Small Press, Big Ideas

Straight news, no opinion, and 65 stories a day

Wed, 29 Apr 2026 10:00:00 -0000

Chris Krug has spent more than 30 years in journalism, but his real education came from getting fired, working in franchising, and traveling internationally before returning to the industry with a clearer vision of what local news actually needs. As CEO of the Franklin News Foundation and publisher of the Center Square, he built a nonpartisan government accountability newswire from four people in a garage to a team of 60 reaching more than 1,300 partner outlets and 141 million US adults daily.

In this conversation, Chris unpacks the Center Square's unusual hybrid business model, the tension between editorial independence and financial sustainability, and why the wave of foundation-funded "lab journalism" quietly reshaping American newsrooms deserves far more scrutiny than it is getting.

Links:

The Center Square

https://www.thecentersquare.com/

Chris Krug - LinkedIn

https://www.linkedin.com/in/chriskrug/

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This podcast is sponsored by ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠LocalPod.co⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, the audio platform built for local media. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠LocalPod.co⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

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The community owned newsroom experiment

Mon, 27 Apr 2026 10:00:00 -0000

Ron Sylvester shares how Comma Community Journalism Lab is rethinking local news with a hybrid nonprofit model that blends subscriptions, philanthropy, and community driven advertising. At the center is a bold transition of The Spokesman Review into community ownership, backed by broad local support ranging from small individual donors to major institutions. The conversation explores how partnerships with schools, paid student journalism programs, and a renewed commitment to print are shaping a more sustainable future.

Links:

Ron Sylvester - LinkedIn

https://www.linkedin.com/in/ronsylvester/

Comma Community Journalism Lab

https://www.comma.cm/

The Spokesman-Review

https://www.spokesman.com/

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This podcast is sponsored by ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠LocalPod.co⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, the audio platform built for local media. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠LocalPod.co⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

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Building a sustainable model in New England

Wed, 22 Apr 2026 10:00:00 -0000

Gary Lavariere, publisher of the Berkshire Eagle, shares how a locally owned newspaper is growing in an industry that many assume is in decline. From launching a paywall early to expanding into printing, digital marketing, and niche publications, he breaks down the revenue mix that is actually working today.

Gary also talks about why he sees AI as both a powerful tool and a major existential threat, and why protecting the value of journalism may be the defining challenge of the next decade.

Links:

The Berkshire Eagle

https://www.berkshireeagle.com/

Gary Lavariere

https://www.linkedin.com/in/gary-lavariere-72309712b/

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How AI is reshaping media workflows right now

Mon, 20 Apr 2026 10:00:00 -0000

AI is no longer a future trend in media. It is actively reshaping how journalism is produced, distributed, and monetized. Pete Pachal breaks down the shift from generative AI to agentic systems and explains why workflows, not just tools, are being completely redefined.

This conversation dives into the growing divide between those embracing AI and those resisting it, and what that means for newsrooms, especially at the local level.

Links:

The Media Copilot

https://mediacopilot.ai/

Pete Pachal - LinkedIn

https://www.linkedin.com/in/peterpachal/

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This podcast is sponsored by ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠LocalPod.co⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, the audio platform built for local media. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠LocalPod.co⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

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Building a one person newsroom that actually works

Wed, 15 Apr 2026 10:00:00 -0000

Louis Amestoy shares his unconventional journey through local journalism and how he ultimately built a one person media company serving Kerr County, Texas. From traditional newspapers to launching his own independent outlet, he explains what broke inside legacy media and what still works when you start fresh.

The conversation dives into the realities of running a daily newsroom alone, how AI tools like Claude and NotebookLM act as force multipliers, and what it takes to stay relevant through constant audience contact. Louis also reflects on covering a devastating flood, the gaps in industry collaboration, and why local journalism still depends on independence, speed, and trust.

Links:

The Kerr County Lead

https://kerrcountylead.com/

FB: https://www.facebook.com/thekerrcountylead

YT: https://www.youtube.com/@thekerrcountylead

Louis Amestoy - LinkedIn

https://www.linkedin.com/in/louis-amestoy-b945a06/

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The media moat is built on community

Mon, 13 Apr 2026 10:00:00 -0000

Hal Cohen, CEO of BridgeTower Media, shares how a company with more than 40 B2B brands is navigating a rapidly evolving media landscape. Drawing from a background in finance, Hal explains how focusing on audience communities rather than geography has shaped the company’s strategy and growth.

The conversation dives into what is actually driving revenue today, from live events to data powered digital marketing, and how AI is being used behind the scenes to improve efficiency and unlock new monetization opportunities.

Links:

BridgeTower Media

https://bridgetowermedia.com/

Hal Cohen - LinkedIn

https://www.linkedin.com/in/halcohen/

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This podcast is sponsored by ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠LocalPod.co⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, the audio platform built for local media. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠LocalPod.co⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

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Thinking like an organizational detective in local media

Sat, 11 Apr 2026 10:00:00 -0000

Eric Larson joins the podcast to talk about the future of local news. After decades across journalism, marketing, and consulting, he shares why traditional revenue streams are no longer enough and where real opportunity is emerging.

The conversation explores a modern take on the agency model powered by AI, the untapped potential of business services, and why people and culture often hold organizations back from innovation. Eric also lays out what a successful local news company could look like in five years and why trust, digital leadership, and experimentation are essential to getting there.

Links:

The Organizational Detectives

https://www.theorgdetectives.com/

Eric Larson - LinkedIn

https://www.linkedin.com/in/eric-larson-2931405/

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The strategy behind SFGATE’s expansion across the West

Wed, 08 Apr 2026 10:00:00 -0000

Grant Marek joins the show to share how he helped transform SFGATE into one of the most read news sites on the West Coast. By focusing on reader interests and underserved regions, he grew the newsroom from 21 to 60 journalists while expanding coverage across California, national parks, and beyond.

The conversation explores what it takes to grow local journalism today, how emotional connection drives readership, and why good reporting still wins even as AI and platform changes reshape the industry. Grant also breaks down how SFGATE uses AI behind the scenes while keeping journalism human at its core.

Links:

SFGATE

https://www.sfgate.com/

Grant Marek - LinkedIn

https://www.linkedin.com/in/grantmarek/

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What media gets wrong about audience data

Mon, 06 Apr 2026 10:00:00 -0000

James Capo, CEO of Omeda, breaks down why most media companies are making growth harder than it needs to be. Instead of treating audience as a unified asset, many teams are stuck managing disconnected tools and fragmented data, creating what he calls the 'Frankenstack'. His core argument is simple but powerful: audience management is not just a tech problem, it is a workflow problem.

This episode dives into how modern media businesses should think about audience identity across products like newsletters, podcasts, and events, why first party data needs a clearer definition in the age of AI, and one overlooked tactic local publishers should adopt immediately.

Links:

Omeda

https://www.omeda.com/

https://ox.omeda.com/

James Capo - LinkedIn

https://www.linkedin.com/in/james-capo-a79b3b3/

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Why this publisher chose print over digital

Sat, 04 Apr 2026 10:00:00 -0000

Karen Schneider shares how she launched and grew multiple local newspapers in Wisconsin at a time when most of the industry was retreating from print. With a background in advertising rather than journalism, she explains how understanding revenue and community needs shaped a model built on every door delivery, free access, and strong local coverage.

Links:

Karen Schneider - LinkedIn

https://www.linkedin.com/in/karen-schneider-4684634/

Winnebago Media Group

https://winnebagomediagroup.com/

Oshkosh Herald

https://oshkoshherald.com/

Neenah News

https://neenahnewsnow.com/

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This podcast is sponsored by ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠LocalPod.co⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, the audio platform built for local media. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠LocalPod.co⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

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Inside a mission driven regional newsroom

Wed, 01 Apr 2026 10:00:00 -0000

Noah Glick, executive editor of the Sierra Nevada Ally, joins the podcast to talk about building a nonprofit newsroom focused on civics, climate, and community in Northern Nevada. He shares his unconventional path from advertising to public radio and eventually into mission driven local journalism.

The conversation explores why contextual reporting and explainers matter more than ever, how small outlets are experimenting with newsletters, podcasts, and partnerships, and the ongoing challenge of funding independent local news. Noah also discusses the role of AI in journalism, the importance of civic literacy, and what the future might look like for collaborative regional media.

Links:

Sierra Nevada Ally

https://sierranevadaally.org/

Noah Glick - LinkedIn

https://www.linkedin.com/in/noah-glick-3601b911/

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AI is changing who owns information

Mon, 30 Mar 2026 10:00:00 -0000

This episode explores how AI is fundamentally reshaping the value of information and what that means for local publishers. Paul Myers and Ryan Clark from Lantrn AI argue that the old internet model built on reach and advertising is fading, replaced by a system where unique, on the ground information is the most valuable asset.

They break down why publishers should centralize their data, rethink distribution, and build direct relationships with their communities. The conversation also dives into practical starting points, the importance of experimentation, and how local media can create entirely new products and revenue streams by owning their information instead of giving it away.

Links:

Lantrn AI

https://lantrn.ai

Paul Myers email

paul@lantrn.ai

Ryan Clark email

ryan@lantrn.ai

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Reaching people where they actually consume the news

Sat, 28 Mar 2026 10:00:00 -0000

Oseye Boyd, editor in chief of Mirror Indy, shares how a new nonprofit newsroom is reshaping local journalism in Indianapolis.

The conversation explores how Mirror Indy meets audiences where they are through newsletters, social media, and even text message channels. Oseye also discusses the challenges facing modern journalism, from changing media habits to the cautious adoption of AI, while building a sustainable community focused newsroom.

Links:

Mirror Indy

⁠mirrorindy.org⁠⁠

⁠

Oseye Boyd - LinkedIn

⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/oseye-o-she-uh-boyd-a8554989/⁠

Mirror Indy 90's sitcom video

⁠https://www.linkedin.com/posts/mirror-indy_today-dec-5-2025-mirror-indy-turns-activity-7402739451552182272-y5r1⁠

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Running a local newspaper across two states

Wed, 25 Mar 2026 10:00:00 -0000

James Bright leads the Texarkana Gazette as both editor and general manager, a rare role that bridges newsroom priorities with business realities. In this conversation he shares how the 150 year old publication is adapting to a digital first world while still maintaining the editorial standards that built its reputation.

James explains how his team shifted from a print focused model to digital subscriptions, introduced an iPad program for readers, and began experimenting with philanthropy as a funding pillar for local journalism. The conversation also explores the challenges of monetizing short form video, practical uses of AI in the newsroom, and a lot more.

Links:

James Bright - LinkedIn

https://www.linkedin.com/in/james-bright-9213a443/

Texarkana Gazette

https://www.texarkanagazette.com/

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This podcast is sponsored by ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠LocalPod.co⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, the audio platform built for local media. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠LocalPod.co⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

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How hyperlocal print newspapers still make money

Mon, 23 Mar 2026 10:00:00 -0000

Kirk Kern spent decades inside traditional newspapers before launching his own hyperlocal media company in Las Vegas. After losing his job during the 2020 shutdowns, he rebuilt from scratch with a simple model: small monthly newspapers mailed directly to tightly connected neighborhoods.

