A Couple of "Happy Accidents" Helped Marc Tió Enter the World of Journalism

Marc Tió is a foreign correspondent who since 2009 has covered U.S. topics for RAC1, the top rated radio station in Catalonia, Spain. Additionally, he writes about trends and new events in New York for Condé Nast Traveler Spain and about film and entertainment for Hearst's Fotogramas. 

Marc Tió

Tió began working as a journalist right after receiving a Bachelor's Degree in Communications in Barcelona and worked in the newsroom of Televisió de Catalunya (TV3), Catalonia's public broadcasting network, where he covered economics, showbusiness, and the arts and worked with the editorial team of the network's news show. He later became the editor-in-chief of the news room of a local television broadcast and moved back to TV3 as a writer of the afternoon talk show.

In the following interview, he shares some insights about his work as a foreign correspondent.

How did you get started in journalism and how were you selected to work in the United States as opposed to another country?

A bit by accident. When it was time to pick a specialization for college I wasn’t really sure what to do and it was my tutor who suggested that journalism was something I could be good at. I did love communicating via words and images so I ended up following that path. What brought me to the U.S. is another happy accident. I briefly moved to New York in need of a break from Barcelona and I was hired by my outlet when they were looking for a new correspondent. 

What do Americans not know about your country of origin and what is your country's perception of the United States and Americans?

I think clichés play a big part in learning about other countries. When I tell Americans that I’m from Barcelona I already expect someone mentioning soccer, siesta or paella. There’s a better understanding from people who have traveled to Europe but many are still not aware of the rich diversity of my country or that we speak Catalan where I’m from. Film, TV and social media have helped spread American culture around the globe so you have a familiar feeling when you visit the U.S.. But there are nuances that are lost until then. 

Have you noticed any particular trends or shifts in public opinion or attitudes during your time reporting in the United States?

People I talk to seem to have stronger opinions in general. I feel it’s a global effect. But I do think there’s evidence of the polarization of society. On the other hand I feel people are more open to learn about other people’s points of view and show more willingness to update old believes.  

How do you navigate cultural differences and ensure accurate and unbiased reporting while covering sensitive or controversial topics in the United States?

Marc Tió

Finding the right reliable sources, on any angle, is essential to me. I find that journalists have to navigate a fine line between the pressure to report fast to our outlets and the need to be accurate, especially when our profession is being accused of generating false information from people who simply disagree with the truth. I try to gather all points of view and give my best when summarizing an issue so people from my country can have a better grasp of the story. 

What challenges or unique aspects have you encountered while reporting on American politics, culture, or society?

Access is quite a challenge for foreign journalists. Or the lack of. Reporting to foreign countries or regions that may not have the same impact on an audience of smaller scale has made my job a bit harder. Fortunately there are journalist organizations and colleagues willing to share information. I also feel some things can get lost in translation and, no matter the level of English or the experience, some questions can sound blunt or can be misinterpreted. 

How would you describe "America" as a concept?

I believe Americans have great expectations on what this country is and represents and sometimes it turns into an idea that’s still out of reach. America is so influential that many people look up to it but I think there’s more to learn from the international community. 

In your view, what are some of the key issues or topics that foreign correspondents should prioritize when reporting on the United States?

I like to read local news outlets because I think they do incredible work. Knowing what’s happening on the streets can give you a better sense of what the main issues of this country are. Politics is a big deal in this country, especially with elections that feel non-stop, but social issues are behind the biggest concerns.