Miami TV News Director Cautions Staff on Social Media Content

A Miami television station's news director has reminded staff in an internal memo to refrain from posting what he described as "foolish nonsense" and "cringeworthy" content on their social media accounts. The directive from WPLG Vice President of News Bill Pohovey comes amid discussions about news anchors and reporters balancing their professional roles with their personal online presence.

Pohovey reportedly stated in the memo that the station was moving in the wrong direction regarding social media use, emphasizing that influencer-like content distracts from the journalistic mission. He expressed concern that "too many of our social media accounts are being used for foolish nonsense" and that "this unprofessional behavior only adds fuel to that fire."

The memo reportedly cited examples of undesirable content, including "dance videos," "fashion shows," and "outfits of the day." Pohovey also prohibited staff from filming social media content within the newsroom or using the news set as a backdrop. He suggested that employees consider applying the same standards to their personal social media accounts, noting that "people are losing trust in the news" and that unprofessional conduct erodes credibility.

According to reports, the memo resurfaced as anchor and reporter Jenise Fernandez shared images from a trip to Fiji on her personal social media account. However, Pohovey clarified in a statement to the New York Post that the memo was a reminder of long-standing guidelines and was not a direct response to any single employee's posts. He also stated that Fernandez's vacation photos did not violate the directive, as the memo did not prohibit sharing vacation photos or other daily life activities. Pohovey added that the photos were "tasteful and completely fine" and that "people wear bikinis on the beach" in Florida.

Pohovey, who has been with the station since 2014 and was formerly Miss Miami, previously placed fourth runner-up in the Miss Florida Pageant. He told the New York Post that the memo was sent out "many months ago and is not new."