Introduction to Shauna Rempel’s Journey in Digital Journalism
Shauna Rempel is a name synonymous with innovation in Canadian digital journalism. With over 15 years of experience, she has shaped how news is delivered in the fast-evolving world of digital publishing. As a former National Managing Editor for Social Media, Content Editing, and Distribution at Global News, Rempel’s work has left an indelible mark on the industry. This article dives into her career, her insights on digital publishing, and the tools and strategies that have made her a trusted voice in journalism.
Who Is Shauna Rempel?
A Trailblazer in Canadian Journalism
Shauna Rempel is a Canadian journalist, educator, and social media strategist who has worked with major news organizations like Global News and the Toronto Star. With a master’s degree in journalism from Carleton University, she combines academic rigor with practical expertise. Her career spans digital, social, broadcast, and print media, making her a versatile figure in modern journalism.
Shauna Rempel’s Role at Global News
Leading Social Media and Content Strategy
At Global News, Rempel served as the National Managing Editor for Social Media, Content Editing, and Distribution. She was the driving force behind the award-winning social media and syndication team, ensuring that headlines reached millions of Canadians through digital screens. Her role involved overseeing content editing and strategizing how news was shared across platforms.
Key Responsibilities at Global News
- Content Distribution: Managed the dissemination of Global News and Corus Radio content across digital and syndicated platforms.
- Social Media Strategy: Led initiatives to engage audiences on platforms like Twitter and TikTok.
- Team Leadership: Oversaw the centralized copy editing desk and a team responsible for digital headline displays.
The Evolution of Digital Publishing
What Is Digital Publishing?
Digital publishing refers to the creation, distribution, and consumption of content through digital platforms, such as websites, social media, and mobile apps. Unlike traditional print media, digital publishing allows for real-time updates, interactive elements, and broader reach. It’s a dynamic field that requires agility and an understanding of audience behavior.
Why Digital Publishing Matters in 2025
In 2025, digital publishing is the backbone of modern journalism. With audiences increasingly turning to mobile devices and social platforms for news, publishers must adapt to shorter attention spans and evolving algorithms. Rempel’s work at Global News highlights the importance of blending storytelling with data-driven strategies to capture reader interest.
Shauna Rempel’s Impact on Digital Publishing
Pioneering Social Media in Newsrooms
Rempel’s tenure at Global News and the Toronto Star showcased her ability to integrate social media into traditional journalism. She recognized early on that platforms like Twitter and TikTok could amplify news reach. For instance, her partnership with Twitter Canada during the 2015 federal election ensured real-time coverage that kept audiences engaged.
Teaching the Next Generation
Beyond her work in newsrooms, Rempel is passionate about education. She has taught digital journalism at institutions like Centennial College and Toronto Metropolitan University. Her courses focus on equipping students with skills to navigate the digital landscape, from crafting viral posts to understanding analytics.
Challenges in Digital Publishing
Balancing Speed and Accuracy
One of the biggest challenges in digital publishing is delivering news quickly while maintaining accuracy. Rempel has spoken about the pressure to publish breaking news in real time, where a single typo can erode trust. Her approach emphasizes rigorous editing and fact-checking, even under tight deadlines.
Navigating Algorithm Changes
Social media algorithms change frequently, affecting how content reaches audiences. Rempel’s strategy involved staying ahead of trends, such as leveraging TikTok for storytelling. She noted that platforms like TikTok appeal to younger audiences, offering journalists new ways to engage.
Tools and Strategies for Digital Publishing Success
Best Tools for Digital Publishers in 2025
To thrive in digital publishing, journalists and editors rely on a suite of tools to streamline workflows and boost engagement. Below is a table of tools Rempel and her peers have used effectively:
| Tool | Purpose | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Hootsuite | Social media scheduling and analytics | Managing multiple platforms |
| Canva | Creating visually appealing graphics | Social media posts and stories |
| Google Analytics | Tracking website traffic and user behavior | Understanding audience trends |
| Adobe Audition | Editing audio for podcasts and clips | Multimedia storytelling |
Pros and Cons of Digital Publishing Tools
- Pros:
- Streamline content creation and distribution.
- Provide data insights to tailor content to audience preferences.
- Enhance visual storytelling with user-friendly design tools.
- Cons:
- Learning curve for complex tools like Adobe Audition.
- Subscription costs can be prohibitive for small newsrooms.
- Overreliance on analytics may overshadow editorial judgment.
Comparison: Digital vs. Traditional Publishing
Key Differences
Digital and traditional publishing serve different needs, but both aim to inform and engage. Here’s how they stack up:
| Aspect | Digital Publishing | Traditional Publishing |
|---|---|---|
| Speed | Real-time updates | Slower, tied to print schedules |
| Reach | Global, via social media and websites | Limited to print distribution |
| Interactivity | Comments, shares, and multimedia | Static content, minimal interaction |
| Cost | Lower production costs | Higher printing and distribution costs |
Why Digital Wins in 2025
Digital publishing’s flexibility and reach make it the preferred choice for modern newsrooms. Rempel’s work exemplifies this shift, as she used digital platforms to deliver news instantly to millions. However, traditional publishing still holds value for in-depth, tangible content like magazines.
