Local News Matters (Tim Regan-Porter)
Explore every episode of Local News Matters
| Pub. Date | Title | Duration | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 10 Apr 2024 | Defying Trends: John Garrett of Community Impact on Growing a Hyperlocal Chain Leading with Print | 00:56:35 | |
John Garrett, CEO and founder of Community Impact, shares insights from his journey of launching and expanding a family of hyperlocal weekly newspapers from the game room of his Texas home in 2005 to reaching 2.5 million homes across 70 communities today. Garrett delves into the unconventional success of a print-centric model in a digital-dominated era, emphasizing the importance of distribution, community engagement, and the unique editorial mix that caters to the civic and local business news interests of residents. Garrett also discusses the challenges and learnings from overexpansion into other states and the strategic decision to refocus on Texas, underscoring the resilience and adaptability required in the evolving news industry. He highlights the innovative approaches Community Impact has adopted, including digital transformation initiatives like CI 360 and the use of Smart Brevity to enhance storytelling and reader engagement. Garrett emphasizes on the critical role of local advertising in sustaining journalism, advocating for a partnership approach with local businesses and the significance of geography in advertising effectiveness. He shares personal reflections on leadership, the impact of taking a sabbatical for mental health, and the vision for Community Impact's future, including aspirations for generational leadership and expansion within Texas. Garrett's story is a testament to the enduring value of local news and the potential for print media to thrive through innovation, community focus, and a deep commitment to journalistic integrity. Episode chapters: (02:06) - A print success story in the digital age (05:20) - An editorial mix of catnip and civic info for every resident (10:29) - Don’t ignore Main Street (15:08) - Committing to showing up (19:55) - Why print is a driving force for Community Impact (23:40) - Not abandoning reach and advertising for reader revenue (26:46) - Keys to driving ad sales (29:57) - Geography is your great advantage with an advertiser (33:50) - Digital transformation at CI (35:36) - Overexpansion followed by retraction to focus on Texas (40:45) - Burnout among leaders (43:46) - Recent growth and plans for the future (46:59) - Rapid-fire questions
Links:
For show notes, transcripts, newsletter sign-up and past guests on the Local News Matters podcast, please visit localnewsmatterspodcast.com or lnmpod.com.
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| 28 Aug 2024 | Equity-driven journalism with Resolve Philly’s Jean Friedman-Rudovsky | 01:09:38 | |
Jean Friedman-Rudovsky, executive director of Resolve Philly, delves into the evolution of the nonprofit newsroom and its mission to address the information needs of underserved communities in Philadelphia. She discusses the critical role of equity in journalism, sharing how Resolve Philly has integrated this principle into both its internal practices and editorial work. Jean also highlights the power of collaboration in local news, offering insights into how Resolve Philly has effectively partnered with other newsrooms to tackle issues like reentry and poverty.
Additionally, Jean explores the importance of community engagement and participatory journalism, describing how Resolve Philly involves residents in the news creation process. She provides practical advice for newsrooms looking to incorporate these elements, even with limited resources. Jean also touches on the strategic decisions behind funding, emphasizing the need for diverse revenue streams and the importance of avoiding competition with partner newsrooms.
Episode chapters: (00:02:19) - The mission and founding of Resolve Philly (00:06:51) - The evolution and trajectory of Resolve Philly (00:12:14) - Embedding equity in journalism and its challenges (00:17:40) - Moving forward with equity despite national polarization (00:22:40) - Implementing community participatory journalism (00:28:57) - Designing a newsroom for the future of local news (00:32:44) - Challenges and strategies in collaboration (00:39:44) - Seven lessons in collaboration (00:49:00) - The Philadelphia local news ecosystem (00:59:09) - Rapid-fire questions (01:06:35) - Media and local recommendations
Links:
For show notes, transcripts, newsletter sign-up and past guests on the Local News Matters podcast, please visit localnewsmatterspodcast.com or lnmpod.com. Past guests on the Local News Matters podcast include: Jay Rosen (NYU), Sue Cross (Exit interview, INN), Mary Margaret White (Mississippi Today), Amy Kovac-Ashley (Tiny News Collective), Michael Shaprio (TAPinto), Kenny Katzgrau (redbankgreen and Broadstreet), John Garrett (Community Impact), Shannon Kinney (Dream Local Digital), Larry Ryckman (The Colorado Sun), Frank Mungeam (Local Media Association), Kelly Ann Scott (Alabama Media Group), Sara Lomax and S. Mitra Kalita (URL Media), Elizabeth Hansen Shapiro (National Trust for Local News), Mike Rispoli and Richard Young (via When the People Decide), Sarabeth Berman (American Journalism Project), Rabbi Hillel Goldberg and Shana Goldberg (Intermountain Jewish News), Lyndsay C. Green (via The Journalism Salute), Rashad Mahmood and Mark Glaser (New Mexico Local News Fund), Christian Vanek and Barbara Hardt (The Mountain-Ear), Dan Grech (BizHack), Zack Richner (Easy Tax Credits), Tracie Powell (Pivot Fund), Dan Oshinsky (Inbox Collective), Linda Shapley (via What Works), Yehong Zhu and Jake Seaton (Zette, Column), Charity Huff (January Spring), Joaquin Alvarado and Dave Perry (Aurora Sentinel), Steve Waldman (Rebuild Local News), Maritza Félix (Conecta Arizona), Michael Bolden (American Press Institute), Jeff Roberts and Corey Hutchins (CFOIC, Colorado College), Eve Pearlman and Erica Anderson (Spaceship Media), Jennifer Brandel (Hearken, Democracy SOS), Corey Hutchins with Bay Edwards, Todd Chamberlain and Raleigh Burleigh (Sopris Sun). | |||
| 12 Mar 2024 | Exit Interview: Kelly Ann Scott and the Digital Reinvention of Alabama Media Group | 00:51:30 | |
As Kelly Ann Scott leaves her position as VP of Content for Alabama Media Group to assume the role of Executive Editor and Senior Vice President at the Houston Chronicle, she shares her insights on digital transformation in local journalism in one of the most fascinating examples of digital transformation. Scott discusses the strategic reorganization of newsrooms into mission-driven teams, the importance of impactful journalism, and the evolution of Alabama Media Group into a digital-first media company. She emphasizes the necessity of product thinking, audience engagement, and the balance between serving current and future audiences. Scott also highlights the significance of empathy and careful decision-making in newsroom leadership, advocating for a focus on solvable problems and innovative solutions.
Episode chapters: (03:01) - Background of transformation at Alabama Media Group (08:19) - Success, Pulitzers, serving multiple audiences and making daily choices (12:24) - Organizing the newsroom to get beyond the daily grind (19:05) - The innovation cycle: sprints, measurement, current vs. new audiences (25:19) - Fans, merchandise and brands (27:10) - Concierge news service (29:23) - Product thinking and saying goodbye to print (32:46) - Transformation for smaller mid-sized news organizations (34:33) - Care and feeding of the team: empathy, listening, not overloading them (39:33) - Rapid fire questions
Links:
For show notes, transcripts, newsletter sign-up and past guests on the Local News Matters podcast, please visit localnewsmatterspodcast.com or lnmpod.com.
Past guests on the Local News Matters podcast include: Sara Lomax and S. Mitra Kalita (URL Media), Elizabeth Hansen Shapiro (National Trust for Local News), Mike Rispoli and Richard Young (via When the People Decide), Sarabeth Berman (American Journalism Project), Rabbi Hillel Goldberg and Shana Goldberg (Intermountain Jewish News), Lyndsay C. Green (via The Journalism Salute), Rashad Mahmood and Mark Glaser (New Mexico Local News Fund), Christian Vanek and Barbara Hardt (The Mountain-Ear), Dan Grech (BizHack), Zack Richner (Easy Tax Credits), Tracie Powell (Pivot Fund), Dan Oshinsky (Inbox Collective), Linda Shapley (via What Works), Yehong Zhu and Jake Seaton (Zette, Column), Charity Huff (January Spring), Joaquin Alvarado and Dave Perry (Aurora Sentinel), Steve Waldman (Rebuild Local News), Maritza Félix (Conecta Arizona), Michael Bolden (American Press Institute), Jeff Roberts and Corey Hutchins (CFOIC, Colorado College), Eve Pearlman and Erica Anderson (Spaceship Media), Jennifer Brandel (Hearken, Democracy SOS), Corey Hutchins with Bay Edwards, Todd Chamberlain and Raleigh Burleigh (Sopris Sun).
