In this episode of "On Assignment," host Liz Cochrane sits down with expert Malcolm Redd to explore the challenging landscape facing local news outlets in Central Pennsylvania. We dig into the broken business model that has traditionally funded local journalism.

Malcolm explains how the old reliance on local advertising revenue has largely disappeared online, leaving newsrooms struggling to find ways to pay the bills. This has led to many local papers shrinking or even closing.

We discuss the impact of these changes on our communities, including how social media, particularly Facebook, has become the primary source of news for many residents.... While convenient, this shift can sometimes mean less in-depth, fact-checked reporting. We also touch on how fewer than 4 in 10 Central Pennsylvanians feel "somewhat" connected to their community, a number that reliable local news can help improve1....

But it's not all challenging! Malcolm shares insights from community research about the search for sustainable solutions. The conversation goes "upstream from news" to look at building trust, centering solutions, and equipping people for civic action....

Listen in as we discuss promising new approaches, including:

•Nonprofit or hybrid media models

•Membership or community-based funding

•Collaborative efforts among news organizations and community groups...

•The potential of technology like AI to assist journalists

•Focusing on solutions journalism and stories that build "civic joy"...

•Rebuilding trust through relationships and transparency...

This episode highlights that finding a sustainable future for local news isn't just about business models; it's about reimagining how news can serve and empower communities and is an invitation for everyone to help co-create what comes next.