In this conversation, Kirk explains how he keeps costs low, sells ads to local service businesses, and grows community focused publications that residents actually read. He shares practical lessons from launching multiple neighborhood papers, the realities of selling ads as a journalist, and why hyperlocal print can still be a profitable media business when done right.

Links:

Kirk Kern - LinkedIn

https://www.linkedin.com/in/kirkkern/

Hyperlocal Media Nevada

https://hyperlocalmedianv.com/

215 News

https://215news.com/

Mesquite Local News

https://mesquitelocalnews.com/

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This podcast is sponsored by ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠LocalPod.co⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, the audio platform built for local media. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠LocalPod.co⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

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The future of local news through the eyes of a longtime TV news director

Sat, 21 Mar 2026 10:00:00 -0000

Mario Orellana spent three decades inside a television newsroom in San Antonio, working his way from a teenage intern to news director. In this conversation he shares what it was like building a career during massive shifts in the media industry and why local journalism still plays a critical role in communities.

Mario also talks about launching his new venture M.O. Media Co and how journalists can bring their storytelling skills into marketing, consulting, and brand strategy. Along the way he shares lessons on newsroom culture, mentoring the next generation of journalists, and how news organizations should think about AI while protecting trust and credibility.

Links:

Mario Orellana - LinkedIn

https://www.linkedin.com/in/mario-orellana-media/

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Building a sustainable local news engine in Edmonton

Wed, 18 Mar 2026 10:00:00 -0000

Today on the podcast Karen Unland, co founder of Taproot Publishing, shares how Taproot evolved from occasional stories into a newsletter driven media engine with sponsorships, memberships, and B2B briefing products. She also discusses how AI tools support their workflow, how they built a large scale local election matching tool, and why their goal is to become Edmonton’s publication of choice.

Links:

Taproot Edmonton

https://edmonton.taproot.news/

Karen Unland

https://www.linkedin.com/in/karenunland/

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The business of saving community newspapers

Mon, 16 Mar 2026 10:00:00 -0000

Jerry Raehal has spent his career inside community newspapers across Colorado, Wyoming, Louisiana, and now Nebraska. In this conversation he shares what he has learned about turning struggling papers into profitable, community focused institutions and why curiosity and experimentation are essential for local media to survive.

We explore how small newspapers are adapting to digital distribution, why local advertising still works, and what many publishers misunderstand about their own audience reach. Jerry also explains how tools like AI and social platforms can help small newsrooms work smarter while staying focused on what matters most serving the community.

Links:

Jerry Raehal - LinkedIn

https://www.linkedin.com/in/jerry-raehal/

OnePress, Powered by the Nebraska Press Association

https://onepressne.com/

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This podcast is sponsored by ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠LocalPod.co⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, helping local news publishers produce revenue generating podcasts. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠LocalPod.co⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

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Behind the scenes at a modern city magazine

Sat, 14 Mar 2026 10:00:00 -0000

In this episode, Paul talks with Todd Lemke, publisher and owner of Omaha Magazine LTD. Todd shares the story of how he moved from selling real estate in the early 1980s to building one of Omaha’s most recognized lifestyle media brands.

The conversation explores how local city magazines have evolved over the past four decades, how diversified revenue keeps independent media sustainable, and why niche publishing has remained resilient even as traditional newspapers struggled. Todd also discusses how Omaha’s business community shaped the local media ecosystem and how emerging tools like AI are influencing modern publishing workflows.

Links:

Omaha Magazine

https://www.omahamagazine.com/

Todd Lemke - LinkedIn

https://www.linkedin.com/in/lemketodd/

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Closing the local news gap one neighborhood at a time

Wed, 11 Mar 2026 10:00:00 -0000

Wes Platt, founder and publisher of Southpoint Access, joins the show to share how he built a hyperlocal news outlet serving South Durham and surrounding communities in North Carolina.

With a background in print journalism at the St. Petersburg Times and The Herald Sun, plus experience in video game design and technical writing, Wes brings a unique blend of editorial depth and technical fluency to his independent newsroom.

He discusses why he launched Southpoint Access, how he identified a coverage gap in local schools and development news, and what it takes to run a digital first publication as a solo operator.

Links:

Southpoint Access

https://soduwelikelocal.news/

IG: https://www.instagram.com/wesplattsouthpointaccess

Wes Platt - LinkedIn

https://www.linkedin.com/in/wes-platt-creative/

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A real world case study for sustainable local news

Mon, 09 Mar 2026 10:00:00 -0000

In this episode, Paul sits down with Tony Mecia, founder and editor of the Charlotte Ledger, to talk about building a sustainable local news business in 2026. Tony shares how he launched the Ledger as a solo newsletter in 2019 after years at the Charlotte Observer and grew it into a four person newsroom with 5,000 paid subscribers.

They discuss subscription first revenue, the evolution of Substack, the realities of scaling local media, and why original reporting remains a defensible moat, even in the age of AI.

Links:

The Charlotte Ledger

https://www.thecharlotteledger.com/

Tony Mecia

https://www.linkedin.com/in/tonymecia/

---

This podcast is sponsored by ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠LocalPod.co⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, helping local news publishers produce revenue generating podcasts. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠LocalPod.co⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

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Egg prices and the future of local service reporting

Sat, 07 Mar 2026 11:00:00 -0000

Bryan Vance is building something different in local media. After being laid off in 2025, he launched Stumptown Savings, a hyperlocal newsletter serving Portland residents with one clear mission: help people shop smarter and save money: especially on groceries.

It’s part consumer advocacy, part local journalism, and part service journalism, all grounded in real data.

Links:

Bryan Vance

https://www.linkedin.com/in/bryanmvance/

Stumptown Savings

https://stumptownsavings.com/

CurioCity Collective

https://www.curiocitycollective.co/

---

Subscribe to the Local News Industry Pulse newsletter to receive a weekly briefing of news, policy, trends, and more in the local news industry: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://localnewsindustrypulse.beehiiv.com/subscribe

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After the headlines fade: the real work of local news

Wed, 04 Mar 2026 11:00:00 -0000

Veteran journalist Frank Scandale, News Director at the Asbury Park Press, joins Paul to unpack 45 years in local news: from typewriters to Twitter, from Columbine to 9/11, and from booming newsrooms to today’s lean investigative teams.

Frank shares firsthand insight into covering historic tragedies as a local newsroom leader, the evolving fight for public records, and why deep-dive journalism remains essential to democracy. He also reflects on where the industry stumbled in the digital transition and why he’s still optimistic about its future.

Links:

Frank Scandale

https://www.linkedin.com/in/frankscandale/

Asbury Park Press

http://www.app.com/

---

This podcast is sponsored by ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠LocalPod.co⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, helping local news publishers produce revenue generating podcasts. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠LocalPod.co⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

---

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Local news needs to hit some singles

Mon, 02 Mar 2026 11:00:00 -0000

Chris Fusco, Executive Editor of The Sacramento Bee, joins the show to talk about leading a 169 year old newsroom into the future of local journalism.

From his early days covering suburban night meetings in Chicago to overseeing investigative teams in Houston and California, Chris reflects on the evolution of local news, the realities of competition, and why the “demise of local journalism” has been greatly exaggerated.

Links:

Chris Fusco

cfusco@sacbee.com

https://www.linkedin.com/in/chris-fusco/

The Sacramento Bee

https://www.sacbee.com/

--- This podcast is sponsored by ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠LocalPod.co⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, helping local news publishers produce revenue generating podcasts. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠LocalPod.co⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ --- Subscribe to the Local News Industry Pulse newsletter to receive a weekly briefing of news, policy, trends, and more in the local news industry: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://localnewsindustrypulse.beehiiv.com/subscribe

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Why local journalism needs operators, not just reporters

Sat, 28 Feb 2026 11:00:00 -0000

Carol Wood, founder of Emerge Media Group, joins the show for a deep dive into the business and operational backbone of local journalism. With a career spanning editorial reporting, business ownership, and nonprofit leadership, Carol understands both the newsroom and the balance sheet.

From her early days as a cops and crime reporter at the Rocky Mountain News to co-founding BizWest Media and serving as COO of The Colorado Sun, Carol has spent decades helping local news organizations survive and thrive.

Today, through Emerge Media Group, she works as a fractional COO for local and hyperlocal outlets across the country, helping them tackle everything from insurance and HR manuals to trust certification and business model reinvention.

Links:

Carol Wood

carol@emergemedia.group

https://www.linkedin.com/in/caroljwood/

N2 Media Holdings

https://www.n2mediaholdings.com/

The Local - Colorado pilot

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aB6UqphmbGQ&list=PL8X2AI544x9LozuhRQfNBZ1lb6jfwm3QF

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Kiosks, retention & real ROI

Wed, 25 Feb 2026 11:00:00 -0000

In this episode, Paul sits down with Lon Haenel, publisher of Decorah News, founder of Local News ROI, and Chief Client Officer at Newspaper Subscription Services.

Lon shares his unconventional path through local media from selling ads in the late 1990s to launching digital services, leading circulation teams at major dailies, and ultimately building businesses focused on sustainable audience growth.

Links:

Lon Haenel - LinkedIn

https://www.linkedin.com/in/lonhaenel/

Decorah News

https://www.decorahnews.com/

Newspaper Subscription Services

http://www.nsslp.com/

Local News ROI

http://www.localnewsroi.com/

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Can we fix social media’s news problem?

Mon, 23 Feb 2026 11:00:00 -0000

Jack Brewster, founder and CEO of Newsreel, joins the show to talk about reinventing journalism for the algorithmic age. A former politics reporter at Forbes and investigative editor at NewsGuard, Jack has reported on misinformation, social media manipulation, and the structural incentives that shape today’s digital landscape.

Now, he’s building a new kind of platform, one designed to compete with social media not by maximizing time spent, but by maximizing understanding.

In this conversation, we explore what’s broken about today’s information ecosystem, why “the follower” no longer matters, and how Newsreel aims to create habit forming news without burnout.

Links:

Newsreel

https://newsreel.co/

Jack Brewster - LinkedIn

https://www.linkedin.com/in/jackbrewster/

jack@newsreel.co

--- This podcast is sponsored by ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠LocalPod.co⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, helping local news publishers produce revenue generating podcasts. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠LocalPod.co⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ --- Subscribe to the Local News Industry Pulse newsletter to receive a weekly briefing of news, policy, trends, and more in the local news industry: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://localnewsindustrypulse.beehiiv.com/subscribe⁠

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A new model for local news on streaming platforms

Sat, 21 Feb 2026 11:00:00 -0000

Todd Landfried, co founder and CEO of N2 Media Holdings, joins the show to discuss a bold reimagining of local news in the streaming era.

Todd shares his unconventional path from rural economic development work with the USDA to radio and podcasting and how those experiences led him to confront a growing problem: the collapse of sustainable, high quality local news.

His solution? The Local: a statewide, streaming first local news model built specifically for platforms like Netflix, Amazon, and Apple TV.