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| 20 Jun 2023 | Boosting Engagement and Revenue with Newsletters: Insights from Dan Oshinsky | 01:02:26 | |
Dan Oshinsky, founder of Inbox Collective, is one of the foremost experts on building, growing and monetizing newsletters. Oshinsky discusses how email newsletters remain a powerful tool for local newsrooms to build an audience and generate revenue, best practices for creating successful newsletters, and the benefits of AI-powered tools for writers. Oshinsky provides examples of successful newsletters and offers advice on how local newsrooms can grow their audience and provide value to paying subscribers. Episode chapters: (02:11) - Why should people care about newsletters in 2023? (07:48) - Accidentally becoming an email power user and newsletter expert (12:40) - Translating lessons from large national brands to smaller local publications (14:55) - Local newsroom success stories (19:56) - Building relationships via different types of newsletters (24:38) - What is the jobs-to-be-done for your newsletter? (28:17) - Optimizing your newsletters (33:13) - Pricing newsletter ads (37:54) - Paid and subscriber-only newsletters (43:37) - AI in the newsletter space (48:12) - Rapid-fire questions
Links
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| 22 May 2024 | Carving out new lanes for early-stage news startups with Tiny News Collective’s Amy Kovac-Ashley | 01:02:59 | |
Amy Kovac-Ashley, the executive director of Tiny News Collective shares insights on how Tiny News Collective supports early-stage news founders, particularly those from traditionally excluded communities, by providing resources, tools, and a supportive community.
The discussion covers the importance of diverse voices in local journalism, the challenges faced by local news startups, and the innovative ways they can engage with their audiences. Amy emphasizes the significance of understanding community needs and tailoring editorial and business strategies accordingly.
Key takeaways include the potential for local news to act as a community connector, the value of arts and culture coverage, and the need for sustainable support systems for small news organizations. Amy also highlights successful case studies, such as Future Tides and The Shout, and explores the role of new revenue opportunities in sustaining local journalism.
Episode chapters: (02:36) - The mission of Tiny News Collective (05:24) - Changing the face of local news (07:43) - Arts and culture coverage as community connector (16:43) - Building support systems for early-stage news founders (27:03) - Tailoring support to individual needs (31:39) - The challenges of early-stage founders (43:19) - Scaling support (45:46) - Criteria for joining Tiny News Collective (48:15) - Rapid-fire questions
Links:
For show notes, transcripts, newsletter sign-up and past guests on the Local News Matters podcast, please visit localnewsmatterspodcast.com or lnmpod.com.
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| 24 Aug 2023 | Bridging the Gap in New Mexico: The Local News Fund’s Rashad Mahmood and Mark Glaser | 01:11:32 | |
New Mexico is one of a number of state-level bright spots in local news, thanks in large part to the efforts of our guests. Rashad Mahmood and Mark Glaser shed light on the New Mexico Local News Fund's initiatives to bridge gaps in local journalism. From fostering young talent to securing state funding, they explore the Fund's impact on communities and the future of news in New Mexico.
Episode chapters: (02:07) - How the New Mexico Local News Fund Started (07:15) - The Local News Fund’s mission and programs (14:43) - State funding of the Fund (21:07) - Supporting young journalists, especially journalists of color and those in rural areas (26:04) - Funding as a crucial component of diversifying newsrooms (29:30) - Class diversity in newsrooms (31:53) - Impacts on newsrooms and communities (41:10) - Accelerators and building sustainability with programs (46:45) - Collaborating with non-journalists (50:22) - Rapid-fire questions
Links
For show notes, transcripts, newsletter sign-up and past guests on the Local News Matters podcast, please visit localnewsmatterspodcast.com or lnmpod.com.
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| 23 Mar 2023 | A holistic vision for local news ecosystems with Michael Bolden, CEO of the American Press Institute | 00:58:06 | |
Michael Bolden’s role as CEO of the American Press Institute and his background in newsrooms, philanthropy, academia and community engagement puts him in a unique 360-degree view of journalism and how journalists interact with communities. In this conversation, we explore journalism’s importance for democracy, the need to listen with humility, the need to build healthy and supportive cultures, the role of metrics in news and much more.
Episode chapters: (2:49) - Press as an enabler of the American democratic experiment (4:35) - Listening to your community (and not just your audience) (14:49) - The strength and resilience of community media organizations (19:30) - The news ecosystem needs a mix of startups, legacy institutions and individuals (23:17) - Be skeptical and don’t just follow the lead of funders (27:42) - A holistic vision of cultural and financial health (31:05) - Supporting, retaining and managing a stressed and overworked staff (33:52) - Welcoming non-journalists as information providers (37:41) - Metrics for News, listening and a 360° view (42:30) - Transforming an organization (46:37) - Rapid-fire questions
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| 14 Dec 2023 | AI in the Newsroom: Practical Uses for Today's Journalists with Dan Grech (LNM Episode 25) | 00:51:53 | |
Dan Grech joins host Tim Regan-Porter again to explore the practical applications of AI in journalism. This episode delves into how AI tools are currently being used in newsrooms to free up time for journalists and better service audiences.
The conversation highlights the potential of AI to influence storytelling and marketing, its impacts on journalism and local news, and the changes it could bring about. Grech and Regan-Porter discuss various practical AI use cases for journalists, including processing police reports, automated translation of weather reports, and creating transcripts of public meetings. They emphasize the importance of "human in the loop" in AI applications and the need for journalists to adapt to new tools and methodologies.
This episode is part of a series exploring the opportunities and challenges AI presents for journalism, offering insights into how AI can be a powerful ally in the mission of truth and storytelling.
Episode chapters: (05:27) - Practical AI use cases for journalists from AP (09:24) - Use Case 1: Processing police reports (13:12) - Lesson: AI can free up time to focus on key tasks (but automation is difficult to maintain) (15:39) - Use Case 2: Automated translation of weather reports (18:39) - Use Case 3: Transcripts of public meetings (23:01) - Use Case 4: Classifying press release emails for assignment (26:13) - The importance of “human in the loop” (27:58) - The importance of working on *how* you work as a journalist (32:02) - Impact, not just efficiency (34:40) - Use cases for existing off-the-shelf tools: writing support (40:22) - Use cases for existing off-the-shelf tools: interview prep (42:43) - ChatGPT tips (45:56) - Data analysis and other miscellaneous uses
Links:
For show notes, transcripts, newsletter sign-up and past guests on the Local News Matters podcast, please visit localnewsmatterspodcast.com or lnmpod.com.
Past guests on the Local News Matters podcast include: Sara Lomax and S. Mitra Kalita (URL Media), Elizabeth Hansen Shapiro (National Trust for Local News), Mike Rispoli and Richard Young (via When the People Decide), Sarabeth Berman (American Journalism Project), Rabbi Hillel Goldberg and Shana Goldberg (Intermountain Jewish News), Lyndsay C. Green (via The Journalism Salute), Rashad Mahmood and Mark Glaser (New Mexico Local News Fund), Christian Vanek and Barbara Hardt (The Mountain-Ear), Dan Grech (BizHack), Zack Richner (Easy Tax Credits), Tracie Powell (Pivot Fund), Dan Oshinsky (Inbox Collective), Linda Shapley (via What Works), Yehong Zhu and Jake Seaton (Zette, Column), Charity Huff (January Spring), Joaquin Alvarado and Dave Perry (Aurora Sentinel), Steve Waldman (Rebuild Local News), Maritza Félix (Conecta Arizona), Michael Bolden (American Press Institute), Jeff Roberts and Corey Hutchins (CFOIC, Colorado College), Eve Pearlman and Erica Anderson (Spaceship Media), Jennifer Brandel (Hearken, Democracy SOS), Corey Hutchins with Bay Edwards, Todd Chamberlain and Raleigh Burleigh (Sopris Sun).
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| 22 Feb 2023 | Shut up and listen: Jennifer Brandel of Hearken on innovation via empathy & inclusiveness | 01:14:05 | |
Jennifer Brandel, co-founder of Hearken, Zebras Unite, Civic Exchange Chicago, Election SOS, Democracy SOS and WBEZ’s Curious City, shares lessons on designing experiments for sustainability, equity and impact.
