Reim El Houni: Can Traditional Media Survive the New Age of Broadcasting?
The media world is undergoing its biggest transformation in history. With algorithms changing the rules daily and creators armed with just a camera rivaling global broadcasters, is traditional media losing its crown? Or can television still hold its authority in an era where anyone can go viral overnight?In this episode of In the Arena, Dave Crane sits down with Reim El Houni, a powerhouse in both old and new media and the driving force behind one of the region’s leading daily TV shows, DXB Today. Together they unpack the shifts happening in broadcasting, why credibility still matters, and how the playing field has been leveled for creators everywhere.Hosted by Dave Crane, Ex BBC broadcaster and award winning motivational speaker, who has trained thousands of leaders to master influence and communication in just 7 seconds.Reim reveals what it takes to thrive in today’s fast paced industry, from adapting to evolving formats to learning directly from the best producers and directors in the game. Whether you are a content creator, aspiring journalist, or seasoned broadcaster, this conversation is a roadmap to navigating media’s new landscape.What You Will Learn in This Episode• Why algorithms have changed the balance of power in media• How traditional broadcasting is adapting to survive the digital shift• The importance of credibility in a world flooded with content• Why learning from diverse environments and leaders is essential• How to future proof your skills in a rapidly evolving industryBecause in today’s world, it is not about choosing between TV and YouTube. It is about mastering both and knowing how to stand out no matter where the audience is watching.00:00:00 - Many creators lack business savvy.00:00:21 - Digital media is leveling the playing field.00:00:38 - Industry changes require quick adaptation.00:00:57 - TV still has more credibility than YouTube.00:02:09 - Reim's childhood obsession: TV and film.00:03:13 - He sent a cold email to the BBC; he landed an internship.00:04:18 - Broadcasting has a clear career path.00:04:36 - Dubai has become Reim's new home.00:05:41 - Freelance contracts are common in media.00:07:21 - Business savvy is crucial for creators.00:09:07 - Worked on Mission: Impossible in Dubai.00:10:33 - Transition from executive producer to logistics.00:12:24 - No regrets; I learned large-scale operations.00:14:20 - Media evolution demands faster learning.00:15:53 - Audiences care about content, not origin.00:17:57 - Social media was essential during the Arab Spring.00:19:25 - Younger Arabs embrace social media.00:23:22 - TV still has more credibility.00:33:23 - Podcasts and streaming are growing.00:51:25 - Consistency is key for new creators.Follow Dariush:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dariushsoudiofficial/?hl=enWebsite: https://dariushsoudi.comFollow Dave: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thedavecrane/?hl=en Linkedin: https://ae.linkedin.com/in/davecranedubaiFollow Reim El Houni:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/reimelhouni/Linkedin: https://ae.linkedin.com/in/reimelhouniWebsite: https://www.reimelhouni.com/