From Battling Infertility to Bringing Hope – Keitha Nelson-Williams – A candid conversation on navigating personal struggles and journalism
SheSight Magazine is delighted to bring you a compelling feature on Keitha Nelson-Williams, a well-known news anchor from Good Morning Jacksonville. Keitha isn’t just experienced in the news world; she is a gifted storyteller who connects with her audience. With almost two decades in the industry, she has a knack for making complex stories relatable and capturing what really matters to viewers.
In this feature, Ruchi Dwivedi, a trusted friend and digital strategist to SheSight, converses candidly with Keitha about her unique journalistic style and personal journey. They discuss how Keitha’s honesty and openness make it easier for her to relate to her viewers and bring attention to important issues. It is a fascinating glimpse into how a journalist can influence and inspire, connecting the dots between the news and its viewers and shedding light on the stories shaping our worldview.
When Ruchi asked Keitha to share a pivotal moment in her career that significantly shaped her approach to storytelling and reporting, Keitha reflected on a deeply personal experience. “Transparency, I’ve always known, is incredibly important in journalism,” Keitha began, “but the true impact of it hit me in the face during my IVF journey.” She and her husband were trying to start a family but faced a lot of challenges because of her infertility issues. After several years of silent struggles, Keitha made a brave decision—she decided to share her journey with the public through a six-part television series about her experience with in vitro fertilization (IVF).
This series was an in-depth exploration of her entire IVF process. She shared everything—the good moments and the bad, the successes and the setbacks. Keitha openly discussed the emotional challenges she faced during this time. She hoped her story would help others going through similar challenges feel more understood. Her genuine sharing was a powerful way to connect deeply with viewers and bring attention to an important, yet often unspoken, personal issue.
“I documented the darkest times, the happiest times throughout that journey,” Keitha shared. She didn’t hold back, showing her tears and moments of vulnerability. This was a big deal because, as journalists, they are often taught to keep a cool distance and just stick to the facts. But Keitha went against the grain. She opened up about her own life, knowing that it could help others feel less alone.
And wow, did it make an impact? People were incredibly responsive. Keitha received tons of messages, emails, and even calls from viewers who were going through the same struggles. They were grateful to her for bringing this issue to the light, showing that infertility isn’t something to be ashamed of. It’s a tough road that many travel in silence.
This whole experience taught Keitha the power of expressing personal stories. It wasn’t just about her anymore. Her story helped others feel seen and supported. It is a powerful reminder that, sometimes, the most impactful journalism comes from the heart.
Keitha also talked about how media can better address sensitive topics like women’s health, especially those that are often seen as taboo. “We need to be brave and talk about these uncomfortable things,” she said. It’s essential to shed light on issues that people might shy away from discussing, like health disparities among African American women.
Keitha highlighted the long-standing role of journalists in bringing important issues to light. She stressed the importance of informing the public about issues without becoming overt advocates. “We need to present the facts and let people know there is a problem,” she explained. She cited the coverage of the March on Selma as an example of how journalists have courageously documented critical events, such as Martin Luther King Jr. facing violence, to bring social injustices to light. “Journalists have always been at the forefront of social change, and we need to continue this with tact and intelligence,” she added.
Following their discussion, Keitha shared her enthusiasm for the diversity of her work. “What I love about journalism is that it’s never routine. Every day, I learn something new, explore different areas, and encounter things that most people don’t,” she explained. Keitha emphasized that she avoids focusing too narrowly on any single type of story. Instead, she embraces every opportunity to learn and share these experiences with viewers.
What keeps Keitha motivated in this ever-changing media landscape? She loves that her job always brings something new to learn. “It’s not mundane,” she explains. Every day, she gets to dive into different topics, meet new people, and share their stories with the world. “It’s all about adapting and growing with the times,” Keitha added. “Life is full of changes, and you have to be ready to flow with them. I’ve really been enjoying the journey, embracing the new tools and platforms that enhance how we deliver news.”
“You have to meet your viewers where they are,” she notes, highlighting the shift towards more online content like podcasts and streaming services. It’s all about staying relevant and connected with the audience, no matter where they are. That’s what she loves about journalism—it’s a constant journey of discovery.
Wrapping up, Ruchi touched on the challenges Keitha has faced in her career and talked about her role as the anchor of “Good Morning Jacksonville” on First Coast News. She starts her day at 3 AM to prepare for the early morning show, which begins at 4:30 AM. Juggling this demanding schedule along with raising her five-year-old twins, Journey and Trey, has been a challenge but also a valuable learning experience. These experiences have enhanced her empathy and strengthened her ability to connect with her audience through her storytelling.
So, a big salute to Keitha Nelson-Williams for her incredible courage and commitment. Her story is a powerful reminder to all of us about the importance of sharing our own experiences. By opening up, we can foster deeper connections and a greater understanding with those around us. Thank you, Keitha, for sharing your journey with SheSight and inspiring us. Remember, every story has the potential to make a difference. Don’t hesitate to share yours!
-Staff Reporter