Episode chapters: (2:40) - Jennifer’s path to public radio and Hearken (9:57) - Grants and designing experiments for sustainability (13:36) - Lessons for instilling new ideas in newsrooms (or any business) (33:45) - Hearken and a portfolio of listening (40:22) - Zebra’s Unite and a different kind of tech startup ecosystem (47:19) - Diversifying your organization and your audience (52:51) - Reflecting on election coverage (58:12) - Rapid-fire questions (1:09:35) - Fact check by Bay Edwards & Rachel Pickarski | |||
| 01 Nov 2023 | Preserving the local in local news with the National Trust for Local News’ Elizabeth Hansen Shapiro | 00:57:50 | |
In this episode, I sit down with Elizabeth Hansen Shapiro, CEO and co-founder of the National Trust for Local News, to discuss the vital work they're doing in preserving and evolving local news across the country. Elizabeth, with her background as a Harvard Business School-trained academic ("failed academic" in her words, since she's now actively working in the field), brings a unique and insightful perspective to our conversation. I was particularly excited to step back and geek out a little to apply business theory to the challenges and opportunities in local news. We cover a range of topics, from the importance of community weeklies and the criteria used to select titles for investment, to the progress of ongoing initiatives and finding the right balance between local ownership and the efficiencies of larger news chains. We also discuss the relationship between mission and profit in the news industry, and what wild success for local news could look like five years down the line. By incorporating business concepts such as jobs to be done, localism, and Clayton Christensen’s disruptive innovation theory, we offer a fresh lens through which to view the future of local journalism.
Episode chapters: (02:32) - The National Trust’s mission and why legacy news might be worth preserving (07:12) - The importance of community weeklies (11:41) - Evaluating titles for investment (14:38) - How current projects are doing (17:01) - Local involvement/ownership and benefiting from chain-like scale (22:09) - Other lessons learned (23:28) - The mission/profit relationship (28:08) - What does wild success look like in five years? (29:49) - Business theory applied to local news: business models (33:18) - Business theory applied to local news: jobs to be done and localism (37:54) - Business theory applied to local news: Clayton Chrstensen’s disruptive innovation theory (44:21) - Business theory applied to local news: false rigor (47:37) - Rapid-fire questions
Links:
For show notes, transcripts, newsletter sign-up and past guests on the Local News Matters podcast, please visit localnewsmatterspodcast.com or lnmpod.com.
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| 06 Sep 2023 | Reflecting on Intermountain Jewish News' 110 Years of Impact with Rabbi Hillel Goldberg and Shana Goldberg | 00:35:13 | |
Rabbi Hillel Goldberg and Shana Goldberg reflect on the legacy of the Intermountain Jewish News (IJN) as it marks its 110th year. They delve into IJN's dedication to unbiased journalism, its profound impact on the Jewish community, and the evolving landscape of news. IJN's journey underscores the value of balanced journalism, the significance of community engagement, and the importance of adaptability in the ever-changing media landscape.
Episode chapters: (01:58) - The importance of the Intermountain Jewish News to its community (06:49) - IJN’s footprint and approach to news (12:17) - The 110th Anniversary Edition (15:39) - The importance of national news for local audiences (21:46) - Changes to the business of news at IJN and the Jewish press more broadly (31:57) - Words of wisdom
Links
For show notes, transcripts, newsletter sign-up and past guests on the Local News Matters podcast, please visit localnewsmatterspodcast.com or lnmpod.com. Past guests on the Local News Matters podcast include: Lyndsay C. Green (The Journalism Salute), Rashad Mahmood and Mark Glaser, Christian Vanek and Barbara Hardt, Dan Grech, Zack Richner, Tracie Powell, Dan Oshinsky, Linda Shapley (What Works), Yehong Zhu and Jake Seaton, Charity Huff, Joaquin Alvarado and Dave Perry, Steve Waldman, Maritza Félix, Michael Bolden, Jeff Roberts and Corey Hutchins, Eve Pearlman and Erica Anderson, Jennifer Brandel, Corey Hutchins with Bay Edwards, Todd Chamberlain and Raleigh Burleigh.
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| 20 Mar 2024 | Building a sustainable future through philanthropy, innovation and impact: Insights from LMA's Frank Mungeam | 01:10:38 | |
Frank Mungeam, chief innovation officer at the Local Media Association, discusses his "Sustaining Philanthropy for Journalism" report released last month. He emphasizes the importance of community engagement and listening as the foundation for developing impactful journalism projects that resonate with local needs. Mungeam outlines a strategic approach to building a sustainable philanthropy model, starting with grassroots support and leveraging impactful journalism to attract funders. Beyond philanthropy, he delves into the broader landscape of innovation and product development within the industry, highlighting the need for local news outlets to adapt to the evolving demands of their audiences. Mungeam envisions a future where a diverse and inclusive local news ecosystem thrives, supported by a blend of philanthropy, community engagement, and innovative content strategies.
Episode chapters: (02:05) - The burning questions facing local news (09:17) - Listening for audience needs and the Jobs to Be Done framework (16:09) - The challenges in local TV news (21:25) - Taking a risk with Next with Kyle Clark in Denver (28:10) - Getting outside your legacy lane and mining your archives (34:56) - Sustaining Philanthropy for Journalism report: Local funders needed (38:59) - How can philanthropy be sustainable? (47:22) - Fundraising as a path to better community service, storytelling and product development (52:04) - Impact is the secret sauce of local journalism (56:21) - Start with listening then build a philanthropy funnel (59:49) - Rapid-fire questions
Correction: In the recommendations segment, Frank recommends Man’s Search for Meaning by Eli Wiesel. The book is by Viktor Frankl.
Links:
For show notes, transcripts, newsletter sign-up and past guests on the Local News Matters podcast, please visit localnewsmatterspodcast.com or lnmpod.com. Past guests on the Local News Matters podcast include: Kelly Ann Scott (Alabama Media Group), Sara Lomax and S. Mitra Kalita (URL Media), Elizabeth Hansen Shapiro (National Trust for Local News), Mike Rispoli and Richard Young (via When the People Decide), Sarabeth Berman (American Journalism Project), Rabbi Hillel Goldberg and Shana Goldberg (Intermountain Jewish News), Lyndsay C. Green (via The Journalism Salute), Rashad Mahmood and Mark Glaser (New Mexico Local News Fund), Christian Vanek and Barbara Hardt (The Mountain-Ear), Dan Grech (BizHack), Zack Richner (Easy Tax Credits), Tracie Powell (Pivot Fund), Dan Oshinsky (Inbox Collective), Linda Shapley (via What Works), Yehong Zhu and Jake Seaton (Zette, Column), Charity Huff (January Spring), Joaquin Alvarado and Dave Perry (Aurora Sentinel), Steve Waldman (Rebuild Local News), Maritza Félix (Conecta Arizona), Michael Bolden (American Press Institute), Jeff Roberts and Corey Hutchins (CFOIC, Colorado College), Eve Pearlman and Erica Anderson (Spaceship Media), Jennifer Brandel (Hearken, Democracy SOS), Corey Hutchins with Bay Edwards, Todd Chamberlain and Raleigh Burleigh (Sopris Sun). | |||
| 26 Jun 2024 | Building a Nonprofit News Powerhouse with Mississippi Today’s Mary Margaret White | 00:52:52 | |
Mary Margaret White, CEO and executive director of Mississippi Today, discusses her journey in helping readers and philanthropy understand the value of journalism as a civic good. She shares insights on the history and growth of Mississippi Today, which launched in 2016 to fill a need for Capitol reporting and has since expanded to cover a wide range of issues, including health, justice, education and climate. Under her leadership, Mississippi Today won the 2023 Pulitzer Prize for Local Reporting and was a finalist in 2024 for an investigative collaboration with the New York Times. White delves into the lessons learned in raising philanthropic dollars, emphasizing the importance of storytelling in fundraising and the necessity of maintaining editorial independence despite donor influences. She also highlights the need for diverse funding streams, including memberships and earned revenue, to ensure the sustainability of nonprofit newsrooms. She also discusses the operational and legal challenges of investigative journalism and the need to balance deep dives with daily reporting. White reflects on her career in public service and how her previous roles have shaped her approach to journalism at Mississippi Today. Episode chapters: Links:
For show notes, transcripts, newsletter sign-up and past guests on the Local News Matters podcast, please visit localnewsmatterspodcast.com or lnmpod.com.
