Reese Thompson

Reese joined the Live 5 News team in June 2025.

Professional Experience: My interest in news began when I joined my high school TV program, “Lincoln Live” in my junior year. I got the opportunity to learn everything from reporting, anchoring and producing to being a storyteller. After realizing I wanted to pursue journalism as a career, I became an anchor/reporter for Ohio University’s WOUB Public Media for four years, developing relationships with tight-knit communities that value local heritage. During summers, I interned at the Scripps News Washington D.C. Bureau as a political reporter and Guardians Baseball Insider as a sports reporter for the AAA Columbus Clippers.

News Philosophy: “Write for the ear, shoot for the eye, aim for the heart,” as Al Tompkins says.

Education: I have a Bachelor of Science in Journalism with a focus in News and Information from Ohio University. Go Bobcats!

Hometown: Columbus, Ohio

Family: My mom, dad, and brother still live in Ohio along with most of my extended family. Both my dad and brother are pilots, so we do lots of traveling together. I also have two furry siblings, Augie and Leo. They are the most adorable Goldendoodles. I’ve realized you can run into someone from Ohio just about everywhere you go!

Hobbies & Interests: At any moment, I might break out a random dance move. I love to dance! I grew up as a competitive dancer for the majority of my life, and that part of me will never leave. Like a lot of us here, I am also a big foodie! Whether it comes to ordering a new dish or trying a new activity, I love to push myself outside of my comfort zone.

Favorite Books/Music/Movie: I love reading self-help books like “Everything is Figureoutable” by Marie Forleo and “The Rhythm of Life” by Matthew Kelly. On a night in, I’m likely watching a documentary or movie. Some of my favorite movies are I, Tonya; A Star is Born, The Notebook, Joker, and Harry Potter. For my music taste, it ranges everywhere from Tyler Childers to Kendrick Lamar.

Likes Best About the Lowcountry: I love how Charleston has a European feel to its architecture. The houses are so colorful and the cobblestone streets give this area unique charm. Charleston is filled with delicious food spots, coffee shops, and hidden gems. I also enjoy how walkable Charleston is with lots of beautiful nature to explore.

Most Interesting Assignment: Every situation varies and brings its own adventure. If I had to pick a recent one, I recently went to an upcoming beer-spa business opening in rural southeast Ohio. The European inspired approach to holistic health uses hops, an herb primarily used in brewing beer, along with other antioxidants to create a relaxing yet exotic experience by bathing in beer!