A stalwart presence at CTV News for nearly 13 years, Griffin embodies the very essence of dedication to her craft. For her, it’s not just a job; it’s an opportunity to weave together the narratives of countless Canadians, with countless more tales waiting to be unveiled.
A stalwart presence at CTV News for nearly 13 years, Griffin embodies the very essence of dedication to her craft. For her, it’s not just a job; it’s an opportunity to weave together the narratives of countless Canadians, with countless more tales waiting to be unveiled.
In 2020, just before the pandemic, a major shift at the station presented an opportunity for her to move into a new role as a multiskilled journalist, moving away from her multi-year tenure as an anchor. Now, Katie writes, shoots and edits her own stories for TV, radio and digital audiences, on top of being an anchor and producer. She also fills in on the assignment desk and as a host on radio.
We caught up with Katie to discuss her career milestones, life in Ottawa, and what’s in store for the holiday season.
You’ve since celebrated 10 years with CTV News. What does this accomplishment mean to you?
It’s almost 13 years which is mind-blowing to me. It’s not lost on me what a privilege it is to have a job in this industry that has seen major cuts time and time again. Aside from internships early on, I’ve spent my whole career with CTV. I think it shows that I’ve put in the work—the long hours, the extra shifts, the wearing of multiple hats, saying yes to opportunities and really being committed to learning new skills. I’m also really lucky to have amazing colleagues and that my job has allowed me to grow as a journalist (and person) and connect with viewers along with amazing organizations doing such important work in the community.
How do you stay motivated and inspired in your work?
Curiosity and knowing there are still so many stories to tell. I love asking questions and pushing for answers. What’s happening? Why? And more importantly who is it impacting and how? I love being able to do multiple jobs in the newsroom and there have been times where I’m anchoring one day, producing the next, then reporting on the digital desk and it can be a hectic schedule, but it also keeps things interesting. I’m never bored at work!
How do you handle the constant flow of information and news updates in your profession? Do you have any tips for staying organized, and for managing your work life balance?
If you work in news you know it is never ending. Even when you’re off the clock you’re still paying attention. Is the news cycle exhausting sometimes? Absolutely. But it’s also exhilarating. Most of us thrive in breaking news situations. We know people aren’t waiting for the news to come on at 6 p.m. to find out what’s happened that day so we are always go go go and focus on getting the latest information out any way we can. I’m a big fan of lists so that helps me stay organized and prioritize. I am pretty attached to my phone but I’m working on putting it down more often! I’m lucky to have weekends off now so I make sure to take full advantage of that time with family and friends or traveling.
What has been one of your favourite or most memorable stories to report on in 2023?
One that really stands out is the reunion of a Second World War veteran and the girl he rescued in Holland when she was just three years old. He never knew her name. Dr. Roly Armitage is well-known in Ottawa and we were there when he met Sonja Jones for the first time since saving her 80 years earlier. It was amazing to see the role social media played in bringing these two back together after all these years and so heartwarming to witness their genuine emotion, connection, and shock of meeting after all these years.
Since this is our Christmas holiday issue, what is your favourite thing about the holidays around this time of the year?
I love the lights. I love the music everywhere you go. People are kinder. Getting the tree up makes the house feel so cozy. I also love baking up a storm and making up treat tins to share.
What is your favourite Christmas movie? Christmas song?
I can’t pick just one! Some that come to mind are Miracle on 34th Street and The Holiday. I also can’t wait to watch all the made-for-TV Christmas movies. A lot are filmed in Ottawa and surrounding areas so it’s fun spotting familiar locations. For a song I love The First Noel or Away in a Manger because my mom always sang that growing up.
Eggnog, yes or no?
No! You definitely love it or hate and while you won’t see me drinking it, I do usually have a carton in the fridge for those in my life who love it and stop by during the holidays.
What is your favourite Christmas memory from your childhood?
There are a few! One year while driving home from getting a Christmas tree during a snowstorm we ended up sliding into the ditch. Picture a full car with siblings and the dog and the tree on the roof. A farmer driving by saw us and pulled us out with his tractor! Christmas at the cottage is always special. My mom also gives me a special gift on Christmas Eve so it’s something that I always look forward to and a tradition I hope to continue.
With the New Year approaching, do you have any new year’s resolutions this year?
Not really! I think you can set a goal or make a resolution at any time of year. There’s so much pressure around New Year’s resolutions. I do know I want to travel more so that’s a goal I hope to achieve!
