The robust launches of a new generation of television’s traditional procedural have helped to power a broadcast renaissance and sent the streamers hustling to add their entries to the genre. CBS, the leader in primetime for 21 of the last 22 seasons, has been at the forefront of developing and programming procedural dramas and expanding show universes from CSI to NCIS and more. Tony Phelan and Joan Rater, the creators and executive producers of CBS’ Fire Country and its upcoming spinoff, Sheriff Country, join CBS Entertainment’s Yelena Chak, EVP scripted development, and Bryan Seabury, EVP, head of content strategy and drama development, CBS Studios, for a conversation about the process behind the successful procedural — from the creative seeds of a show to the strategy for spinoffs and expansions.

The prolific creator of the groundbreaking TV comedy Black-ish and its multiple spinoffs, the innovative Netflix animated special Entergalactic and iconic films including Girls Trip, You People and Coming 2 America, joins The Ankler’s Katey Rich for a conversation about his disruptive journey in Hollywood. Working with a wide range of co-creators and stars across live action (Eddie Murphy to Rashida Jones), animation (Kid Cudi), reality (Tyra Banks), podcasting (The Unusual Suspects with Malcolm Gladwell), branded content and more, Barris continues to innovate as a creator, producer and performer. Expect insight, honesty, and a glimpse into what’s next from one of the most influential voices in entertainment.
 

The media industry is at a critical juncture—facing challenges from disruptive business models and a constant devaluation of content. In this session, Stephanie Slagle, Vice President & Chief Innovation Officer at Graham Media Group, Michael Newman, Director of Transformation at Graham Media Group, and Joe Croney, CTO of Arc XP at The Washington Post, will share how they’re reshaping the future of media through a collaborative, bold approach to content reinvention.

Discover how Graham Media’s investment in local news is revitalizing community-driven content that audiences trust, while defying the race to the bottom. Learn how to move away from reliance on platforms like YouTube, reinvest in core news products, and why a focus on local content is essential for long-term success.

In addition, hear how media organizations are partnering with technology platforms to reimagine their content strategies, improve monetization, and gain a clearer view of what the future of media can look like. This session will offer insights into how thoughtful content and innovative technology are driving the next wave of transformation in the industry.

Gain insights into how technology and innovative partnerships are transforming media strategies, enabling better monetization, and helping organizations stay ahead of the curve.
This session is more than a survival story—it’s about embracing change, driving innovation, and building a resilient, sustainable media model for the future. Join us to explore how thoughtful content strategy and innovative technology are shaping the next chapter in media.

The media & entertainment, games, and sports industries are undergoing a seismic shift, driven by changing viewer behaviors and preferences for more interactive and personalized experiences, coupled with new technology innovations such as generative AI and more content platforms than ever before. Join Samira Bakhtiar, as she talks with industry leaders to learn how they are using different content types to fuel fan engagement and how a convergence of technology is extending their reach. Hear first-hand how generative AI, live cloud production, and interactive technologies are helping companies create content, connect workflows, and captivate audiences. This session will explore how the latest AI and cloud innovations can be used by any broadcaster, streaming service, or content creator to unlock new opportunities to reach audiences wherever they are, and deliver more unique and engaging experiences.

Join NAB President and CEO Curtis LeGeyt as he welcomes attendees and sets the stage for an exciting show experience.  He will be followed by Karen Chupka,  NAB Executive Vice President and Managing Director, GCE who will share some exciting NAB Show updates!

Also, legendary syndicated radio personality Delilah will receive the fourth annual Insight Award from the Library of American Broadcasting Foundation (LABF). The award recognizes Delilah’s trailblazing history of excellence in broadcasting and her profound impact on audiences nationwide.

Then, don’t miss an exclusive fireside chat with Stephen A. Smith — star of ESPN’s “First Take,” host of “The Stephen A. Smith Show” and New York Times bestselling author of “Straight Shooter.” Smith will share his unfiltered insights into the evolving media landscape, the future of sports entertainment and his rise to becoming one of television’s most influential voices. Mike McVay, president of McVay Media, will guide what promises to be a dynamic discussion from the Main Stage.

Join Microsoft at the 2025 NAB Show for an insightful keynote on the transformative power of AI in the media and entertainment industry. Led by Microsoft VP of Telco, Media and Gaming, Silvia Candiani, this session will explore how AI and cloud technologies are revolutionizing content creation, distribution, engagement, and consumption. The session features a panel discussion with industry leaders and showcases innovative AI applications and their impact on business processes and customer engagement. Don’t miss this opportunity to see how AI is reshaping the media landscape and driving the future of the industry.