Personal Stories: Rempel’s Approach to Storytelling
When I think about digital publishing, I’m reminded of a time when a breaking news story went viral because of a single tweet. Rempel shared a similar anecdote during a lecture at Toronto Metropolitan University. She recounted how a well-crafted tweet about a local election upset sparked thousands of retweets, driving traffic to Global News’ website. It wasn’t just about the news—it was about knowing the audience and timing the post perfectly. That’s the kind of instinct Rempel brings to her work, blending data with human connection.
Her teaching also reflects this. One of her students once struggled to write engaging social media captions. Rempel advised them to “write like you’re talking to a friend at a coffee shop.” That simple tip transformed their posts, making them relatable and shareable. It’s a reminder that even in a tech-driven world, storytelling remains at the heart of journalism.
People Also Ask (PAA) Section
What is digital publishing in journalism?
Digital publishing in journalism involves creating and sharing news content through online platforms, including websites, social media, and apps. It emphasizes speed, interactivity, and audience engagement, as seen in Rempel’s work at Global News.
How does social media impact news distribution?
Social media amplifies news reach by enabling instant sharing and audience interaction. Platforms like Twitter and TikTok, championed by Rempel, allow journalists to connect with younger demographics and drive traffic to news sites.
Where can I learn digital journalism?
You can learn digital journalism through programs at institutions like Carleton University or Toronto Metropolitan University, where Rempel has taught. Online platforms like Coursera and Udemy also offer courses on digital media strategies.
What are the best tools for digital publishing?
Top tools include Hootsuite for social media management, Canva for visuals, Google Analytics for tracking performance, and Adobe Audition for audio editing. These tools help journalists create and distribute content efficiently.
FAQ Section
What qualifications does Shauna Rempel have?
Shauna Rempel holds a master’s degree in journalism from Carleton University. She has over 15 years of experience in digital, social, broadcast, and print media, with leadership roles at Global News and the Toronto Star.
How did Shauna Rempel use TikTok for journalism?
Rempel recognized TikTok’s potential to attract younger audiences. She advocated for using the platform to share short, engaging news clips, helping newsrooms stay relevant in a mobile-first world.
Where can I find Shauna Rempel’s work?
You can explore Rempel’s contributions through Global News’ archives or her LinkedIn profile. She also shares insights on her personal website, shaunarempel.com.
What challenges do digital publishers face?
Digital publishers face challenges like balancing speed with accuracy, adapting to algorithm changes, and competing for audience attention in a crowded digital space. Rempel’s strategies emphasize editorial rigor and platform agility.
How can I start a career in digital publishing?
Start by studying journalism or communications, gaining experience with social media tools, and building a portfolio of digital content. Rempel’s teaching at Centennial College and Toronto Metropolitan University highlights the value of hands-on practice.
Tips for Aspiring Digital Publishers
- Master Social Media: Learn platforms like Twitter, TikTok, and Instagram to engage diverse audiences.
- Stay Data-Savvy: Use tools like Google Analytics to understand what content resonates.
- Prioritize Accuracy: Fact-check rigorously to build trust, even in fast-paced environments.
- Experiment with Multimedia: Incorporate videos, podcasts, and graphics to enhance storytelling.
- Network and Learn: Follow experts like Rempel on LinkedIn or attend industry events like ONA (Online News Association) conferences.
The Future of Digital Publishing
Trends to Watch in 2025 and Beyond
The Reuters Institute Digital News Report 2025 predicts that AI-driven personalization and short-form video content will dominate digital publishing. Rempel’s work aligns with these trends, as she has long advocated for adapting to new platforms and technologies. Newsrooms will need to balance automation with human storytelling to stay competitive.
Rempel’s Vision for Journalism
Rempel believes the future lies in blending analytics with empathy. “Data tells you what people are reading, but only a human can tell you why it matters,” she once said in a lecture. Her approach—rooted in audience understanding and creative storytelling—offers a blueprint for aspiring journalists.
Conclusion: Learning from Shauna Rempel
Shauna Rempel’s career is a testament to the power of adaptability in digital publishing. From leading Global News’ social media strategy to teaching the next generation, she has shown how to thrive in a rapidly changing industry. Her emphasis on storytelling, data, and audience engagement offers valuable lessons for anyone looking to make their mark in journalism. Whether you’re a budding journalist or a seasoned editor, Rempel’s journey reminds us that the heart of publishing—digital or otherwise—is connecting with people.