Links:

N2 Media Holdings

https://www.n2mediaholdings.com/

The Local - Colorado pilot

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aB6UqphmbGQ&list=PL8X2AI544x9LozuhRQfNBZ1lb6jfwm3QF

Todd Landfried - LinkedIn

https://www.linkedin.com/in/tlandfried/

--- This podcast is sponsored by ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠LocalPod.co⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, helping local news publishers produce revenue generating podcasts. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠LocalPod.co⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ --- Subscribe to the Local News Industry Pulse newsletter to receive a weekly briefing of news, policy, trends, and more in the local news industry: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://localnewsindustrypulse.beehiiv.com/subscribe⁠

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Rebuilding hyperlocal news in the capital of the world

Wed, 18 Feb 2026 11:00:00 -0000

Vernon Jones is the founder and CEO of NYC Newswire, NYC News Network, and Jig Media, and he's exploring a bold new model for hyperlocal journalism in New York City.

Vernon shares how his journey from running a 35 employee commercial cleaning company led him into domain investing, and ultimately into building a scalable, tech enabled network of niche media properties focused entirely on New York City.

At a time when many claim “local news is dead,” Vernon is betting on the opposite: that hyperlocal, industry specific, and neighborhood based coverage, when structured correctly, can thrive.

Links:

NYC Newswire

https://nycnewswire.com/

JIG Media

https://jig.media/

Vernon Jones - LinkedIn

https://www.linkedin.com/in/vernonkjones/

--- This podcast is sponsored by ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠LocalPod.co⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, helping local news publishers produce revenue generating podcasts. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠LocalPod.co⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ --- Subscribe to the Local News Industry Pulse newsletter to receive a weekly briefing of news, policy, trends, and more in the local news industry: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://localnewsindustrypulse.beehiiv.com/subscribe⁠

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Reviving a beloved alt weekly

Mon, 16 Feb 2026 11:00:00 -0000

In this episode, Paul sits down with Jason Joyce, publisher of Isthmus, a nonprofit, independent news source based in Madison, Wisconsin. With a career deeply rooted in local media, Jason shares his unique perspective on the evolution of alt weeklies, the revival of Isthmus post-COVID, and how the paper is thriving through nonprofit reinvention.

Links:

Jason Joyce - LinkedIn

https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasonjoyce/

Isthmus

https://isthmus.com/

--- This podcast is sponsored by ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠LocalPod.co⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, helping local news publishers produce revenue generating podcasts. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠LocalPod.co⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ --- Subscribe to the Local News Industry Pulse newsletter to receive a weekly briefing of news, policy, trends, and more in the local news industry: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://localnewsindustrypulse.beehiiv.com/subscribe⁠

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What it takes to run a major local newsroom in 2026

Sat, 14 Feb 2026 11:00:00 -0000

In this episode, Paul sits down with Mark Russell, Executive Editor of the Commercial Appeal and South Regional Editor for the USA Today Network, to talk about the realities, and future, of local journalism in the American South.

With more than four decades in newsrooms across the country, Mark brings a grounded, practical perspective on how legacy publications are adapting to digital change while continuing to serve their communities.

Links:

Mark Russell - LinkedIn

https://www.linkedin.com/in/markrussell48/

Commercial Appeal

https://www.commercialappeal.com/

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Building a media company with just two people (and one AI)

Wed, 11 Feb 2026 11:00:00 -0000

Today Paul speaks with Mark Talkington, founder of Valley Voice Media and co-creator of Satchel, an AI powered reporting tool, about his unique path from traditional journalism to tech powered local news innovation.

Mark shares how a career that began in weekly newspapers led him to help launch ESPN.com, build tools at Microsoft, and ultimately return to community journalism in Palm Springs, California. What started as a side project Substack during the pandemic has grown into a thriving local media company with thousands of subscribers and an AI tool now used by newsrooms around the world.

Links:

Mark Talkington - LinkedIn

https://www.linkedin.com/in/marktalkington/

Valley Voice Media

https://www.valleyvoicemedia.org/

Satchel AI

https://www.satchelai.com/

--- This podcast is sponsored by ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠LocalPod.co⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, helping local news publishers produce revenue generating podcasts. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠LocalPod.co⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ --- Subscribe to the Local News Industry Pulse newsletter to receive a weekly briefing of news, policy, trends, and more in the local news industry: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://localnewsindustrypulse.beehiiv.com/subscribe⁠

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Why AI isn’t just another tech disruption

Mon, 09 Feb 2026 11:00:00 -0000

In this episode, Paul speaks with Greg Krehbiel, president of The Krehbiel Group, about the accelerating disruption AI poses to publishing, local media, and the broader economy. Greg shares insights from his decades long career in B2B publishing and his current work helping publishers bridge the gap between technology and strategy.

They talk about why AI may not be "just another wave of disruption", the existential threat AI poses to jobs across industries, how local publishers can retain relevance and economic viability, and a lot more.

Links:

Greg Krehbiel - LinkedIn

https://www.linkedin.com/in/gkrehbiel/

The Krehbiel Group

https://krehbielgroup.com/

--- This podcast is sponsored by ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠LocalPod.co⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, helping local news publishers produce revenue generating podcasts. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠LocalPod.co⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ --- Subscribe to the Local News Industry Pulse newsletter to receive a weekly briefing of news, policy, trends, and more in the local news industry: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://localnewsindustrypulse.beehiiv.com/subscribe⁠

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Saving a struggling local newspaper

Sat, 07 Feb 2026 13:00:00 -0000

Today on the podcast Laura Rearwin Ward shares the gritty, hands on journey of taking over a struggling local newspaper, turning it around from the brink of bankruptcy, and championing independent journalism across California.

Links:

Laura Rearwin Ward - LinkedIn

https://www.linkedin.com/in/laura-rearwin-ward-564b2466/

Ojai Valley News

https://www.ojaivalleynews.com/

California Independent News Alliance (CINA)

https://cina.news/

--- This podcast is sponsored by ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠LocalPod.co⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, helping local news publishers produce revenue generating podcasts. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠LocalPod.co⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ --- Subscribe to the Local News Industry Pulse newsletter to receive a weekly briefing of news, policy, trends, and more in the local news industry: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://localnewsindustrypulse.beehiiv.com/subscribe⁠

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Fixing broken local events discovery

Wed, 04 Feb 2026 11:00:00 -0000

Today Paul talks with Brian Feister, a longtime software engineer and the creator of Meet Near Me: a platform designed to make it easier for publishers to gather and share local event data.

Brian shares how his early WordPress plugin attempts evolved into a full fledged platform aimed at local publishers, newsletters, and community organizations. He explains how Meet Near Me tackles the real challenge of aggregating hyper local events like open mic nights, high school sports, or city parades, events that often get overlooked by major platforms like Eventbrite or Meetup.

Links:

Brian Feister - LinkedIn

https://www.linkedin.com/in/brianfeister/

Meet Near Me beta signup

https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScoJBiCPlMMjhSmdf-yFnqIptHVPELlTHr1hPM3e6DwZPy-Ww/viewform

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The challenges of rural local news

Mon, 02 Feb 2026 11:00:00 -0000

Today Paul speaks with Jordan Brechenser, president and publisher at Vermont News and Media, about the unique and pressing challenges facing local newspapers in rural America. The discussion dives deep into the economics of print journalism, the critical shift to mail based delivery due to rising costs, and the strain placed on rural postal infrastructure. Jordan offers candid insight into how these shifts impact both newspapers and the communities they serve.

Links:

Jordan Brechenser - LinkedIn

https://www.linkedin.com/in/jordan-brechenser-71769147/

Email Jordan directly:

publisher@reformer.com

Brattleboro Reformer

https://www.reformer.com/

Bennington Banner

https://www.benningtonbanner.com/

Manchester Journal

https://www.manchesterjournal.com/

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News on the ground in East Tennessee

Wed, 28 Jan 2026 11:00:00 -0000

Today Paul chats with Cliff Hightower, managing editor of the Johnson City Press, a regional daily newspaper in East Tennessee. Cliff shares his winding journey from teenage fiction writer to Army veteran to award winning journalist. He discusses the realities of sustaining a local newsroom, from balancing print and digital media to navigating natural disasters.

Links:

Cliff Hightower - LinkedIn

https://www.linkedin.com/in/cliff-hightower/

Johnson City Press

https://johnsoncitypress.com/

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The Trust Shift: Rebuilding journalism in the creator era

Mon, 26 Jan 2026 11:00:00 -0000

Today Paul sits down with Jill Manuel, founder of JCat Group and creator of the Trust Shift newsletter, to explore how trust in media is evolving, and what local newsrooms must do to stay relevant. With over two decades in national and local news, Jill brings deep insight into the seismic shifts reshaping journalism in the age of vertical video, TikTok, and creator led storytelling.

Links:

The Trust Shift

https://the-trust-shift.beehiiv.com/

Jill Manuel - LinkedIn

https://www.linkedin.com/in/jillannmanuel/

--- This podcast is sponsored by ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠LocalPod.co⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, helping local news publishers produce revenue generating podcasts. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠LocalPod.co⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ --- Subscribe to the Local News Industry Pulse newsletter to receive a weekly briefing of news, policy, trends, and more in the local news industry: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://localnewsindustrypulse.beehiiv.com/subscribe⁠

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Print, pixels and the AI pivot

Wed, 21 Jan 2026 11:00:00 -0000

In this episode, Paul welcomes Ben Jacobs, Editor and Associate Publisher at BridgeTower Media, for a deep dive into the evolution of local business journalism, the unique challenges of leadership in media, and how AI is reshaping news operations.

Links:

BridgeTower Media

https://bridgetowermedia.com/

Benjamin Jacobs - LinkedIn

https://www.linkedin.com/in/bjacobsroch/

--- This podcast is sponsored by ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠LocalPod.co⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, helping local news publishers produce revenue generating podcasts. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠LocalPod.co⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ --- Subscribe to the Local News Industry Pulse newsletter to receive a weekly briefing of news, policy, trends, and more in the local news industry: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://localnewsindustrypulse.beehiiv.com/subscribe⁠

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Lessons from the niche frontier

Mon, 19 Jan 2026 11:00:00 -0000

Today Paul sits down with Alisa Cromer, a veteran journalist and the force behind NichePublisher.biz, to explore the shifting landscape of local and niche media. Alisa shares lessons from selling alt weeklies for millions, insights from decades of media evolution, and practical strategies for thriving today.

Links:

NichePublisher.biz

https://www.nichepublisher.biz/

Alisa Cromer - LinkedIn

https://www.linkedin.com/in/alisacromer/

Lutra AI

https://lutra.ai/

Replit AI app builder

https://replit.com/

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Why statehouse journalism still matters

Wed, 14 Jan 2026 11:00:00 -0000

In this episode, Christina Lords shares her path from reluctant journalism student to leading one of Idaho’s most impactful nonprofit newsrooms. As Editor-in-Chief of the Idaho Capital Sun, Christina offers a candid look at what it means to cover state politics in the often overlooked Mountain West, and why it matters now more than ever.

