Olivia Robinson

Biography

Degree from Carleton: Master of Journalism (2019)

Other Degrees: Master of Arts in Writing for Children (University of Winchester, 2013); Bachelor of Arts (Queen’s University, 2012)

Current role: Associate Producer with CBC Ottawa’s morning radio show, Ottawa Morning.

Length of time in this role: I’ve been with the CBC for a little over six months. I began with the Joan Donaldson Scholarship from May to August 2019. Over the course of the summer, I worked on Metro Morning, Power & Politics, Ottawa Morning and the health unit in CBC’s newsrooms in both Toronto and Ottawa. I’ve produced and written stories on everything from backyard chickens, to making Ukrainian cabbage rolls to the ergonomics of public transit.

On the Job: My typical day starts with “pitching” stories to my producer – otherwise known as finding an interesting angle on a story that’s currently making headlines or seeking out a quirky character in the city doing something interesting. Then, I “chase” the guests and conduct a pre-interview over the phone. I’ll then write up a script for our host, including questions as well as any important background information that the host should be aware of going into the interview. Some days, I get to go to events and meet people in real life and edit a short package for radio that takes you – the listener – out into the field with me.

Current projects: As of late, I’ve helped to produce three remote shows for Ottawa Morning – including two election-related shows in the ridings of Ottawa-Centre and Carleton. The other remote show was a special dedicated to all things LRT!

Fun Fact: Before venturing into journalism, I worked for four years in book publishing. I have a soft spot for children’s books and Canadian historical fiction.