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| 17 Mar 2023 | Special “emergency” episode: Should news media be defined in statute? | 01:00:33 | |
This week, a draft of a Colorado open records bill circulated on Twitter. The bill, among other things, would give a special cost break to news media—as defined in the bill—on records requests. Should journalists get special treatment and should government define who’s included in that designation? Jeff Roberts, executive director of the Colorado Freedom of Information Coalition and president of the National Freedom of Information Coalition, and Corey Hutchins, writer of the “‘Inside the News in Colorado” newsletter, join host Tim Regan-Porter to discuss. Visit https://localnewsmatterspodcast.com/ for show notes, transcripts and more. | |||
| 27 Mar 2024 | Leaping in the unknown with The Colorado Sun's Larry Ryckman | 01:03:08 | |
Larry Ryckman, editor and co-founder of The Colorado Sun, shares insights into the digital outlet’s journey. Transitioning to a nonprofit model on its fifth anniversary, The Colorado Sun has not only survived but thrived, garnering national attention for its approach to news coverage and its business model. With more individual members than the much-lauded Texas Tribune, The Colorado Sun's strategy for growing reader revenue without a paywall is a testament to its commitment to accessible journalism. Ryckman delves into the founding of The Colorado Sun. He discusses the challenges and learnings from moving away from the page view business to focus on engaging content that resonates with readers, emphasizing the importance of loyalty and community in the digital age. The conversation also covers the Sun's business model, which balances memberships, advertising, and grants, setting a sustainable path forward for nonprofit newsrooms. Ryckman's personal journey from a seasoned journalist to navigating the business side of running a news outlet offers valuable lessons on leadership, innovation, and the relentless pursuit of quality journalism. Episode chapters: (02:44) - Founding The Colorado Sun (08:01) - The successful business model of The Sun (09:53) - “If we’re going to be digital, let’s make it a great experience.” (18:44) - Growing reader revenue without a paywall (24:10) - Learning the business side of journalism (29:29) - Working without a net as an entrepreneur (36:11) - From LLC to B Corp to nonprofit (45:41) - Rapid-fire questions
Links:
For show notes, transcripts, newsletter sign-up and past guests on the Local News Matters podcast, please visit localnewsmatterspodcast.com or lnmpod.com.
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| 05 Sep 2024 | Reinventing local journalism with community at its core: Exit interview with Candice Fortman | 01:03:58 | |
Candice Fortman, former executive director of Outlier Media, shares her journey transforming local journalism in Detroit. She reflects on the innovative service journalism model she helped build, which focuses on filling critical information gaps for underserved communities. Candice discusses how Outlier evolved from a scrappy startup into a well-respected newsroom known for directly addressing residents’ needs through text messaging and other community-centered approaches. Candice offers insights into the challenges of scaling and funding local journalism, particularly in economically struggling areas like Detroit. She also reflects on her leadership growth, her partnership with Outlier’s founder Sarah Alvarez, and how they navigated the impact of COVID-19 on local news. Looking ahead, Candice talks about her excitement for new opportunities and her commitment to telling stories that matter to local communities. Listeners will find inspiration in Candice’s vision of journalism as a public good and her advice for newsrooms that want to make a lasting impact through deep community engagement.
Episode chapters: (00:02:30) - The mission and model of Outlier Media (00:07:26) - Scaling and evolving Outlier Media’s operations (00:11:34) - Fundraising challenges and merging with MuckRock (00:14:51) - COVID-19, text messaging and refocusing on local information needs (00:23:21) - Journalism as a public good (00:27:57) - Candice’s leadership journey and growth (00:35:32) - Growing up Black in Detroit (00:43:13) - Fundraising advice and community impact (00:49:22) - Rapid-fire questions (00:57:26) - Media and local recommendations Links:
For show notes, transcripts, newsletter sign-up and past guests on the Local News Matters podcast, please visit localnewsmatterspodcast.com or lnmpod.com. Past guests on the Local News Matters podcast include: Jean Friedman-Rudovsky (Resolve Philly), Jay Rosen (NYU), Sue Cross (Exit interview, INN), Mary Margaret White (Mississippi Today), Amy Kovac-Ashley (Tiny News Collective), Michael Shaprio (TAPinto), Kenny Katzgrau (redbankgreen and Broadstreet), John Garrett (Community Impact), Shannon Kinney (Dream Local Digital), Larry Ryckman (The Colorado Sun), Frank Mungeam (Local Media Association), Kelly Ann Scott (Alabama Media Group), Sara Lomax and S. Mitra Kalita (URL Media), Elizabeth Hansen Shapiro (National Trust for Local News), Mike Rispoli and Richard Young (via When the People Decide), Sarabeth Berman (American Journalism Project), Rabbi Hillel Goldberg and Shana Goldberg (Intermountain Jewish News), Lyndsay C. Green (via The Journalism Salute), Rashad Mahmood and Mark Glaser (New Mexico Local News Fund), Christian Vanek and Barbara Hardt (The Mountain-Ear), Dan Grech (BizHack), Zack Richner (Easy Tax Credits), Tracie Powell (Pivot Fund), Dan Oshinsky (Inbox Collective), Linda Shapley (via What Works), Yehong Zhu and Jake Seaton (Zette, Column), Charity Huff (January Spring), Joaquin Alvarado and Dave Perry (Aurora Sentinel), Steve Waldman (Rebuild Local News), Maritza Félix (Conecta Arizona), Michael Bolden (American Press Institute), Jeff Roberts and Corey Hutchins (CFOIC, Colorado College), Eve Pearlman and Erica Anderson (Spaceship Media), Jennifer Brandel (Hearken, Democracy SOS), Corey Hutchins with Bay Edwards, Todd Chamberlain and Raleigh Burleigh (Sopris Sun). | |||
| 28 Nov 2023 | Collaborative paths to sustainability for ethnic media with URL Media’s Sara Lomax and S. Mitra Kalita | 00:44:17 | |
In this candid discussion, Sara Lomax and S. Mitra Kalita, co-founders of URL Media, delve into the network's mission to support and empower independent media serving Black and Brown communities. Now in its fourth year, URL Media aims to address the gaps and challenges faced by these media entrepreneurs, focusing on enhancing reach, expanding revenue and building long-term sustainability for BIPOC outlets. We delve into the unique relationship that ethnic media have with their audiences. The trust inherent in that relationship is a cornerstone in providing nuanced and community-centric journalism. URL Media was founded in the wake of the racial reckoning of 2020, and we discuss the unfulfilled promises from that time and the systemic barriers that persist in various institutions, including the media. They emphasize the importance of trust over scale in journalism and critique the mainstream media's approach to objectivity, which often creates distance and alienation.
Episode chapters: (02:27) - Founding URL Media to address gaps experienced by media entrepreneurs serving Black and Brown audiences (05:38) - Scale is not the answer to solving democracy’s woes; trust is (09:10) - Addressing the challenges of audience and revenue growth for BIPOC media (18:28) - URL Media’s structure (22:05) - We're not just covering a community. We are the community. (27:09) - How notions of objectivity in mainstream media creates distance and alienation (29:55) - How mainstream newsrooms can work with ethnic newsrooms in non-extractive ways (35:01) - Philanthropy, ethnic media and systematic disenfranchisement
Links:
For show notes, transcripts, newsletter sign-up and past guests on the Local News Matters podcast, please visit localnewsmatterspodcast.com or lnmpod.com. Past guests on the Local News Matters podcast include: Elizabeth Hansen Shapiro (National Trust for Local News), Mike Rispoli and Richard Young (via When the People Decide), Sarabeth Berman (American Journalism Project), Rabbi Hillel Goldberg and Shana Goldberg (Intermountain Jewish News), Lyndsay C. Green (via The Journalism Salute), Rashad Mahmood and Mark Glaser (New Mexico Local News Fund), Christian Vanek and Barbara Hardt (The Mountain-Ear), Dan Grech (BizHack), Zack Richner (Easy Tax Credits), Tracie Powell (Pivot Fund), Dan Oshinsky (Inbox Collective), Linda Shapley (via What Works), Yehong Zhu and Jake Seaton (Zette, Column), Charity Huff (January Spring), Joaquin Alvarado and Dave Perry (Aurora Sentinel), Steve Waldman (Rebuild Local News), Maritza Félix (Conecta Arizona), Michael Bolden (American Press Institute), Jeff Roberts and Corey Hutchins (CFOIC, Colorado College), Eve Pearlman and Erica Anderson (Spaceship Media), Jennifer Brandel (Hearken, Democracy SOS), Corey Hutchins with Bay Edwards, Todd Chamberlain and Raleigh Burleigh (Sopris Sun). | |||
| 18 Jul 2024 | Reimagining local election coverage for community trust with NYU’s Jay Rosen | 01:10:36 | |
Jay Rosen, a prominent media theorist and professor of journalism at New York University, discusses the critical role of local election coverage and the Citizens Agenda model as an alternative to the traditional horse race approach. He emphasizes the need for local journalists to ground election coverage in the concerns of their communities, addressing local issues and fostering a sense of reality in election news.