Links:

Idaho Capital Sun

https://idahocapitalsun.com/

States Newsroom

https://statesnewsroom.com/

Christina Lords

https://www.linkedin.com/in/christina-lords/

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Transparency, tip sheets, and digital democracy

Mon, 12 Jan 2026 11:00:00 -0000

Today Paul sits down with Kristen Go, Editor-in-Chief at CalMatters. Kristen talks about her story in local media and Digital Democracy, CalMatters’ ambitious transparency tool that aggregates California legislative data: bills, hearings, transcripts, lobbying money, and more, and makes it searchable and actionable.

Links:

CalMatters

https://calmatters.org/

Digital Democracy

https://calmatters.digitaldemocracy.org/

Kristen Go - LinkedIn

https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristen-go-9a01aa6/

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Who’s watching the city? Why local journalism still has teeth

Wed, 07 Jan 2026 11:00:00 -0000

In this episode, Paul talks with Michael Phillips, the founding editor of The Richmonder, a nonprofit news outlet based in Richmond, VA. Michael shares his journey from sportswriter to civic watchdog, the challenges of launching a nonprofit newsroom, and how The Richmonder is rekindling local media engagement. From covering City Council meetings no one else would to building trust one newsletter at a time, Michael breaks down what makes local journalism matter and why being general interest is a radical choice in today’s media landscape.

Links:

The Richmonder

https://www.richmonder.org/

Michael Phillips - LinkedIn

https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-phillips-16139462/

--- This podcast is sponsored by ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠LocalPod.co⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, helping local news publishers produce revenue generating podcasts. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠LocalPod.co⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ --- Subscribe to the Local News Industry Pulse newsletter to receive a weekly briefing of news, policy, trends, and more in the local news industry: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://localnewsindustrypulse.beehiiv.com/subscribe⁠

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Reimagining syndication and revenue for local news

Mon, 05 Jan 2026 11:00:00 -0000

In this episode, Paul sits down with David Gehring, co-founder and CEO of Distributed Media Lab, to explore how innovative distribution models can revitalize local journalism. David shares his journey from enterprise software to news partnerships at Google, and eventually to launching a platform that empowers local publishers to share content, grow revenue, and maintain editorial independence.

Links:

Distributed Media Lab

https://www.distributedmedialab.com/

David Gehring - LinkedIn

https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidgehring/

AMP Protocol

https://amp.dev/

--- This podcast is sponsored by ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠LocalPod.co⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, helping local news publishers produce revenue generating podcasts. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠LocalPod.co⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ --- Subscribe to the Local News Industry Pulse newsletter to receive a weekly briefing of news, policy, trends, and more in the local news industry: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://localnewsindustrypulse.beehiiv.com/subscribe⁠

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From D.C. to downtown

Wed, 31 Dec 2025 11:00:00 -0000

In this episode, Paul is joined by Leigh Munsil, Editor in Chief of the San Antonio Report, a nonprofit, hyperlocal newsroom. Leigh shares her journey from national media powerhouses like Politico and CNN to leading a local newsroom in one of America's fastest growing cities. She reflects on the contrasts between national and community journalism, and why local newsrooms might hold the key to the future of trustworthy, impactful journalism.

Links:

San Antonio Report

https://sanantonioreport.org/

Leigh Munsil - LinkedIn

https://www.linkedin.com/in/leighmunsil/

--- This podcast is sponsored by ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠LocalPod.co⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, helping local news publishers produce revenue generating podcasts. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠LocalPod.co⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ --- Subscribe to the Local News Industry Pulse newsletter to receive a weekly briefing of news, policy, trends, and more in the local news industry: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://localnewsindustrypulse.beehiiv.com/subscribe⁠

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Old media is dying. Now what?

Mon, 29 Dec 2025 11:00:00 -0000

In this episode, Paul dives deep with media futurist Gordon Borrell to dissect the real state of local news. From outdated economic models and lack of R&D investment to missed opportunities in storytelling for local businesses, Gordon argues that reinvention is not just possible, but critical. Gordon gives examples of local innovation, why AI is the next big media disruptor, and how local news can rediscover its purpose by engaging with its community on its own terms.

Links:

Borrell Associates

https://borrellassociates.com/

Gordon Borrell - LinkedIn

https://www.linkedin.com/in/gordonborrell/

Corey's Local Marketing Minute

https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLotYB2MglBOZXScqlPwxvHrmHI4x2r402&si=LvGmBZOzVQgTP9oP

--- This podcast is sponsored by ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠LocalPod.co⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, helping local news publishers produce revenue generating podcasts. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠LocalPod.co⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ --- Subscribe to the Local News Industry Pulse newsletter to receive a weekly briefing of news, policy, trends, and more in the local news industry: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://localnewsindustrypulse.beehiiv.com/subscribe⁠

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Towing scams, elder care, and watchdog journalism in Connecticut

Wed, 24 Dec 2025 11:00:00 -0000

In this episode, Paul speaks with Elizabeth Hamilton about her deep roots in Connecticut journalism and how her passion for investigative reporting helped shape the evolution of the Connecticut Mirror (CT Mirror).

Links:

CT Mirror

https://ctmirror.org/

Elizabeth Hamilton - LinkedIn

https://www.linkedin.com/in/elizabeth-hamilton-b33517153/

--- This podcast is sponsored by ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠LocalPod.co⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, helping local news publishers produce revenue generating podcasts. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠LocalPod.co⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ --- Subscribe to the Local News Industry Pulse newsletter to receive a weekly briefing of news, policy, trends, and more in the local news industry: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://localnewsindustrypulse.beehiiv.com/subscribe⁠

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Is your audience real? How ad fraud hijacked journalism

Mon, 22 Dec 2025 11:00:00 -0000

In this eye opening episode, Paul is joined by Dr. Augustine Fou, cybersecurity and digital ad fraud expert, founder of FouAnalytics, and longtime digital marketing veteran. Dr Fou dissects the shadowy underbelly of programmatic advertising and how it’s been siphoning money from quality publishers, especially local news outlets, for over a decade.

Links:

Dr. Augustine Fou - LinkedIn

https://www.linkedin.com/in/augustinefou/

FouAnalytics

https://fouanalytics.com/

Dr. Fou's article Good publishers take back the ad revenue that went to toll-takers

https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/good-publishers-have-been-screwed-thats-decade-dr-augustine-fou-inpge/

Ground News

https://ground.news/

--- This podcast is sponsored by ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠LocalPod.co⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, helping local news publishers produce revenue generating podcasts. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠LocalPod.co⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ --- Subscribe to the Local News Industry Pulse newsletter to receive a weekly briefing of news, policy, trends, and more in the local news industry: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://localnewsindustrypulse.beehiiv.com/subscribe⁠

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Inside the News Media Help Desk

Tue, 16 Dec 2025 11:00:00 -0000

In this episode, Paul speaks with Randy Picht, Executive Director of the Reynolds Journalism Institute (RJI), and Leah Becerra, Product Director at RJI, about their newly launched initiative: the News Media Help Desk.

This collaborative project between RJI and the Local Media Consortium (LMC) aims to become a one stop digital support hub for local newsrooms, offering guidance, resources, and hands-on help for navigating today's rapidly evolving tech landscape.

Links:

News Media Help Desk

https://www.newsmediahelpdesk.org/

Leah Becerra - LinkedIn

https://www.linkedin.com/in/leahbecerra/

Randy Picht - LinkedIn

https://www.linkedin.com/in/randypicht/

Reynolds Journalism Institute

https://rjionline.org/

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Turning data into revenue

Mon, 15 Dec 2025 11:00:00 -0000

Johnny Levy returns to the show for a deep dive into Data Joe, a 20+ year-old company serving local media through data-centric products. Johnny shares the company's evolution from SaaS platform to full-service research partner, the ethos of "partnership" that drives the business, and why adaptability has been key to their longevity.

Links:

DataJoe

https://datajoe.com/

People of Media

https://peopleofmedia.com/

Johnny Levy - LinkedIn

https://www.linkedin.com/in/johnny-levy/

Johnny's first episode on this podcast

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-value-of-data-and-the-role-of/id1733101178

--- This podcast is sponsored by ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠LocalPod.co⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, helping local news publishers produce revenue generating podcasts. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠LocalPod.co⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ --- Subscribe to the Local News Industry Pulse newsletter to receive a weekly briefing of news, policy, trends, and more in the local news industry: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://localnewsindustrypulse.beehiiv.com/subscribe⁠

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Bootstrapping a local Substack

Thu, 11 Dec 2025 11:00:00 -0000

In this episode, journalist and publisher Steve Puterski shares his journey through local media from covering high school sports in small town Colorado to founding North County Pipeline, a Substack based local news outlet in San Diego’s North County.

Links:

North County Pipeline

https://ncpipeline.substack.com/

Steve Puterski - LinkedIn

https://www.linkedin.com/in/steve-puterski/

NC Pipeline socials:

Instagram

https://www.instagram.com/ncpipeline

Facebook

https://www.facebook.com/ncpipeline

--- This podcast is sponsored by ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠LocalPod.co⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, helping local news publishers produce revenue generating podcasts. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠LocalPod.co⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ --- Subscribe to the Local News Industry Pulse newsletter to receive a weekly briefing of news, policy, trends, and more in the local news industry: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://localnewsindustrypulse.beehiiv.com/subscribe⁠

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Subscriptions and Ads Shouldn’t Be at War

Mon, 08 Dec 2025 11:00:00 -0000

In this episode, Paul is joined by Stephanie Schroeder, Chief Revenue Officer at Forum Communications, a family-owned media company with over 25 newspaper and digital titles across the Upper Midwest. Stephanie shares her journey into local media, and how she's helped lead Forum through a digital transformation surpassing 100,000 digital subscribers.

Links:

Stephanie Schroeder - LinkedIn

Forum Communications

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A journalist's journey from Wisconsin to Rwanda to Silicon Valley

Thu, 04 Dec 2025 13:00:00 -0000

Today Paul sits down with Gary Boulanger, Editor-in-Chief of the Silicon Valley Business Journal, to trace his winding career path from aspiring cartoonist in Wisconsin to leader of one of the Bay Area’s most important local newsrooms.

Links:

Gary Boulanger - LinkedIn

Silicon Valley Business Journal

Motorcycles Are Drugs Podcast --- This podcast is sponsored by ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠LocalPod.co⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, helping local news publishers produce revenue generating podcasts. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠LocalPod.co⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ --- Subscribe to the Local News Industry Pulse newsletter to receive a weekly briefing of news, policy, trends, and more in the local news industry: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://localnewsindustrypulse.beehiiv.com/subscribe

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What newsrooms owe their readers

Mon, 01 Dec 2025 18:12:00 -0000

Today Paul speaks with with Ed Arnold, Editor in Chief of the San Antonio Business Journal, about his unexpected path into journalism, the philosophy behind business reporting, and the changing landscape of local media.

