The Real News

The Real News Network (TRNN) is a nonprofit news organization. TRNN was launched in 2007 in Toronto, founded by Paul Jay and Mishuk Munier. The Real News also has offices in Baltimore since 2014.
The Real News Network uses internet broadcasting, and is also available on Xfinity video on demand and Roku.
History.
Influenced by events such as the 2000 US presidential election, 9/11, the invasion of Iraq, and Hurricane Katrina, Jay felt that there needed to be a news network capable of making complicated concepts accessible to the average person. Jay and crew officially opened shop in Toronto in September 2007. According to a 2007 interview with Jay, The Real News does not accept funding from advertising, governments, or corporation; Jay said that during TRNN's development stage it turned down $50,000 in funding from the Canadian government. The organization is sustained through donations from viewers and foundations, and has a small for-profit segment as well.
Relocation to Baltimore.
TRNN moved to Baltimore in June 2014. Located at 231 N Holliday St., TRNN operates out of the largest sound stage in the city. After the network's success in Toronto, Jay desired to move TRNN to an American city, one facing social and economic problems endemic to cities across the country. Using video-calling services such as Skype, TRNN's anchors and hosts interview experts from all over the world on various topics of local, national, and international importance.
Staff.
On its launch in 2007, the Real News featured experienced professional journalists from across the globe, and employed around forty people. In mid-November 2019, the board announced it was "finalizing the terms of" the departure of co-founders Paul Jay and Sharmini Peries, with openings for Executive Director and Editor-in-Chief.
Content.
The Real News interviews economists, politicians, and policy experts about breaking news. Regular programs include "Reality Asserts Itself," multi-segment interviews on critical issues, and "Rattling the Bars" with host and former Black Panther Eddie Conway. Lawrence Wilkerson, former Chief of Staff to Colin Powell, is a regular contributor. For a time, progressive politician and activist Nina Turner hosted The Nina Turner Show.
Partners.
The Real News Network works with the Political Economy Research Institute (PERI) at University of Massachusetts Amherst to produce interviews and debates.
The Laura Flanders Show is a content partner.