Rosen also explores the polarization in American politics and the unique challenges faced by local newsrooms in this environment. He advocates for a more engaged and rigorous approach to local election coverage, including thorough background research and the creation of valuable voter guides. He shares his thoughts on the role of opinion pages and endorsements in local newspapers and their impact on public trust.
Additionally, Rosen reflects on the economics of local news, highlighting various subsidy models such as advertising, memberships, and philanthropic support. He underscores the importance of citizen journalism and the evolving role of community involvement in sustaining local journalism. The discussion also delves into the enduring relevance of Neil Postman’s media theories in the internet age and the potential pathways for the future of journalism.
(00:02:55) - Election coverage and the Citizens Agenda (00:08:33) - The importance of local election coverage (00:14:07) - Polarization in politics and the role of local journalism (00:19:10) - Table stakes for local election coverage (00:22:49) - Opinion pages and endorsements in local newspapers (00:25:56) - How the national press is handling the 2024 election (00:33:21) - Defending democracy without inviting accusations of partisanship (00:38:02) - The economics of local news (00:47:38) - The role of citizen journalism (00:52:37) - Neil Postman’s media theories in the Internet age (01:01:40) - Signs of hope (01:07:53) - Media recommendations Links:
For show notes, transcripts, newsletter sign-up and past guests on the Local News Matters podcast, please visit localnewsmatterspodcast.com or lnmpod.com. Past guests on the Local News Matters podcast include: Sue Cross (Exit interview, INN), Mary Margaret White (Mississippi Today), Amy Kovac-Ashley (Tiny News Collective), Michael Shaprio (TAPinto), Kenny Katzgrau (redbankgreen and Broadstreet), John Garrett (Community Impact), Shannon Kinney (Dream Local Digital), Larry Ryckman (The Colorado Sun), Frank Mungeam (Local Media Association), Kelly Ann Scott (Alabama Media Group), Sara Lomax and S. Mitra Kalita (URL Media), Elizabeth Hansen Shapiro (National Trust for Local News), Mike Rispoli and Richard Young (via When the People Decide), Sarabeth Berman (American Journalism Project), Rabbi Hillel Goldberg and Shana Goldberg (Intermountain Jewish News), Lyndsay C. Green (via The Journalism Salute), Rashad Mahmood and Mark Glaser (New Mexico Local News Fund), Christian Vanek and Barbara Hardt (The Mountain-Ear), Dan Grech (BizHack), Zack Richner (Easy Tax Credits), Tracie Powell (Pivot Fund), Dan Oshinsky (Inbox Collective), Linda Shapley (via What Works), Yehong Zhu and Jake Seaton (Zette, Column), Charity Huff (January Spring), Joaquin Alvarado and Dave Perry (Aurora Sentinel), Steve Waldman (Rebuild Local News), Maritza Félix (Conecta Arizona), Michael Bolden (American Press Institute), Jeff Roberts and Corey Hutchins (CFOIC, Colorado College), Eve Pearlman and Erica Anderson (Spaceship Media), Jennifer Brandel (Hearken, Democracy SOS), Corey Hutchins with Bay Edwards, Todd Chamberlain and Raleigh Burleigh (Sopris Sun).
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| 26 Oct 2023 | “From news deserts to civic media” from When the People Decide | 00:28:08 | |
We’ve taken a little time off to focus on the Colorado Press Association’s 145th annual convention last month. It was a great event, featuring many of the guests you’ve heard on this podcast. But it’s an all-consuming event, and I’m excited to go back to putting out episodes. For now, I’m dropping a guest episode of When the People Decide, a show about how everyday people are shaping democracy. It’s hosted by Jenna Spinelle, who is also a journalism instructor at Penn State and produced the News Guest podcast for LION Publishers. In this episode, she discusses the relevance of civic information with Mike Rispoli of Free Press, and then delves into how that can be put into practice with Richard Young, founder of CivicLex, a non-profit that is bridging the gap between news and news consumers in Kentucky. I encourage you to follow When the People Decide in your favorite podcast app and visit the website at thepeopledecide.show. Check back next episode for my interview with Elizabeth Hansen Shapiro of the National Trust for Local News. For show notes, transcripts, newsletter sign-up and past guests on the Local News Matters podcast, please visit localnewsmatterspodcast.com or lnmpod.com.
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| 27 Apr 2023 | The Green Bay Packers’ Community Ownership Model for Local News: Joaquin Alvarado and Dave Perry at the Aurora Sentinel | 00:40:33 | |
Last year, the Aurora Sentinel in Colorado transitioned to a non-profit and immediately began exploring options for community investment. Working closely with Joaquin Alvarado, they are preparing to roll-out a community ownership initiative modeled after Green Bay Packers’ fan-ownership structure. In this episode of Local News Matters, Dave Perry, editor and publisher of the Aurora Sentinel, and Joaquin Alvarado, founder of Studio To Be, discuss innovative ways to support local journalism, looking to the Packers and cultural institutions like theaters, why philanthropy is not enough and community buy-in is crucial, and why accountability requires news that is grounded in local communities. Episode chapters:
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| 07 Jun 2023 | Insights from Media Tech Startup CEOs, Yehong Zhu of Zette and Jake Seaton of Column | 01:02:39 | |
Yehong Zhu, founder and CEO of Zette, and Jake Seaton, founder and CEO of Column, about the challenges and successes of running tech startups that serve news organizations. They explore the impact of financial pressure in the industry and the importance of improving customer experience for publishers and readers. They discuss what journalism can learn from tech, the role of AI in journalism, and the importance of resilience and antifragility.
Episode chapters: (02:34) - The appeal of journalism for these techies (12:53) - The (overlooked) importance of user experience in journalism (21:37) - How AI will impact journalism (26:34) - Getting news orgs to be open to change (37:10) - Agile project management (45:41) - Rapid Fire Questions Visit https://localnewsmatterspodcast.com/ for show notes, transcripts and more. | |||
| 18 Jul 2023 | Unlocking Revenue Opportunities with ERTC: A Conversation with Zack Richner | 00:19:38 | |
Zack Richner, founder of Easy Tax Credits and third-generation community newspaper owner, demystifies the Employee Retention Tax Credit (ERTC) and its potential benefits for news organizations. Zack explains how his company assists businesses, including newspapers, in applying for the ERTC, and how this process can generate substantial referral revenue. The discussion delves into the specifics of the tax credit, the application timeframe, and the overall benefits for newsrooms.
Episode chapters: (02:03) - ERTC program for newsrooms and Zack’s newspaper background (04:56) - How ERTC works (09:24) - Newsroom success in generating revenue by helping local businesses (12:46) - How newsrooms are promoting program, what types of communities have seen success, and timeframes (16:43) - How to sign up Links:
Bio:Zachary Richner is the Founder and Managing Partner of Arrandale Ventures, a mission-driven, strategic venture capital firm that is creating a truly innovative and sustainable business model for local media companies. Now more than ever, it is critical for the health of our democracy to have an independent and vibrant free press. Zack has successfully invested in startups through his family’s three-generation media firm, Richner Communications, Inc. (RCI), which is one of the largest local content providers in New York State. By leveraging RCI’s core competencies—trusted community relationships with consumers and businesses—he has generated outsize returns on these investments through a uniquely accretive performance equity model. Zack further honed his venture investing skills at Fifth Wall Ventures, where he not only evaluated early-stage companies but also developed strategy for new funds. Zack has been repeatedly recognized at the national and local levels for his leadership growing and scaling nascent organizations in innovative ways. He has spent extensive time in high-profile public sector roles, including serving in the White House Office of the Chief of Staff, working as director of the $1 billion NY Rising Community Reconstruction Program and managing the largest state budget in campaign history as Ohio Budget Director for the Obama 2012 campaign. A graduate of Harvard College, Zack received an MBA from Northwestern University - Kellogg School of Management and an MS Design Innovation from Northwestern University - McCormick School of Engineering. He is a NEXUS Global delegate and serves on the Kellogg Admissions Leadership Council.