Links:

San Antonio Business Journal

Ed Arnold - LinkedIn

Reach out to Ed: earnold@bizjournals.com

American City Business Journals

--- This podcast is sponsored by ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠LocalPod.co⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, helping local news publishers produce revenue generating podcasts. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠LocalPod.co⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ --- Subscribe to the Local News Industry Pulse newsletter to receive a weekly briefing of news, policy, trends, and more in the local news industry: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://localnewsindustrypulse.beehiiv.com/subscribe

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Inside the hyperlocal revolution at TAPinto

Mon, 24 Nov 2025 11:00:00 -0000

Michael Shapiro returns to the podcast to discuss the rapid evolution of TAPinto and the Hyperlocal News Network. In this update packed episode, Michael outlines the new features they've rolled out, including innovative tools for local businesses, political advocacy, and public entities.

Links:

Michael Shapiro - LinkedIn:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelmshapiro/

TAPinto:

https://tapinto.net/

Hyperlocal News Network:

https://marketing.tapinto.net/hyperlocal-news-network

Interested in starting a TAPinto franchise?

https://marketing.tapinto.net/start-tapinto

--- This podcast is sponsored by ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠LocalPod.co⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, helping local news publishers produce revenue generating podcasts. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠LocalPod.co⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ --- Subscribe to the Local News Industry Pulse newsletter to receive a weekly briefing of news, policy, trends, and more in the local news industry: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://localnewsindustrypulse.beehiiv.com/subscribe

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Transitioning from print to digital and keeping both

Thu, 20 Nov 2025 11:00:00 -0000

In this episode, Paul sits down with Audrey Blumberg, a veteran local journalist and publisher of The BReeze, The CHronicle, and franchisee of two TAPinto news sites in New Jersey. They discuss the operational side of running hyperlocal media outlets, the importance of boots on the ground journalism, and why Audrey's still bullish on print.

Links:

The BReeze

https://www.tapinto.net/towns/bridgewater-slash-raritan

The CHronicle

https://www.tapinto.net/towns/flemington-slash-raritan/

Audrey Blumberg - LinkedIn

https://www.linkedin.com/in/audrey-blumberg-6b5922a/

--- This podcast is sponsored by ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠LocalPod.co⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, helping local news publishers produce revenue generating podcasts. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠LocalPod.co⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ --- Subscribe to the Local News Industry Pulse newsletter to receive a weekly briefing of news, policy, trends, and more in the local news industry: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://localnewsindustrypulse.beehiiv.com/subscribe

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Philanthropy, AI, and the Future of Journalism

Mon, 17 Nov 2025 11:00:00 -0000

In this episode, Paul talks with Sarabeth Berman who shares her unexpected path from performing arts in China to leading a national movement to revitalize local news. She discusses how the American Journalism Project (AJP) is confronting the collapse of the traditional newspaper business model by investing in nonprofit newsrooms across the US.

Links:

American Journalism Project

https://www.theajp.org/

---

This podcast is sponsored by ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠LocalPod.co⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, helping local news publishers produce revenue generating podcasts. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠LocalPod.co⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

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Can Events Power Local Media?

Mon, 10 Nov 2025 11:00:00 -0000

Today Paul sits down with Justin Gordon, founder of The LA Grind, a rapidly growing local media and events company focused on LA's startup scene.

Justin shares the origin story of The LA Grind: how his background in venture capital, newsletters, and podcasting led him to launch a media meets events company for LA’s entrepreneurial community. Justin brings tons of value for local media startups as well as established local publications.

Links:

The LA Grind

Justin Gordon - LinkedIn

--- This podcast is sponsored by ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠LocalPod.co⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, helping local news publishers produce revenue generating podcasts. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠LocalPod.co⁠⁠⁠⁠ --- Subscribe to the Local News Industry Pulse newsletter to receive a weekly briefing of news, policy, trends, and more in the local news industry: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://localnewsindustrypulse.beehiiv.com/subscribe

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Revenue promiscuity and local news

Mon, 03 Nov 2025 11:00:00 -0000

In this episode, Paul chats with Joe Coughlin, co-founder and Editor in Chief of The Record North Shore, a nonprofit news outlet serving Chicago’s northern suburbs. Joe shares the journey from legacy local journalism at 22nd Century Media to launching an independent, community focused newsroom during the pandemic.

Links:

The Record North Shore

joe@therecordns.org

Joe Coughlin - X/Twitter

--- This podcast is sponsored by ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠LocalPod.co⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, helping local news publishers produce revenue generating podcasts. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠LocalPod.co⁠⁠⁠ --- Subscribe to the Local News Industry Pulse newsletter to receive a weekly briefing of news, policy, trends, and more in the local news industry: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://localnewsindustrypulse.beehiiv.com/subscribe

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A shot at fixing fragmented communities

Mon, 27 Oct 2025 10:00:00 -0000

In this episode, Paul sits down with Mike Gyi, founder of TownSpot, a hyperlocal events platform born from a passion for place making, social impact, and uncovering hidden gems in your own backyard. From his architecture roots to building tech with social purpose, Mike shares the story behind TownSpot: a digital calendar that aims to rewire how we engage with our communities.

Links:

Townspot.co

Mike Gyi - LinkedIn

Mike Gyi - Twitter/X

mike@townspot.co --- This podcast is sponsored by ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠LocalPod.co⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, helping local news publishers produce revenue generating podcasts. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠LocalPod.co⁠⁠ --- Subscribe to the Local News Industry Pulse newsletter to receive a weekly briefing of news, policy, trends, and more in the local news industry: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://localnewsindustrypulse.beehiiv.com/subscribe

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Sustainable journalism isn't a charity case: it's a business plan

Mon, 20 Oct 2025 10:00:00 -0000

Today on the show Paul Myers explains how Mineral King Publishing is confronting the crisis in local journalism by rethinking the business model. Traditional advertising and subscriptions no longer cut it and AI is both a threat and a tool. With Lantern AI, Paul aims to turn high value local reporting into products for businesses (like developers and entrepreneurs) who need timely, local insights.

Links:

Paul Myers - LinkedIn

Lantrn.ai

The Sun-Gazette

Mid Valley Times --- This podcast is sponsored by ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠LocalPod.co⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, helping local news publishers produce revenue generating podcasts. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠LocalPod.co⁠ --- Subscribe to the Local News Industry Pulse newsletter to receive a weekly briefing of news, policy, trends, and more in the local news industry: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://localnewsindustrypulse.beehiiv.com/subscribe

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Insurance to inbox and the "media mullet" model

Mon, 13 Oct 2025 15:37:00 -0000

In this episode, Paul talks with TJ Larkin, the publisher behind Larkin Media and the creator of 14 hyperlocal newsletters (and counting). TJ shares his unexpected journey from a family insurance business to becoming a driving force in the revival of community driven media. They explore why email newsletters are uniquely powerful for local engagement, TJ's data driven growth and monetization strategies, and how local entrepreneurs can transform newsletters into full fledged local media businesses. Links:⁠

Inbox Famous⁠⁠

TJ Larkin - LinkedIn⁠⁠

TJ Larkin - X/Twitter⁠

⁠Local Newsletter Insider⁠⁠

Larkin Media⁠

⁠Leander Scoop⁠ --- This podcast is sponsored by ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠LocalPod.co⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, helping local news publishers produce revenue generating podcasts. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠LocalPod.co --- Subscribe to the Local News Industry Pulse newsletter to receive a weekly briefing of news, policy, trends, and more in the local news industry: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://localnewsindustrypulse.beehiiv.com/subscribe⁠

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Reimagining Local Media at Scale

Mon, 06 Oct 2025 10:00:00 -0000

In this episode, Paul sits down with Ryan Heafy, COO and Co-Founder of 6AM City, one of the fastest growing local media companies in the U.S.

Ryan shares how his background in aerospace engineering and process driven thinking collided with traditional journalism to create a scalable, sustainable local news model. The conversation explores 6AM City's unique approach to content, how they’re leveraging AI for efficiency and expansion, and how 6AM is positioning itself for the future of news without relying on paywalls or nonprofit dollars.

Links:

Ryan Heafy - LinkedIn

6AM City

Behind the Newsletter Slack community

6AM City Newsletter Studio

---

This podcast is sponsored by ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠LocalPod.co⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, helping local news publishers produce revenue generating podcasts. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Click here to schedule a call⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

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Bonus: The Journalism Salute

Thu, 02 Oct 2025 10:00:00 -0000

Today I'm airing an episode from another podcast that you may be interested in: The Journalism Salute hosted by Mark Simon. On The Journalism Salute, Mark Simon interviews working journalists about who they are and what they do. The emphasis is on a diverse guest list. Half the guests are people of color, more than 60% are women, and there's representation from all 50 states. Gain insight on what you need to know to be a successful journalist in 2025.

pod.link/journalismsalute

Mark Simon - LinkedIn

Jai Smith - LinkedIn

Lehigh Daily

---

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News That Stays Local, Infrastructure That Scales

Mon, 29 Sep 2025 16:33:00 -0000

Today Paul talks with Warwick Sabin, President and CEO of Deep South Today, about how his organization is rethinking local journalism in the South through a collaborative, nonprofit model. Based in Mississippi and New Orleans, Deep South Today supports two award winning newsrooms, Mississippi Today and Verite News, and is laying the groundwork for broader regional expansion.

Links

“Multi-local” newsrooms aim to get more news to more people

Deep South Today

Mississippi Today

Verite News

---

This podcast is sponsored by ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠LocalPod.co⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, helping local news publishers produce revenue generating podcasts. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Click here to schedule a call⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

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Pulitzers and playbooks for local news

Mon, 15 Sep 2025 10:00:00 -0000

Today Paul sits down with Ken Doctor, Founder and CEO of Pulitzer Prize winning newsroom and Lookout Local, to discuss how local journalism can not only survive but thrive in the digital era. From launching a digital first newsroom in Santa Cruz to expanding across the West Coast, Ken shares the strategic building blocks behind Lookout's success: strong models, sustainable funding, and mission driven people.

Links:

Ken Doctor - LinkedIn

Lookout Local

Lookout in the Classroom

Google News Initiative Catalyst Project

The Knight Growth Challenge Fund

---

This podcast is sponsored by ⁠⁠⁠⁠LocalPod.co⁠⁠⁠⁠, helping local news publishers produce revenue generating podcasts. ⁠⁠⁠⁠Click here to schedule a call⁠⁠⁠⁠

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Inside the Mission Driven News Revolution

Mon, 08 Sep 2025 12:50:00 -0000

Today Paul sits down with Matthew Watkins, Editor-in-Chief of The Texas Tribune, for a conversation on nonprofit journalism, civic engagement, and navigating polarization in today’s media environment. Matthew shares his journey from local Texas reporting to leading one of the nation's premier nonprofit newsrooms, and offers candid insights into what makes The Tribune unique, from its funding model and newsroom culture to its commitment to transparency and nonpartisanship.

Links:

The Texas Tribune

The Brief

T-Squared Blog

Texas Tribune Festival

Who Funds Us page

Matthew Watkins - LinkedIn

---

This podcast is sponsored by ⁠⁠⁠LocalPod.co⁠⁠⁠, helping local news publishers produce revenue generating podcasts. ⁠⁠⁠Click here to schedule a call⁠⁠⁠

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Local news without an audience is just creative writing

Mon, 18 Aug 2025 10:00:00 -0000

Today sits down with Jonathan Kealing, Chief Network Officer at the Institute for Nonprofit News (INN), to explore the future of local journalism and the challenges of building, and keeping, an audience.

