In this conversation, Robert Riggs, a long-time member of DFWSEM and investigative journalist, shares his journey from journalism to internet marketing, SEO, and podcasting. He credits his early days at DFWSEM for helping him understand SEO and internet marketing after transitioning from a career in politics and investigative journalism. Robert details his winding career path, starting from his early political days, where he worked for Congress, to becoming a well-known investigative journalist covering major events such as the Watergate investigation and later, the Gulf War. His journalistic journey took him from Washington D.C. to covering high-profile stories for CBS, winning prestigious awards like the DuPont Award for investigative reporting, and eventually transitioning into digital marketing and podcasting.
Robert further explains how his passion for storytelling led him to launch his true crime podcast, True Crime Reporter, which grew into a successful TV series, Free to Kill, airing on Fox Nation. He shares insights into how he networks through platforms like LinkedIn and how crucial storytelling is to captivating and engaging audiences, whether in podcasts or television. He emphasizes the importance of maintaining control over one’s content and not solely relying on platforms like Facebook or YouTube. His experience demonstrates a shift from traditional media to new-age digital platforms, with a focus on SEO, content marketing, and leveraging partnerships to grow audience reach.