones alerted them of a kidnapping. Thankfully they had the courage to do the right thing and take action. Sometimes You Can't Keep Good Friends Apart This sad pupper just wanted access to his friend next door but someone put a big ole fence in the way. Thankfully their owners collaborated to solve the problem. Two Year Old Reunited with Amazing Dog Who Rescued Him This toddler decided to wonder off from home. Before he could rethink the decision he was already 7 miles away in the middle of the desert. Dangers ranged from wild animals to dehydration but this awesome dog made sure to protect this little one. The Most Sincere Gratitude on Full Display These guys were out pounding the pavement, selling baked goods when they got the sale of a lifetime. Their genuine gratefulness is equal parts heartwarming to inspiring. Love Can Look Like...
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