Links:

Jonathan Kealing - LinkedIn

Institute for Nonprofit News (INN)

Journalism without an audience is just creative writing - Jonathan's piece in Editor & Publisher

FindYourNews.org – Discover nonprofit news outlets near you

NewsMatch – Year-end matching gift campaign for nonprofit news

Trusting News – Project focused on rebuilding trust in journalism

LION Publishers

Local Media Association

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The Poisonous Metric That Could Kill Your Newsroom

Mon, 11 Aug 2025 10:00:00 -0000

Today Paul sits down with veteran journalist turned UX consultant David LaFontaine to break down what local and niche publishers really need to know about analytics, design, and building trust. From the myths of "data-driven" decisions to the hidden costs of bad UX, David explains how small publishers can use data not just to survive, but to thrive.

Links:

True Path Analytics

FouAnalytics

Connect with David:

david@truepathanalytics.com

David LaFontaine - LinkedIn

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Reinventing Local Journalism in Toronto

Tue, 05 Aug 2025 13:31:00 -0000

In this episode, Paul sits down with Anita Li, founder, publisher, and CEO of The Green Line, Toronto’s award-winning hyperlocal news outlet. Anita shares her journey from starting in journalism at age 14 to leading innovative, community-driven media.

The Green Line: thegreenline.to
TikTok: @greenlineto
Instagram: @thegreenlineto and @tglhelps
Anita Li’s newsletter, The Other Wave: Subscribe on Substack
Reynolds Journalism Institute guide to the Action Journey model

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Partnering with Local Micro Influencers

Mon, 28 Jul 2025 10:00:00 -0000

In this episode, Paul sits down with the leadership team at Pittsburgh's Public Source, a nonprofit newsroom based in Pittsburgh, PA, to explore how they’re tapping into micro-influencer partnerships to reach new audiences. What began as an experimental outreach has evolved into a promising strategy to bridge traditional journalism with today’s creator-driven platforms.

Read Halle's LinkedIn piece that inspired the episode

📰 Public Source: publicsource.org

📸 Instagram: @publicsource

👤 Follow Halle, Jennie, and Natasha on LinkedIn

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Season Three Has Wrapped!

Mon, 31 Mar 2025 21:40:00 -0000

Today Paul has a quick message about the podcast, when to expect new episodes, and info on an upcoming event that you won't want to miss!

Links:

Upcoming workshop - Wednesday, April 16th, 9AM MST: Create a Profitable AI Powered Podcast - Register Today

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AI, News Agents, and Local Media

Mon, 24 Mar 2025 16:09:00 -0000

Today Paul speaks with Mark Riley and Ed Daniels from Mathison.ai about their innovative project, HANA, which focuses on hyper-personalized autonomous news agents. They discuss their backgrounds in AI, the challenges facing local journalism, and how AI can enhance efficiency and personalization in news delivery. The conversation also touches on the future of local journalism, the role of AI in media, and the potential for new business models in the industry.

Links:

Mark's interview on The Media Copilot Podcast: Can AI Save Local News?

Hana App

Mathison.ai

Bristol by Hana Newsletter

MediaMorph Newsletter

Mark Riley - LinkedIn

Ed Daniels - LinkedIn

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The Evolution of the Online News Association

Mon, 17 Mar 2025 14:33:00 -0000

Today Paul speaks with with Meghan Murphy and Karolle Rabarison from the Online News Association (ONA) about the evolution of journalism in the digital age, the impact of remote work, and the integration of AI in newsrooms. They discuss their personal journeys to ONA, the organization's mission to support journalists, and the challenges and opportunities presented by AI technology in journalism.

Links:

Online News Widely Accepted as Credible

Highlights from the ONA Digital Credibility Report, presented at the 2001 conference

AI case studies:

iTromsø

THE CITY

Connect with ONA:

ONA Slack community: journalists.org/slack

ONA Weekly, for regular updates: journalists.org/newsletter

ONA25: ona25.journalists.org

To suggest programming ideas:

Pitch a virtual session

Pitch ONA25 session

Meghan online:

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mmurphydc/

Email: meghan@journalists.org

Karolle online:

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/karolle/

Email: karolle@journalists.org

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Building a Beloved Local News Empire

Mon, 10 Mar 2025 15:47:05 -0000

This week Paul is joined by John Garrett, Founder and CEO of Community Impact based in Austin, Texas.

John shares his journey from a radio and newspaper background to establishing a successful hyperlocal news organization and scaling it to over forty editions. John discusses the importance of understanding the intricacies of media ownership, the need for high-quality content, the balance between mission and profit, and even gives Paul a tour of Community Impact's multimillion dollar print facility!

Links:

John Garrett - LinkedIn

Community Impact

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How Local Publishers Can Compete with Google and Meta

Mon, 03 Mar 2025 14:24:00 -0000

This week Paul is joined by Kenny Katzgrau, Founder and CEO of Broadstreet and Publisher of Red Bank Green.

Kenny tells the story of his journey from software development to digital advertising and local publishing. They explore the challenges faced by local publishers and how Broadstreet aims to support them by providing effective advertising solutions. The conversation also touches on the importance of understanding local businesses' needs and fostering community engagement.

Links:

Broadstreet

Red Bank Green

Kenny Katzgrau - LinkedIn

Register for Broadstreet's March 12th webinar, "How to Sell Digital Advertising in 30 Minutes": https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/6117405700167/WN_5sUfz4LvSwyj5KmdnklCbQ

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Bridging the Gaps in Local News

Mon, 24 Feb 2025 15:18:00 -0000

Today Paul is joined by Ron Fields, Director of Publisher Partnerships at EmpowerLocal, to talk about the concept of news deserts, the challenges faced by local publications, and the innovative solutions being implemented to provide news coverage in underserved areas. Ron also shares insights from his experiences with various publishers and highlights the significance of understanding the unique stories of each publication.

Links:

EmpowerLocal.com

Ron Fields - LinkedIn

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A Fresh Look at Reader Revenue

Mon, 17 Feb 2025 15:30:00 -0000

This week Paul interviews Ned Berke, Chief Strategy Officer of BlueLena, who shares his unconventional journey from journalism to the business side of media. He discusses the challenges local news faces, the importance of reader revenue, and how BlueLena supports publishers in navigating these challenges through consulting, technology, and community engagement.

Links:

BlueLena.io

Ned Berke - LinkedIn

Ned Berke - Bluesky

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Smarter Digital Ad Sales for SMBs

Mon, 10 Feb 2025 15:05:05 -0000

Today Paul is joined by Christian Scherbel, co-founder of Smartico, a display and video ad platform for SMBs who advertise with local publishers.

Christian shares his journey from being an aviation engineer to becoming an entrepreneur in the local advertising space. He touches on the challenges faced by local publishers and small businesses in the digital advertising landscape and how Smartico aims to bridge the gap by providing effective advertising solutions.

Links:

Smartico.one

Christian Scherbel - LinkedIn

christian@smartico.one

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An Innovative Journalism Model in Far West Texas

Mon, 03 Feb 2025 12:00:00 -0000

Today Paul speaks with Max Kabat, co-owner of the Big Bend Sentinel in Marfa, Texas.

They discuss the innovative changes that Max and his co-owner wife have made to The Sentinel since taking it over from long time publishers who were retiring from the legacy print outlet. They talk about the power of community engagement, the evolution of local journalism, and the need for innovative strategies to sustain and grow local news outlets. Max also shares insights on the significance of print media, the diversification of revenue streams, and the potential for replicating similar models in other communities.

Links:

Max's excellent article on local journalism: https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/local-journalism-wrong-business-max-kabat-dop2c/

The Big Bend Sentinel website: https://thesentinelmarfa.com/

FB: https://www.facebook.com/TheBigBendSentinel

IG: https://www.instagram.com/bigbendsentinel/

Connect with Max:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/maxkabat/

max@thesentinelmarfa.com

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Navigating HR for Local Publishers

Mon, 27 Jan 2025 12:40:55 -0000

Today Paul speaks with Sean Cullen Carroll, co-founder and CRO of HR Kickstart.

They discuss the world of human resources and how it relates to news publishers of all shapes and sizes. Sean explains essential HR support needed for one-person news outlets up to much larger organizations, emphasizing the importance of compliance and strategic planning. The conversation also highlights the significance of understanding the needs of clients and the value of building trust in business relationships.

Links:

https://hrkickstart.com/

Connect with Sean:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/seancullencarroll/

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Why Colorado is a Hotbed for Local Journalism

Mon, 20 Jan 2025 13:35:00 -0000

Today Paul speaks with Tim Regan-Porter, CEO of the Colorado Press Association and host of the Local News Matters podcast.

They discuss Tim's diverse career path, the role of the Press Association in supporting local journalism, and the unique ecosystem that has emerged in Colorado. The conversation also touches on the challenges facing local newsrooms, the importance of community engagement, and the potential for government support in funding journalism.

Connect with Tim:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/timreganporter/

Links:

https://localnewsmatterspodcast.com/

https://coloradopressassociation.com/

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How to Build Durable News Products

Mon, 13 Jan 2025 12:55:40 -0000

On the first episode of season three Paul is joined by Cory Brown, founder of Impact TK and the 99 Newsletter Project.

They discuss the evolving landscape of journalism, focusing on the importance of sustainability, audience engagement, and the relationship between editorial and business sides of news organizations. Cory shares his journey from loading newspapers to becoming a consultant for newsrooms, emphasizing the need for durable news products that resonate with local communities.

Links:

https://www.99newsletterproject.com/

https://impacttk.com/

Connect with Cory:

cory@99newsletterproject.com

https://www.linkedin.com/in/tcorybrown/

https://bsky.app/profile/localmustard.bsky.social

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Season Two Has Wrapped!

Mon, 02 Dec 2024 14:13:34 -0000

Paul shares a quick message about the end of season two of the podcast and when to expect new episodes.

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Integrating Legacy Print into the Digital Age

Mon, 25 Nov 2024 11:00:00 -0000

Today Paul is joined by Keith Pepper, publisher of Rough Draft Atlanta.

Keith shares his journey from a media-obsessed childhood to transforming a legacy newspaper into a modern digital-first media company. He discusses navigating technology changes, building a cohesive brand amongst different community papers, and the importance of neighborhood coverage. Keith also emphasizes the power of newsletters as a new form of local journalism and the strategic shift towards high value, low volume advertising.

Links:

https://roughdraftatlanta.com/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/keithpepper/

keith@roughdraftatlanta.com

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Transforming Local Media with Fractional Services

Mon, 18 Nov 2024 11:00:00 -0000

This week Paul is joined by Kyle Rickhoff and Bob Rose of AlignSimple, a fractional service and strategy company focused on enhancing the success of local media publishers.

