By Ellen Clegg and Dan Kennedy
We are thrilled to announce the debut of our podcast, “What Works: The Future of Local News.” Every month — and soon, perhaps, every week — we will talk to journalists, policymakers and entrepreneurs about efforts they’re making to keep local news alive. (As you may have noticed, we’re working on a book with the same name.) Corporate chains and hedge funds are squeezing the life out of local news. There is a better way. We and our guests are telling that story.
In our first episode, Dan interviews Massachusetts state Rep. Lori Ehrlich, a Marblehead Democrat who co-sponsored legislation to launch a commission to study the future of local news in the Commonwealth. (Note: Dan will be a member of the commission.) Ehrlich lays out her vision and underscores the role that local journalism plays in a democracy. Dan and Ellen share a few quick takes on the news as well.
Also, many thanks to Alison Booth, who designed the graphic that accompanies our podcast, and to Promiser, whose song “WOW!” is our theme. Wow indeed.
