Why Everyone Is Suddenly Talking About Cleveland 13 News; a Conversation with President Matt Greminger

CLEVELAND, Ohio — Matt Greminger, president of Cleveland 13 News, is leading a shift in local journalism by prioritizing authentic storytelling over breaking news. In a recent conversation, Greminger emphasized that the network’s mission is not driven by speed but by accuracy, context, and trust. “There needs to be trust. We have to know that we can trust the media, and right now, we can’t,” Greminger said, recalling the moment he realized how often major outlets report events with bias or misinformation.

Founded in response to what Greminger calls a "gap in trustworthy reporting," Cleveland 13 News was built to strip away traditional barriers between reporters and the public. Rather than sticking to rigid interview formats, the network fosters conversations where real stories emerge naturally. “The news doesn’t need to be about control,” Greminger said, sharing how his early experience with former 19 News reporter Denise Zarrella taught him that breaking rules, like allowing a subject to hold the microphone, can create more comfortable and authentic exchanges.

Cleveland 13 News began with Greminger’s YouTube series 'Cleve-It To Us', a project designed to highlight the untold stories and behind-the-scenes moments in local life. After the death of his grandmother and several transformative conversations with industry professionals, he decided to expand this concept into a full news network. The station has since gained recognition for its grassroots approach and innovative model, thriving without government funding or traditional corporate structures.

In a media landscape often defined by political polarization, Cleveland 13 News intentionally seeks diverse perspectives. Greminger built an advisory board that includes business leaders, nonprofit directors, parents, and community advocates from across the political spectrum. The network also encourages community participation, inviting local residents to submit stories or tips that deserve attention. “It’s not a competition to us,” Greminger said. “We’re the only network that shares other stations’ stories because it’s about getting the information out there.”

The station has garnered notable achievements in its short existence. Cleveland 13 News was recently voted third-best news network in Cleveland by Cleveland Scene, while Greminger himself was recognized as the second-best reporter in Northeast Ohio. Despite these accolades, Greminger remains focused on innovation rather than awards. For instance, the network plans to reimagine weather reporting by making forecasts more engaging and relatable, blending accuracy with humor to connect with viewers.

One of Greminger’s core philosophies is that journalism should build connections rather than create divisions. He described the importance of conversations over formal interviews, noting how storytelling is often richer when people are engaged in shared activities rather than rigid question-and-answer formats. “You learn more having a conversation than you ever will in an interview,” he said.

The network’s collaborative ethos extends beyond newsrooms. Greminger has forged partnerships with affiliates like WOBL and WDLW in Oberlin, where stories are amplified on-air and online. Stories covered by Cleveland 13 News have frequently sparked broader media coverage, including the recent film Lost and Found in Cleveland. Greminger said, “When we published the story, suddenly every other network was covering it, and that made me happy. It’s about getting these stories the attention they deserve.”

Greminger acknowledges that Cleveland 13 News is a passion project rather than a profit-driven enterprise. Ad revenue is minimal and primarily funds operational costs, with all contributors volunteering their time. Yet this independence is precisely what he believes makes the network trustworthy. “We don’t receive money from anyone. That means no strings attached, no narratives to push,” he said.

Looking ahead, Greminger is preparing to return full-time as president after a brief sabbatical, with plans to double down on Cleveland 13 News’ commitment to authentic, community-focused journalism. “Life is short. We should be smiling as much as humanly possible,” he said. “If I can create something that brings people together, shares their voices, and builds trust, then that’s worth every moment of my time.”

At Cleveland 13 News, the conversation continues to grow, and Greminger believes that anyone with a passion for storytelling can play a role. “Anybody can be a part of this in some capacity,” he said. “This is a community effort. We’re here to give people a voice and tell stories the way they deserve to be told.”

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At Cleveland 13 News, we strive to provide accurate, up-to-date, and reliable reporting. If you spot an error, omission, or have information that may need updating, please email us at tips@cleveland13news.com. As a community-driven news network, we appreciate the help of our readers in ensuring the integrity of our reporting.