From reality competitions to docuseries and social experiment shows, unscripted television continues to evolve in the post-peak TV environment. With shifting viewer habits, the rise of AI-powered content, and an increasingly globalized market, how are creators adapting to stay ahead? This panel brings together industry leaders to discuss the latest trends, challenges, and innovations shaping non-fiction TV. Topics will include the impact of short-form content and platforms, monetization strategies in the streaming age, and the next frontier of interactive and AI-enhanced storytelling in a social media economy. Whether you’re a producer, network executive, or content creator, this conversation will provide valuable insights into the future of unscripted entertainment.

Includes the presentation of the Digital Leadership Award, Engineering Achievement Award for Radio and Television, and more.

Digital Leadership Award

The NAB Digital Leadership Award is presented to an individual at a broadcast station, group or network who has had a significant leadership role in the digital success of a broadcast business leveraging new and emerging technologies (e.g., new or significant revenue growth, increased audience engagement, non-traditional product development, innovative business strategies, etc.). Like the industry, the award has evolved as digital media has become an integral part of broadcast businesses; it was originally established in 2015 to honor individuals who transformed traditional broadcast businesses to succeed on digital media platforms.

Engineering Achievement Awards: 

Established in 1959, the Radio and Television Engineering Achievement Awards are given to individuals who are nominated by their peers for significant contributions to advancing broadcast engineering. Paul S. Shulins, co-owner, Over The Air RF Consulting and Dennis W. Wallace, managing partner, Meintel, Sgrignoli, & Wallace are the recipients of the 2025 NAB Engineering Achievement Awards. 

In the ever-evolving landscape of Media, the ability to adapt and innovate is crucial for survival and success. Join Deloitte on the Main Stage for an insightful session that explores the future of the industry through three critical lenses: Business Models, Talent, and Technology.

Discover how business leaders are thinking about commercial models to stay ahead in a competitive market. Learn about the talent leadership needed to build a dynamic and resilient workforce. Explore the latest technology trends and how they can be leveraged to level-up for growth and efficiency.

This session will underscore the enduring importance of content while highlighting the adaptive business models that are key to thriving. Talent and technology will be presented as the pivotal enablers of these successful business models. Don’t miss this opportunity to gain valuable insights and prepare for the next decade of industry transformation.

In a world where negative or controversial content often dominates algorithms, Dhar Mann has cracked the code for building a multi-million dollar empire with scripted, positive and brand-safe content that resonates with millions globally. Join Dhar Mann, the #1 digital scripted content creator in the world, for an intimate conversation about how he built Dhar Mann Studios into one of the fastest-growing independent digital media companies. Alongside DMS CEO Sean Atkins, they will share the secrets behind the company’s success, trends shaping the booming creator economy, and how to scale digital IP. They will also provide actionable insights for both creators and brands looking to partner on high-impact brand integrations, revealing their strategies to maximize the potential of successful partnerships.

2025 Project of the Year Awards
Highlighting the most ambitious and impactful projects completed in 2024, this all-new program celebrates innovative applications, installations, workflows and use cases that push boundaries and redefine what’s possible. Winners will be named in four categories: Acquisition, Production, Operations and Delivery.

https://cloud.e.nabshow.com/projectoftheyear
 

2025 Product of the Year Awards

The only official program celebrating the most significant and promising new products and technologies featured at NAB Show. Judged by a panel of industry experts, winners will be named in 16 categories with one Best Overall Top Tech award.

https://cloud.e.nabshow.com/productawards

With WWE entering a bold new chapter, President Nick Khan and Chief Content Officer Paul “Triple H” Levesque are at the helm, shaping its evolution in an ever-changing media and entertainment landscape. This panel delves into WWE’s future—from global expansion and talent development to innovative storytelling and the integration of new technologies. How is WWE adapting to streaming, live event experiences, and fan engagement in the digital age? What’s next for the company’s creative direction and business strategy? Join us for an exclusive conversation with WWE’s leadership as they discuss their vision for the next generation of sports entertainment.

Discover how artificial intelligence is transforming media and entertainment in this session featuring experts from Bluemoon AI, Dell Technologies and NVIDIA. The presentation will cover:

• Recent AI breakthroughs in media and entertainment
• The hardware and software technologies driving these advancements
• Methodologies and best practices for application development
• Practical use cases for AI in production
• Roadmap for successful AI implementation