They discuss the concept of fractional services and the unique offerings that AlignSimple provides for publishers backed by their years in the industry. They also talk about the evolving landscape of media, focusing on the importance of engagement through podcasting and newsletters, the challenges and strategies surrounding social media, and the need for local media organizations to adapt to new tools and audience expectations while maintaining a strong community connection.

Links:

https://alignsimple.com/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/stlbobrose/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/kylerickhoff/

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Local News Goes Viral

Mon, 11 Nov 2024 11:00:00 -0000

Today Paul is joined by Graham Colligan, founder of Towns Of: a social media app for local news and events.

They talk about the importance of social media and how Towns Of aims to centralize local news and events for communities. Graham shares insights on the business model and competition in the local news aggregator space, emphasizing the need for innovation and community engagement, and a lot more.

Links:

https://www.townsof.com/

https://www.instagram.com/graham_colligan/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/grahamcolligan/

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Boosting Revenue with Solutions Journalism

Mon, 04 Nov 2024 11:00:00 -0000

Today Paul speaks with Alec Saelens, Impact Manager at Solutions Journalism Network.

Alec and Paul discuss Alec's path into journalism, the establishment of the Bristol Cable, and his current role at the Solutions Journalism Network. He emphasizes the importance of cooperative models in local journalism, the potential of solutions journalism to generate revenue, and the need for impact tracking to ensure sustainability in the industry. Alec also shares insights on the future of local news, highlighting both the challenges and the entrepreneurial spirit driving new initiatives.

Links:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/alec-saelens-125411176/

https://www.solutionsjournalism.org/

https://thebristolcable.org/

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The Value of Data and The Role of Super Connectors in Local Media

Mon, 28 Oct 2024 12:48:53 -0000

Today Paul is joined by Johnny Levy, CEO of DataJoe and founder of the Media Data Collaborative.

They discuss the significance of data in local media, the challenges of monetizing that data, and the importance of networking. Johnny shares his view on the role of connection in the media space, sharing insights on how he leverages his strengths as a connector to foster relationships and collaboration. They also talk about the Media Data Collaborative group and Johnny's People of Media series.

Links:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/johnny-levy/

https://datajoe.substack.com/

http://www.datajoe.com/

Johnny's book:

https://www.amazon.com/Superpower-Quest-Heros-Unlocking-Potential/dp/B0D1GVFSD2

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Advertiser Alignment and The Power of Storytelling

Mon, 21 Oct 2024 10:00:00 -0000

Today Paul is joined by Chief Growth & Innovation Officer for Wisconsin Watch Richard E. Brown.

Richard shares insights on the evolving landscape of local journalism, the importance of storytelling, and the need for news organizations to align with advertisers that share their mission. He discusses his career journey, the significance of building relationships within the community, and strategies for improving retention and reducing churn for local publishers.

Links:

https://wisconsinwatch.org/

https://milwaukeenns.org/

https://richardebrown.co/

Connect with Richard:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/richardeugenebrown/

https://www.facebook.com/richardebrown17

https://www.instagram.com/richardebrown17/

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How Ticketing Can Unlock New Revenue for Local Media Publishers

Mon, 14 Oct 2024 10:00:00 -0000

Today Paul is joined by Sara McNamara, Director of Business Development for white label ticketing software company Ticketsauce.

They discuss the mechanics of how the platform works, the revenue opportunities it creates, and success stories from local media companies that have effectively utilized the platform. Sara also provides insights into what local publishers should consider when expanding their event strategies, including potential red and green flags.

Links:

https://www.ticketsauce.com/

Connect with Sara:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/saramcnamaraco/

smcnamara@ticketsauce.com

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How LION Publishers Helps Create Sustainable Local Media Publishers

Mon, 07 Oct 2024 10:00:00 -0000

Today Paul is joined by Chris Krewson, Executive Director of LION Publishers.

LION (Local Independent Online News) is a nonprofit that strengthens the local news industry by helping independent news publishers build more sustainable businesses.

On the podcast they discuss the origins of LION, the importance of diverse revenue streams for local media companies, AI and its effects on the industry, how LION's sustainability audits benefit local publishers, the organization's new Sustainability 360 program, and more.

Links:

https://www.lionpublishers.com/

LION Newsletter:

https://lionnewsletter.paperform.co/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/chriskrewson/

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Empowering Rural Communities with Video News

Mon, 30 Sep 2024 10:00:00 -0000

Today Paul welcomes Laurie Sigillito to the podcast. Laurie is the founder of Local News Network, a local media startup based out of Durango, Colorado.

Paul and Laurie discuss how Local News Network combines video content with digital out of home networks, social media, newsletters, and more. They discuss how Laurie's background in the tech and signage industries led to the formation of the company, how it operates, her long term vision, and more.

Links:

https://www.thelocalnews.us/

laurie@thelocalnews.us

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Publisher Revenue Innovation: How GoList Empowers Local News and Keeps Ad Dollars Local

Mon, 23 Sep 2024 10:00:00 -0000

Daniel Olson is the founder of GoList, a national advertising platform that is curated by local news with the goal of keeping ad dollars in the pockets of local publishers.

On this episode, Paul and Dan discuss the origins of GoList and how the platform operates. They also cover Dan's plans for scaling the platform, the user experience, and how GoList aims to facilitate direct communication between businesses and consumers.

Links:

DanO@golistnews.com

golistnews.com

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The Power of Partnerships: How Local Media Consortium is Supporting Local News Outlets

Mon, 26 Aug 2024 10:00:00 -0000

In this episode, Paul interviews Fran Wills, CEO of the Local Media Consortium (LMC). Fran discusses how LMC supports over 150 local media companies across the US, Canada, and Puerto Rico by negotiating partnerships with digital technology providers. She shares insights on the rapidly evolving local news landscape, highlighting trends like the shift to video content, the rise of newsletters, and the importance of diversifying revenue streams.

Links:

https://www.localmediaconsortium.com/

https://www.localmediaconsortium.com/partners/newspassidlmc.com

fran@localmediaconsortium.com

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Local meets global and dealing with burnout as a journalist

Mon, 19 Aug 2024 10:00:00 -0000

Today Paul chats with multimedia journalist Mega Roche. They talk about how Megan fell in love with journalism, the changes she's seen in the industry throughout her career, and some of the tougher sides of the industry such as dealing with burnout.

They also discuss Megan's Path to Paris series and how she's successfully taken local stories and applied a global lens to them.

Connect with Megan:

https://meganaroche.wixsite.com/portfolio

https://www.linkedin.com/in/mroche2014/

megan.roche13@gmail.com

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Streamlining Local News: How YESEO is Transforming Journalism Efficiency

Mon, 12 Aug 2024 10:00:00 -0000

Today on the podcast, Paul talks with Ryan Restivo, the founder of SEO Slack app YESEO.

YESEO is a free Slack app that helps newsrooms create relevant headlines, generate the right keywords to use, and gives right information at the right time to help publishers get their work seen and read.

Paul and Ryan discuss how YESEO works from a workflow perspective, what its capabilities are, YESEO’s business model, why it’s free for newsrooms to use, and a lot more!

Links:

https://www.yeseo.app/

Knight Election Hub: https://accounts.muckrock.com/election-hub/recbQ1fGaYp0RAZsR

Connect with Ryan:

https://x.com/ryanarestivo

https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryanrestivo/

Meet up with Ryan at SRCCON in Minneapolis this week: https://2024.srccon.org/

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Unlocking Local Media 3.0

Mon, 05 Aug 2024 13:24:00 -0000

Today Paul sits down with Guy Tasaka, managing partner at Tasaka Digital and technology columnist for Editor & Publisher Magazine.

In the conversation, Guy illustrates his thoughts on a concept that he's dubbed "local media 3.0". This is an upgrade for local news organizations to modern, internet-native business strategies and includes owning first party intent data, omni channel selling, a re-thinking of what publishers product is and who their customer is, and more.

This episode is jam packed with value for any local news publisher looking for ways to enhance their business!

Links from the conversation:

Free by Chris Anderson

https://podnews.net/

Connect with Guy:

https://www.tasakadigital.com/

https://www.editorandpublisher.com/tech/

https://iknowag.ai/

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From Franchise to Flexibility: Expanding on TAPinto with the Hyperlocal News Network

Mon, 29 Jul 2024 10:00:00 -0000

Today Paul is joined by the first two time guest to the podcast, TAPinto and Hyperlocal News Network CEO Michael Shapiro.

Quick Note: If you haven't yet, go back and listen to season one, episode one to hear Michael's story of founding and growing TAPinto.

On this episode, Michael discusses his newest venture, the Hyperlocal News Network. The HNN offers the same robust back office and publishing capabilities of TAPinto, but with the flexibility of allowing publishers to keep their own branding and choose what features they'd like to use. The conversation covers who the HNN would work for, the benefits and cost savings that publishers can expect to see, onboarding processes, and a lot more.

Links:

hyperlocalnewsnetwork.com

starttap.net

mshapiro@tapinto.net

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Serving a Niche within a Niche

Mon, 22 Jul 2024 11:30:00 -0000

For the first episode of season two Paul speaks with Claudia Amaro, founder of Planeta Venus. Planeta Venus is a local digital, print, and audio outlet serving the Spanish speaking community of Wichita, KS.

Claudia tells her story of immigrating from Mexico as a child, being fascinated with journalism from an early age, and her winding path to founding Planeta Venus. She discusses the special considerations of serving the Latino community and the value of knowing your audience. She breaks down the organizational structure and explains how it actually made sense for her to launch a print edition of her publication in the modern era.

Connect with Claudia:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/claudia-amaro-4474717b/

Planeta Venus Site:

https://www.planetavenus.online/

Planeta Venus App:

https://apps.apple.com/us/app/planeta-venus/id1459532430?ls=1

https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.f1a9baff5599.app&hl=es

Planeta Venus Podcast:

https://open.spotify.com/show/7DVwKdvk5hHNJLUHxJFCx6

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/planeta-venus-the-podcast/id1571018877

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Local Journalism Super Structures

Mon, 03 Jun 2024 10:00:00 -0000

Eric Prock is the founder of Wave 3 advisors, a consultancy focused on redesigning the economic model of journalism, reducing risk for journalists and restoring trust.

In this episode, Paul Gewuerz speaks with Eric about how the local news crisis started, how the convergence of multiple factors helped accelerate it, and what we can do to fix it.

Connect with Eric:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/eric-prock-00927870/

https://www.linkedin.com/company/wave-3-advisors/

Links from the episode:

https://www.rebuildlocalnews.org/

https://cvlocaljournalism.org/

https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/corporate-responsibility/journalism-hub

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This podcast is sponsored by LocalPod.co, helping local news publishers across the US produce revenue generating podcasts. Learn more at localpod.co

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Rethinking the Social Media Playbook for Local News

Mon, 20 May 2024 10:00:00 -0000

On this episode Paul is joined by Coralie Saint-Louis, the founder of Enpak Social. Enpak is a mobile app designed to connect people and communities through shared interests and local news.

In this conversation, Paul and Coralie discuss the issues that arise from people getting their news from social media and how Enpak aims to fix that. They also discuss rebuilding trust between the media and their readers, Enpak's business model, their plan to fundraise in the near future, Coralie's vision for the platform, and a lot more!