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| 15 Aug 2023 | The Mountain-Ear’s Evolving Legacy: How a small-town paper captured a tech entrepreneur's heart and investment | 00:40:03 | |
The Mountain-Ear, nestled in Nederland, Colorado, has long been a cherished source of community journalism. With a tech entrepreneur's recent investment aimed at preserving the paper's legacy and supporting its evolution, both he and editor/publisher (and former owner) Barbara Hardt join us to discuss their journeys. Barbara discusses her multifaceted role, the challenges and rewards of "professional juggling," and the paper's innovative ventures, from podcasting to community partnerships. It's a glimpse into the enduring value of local news and the individuals dedicated to its future.
Episode chapters: (02:10) - Why a tech entrepreneur bought this print newspaper (06:30) - Barbara Hardt’s background at the paper and plans for the future (09:33) - About Nederland, Colorado and the Mountain-Ear (15:17) - On being a “professional juggler” (18:32) - Producing a local news podcast (21:46) - Managing interns with a small team (23:43) - Partnering with local organizations (30:03) - Advice for small publishers looking to engage the community beyond print (33:47) - Accountability reporting at a small community paper
Links
For show notes, transcripts, newsletter sign-up and past guests on the Local News Matters podcast, please visit localnewsmatterspodcast.com or lnmpod.com. Past guests on the Local News Matters podcast include: Dan Grech, Zack Richner, Tracie Powell, Dan Oshinsky, Linda Shapley, Yehong Zhu and Jake Seaton, Charity Huff, Joaquin Alvarado and Dave Perry, Steve Waldman, Maritza Félix, Michael Bolden, Jeff Roberts and Corey Hutchins, Eve Pearlman and Erica Anderson, Jennifer Brandel, Corey Hutchins with Bay Edwards, Todd Chamberlain and Raleigh Burleigh. | |||
| 10 Jul 2023 | Centering communities: Tracie Powell on equity, inclusivity and philanthropy | 01:03:37 | |
Tracie Powell, the engaging and provocative founder and CEO of the Pivot Fund, shares her unique perspective on the intersection of journalism, philanthropy, and racial equity. Drawing from her rich experiences spanning j-school, advertising and circulation, reporting, law school, and her current role in philanthropy, Tracie provides a nuanced view of the media landscape. She delves into the mission of the Pivot Fund, emphasizing its commitment to centering BIPOC communities and the importance of participatory grantmaking. Tracie underscores the need for comprehensive, wraparound services for newsrooms, highlighting the importance of holistic support that extends beyond mere financial aid. A significant part of the discussion is dedicated to addressing both the race and often overlooked class problems in journalism. Tracie provides actionable insights on how white-led newsrooms can foster inclusivity and better represent the communities they serve. This conversation is a deep exploration of the challenges and opportunities in today's media landscape, offering valuable insights for anyone interested in the future of journalism and the role of philanthropy in shaping it.
Episode chapters: (02:31) - What is the Pivot Fund and how is it distinctive? (05:04) - Centering BIPOC communities (vs. BIPOC founders), participatory grantmaking (13:47) - Tracie’s journey through J-school, advertising & circulation, reporting, law school & philanthropy (21:48) - Wraparound services for newsrooms (25:36) - Journalism’s class problem (32:20) - What white-led newsrooms should do to include people of color (42:16) - Rapid-fire questions
Links
BioTracie Powell is a leader in philanthropic efforts to increase racial equity and diversity in news media. She is the founder of The Pivot Fund, which seeks to support independent BIPOC community news.
Powell was a Fall 2021 Shorenstein Center Research Fellow at Harvard Kennedy School, where she researched mechanisms for funding and capacity building for media outlets run by and for BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, other people of color, and traditionally marginalized) communities. Powell is the immediate past board chair of LION Publishers, a professional journalism association for independent news publishers where she had served on the board since 2017.
Prior to her work with The Pivot Fund and Harvard, Powell was founding fund manager of the Racial Equity in Journalism (REJ) Fund at Borealis Philanthropy. Powell is also the founder of AllDigitocracy.org, which focuses on the media and its impact on diverse communities. She was a senior fellow with the Democracy Fund, where she worked on the Public Square Initiative that seeks to support informed dialogue through nonprofit journalism investments. Powell was a 2016 JSK (Knight) Fellow at Stanford University and has written regularly for the Columbia Journalism Review and Poynter Online. Her work has been highlighted by countless journalism and academic institutions, including Harvard’s Nieman Journalism Lab. She is a graduate of Georgetown University Law Center and The University of Georgia’s Henry W. Grady College of Journalism and Mass Communication.
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| 17 Apr 2024 | New approaches to thriving in community news with Kenny Katzgrau of redbankgreen and Broadstreet | 00:59:26 | |
Kenny Katzgrau, majority owner of redbankgreen and founder of Broadstreet, shares his vision for revitalizing community journalism. He discusses strategies to help hyperlocal websites and small community weeklies thrive. Katzgrau’s approach involves enhancing advertising efficacy and community engagement through digital tools, advocating for news that not only informs but also engages and uplifts the community. He calls for a balance of serious journalism with elements of fun, suggesting that a vibrant local news outlet can profoundly impact its community by reflecting a broader, more inclusive view of news coverage. Katzgrau provides very practical tips on making digital advertising work for local businesses and for long-term financial sustainability of news outlets.
Episode chapters: (02:35) - From serving publishers to becoming one (07:43) - Sustainable is not enough. How about prosperity? (12:12) - Experimenting to serve advertisers (15:47) - Recruiting the community to cover stories you can’t (21:37) - The importance of fun in work (24:54) - The importance of fun for readers (28:32) - The business owner mindset vs. the reporter mindset (31:12) - Advertising as telling the story of local businesses (35:26) - Beyond CPM buy. Start with what you need. (40:40) - Nurturing advertiser relationships and automating tasks (44:08) - The Broadstreet ad manager platform (49:11) - Rapid-fire questions
Links:
For show notes, transcripts, newsletter sign-up and past guests on the Local News Matters podcast, please visit localnewsmatterspodcast.com or lnmpod.com.
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| 30 Aug 2023 | The Journalism Salute with Lyndsay C. Green of Detroit Free Press | 00:26:56 | |
I’m excited to share an episode of The Journalism Salute podcast from Mark Simon. Mark describes the podcast as a “journalism appreciation” podcast. His interviews with a diverse cast of working journalists are nice compliments to the interviews Local News Matters does on the newsrooms and support systems that enable that work. In this episode, Mark talks to Lyndsay C. Green. Lyndsay is a dining and restaurant critic for the Detroit Free Press. This past year she was a finalist for the Pulitzer Prize for criticism for a body of work described thusly by her employer: “Eye-opening, thought-provoking and mouthwatering, Lyndsay’s work brings fresh perspective and uncommon courage to readers hungry for brave dining criticism. She taps into Detroit’s culturally expansive and unpretentious spirit as she reviews area eateries.” Lyndsay talked about her path from beauty writer to food critic, how she spoke a personal passion project into existence, a column she wrote about how Black women can go unseen in fine dining, the process by which she does restaurant reviews and other extensive coverage of her beat, and how both eating food and growing food inspire her. Read Lyndsay’s work here: https://www.pulitzer.org/finalists/lyndsay-c-green-detroit-free-press
I encourage you to follow The Journalism Salute in your favorite podcast app, visit their website at thejournalismsolute.org and follow them on Twitter/X @journalismpod.
For show notes, transcripts, newsletter sign-up and past guests on the Local News Matters podcast, please visit localnewsmatterspodcast.com or lnmpod.com.
