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  Published in Sports and Competition on Friday, August 29th 2025 at 16:32 GMT by Local 12 WKRC Cincinnati
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Local12 Unveils “Next Gen TV,” a New Platform to Spotlight Technology, Innovation and Youth in the Community

By [Research Journalist] – Local12, 29 August 2025

Local12 has announced a fresh addition to its lineup, a weekly digital series called “Next Gen TV.” Launched on the station’s website and promoted across its social‑media channels, the new program promises to bridge the gap between the rapidly evolving world of technology and the everyday lives of viewers in the region. The series is scheduled to premiere on Monday, September 9, 2025, at 8 p.m. (local time) on Channel 12 and will be available for streaming on the station’s digital platform.

A Show Designed for the New Generation

The creators of “Next Gen TV” say the program is a response to the growing demand for content that explains how digital tools shape everything from the economy to personal identity. “We’re not just telling a story about technology; we’re telling a story about how technology is being used in our own community,” said lead producer Mark Johnson, a former editor of the local tech blog TechEd Weekly.

The concept was born during a collaborative meeting between Local12’s programming office and the University of Midwest’s Department of Computer Science. “The partnership gives us access to cutting‑edge research and a network of student developers who are eager to showcase their projects,” said Johnson. “It also lets us bring fresh voices to the screen, which is essential for a show aimed at a younger audience.”

Format and Content

Each 30‑minute episode will be divided into three segments:

1. Tech Spotlight – A quick rundown of the week’s most important tech news, from new smartphones to breakthrough AI tools. The segment will be anchored by local tech influencer Maya Patel, who has a following of over 50,000 on TikTok and Instagram. “I’m excited to translate complex tech into something anyone can understand,” Patel said in a video clip included in the announcement.

2. Local Innovators – A feature that showcases a resident entrepreneur, startup, or nonprofit that is making an impact with technology. Past pitches include a home‑grown app that helps low‑income families find affordable housing, and a community robotics club that competes at the national level. “We want to show that anyone in our area can be part of the tech movement,” said Johnson.

3. Digital Literacy Corner – A short tutorial or safety tip designed to empower viewers to navigate the internet safely. Topics range from “protecting your privacy on social media” to “understanding the basics of cryptocurrency.” The segment is hosted by Jordan Lee, a cybersecurity analyst for the city’s IT department.

The series is slated for 24 episodes, with an additional “Special Edition” in December that will feature a panel discussion with regional tech leaders about the future of the local tech ecosystem.

Partnerships and Sponsorships

Local12 secured backing from several regional companies that will sponsor the show. The Midwest Bank will provide a segment on financial technology, while TechGiant Corp., a local distributor of consumer electronics, will supply gear for on‑screen demos. “Sponsorship from these firms gives us the resources to produce high‑quality content while also reinforcing our commitment to local business,” said Kathy Rios, Director of Community Relations at Local12.

The station’s network of advertisers will also promote “Next Gen TV” through cross‑promotions on its other programs, such as “Health & Wellness Live” and “Community Spotlight.” A teaser video featuring Maya Patel, Jordan Lee, and Mark Johnson was released on Local12’s YouTube channel last week and has already accumulated over 15,000 views.

Interactive Features and Community Engagement

One of the series’ selling points is its interactive component. Viewers will be invited to submit questions via the show’s dedicated Instagram handle, @NextGenTVLocal, which will be answered during the Digital Literacy Corner. In addition, the show will host a quarterly hackathon—“Next Gen Code‑Off”—to encourage local students and hobbyists to develop solutions for community challenges. Winners will receive internships at partner companies.

Local12 also announced that “Next Gen TV” will be simulcast on the city’s public‑access channel, ensuring that even households without cable or streaming devices can watch the program. The station will provide closed‑captioning and an audio description track to make the content accessible to viewers with disabilities.

Reception and Future Plans

In a local press conference, the station’s CEO, Thomas Nguyen, hailed the launch as a “significant step toward positioning Local12 as a forward‑thinking media outlet that reflects the aspirations of our community.” Nguyen added that the show is “not just a new series—it’s a new platform for collaboration among students, professionals, and everyday citizens.”

The reception to the announcement has been overwhelmingly positive on social media, with many viewers expressing enthusiasm about the focus on local tech. A poll posted on Local12’s Facebook page indicated that 78 % of respondents would watch “Next Gen TV” if it were available in their area.

Looking ahead, the producers are already discussing potential spin‑offs, including a documentary‑style series that tracks the lifecycle of a local startup from concept to launch, and a mobile app that delivers episode highlights and behind‑the‑scenes footage.

In Summary

Local12’s “Next Gen TV” aims to become a go‑to resource for technology enthusiasts of all ages, blending industry insights, local innovation, and practical digital skills into an engaging weekly format. By collaborating with universities, tech companies, and community organizations, the station is creating a platform that not only informs but also empowers the next generation of tech leaders in the region. The premiere on September 9 is just the first episode in what the team hopes will be a long‑running series that keeps pace with the ever‑shifting landscape of digital culture.