Joseph Wiedeman

Digital Freelance Journalist from Central Florida

University of Central Florida Journalism B.A. 

ABOUT

Joseph Wiedeman is a student journalist with a focus on politics and governmental relations. Work examines power, policy, and local affairs through ethical, context-driven reporting. Aims to make complex political issues accessible while highlighting their immediate human impact and simultaneously painting an honest narrative for those not present to witness history.

Born and raised in Bradenton, Florida, Joseph has had a connection to the heart of this state from the very beginning. Post high school, he originally intended to become a lawyer or legal advisor before finding his true passion in news media. This new love lead him to the University of Central Florida where he continues to work towards his degree today, with an expected graduation in Spring of 2027.

With a passion for truth, news was almost a natural calling. After being admitted to the Journalism program, Joseph went on to set the record for published stories in his news writing class while simultaneously leading teams in a full-time (40+ hours) capacity in the food service industry. Joseph is passionate about seeking the making of a better world through increased collaboration, commitment to truth and a desire to create enviorment’s that foster open dialogue.

Featured: 6

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Published: 17

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Photo's: 67

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Featured: 6 〰️ Published: 17 〰️ Photo's: 67 〰️

Education

University of Central Florida

2024 - 2027 | B.A. Journalism

State College of Florida

2022 - 2024 | A.A. Political Science

Lakewood Ranch High School

2018 - 2022 | H.S. Diploma

Experience

Certifications

—FAA 107: Unmanned Aircraft—

—Microsoft Office—

—Adobe Photoshop—

—Canva—

—CPR—

— Salaried Service Manager — | — Gators Dockside —

Primary point of contact for night staff, guest concerns, and performance

Handled restaurant promotion and marketing efforts - Over $200,000 in sales managed

Managed 15-30 person teams 5 days a week - Night Team Lead

General Copywriting and Proofreading Services

Lots of research documents, some script writing

— Freelance Writer — | — Freelancer, Fiverr, Substack—

— Student Journalist — | — UCF the Charge News —

All stories done while working 40+ hours a week, leading team of 15-30

Reported on local affairs and school activities

Assigned Politics/Climate & Energy Beat

  • *Editors Choice*

    Jeff Rupert Unforgettable Sound

  • *FEATURED*

    UCF Student Memorial for Iran

  • Group of protesters holding signs and banners advocating for the end of ice and immigration enforcement, with some signs reading "ICE OUT," "RENÉE WASN'T MAD BUT WE ARE," "ONLY WANT ICE IN MY RIPPERS," and "ABOLISH ICE." Participants are standing outside near a building with a tree in the background.

    Orlando Protest Against ICE

  • Multiple solar panels installed on the ground outside a building with a brick facade, with a parking lot and trees in the background.

    BRIEF: Overturning of Endangerment Finding

  • A purple cube-shaped structure with decorative cutouts and a solar panel on top, featuring a stylized icon of a fountain or water feature on one side.

    Two Bills in Florida Legislature Threaten Sustainable Future, Undermine City Efforts

  • *#1 STORY, FEATURED*

    TPUSA Postpones Orlando Leg of "Make Heaven Crowded Tour"

  • A calm lake surrounded by trees, with a small sandy beach and a dock in the foreground.

    Florida Enters Another Week of Drought, Amid UN-Declared Global Water Crisis

  • *FEATURED*

    'Say no to this war': Community Shows Up for Local Protest Against Ongoing Strikes in Iran STORY + GALLERY

  • Photo of a modern building with the sign CREOL, surrounded by trees, bushes, and a well-maintained lawn, with a pathway leading to the entrance.

    'Dystopian Books as Instruction Manuals': UCF's Role in Israeli Weapons Manufacturing

  • Knights of the Round Table 'Karnival' Helps Students De-stress, Connect

  • Experts Provide Insight on El Niño's Projected Return Later this Year

  • Endangered Species Act Amendments to Deregulate, Allow Drilling in the Gulf

  • Recent Studies Reveal that AI may Negatively Impact Student Job Opportunities by 2029

  • Anna Eskamani - UCF Downtown Campus

    'Warm, friendly, full of energy': Meet the Woman Running to be Orlando's Next Mayor

  • Lands West of UCF Main Campus Softball Field Clear Cut

    University Clears 200-Yards of Natural Land Near Arboretum Days before Earth Day