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| 16 May 2023 | Digital Advertising Trends & Strategies with Charity Huff, CEO of January Spring | 00:38:08 | |
Even as newsrooms shift their focus to reader revenue, evolving their digital ad strategies can provide a crucial boost to their sustainability and provide a valuable service to their local communities. Charity Huff, CEO of January Spring and managing partner at Maroon Ventures and host Tim Regan-Porter explore the latest trends in digital advertising and how they impact local news outlets. We also explore the unique ad product launched by the Colorado Press Association, News Audience Retargeting, which helps advertisers reach their target audience more effectively, and provide a quick primer on digital advertising for those who don’t know their OTT from their DSP. Don’t miss out on this episode on the ever-evolving ad market and how newsrooms can respond to build stronger businesses and serve their communities. Episode chapters: (01:49) - The importance of digital advertising for local news organizations (05:54) - A primer on digital advertising (11:49) - Growing digital ad revenue by focusing on the value of your audience and the needs of local businesses (15:20) - Newsletters as a key growth area (19:45) - Other areas of growth for 2023, including sponsored content (27:04) - News Audience Retargeting, a new digital product to extend reach and reinforce the value of news readers | |||
| 14 Feb 2023 | Trends in local news with Corey Hutchins + takeaways and fact check for Sopris Sun episode | 01:06:36 | |
Corey Hutchins looks back at local news trends in 2022 with Bay Edwards and host Tim Regan-Porter. They discuss the growing role of nonprofit newsrooms, collaborative efforts across the country, government support of local news and public notices. Next, Bay and Rachel Pickarski do a quick fact check of the first episode’s interview with the Sopris Sun team. Then, Tim and Rachel discuss takeaways from that interview. This is an experimental episode, in terms of the segments, whether and how often we’ll do them, and whether we’ll release them as standalone episodes like this or integrate them into the interview episodes. Let us know what you think. Note: There’s a lot of talk about the Colorado news ecosystem in this episode. (Sorry; not sorry.) We did not intend it to be an ad for Colorado, and future episodes will explore interesting works all over the U.S. Episode chapters:
Visit https://localnewsmatterspodcast.com/ for show notes, transcripts and more. | |||
| 27 Jan 2023 | Preview: Innovating with limited money, serving communities with empathy & inclusion | 00:25:16 | |
In this preview episode, host Tim Regan-Porter introduces the podcast with excerpts from the first four full episodes. Across interviews with journalists and executives of very different organizations, some common themes emerge, including: what it takes to innovate with limited time and money, focusing on service to the community, how to integrate empathy and community listening into journalism, the importance of being authentic, engagement as a step toward diversity and inclusion, the importance of local news for democracy, and maintaining healthy cultures and your own mental health. Episode breakdown: (1:11) – Todd Chamberlin (executive director) and Raleigh Burleigh (editor) of the Sopris Sun (3:32) – Jennifer Brandel (CEO and co-founder) of Hearken and Zebras Unite (9:55) – Eve Pearlman (CEO and co-founder) and Erica Anderson (engagement journalist) of Spaceship Media (18:07) – Michael Bolden (CEO and executive director) of the American Press Institute.
Visit https://localnewsmatterspodcast.com/ for show notes, transcripts and more. | |||
| 15 May 2024 | How TAPinto's franchise model powers local newsrooms with CEO Michael Shapiro | 00:57:06 | |
In this episode, Michael Shapiro, founder and CEO of TAPinto, delves into his innovative franchise model for local news. He shares insights on how TAPinto helps local news publishers focus on local content and advertising by handling backend services like billing, technology and graphic design. Shapiro highlights success stories from various franchisees, discusses their new licensing option for non-franchisees, and explores the challenges and opportunities in local journalism. As newsrooms are spread thin and the industry increasingly looks to shared services models, TAPinto’s approach to providing services offers lessons well beyond their franchisees. Links:
For show notes, transcripts, newsletter sign-up and past guests on the Local News Matters podcast, please visit localnewsmatterspodcast.com or lnmpod.com.
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| 01 Aug 2023 | Navigating the AI Revolution in Journalism: A Conversation with Dan Grech | 00:50:05 | |
In this episode, we explore the intersection of artificial intelligence and journalism with Dan Grech, a Pulitzer-winning former journalist and news director who has transitioned into the world of marketing and AI. Grech shares his unique perspective on the potential of AI to transform storytelling, marketing, and more, while also discussing the emotional, personal, and ethical implications of his transition from journalism to business. The conversation delves into the potential impacts of AI on journalism and local news, the unique value that human intelligence provides, and the transformative potential of AI.
Episode chapters: (03:57) - Dan’s journey from journalism to business and AI (13:31) - The destructive way journalists talk about business roles (18:28) - The epochal change presented by generative AI (31:03) - AI’s impact on the 5 pillars of journalism (35:09) - AI’s implications for intellectual property and curation (41:18) - AI’s implications for the business models of journalism (46:10) - Using AI in newsrooms
Links
For show notes, transcripts, newsletter sign-up and past guests on the Local News Matters podcast, please visit localnewsmatterspodcast.com or lnmpod.com.
Past guests on the Local News Matters podcast include: Zack Richner, Tracie Powell, Dan Oshinsky, Linda Shapley, Yehong Zhu and Jake Seaton, Charity Huff, Joaquin Alvarado and Dave Perry, Steve Waldman, Maritza Félix, Michael Bolden, Jeff Roberts and Corey Hutchins, Eve Pearlman and Erica Anderson, Jennifer Brandel, Corey Hutchins with Bay Edwards, Todd Chamberlain and Raleigh Burleigh.
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| 07 Feb 2023 | Innovation & inclusiveness with a small staff at the Sopris Sun | 01:16:06 | |
In the first full episode of the Local News Matters podcast, host Tim Regan-Porter sits down with executive director Todd Chamberlain and editor Raleigh Burleigh of the Sopris Sun, a weekly print newspaper and nonprofit in the small town of Carbondale, Colorado. The paper’s budget has doubled in the past two years, and Raleigh won the 2022 Innovation Award from the Colorado Press Association for the work he’s done there. Over the course of roughly an hour, we discuss the various projects they’ve launched, their distinctive voice, how they’ve served more of the community and integrated them into the newsroom, and how those efforts have led to more impact and a more sustainable business.
Episode breakdown: (4:40) - Background of Sopris Sun + Raleigh, Todd & innovation award (12:50) - Overview of Carbondale, CO (17:28) - Projects for and with Latino communities (26:13) - Business growth, freelancers and community ties (44:52) - Design & voice (49:56) - Biggest challenges + balancing hard and soft news (58:29) - Digital evolution and the lifespan of a print product (1:05:22) - Rapid-fire questions
Visit https://localnewsmatterspodcast.com/ for show notes, transcripts and more. | |||
| 03 Apr 2024 | Leveraging local news' digital edge in advertising with Shannon Kinney of Dream Local Digital | 00:46:12 | |
Shannon Kinney, founder of Dream Local Digital, discusses the evolving landscape of digital advertising and how trust is also a secret sauce for news media in selling advertising. With her extensive experience and accolades, including serving on the board for the Local Media Association and being named Local Digital Innovator of the Year, Shannon offers invaluable insights into strategies for local news organizations to adapt and thrive in a digital-first world. We delve into the importance of a client-forward approach instead of a product-focused approach, the potential of digital services beyond advertising, and the unique advantages local newspapers hold in trust and local knowledge.
Episode chapters: (03:24) - Does digital advertising mean low margin? (06:44) - Going beyond selling audience to selling solutions (11:26) - Trust is a local newspaper’s key competitive advantage (14:37) - Learning digital solutions to help a client best tell their story (17:48) - Storytelling and local knowledge as key differentiators (24:24) - Tell a story about your other key differentiator, your print product and digital brand (31:12) - Using AI on the sales side (35:04) - Partnering to provide digital solutions (38:16) - Selling as a client partner (42:28) - The menu of services
Links:
For show notes, transcripts, newsletter sign-up and past guests on the Local News Matters podcast, please visit localnewsmatterspodcast.com or lnmpod.com. Past guests on the Local News Matters podcast include: Larry Ryckman (The Colorado Sun), Frank Mungeam (Local Media Association), Kelly Ann Scott (Alabama Media Group), Sara Lomax and S. Mitra Kalita (URL Media), Elizabeth Hansen Shapiro (National Trust for Local News), Mike Rispoli and Richard Young (via When the People Decide), Sarabeth Berman (American Journalism Project), Rabbi Hillel Goldberg and Shana Goldberg (Intermountain Jewish News), Lyndsay C. Green (via The Journalism Salute), Rashad Mahmood and Mark Glaser (New Mexico Local News Fund), Christian Vanek and Barbara Hardt (The Mountain-Ear), Dan Grech (BizHack), Zack Richner (Easy Tax Credits), Tracie Powell (Pivot Fund), Dan Oshinsky (Inbox Collective), Linda Shapley (via What Works), Yehong Zhu and Jake Seaton (Zette, Column), Charity Huff (January Spring), Joaquin Alvarado and Dave Perry (Aurora Sentinel), Steve Waldman (Rebuild Local News), Maritza Félix (Conecta Arizona), Michael Bolden (American Press Institute), Jeff Roberts and Corey Hutchins (CFOIC, Colorado College), Eve Pearlman and Erica Anderson (Spaceship Media), Jennifer Brandel (Hearken, Democracy SOS), Corey Hutchins with Bay Edwards, Todd Chamberlain and Raleigh Burleigh (Sopris Sun).
