In this episode, Rebecca Snyder sits down with Corey Hutchins - journalist and founder of the weekly newsletter, Inside the News in Colorado. Corey shares insights from his research on media criticism, the decline of traditional newsrooms and the rise of independent journalism through platforms like Substack. They also discuss the role of collaboration in today's media environment and how journalists are adapting to new challenges. Tune in for an in-depth conversation about the future of local news and why media accountability matters now more than ever.

In this powerful episode, Rebecca sits down with Tom Marquardt, retired publisher and editor of The Capital Gazette, to discuss his new book, Pressed to Kill. Tom takes us inside the tragic events of June 28, 2018, when a gunman attacked the Gazette newsroom, killing five people. He shares insights on the victims' legacies, newsroom security, the evolving media landscape and the broader issues of mass violence in America.

In this inspiring episode, we sit down with Amber Allan, the visionary founder of Man of Peace, a nonprofit dedicated to providing safe spaces and life-changing resources for children in Ecuador. From the devastating 2016 earthquake that reshaped lives to breaking generational cycles of hardship, Amber and her team are fostering hope, education, and healing in the community of Coaque, Ecuador. Join us as we explore the challenges, triumph and unwavering commitment that fuels Man of Peace. This episode is a testament to the power of perseverance, faith and the belief that every child deserves a chance to thrive.

Visit Man of Peace at https://ecthemanofpeace.org/

Rebecca Snyder sits down with Lauren Vella, principal at Cornerstone Government Affairs' new Dover office, to discuss the changing political landscape in Delaware. From a brand-new governor and congressional leadership to special elections and key legislative priorities, Lauren breaks down what these shifts mean for the state. Delaware might be small, but there’s no shortage of big changes happening - tune in now and stay ahead of the latest developments.

Join us for an insightful conversation with Amy Orndorff, managing editor of Bethesda Magazine and Bethesda Today. Amy shares the evolution of Bethesda’s local news, the challenges of covering Montgomery County with a small but dedicated team and how her experience at The Washington Post and as a volunteer firefighter shaped her approach to journalism. From breaking news to long-form features, hear how Bethesda Today fills the local news gap and what’s next for the publication.

Rebecca Snyder sits down with Ryan Little, data editor at The Baltimore Banner, to explore the power of data in investigative journalism. They discuss the role of data analysis in uncovering major trends, particularly in Baltimore’s opioid crisis. Ryan shares insights into the challenges of accessing public records, the legal battle over autopsy data and how their reporting revealed surprising overdose hotspots. They also touch on the implications of a new Maryland bill that could restrict access to vital public health data. Tune in for an eye-opening conversation on transparency and the fight for public information.

In our first Marketing Pros episode of 2025, we sit down with Mya Shell, a 25-year-old brand marketing powerhouse. From growing up in a small Ohio town to shaping major campaigns in the tech world, Mya's journey is nothing short of inspiring. She shares how being part of the digital era shaped her strategies, dives into the importance of brand tone, and explains why pop culture is key to engagement. If you're looking to strengthen your brand identity in an omnichannel world or want to understand the rise of "comfort content," this episode is packed with insights you don't want to miss. Connect with Mya on LinkedIn (@MyaShell) for more marketing wisdom or on Instagram (@MyaShell) to meet her adorable, fluffy cat!

Join Rebecca Snyder as she sits down with Tim Franklin, Senior Associate Dean and Director of the Medill Local News Initiative at Northwestern University. In this episode, they dive into the latest Medill State of Local News Report findings, explore the growing crisis of news deserts and discuss innovative solutions reshaping the local news landscape. From the challenges of ownership shifts to the rise of digital-only outlets and the role of universities in journalism, this conversation unpacks the urgent need for sustainable local journalism. Don't miss the insights and ideas for fostering vibrant local news communities!

Check out Medill's report at https://localnewsinitiative.northwestern.edu/