Links:

https://enpaksocial.com

Download the Enpak app for mobile:

https://apps.apple.com/us/app/enpak/id6456176449

https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.enpak.social&hl=en_US&gl=US&pli=1

Enpak on social media:

https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100093565624010

https://twitter.com/enpaksocial

https://www.instagram.com/enpaksocial?igsh=MXRhaHZ3c29qaHJvNA%3D%3D

https://www.linkedin.com/company/enpak-social/

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This podcast is sponsored by LocalPod.co, helping local news publishers across the US produce revenue generating podcasts. Learn more at localpod.co

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Content, Utility Journalism, and SEO for Newsrooms

Mon, 13 May 2024 09:00:00 -0000

Today on the podcast Paul is joined by David Arkin, a consultant who brings his 25+ years of experience in audience, digital revenue, content, and leadership to help newsrooms and other organizations.

David shares his wealth of knowledge around fractional digital leadership, utility journalism, branded content, SEO, evergreen content, and more with a focus on local news publishers. He brings a ton of value for any leaders working in local journalism!

Connect with David:

https://www.davidarkinconsulting.com/

david@davidarkinconsulting.com

https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidarkin11/

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This podcast is sponsored by LocalPod.co, helping local news publishers across the US produce revenue generating podcasts. Learn more at localpod.co

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Rewriting the Newswire Business Model

Mon, 06 May 2024 10:00:00 -0000

Today on the podcast Paul is joined by Noah Greenberg, CEO and co-founder of Stacker, an earned syndication platform connecting media outlets and their readers with high quality, original research and insights from third-party publishers.

Noah explains what a newswire is and how Stacker is different in terms of both business model and the type of content they produce. He explains how Stacker's model works, what he and his team have learned about great storytelling, the benefits of bootstrapping the business, and a lot more.

Stacker's website:

https://stackermedia.com/

Connect with Noah:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/noah-greenberg-4b779a22/

noah@stacker.com

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This podcast is sponsored by LocalPod.co, helping local news publishers across the US produce revenue generating podcasts. Learn more at localpod.co

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Leaving NYC to Serve Your Home Town

Mon, 29 Apr 2024 10:00:00 -0000

Amethyst J. Davis is the founder of the Harvey World Herald, a hyperlocal news site serving the town of Harvey, Illinois.

Today on the podcast, Paul talks with Amethyst about her journey out of her home town to attend NYU and start her career in New York, only to boomerang back home to serve her community after witnessing the lack of quality information during the COVID-19 pandemic. They talk about the overwhelmingly positive response from the community to the Herald, the growth of the organization from an idea in Amethyst's head to a profitable newsroom, and the impact that quality journalism can have on a news desert.

Links from the episode:

https://harveyworld.org/

https://www.instagram.com/harveyworldherald

https://twitter.com/hwherald

https://www.linkedin.com/in/amethyst-j-davis/

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This podcast is sponsored by LocalPod.co, helping local news publishers across the US produce revenue generating podcasts. Learn more at localpod.co

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Empowering Local News Entrepreneurs with Resources and Community

Mon, 22 Apr 2024 10:00:00 -0000

Amy L. Kovac-Ashley is the Executive Director of Tiny News Collective, a non profit dedicated to providing tools, resources, and community for people looking to build sustainable news organizations that reflect and serve their communities.

On this episode, Paul and Amy discuss the story of her career, her passion for journalism, and dig into the work that TNC is doing with it's founders.

Links from the episode:

https://www.tinynewsco.org/

https://www.linkedin.com/company/tiny-news-collective/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/amylkovac/

amy@tinynewsco.org

https://localpod.co/empowering-local-news-entrepreneurs-with-resources-and-community

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This podcast is sponsored by LocalPod.co, helping local news publishers across the US produce revenue generating podcasts. Learn more at localpod.co

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Lessons from Launching a Local News Website

Mon, 15 Apr 2024 10:00:00 -0000

Henry Scott has an extensive career in journalism, working for multiple publications such as the Hartford Courant and New York Times before launching his own media consulting firm in the late 90's. But it wasn't until a hotel blared loud Elton John songs in his own backyard that he dipped his toes into launching his own hyperlocal publication, an online outlet serving West Hollywood, CA called WEHOville.com.

Today on the podcast, Paul talks with Henry about his journey into local journalism, strategies for growing readership, what readers actually want from a hyperlocal news source, the importance of investigative journalism, and a lot more.

Connect with Henry:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/hankscott/

http://media-maven.com/

Henry's book:

https://www.amazon.com/Want-Launch-Local-News-Website/dp/B0C2SPBV5K/

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This podcast is sponsored by LocalPod.co, helping local news publishers across the US produce revenue generating podcasts. Learn more at localpod.co

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Growing a Local Print Newspaper in 2024

Mon, 08 Apr 2024 13:45:00 -0000

Today Paul talks with Guy Nahmiach. Guy is the publisher of The Neighborhood Gazette, a monthly newspaper serving multiple communities on the west side of the Denver metro area.

Guy talks about his journey into local journalism, starting when he joined his children's PTA and started writing a column in his local paper about the education system. Flash forward several years and Guy followed an opportunity to buy that same paper from it's previous owner.

Guy talks about how he's grown the Gazette's readership, how the paper monetizes, advice he has for other news entrepreneurs, and more!

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Connect with Guy:

https://ngazette.com

https://www.facebook.com/neighborhoodgazette

wrgazette@gmail.com

https://www.linkedin.com/in/guy-nahmiach-b3669657/

Guy's phone number:

303-999-5789

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This podcast is sponsored by LocalPod.co, helping local news publishers across the US produce revenue generating podcasts. Learn more at localpod.co

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Policy, Philanthropy, Innovation: The Rebuild Strategy for Local News

Mon, 01 Apr 2024 10:00:00 -0000

Today Paul Gewuerz interviews journalist, entrepreneur, and nationally known advocate for robust accountability journalism Steven Waldman.

Steven started his career in legacy media, working with publications such as US News & World Report and Newsweek. He left in the early 2000's to start a website in the web 1.0 era. His career trajectory changed when he worked on a report for the FCC about the impact of the digital revolution on the news industry. This led him to become active in the space, working with Report for America for several years and ultimately leading to his work with Rebuild Local News.

In the episode, Steven talks about data that shows the damage a lack of local information can cause, such as increased polarization, corruption, decreases in local investment and even increased pollution. He talks about how the crisis was well under way before social media came into the picture. He also talks about the tremendous innovation in the space that offers hope such as digital native hyperlocal websites and the hundreds of new non profits in the space, as well as the disturbing trend of 'pink slime' websites.

Links from the episode:

rebuildlocalnews.org

reportforamerica.org

linkedin.com/in/stevendwaldman

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This podcast is sponsored by LocalPod.co, helping local news publishers across the US produce revenue generating podcasts. Learn more at localpod.co

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Bootstrapping a Hyperlocal Newsletter

Mon, 25 Mar 2024 10:00:00 -0000

Today on the podcast, Paul talks with Peter Rice, founder of Downtown Albuquerque News. DAN is a hyperlocal publication serving two zip codes of downtown Albuquerque with quality journalism, delivered by that lowest of high-tech methods: email.

In this conversation, they discuss Peter's frustration with the journalism industry which led him to start DAN, the business model that he uses, what kind of areas could support a similar newsletter, DAN's readership churn and the loyalty of the audience, why local news is so relevant, and a lot more.

Links from the episode:

downtownalbuquerquenews.com

instagram.com/downtownalbuquerquenews

facebook.com/downtownalbuquerquenews

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This podcast is sponsored by LocalPod.co, helping local news publishers across the US produce revenue generating podcasts. Learn more at localpod.co

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The Secret Power of the Inbox

Mon, 18 Mar 2024 10:00:00 -0000

Dan Oshinsky is the founder of Inbox Collective, a consultancy that helps news organizations, non-profits, and independent operators get the most out of email. Today on the podcast Dan and Paul discuss Dan's story and the power of email for local news publishers.

Dan left his job at the New Yorker after starting a successful Google doc titled 'Not a Newsletter'. Since starting out on his own, Dan has helped newsrooms across the US up their newsletter game. Dan talks about what local publishers are doing wrong with their email strategy, how to provide value to your audience, how local publishers are driving revenue with newsletters, different newsletter formats, and more.

Connect with Dan:

inboxcollective.com

linkedin.com/in/danoshinsky

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This podcast is brought to you by LocalPod.co, helping local news publishers across the US produce revenue generating podcasts. Learn more at localpod.co

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Strengthening the Local Journalism Ecosystem in New Mexico

Mon, 11 Mar 2024 10:00:00 -0000

Today on the podcast, Paul welcomes Rashad Mahmood. Rashad works to support local journalism in New Mexico as the Executive Director of the New Mexico Local News Fund. His focus is on local news equity, ensuring that people and communities all over the state have access to the news and information they need.

The conversation covers Rashad's journey into journalism, the mission of the New Mexico Local News Fund, and the state of local journalism in New Mexico. They also discuss a number of the initiatives put forward by the organization, some bright spots that Rashad is seeing in the region, and the challenges small publishers are facing as well.

Connect with Rashad and the New Mexico Local News Fund:

nmlocalnews.org

rashad@nmlocalnews.org

Rashad - LinkedIn

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This podcast is brought to you by LocalPod.co, helping local news publishers across the US produce revenue generating podcasts. Learn more at localpod.co

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A New Business Model for Community Journalism

Mon, 04 Mar 2024 11:00:00 -0000

On the first episode of the podcast, host Paul Gewuerz sits down with Michael Shapiro, founder and CEO of TAPinto, to talk about how his business model is successfully scaling local news coverage in the communities that they serve.

They talk about the challenges facing local news, including the decline of hard-copy newspapers and the rise of news deserts. TAPinto's model addresses these challenges by providing a collaborative network where publishers can share content and advertising, leveraging shared infrastructure and support to reduce costs and increase efficiency.

The discussion also covers the business side of running a TAPinto franchise, including the types of individuals who thrive as franchisees, as well as the importance of diversifying where your audience is coming from and strategies for building and maintaining audience engagement. Michael highlights the challenges posed by social media and emphasizes the value of direct audience engagement through newsletters and content marketing.

Links from the conversation:

tapinto.net

starttap.net

Connect with Michael:

mshapiro@tapinto.net

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/michaelmshapiro

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This podcast is brought to you by LocalPod.co, helping local news publishers across the US produce revenue generating podcasts. Learn more at localpod.co

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Introducing Small Press, Big Ideas

Mon, 26 Feb 2024 15:51:20 -0000

Is local news in America dead? That's what I've been hearing for more than a decade, so I decided to find out for myself. My name's Paul Gewuerz and I'm the host of the new podcast "Small Press, Big Ideas". I'll be talking with journalists, entrepreneurs, and leaders in the local news industry in the US to learn more about the opportunities, challenges, and innovations that local publishers are facing on the ground in 2024. Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts so that you never miss an episode. Season 1 drops on Monday, March 4th!

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