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| 12 Apr 2023 | Public policy as a tool to support local news: Steve Waldman of Rebuild Local News | 01:10:06 | |
Steve Waldman recently stepped away from Report for America to found Rebuild Local News, a nonprofit focused on using public policy to support journalism. In this episode, we talk through the history of public policy as it relates to news, the perils of government involvement, the nuances of crafting policy that balances multiple goals and concerns, and the state of local news. Steve also reflects on his time at Report for America, shares reasons for optimism and offers advice for young journalists trying to balance careers and their mental health.
Episode chapters: (02:36) - Why journalism needs public policy as a tool (06:56) - The history of government support and involvement in news (12:23) - Why the state of local news demands action now (20:50) - Crafting policy to minimize interference but weed out bad actors (25:52) - This about supporting public goods, not propping up a failing business model (30:01) - For-profits and nonprofits, legacy institutions, serving rural and minority communities (43:25) - Moving from a federal to a state focus (50:58) - Reflecting on Report for America (54:48) - Rapid-fire questions
Visit localnewsmatterspodcast.com for all episodes, transcripts, show notes, links, and more. | |||
| 13 Sep 2023 | Building business capacity and rigor in nonprofit newsrooms with American Journalism Project’s Sarabeth Berman | 01:06:35 | |
Sarabeth Berman, CEO of the American Journalism Project, discusses the organization's approach to helping nonprofit news organizations build strong, sustainable businesses. She shares insights from her unique vantage point, having come from outside the world of journalism. The conversation also delves into AJP's collaboration with OpenAI, examining the evolving role of AI technologies in shaping the future of news.
Episode chapters: (02:46) - The mission of the American Journalism Project (06:48) - Coming from outside of journalism with a sense of what’s possible (16:52) - Why local news matters to communities (23:34) - AJP’s partnership with OpenAI and AI’s implications for journalism (34:01) - AJP’s programs for newsrooms (41:56) - Philanthropy and building strong business teams and practices (47:13) - Supporting ethnic media and collaborating across the ecosystem (55:21) - Diversifying newsroom revenue (58:08) - Rapid-fire questions
Links:
Past guests on the Local News Matters podcast include: Rabbi Hillel Goldberg and Shana Goldberg, Lyndsay C. Green (The Journalism Salute), Rashad Mahmood and Mark Glaser, Christian Vanek and Barbara Hardt, Dan Grech, Zack Richner, Tracie Powell, Dan Oshinsky, Linda Shapley (What Works), Yehong Zhu and Jake Seaton, Charity Huff, Joaquin Alvarado and Dave Perry, Steve Waldman, Maritza Félix, Michael Bolden, Jeff Roberts and Corey Hutchins, Eve Pearlman and Erica Anderson, Jennifer Brandel, Corey Hutchins with Bay Edwards, Todd Chamberlain and Raleigh Burleigh. For show notes, transcripts, newsletter sign-up and past guests on the Local News Matters podcast, please visit localnewsmatterspodcast.com or lnmpod.com. | |||
| 11 Jul 2024 | The rise and evolution of nonprofit news: Exit interview with INN's Sue Cross | 01:06:16 | |
Sue Cross, the recently retired executive director of the Institute for Nonprofit News (INN), shares her insights on the remarkable growth and impact of nonprofit news. She highlights the evolving landscape of newsroom founders, the crucial role of community support, and strategies to maintain journalistic independence from funders. Cross also addresses the challenges of scaling and funding newsrooms in underserved communities, the necessity for national news to be informed by local stories, and the complexities involved in converting from for-profit to nonprofit models. Her reflections offer valuable insights into sustaining local journalism and fostering innovation within the nonprofit sector. Episode chapters: (00:02:47) - Growth of INN and nonprofit news (00:07:21) - The evolving profile of newsroom founders (00:10:56) - Community relationships and support for newsrooms (00:15:06) - Maintaining journalistic independence from funders (00:18:25) - The challenges of scale and funding for underserved communities (00:23:14) - Unique challenges facing nonprofit newsrooms (00:27:34) - The need for national news to be informed by local news (00:34:23) - Converting from a for-profit to a nonprofit newsroom (00:45:22) - Career trajectory and evolution as a leader (00:53:04) - Advice for support organizations (00:56:10) - Rapid-fire questions (01:03:15) - Local recommendations (Los Angeles) Links:
For show notes, transcripts, newsletter sign-up and past guests on the Local News Matters podcast, please visit localnewsmatterspodcast.com or lnmpod.com. Past guests on the Local News Matters podcast include: Mary Margaret White (Mississippi Today), Amy Kovac-Ashley (Tiny News Collective), Michael Shaprio (TAPinto), Kenny Katzgrau (redbankgreen and Broadstreet), John Garrett (Community Impact), Shannon Kinney (Dream Local Digital), Larry Ryckman (The Colorado Sun), Frank Mungeam (Local Media Association), Kelly Ann Scott (Alabama Media Group), Sara Lomax and S. Mitra Kalita (URL Media), Elizabeth Hansen Shapiro (National Trust for Local News), Mike Rispoli and Richard Young (via When the People Decide), Sarabeth Berman (American Journalism Project), Rabbi Hillel Goldberg and Shana Goldberg (Intermountain Jewish News), Lyndsay C. Green (via The Journalism Salute), Rashad Mahmood and Mark Glaser (New Mexico Local News Fund), Christian Vanek and Barbara Hardt (The Mountain-Ear), Dan Grech (BizHack), Zack Richner (Easy Tax Credits), Tracie Powell (Pivot Fund), Dan Oshinsky (Inbox Collective), Linda Shapley (via What Works), Yehong Zhu and Jake Seaton (Zette, Column), Charity Huff (January Spring), Joaquin Alvarado and Dave Perry (Aurora Sentinel), Steve Waldman (Rebuild Local News), Maritza Félix (Conecta Arizona), Michael Bolden (American Press Institute), Jeff Roberts and Corey Hutchins (CFOIC, Colorado College), Eve Pearlman and Erica Anderson (Spaceship Media), Jennifer Brandel (Hearken, Democracy SOS), Corey Hutchins with Bay Edwards, Todd Chamberlain and Raleigh Burleigh (Sopris Sun). | |||
| 14 Jun 2023 | Journalism, leadership and the power of diversity with Linday Shapley (via What Works) | 00:55:25 | |
I am excited to bring you an episode from another excellent podcast covering the local news industry. From Northeastern University’s School of Journalism, “What Works: The Future of Local News” is hosted by former Boston Globe editor Ellen Clegg and Northeastern’s Dan Kennedy. They talk to journalists, policymakers and entrepreneurs, and their conversations are always enlightening.
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| 16 Mar 2023 | Centering relationship and community with Spaceship Media and The Wedge podcast | 01:01:13 | |
When Spaceship Media's Erica Anderson found herself arguing with her mom over vaccines, she wanted to apply Spaceship's dialogue journalism techniques. What resulted was even more personal than anticipated. In this episode, Eve Pearlman and Erica Anderson discuss centering relationships and community when having conversations across differences, how Spaceship Media approaches dialogue journalism to inform those conversations, and how the approach played out in Erica’s conversations with her mom in their new podcast, The Wedge.
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Visit https://localnewsmatterspodcast.com/ for show notes, transcripts and more. | |||
| 04 Apr 2023 | Flourishing when everything’s against you: Serving border communities with Maritza Félix of Conecta Arizona | 01:05:20 | |
When the pandemic hit North America in 2020, Emmy-winning journalist Maritza Félix started a WhatsApp group to answer questions for friends and family on both sides of the border between Arizona and Mexico. What she assumed would be a short-lived project for people she knew has grown to encompass daily conversations on WhatsApp, original reporting for the web, newsletters, podcasts, a radio show and more. In this episode, Félix talks about the challenges of getting funding for a Spanish-language initiative on non-traditional platforms, learning to be an entrepreneur, and more. Episode chapters: (03:17) - How Conecta Arizona came about (12:40) - Convincing funders to support Spanish-language media on non-traditional platforms (21:51) - How Conecta Arizona uses WhatsApp to serve communities (28:00) - Rigor and fact-checking in community conversations (32:19) - Learning to think like an entrepreneur (44:34) - Advice for non-Latino journalists serving Latino communities (50:14) - Investing time in community as a seed for democracy (54:21) - Rapid-fire questions Visit https://localnewsmatterspodcast.com/ for show notes, links, transcripts and more.
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