Journalism has always been a great part of Madison’s life. At just 19 years old, Madison Hurst is living her dream as an Associate Producer at WISH-TV in Indianapolis. Balancing her role at Channel 8 News with her studies in English and journalism at IU Indianapolis, Madison is steadily turning her aspirations into reality.
For Madison, the newsroom is more than just a workplace—it is where her passion for storytelling comes to life. The dynamic energy of the newsroom is magnetic: cameras in motion, producers coordinating every second behind the scenes, and breaking news lighting up monitors as every second counts in crafting the perfect broadcast. It is a world Madison fell in love with during high school, captivated by the immediacy and connection of live reporting.
“In my senior year of high school, a tornado struck my hometown. For days, we had no Wi-Fi or cell service. The only way people could stay informed was by watching the news,” Hurst recalls. “I volunteered with the Salvation Army at the scene of the tornado, where news crews were constantly present. For my family, watching the news was the only way to know I was safe since we couldn’t contact each other. That experience showed me the power and importance of journalism, which inspired me to pursue it as a career.”
Madison’s journey at WISH-TV began in the Fall of 2023 when her love and passion for journalism encouraged her to pursue external opportunities for development and growth in the newsroom. During this process, she came across the Multicultural Media Producing Program (MMPP), an internship program sponsored by Ivy Tech.
MMPP is designed to train today’s students to become tomorrow’s television news producers and newsroom leaders. Working alongside industry professionals and developing journalism skills, the internship program provides instruction on newsgathering, newscast production, and TV show production. Madison’s participation in the internship program is something that reshaped her professional goals completely.
“I have always wanted to do something with books and writing, and journalism became a possibility for me right before I came to college. Pursuing that field and having the opportunity to participate in this internship program is something that has changed my perspective on journalism completely. Once I experienced the pacing and energy of a newsroom, I knew I had found my dream job.”
Madison’s outstanding performance in the MMPP secured her a part-time role as an Associate Producer at WISH-TV, making her the youngest producer in the office. One of her biggest challenges has been adjusting to the demanding shift schedules. Hurst arrives at the office by 2 a.m., preparing to produce the 4 a.m., 5 a.m., 6 a.m., 7 a.m., and 9 a.m. shows. On the other hand, the job requires meticulous attention to detail and nerves of steel, as any oversight can have significant consequences. Despite the early mornings and the fast-paced, high-pressure environment, she finds immense satisfaction in her work, knowing that the thrill of producing accurate and compelling news far outweighs the challenges.
Among her favorite projects are political coverage, such as producing local election content and live broadcasts of the Governor’s debate, and high-profile events like Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour in Indianapolis. She also emphasizes the critical role diversity plays in local newsrooms.
One of the proudest moments in her career came when she successfully produced a morning show solo. “That was the moment I realized I can do this—I am good at it, and I love it,” she says proudly. Madison’s ambitions extend beyond her current role. She aspires to become an executive producer, a role still predominantly male-dominated. For Madison, breaking that barrier is a challenge she is determined to meet.
She draws inspiration from independent journalists working in challenging environments, such as those reporting from Gaza. “Their firsthand accounts are invaluable. They provide a perspective no one else can, and it is some of the most important work being done today.”
As she continues to grow in her career, Madison encourages others to follow their journalism dreams.
“I would tell young people to pursue journalism because we need them. In an age where anyone with a phone or social media can be a reporter, the role of professional journalism has never been more crucial. We need institutions that uphold the truth and integrity of stories. Young people who care enough to enter this field, even when they know they can do it on their own, are essential. It is always better when you are not alone. While social media allows for impactful storytelling, the support and resources of established institutions are crucial for ensuring that work resonates widely.”
Madison’s story is one of passion, persistence, and purpose. As she continues to rise in her field, she is paving the way for the next generation of storytellers, proving that even the youngest voices can make a powerful impact in the newsroom.
