Are you new to the “Keep It Local” podcast? You’re in the right place.

Hosted by Ryan Welton for Local Media Association, Keep It Local is a podcast about smart ideas, sustainable innovation and the people doing the real work to keep local journalism thriving. Whether you’re a publisher, editor, ad director or community advocate — this show is for you.

If you’d like to be on the podcast, you can message Ryan here: ryan.welton@localmedia.org.

So far, we’ve tackled two important topics:

  • How branded content is becoming a sustainable revenue engine
  • How newsroom collaboration is rebuilding local trust and reach

Here’s what you’ve missed — and why you should tune in.

Episode 1: Branded content that works

In the debut episode, Dream Local Digital founder Shannon Kinney joined us to break down how branded content is transforming local media business models.

🔑 Key Takeaways:

  • Branded content isn’t new — but it’s more strategic and scalable than ever.
  • Done right, it builds revenue and trust without compromising editorial integrity.
  • Collaboration between sales, editorial and leadership is essential.
  • The Branded Content Project offers proven frameworks for success.

📌 Listen to Episode 1 on Spotify | List on Apple | Watch on YouTube

Episode 2: Collaboration over competition

In our second episode, Rob Collins of Oklahoma Media Center (OMC) shared how more than 30 diverse newsrooms across the state are working together to strengthen local journalism.

🔑 Key Takeaways:

  • OMC has invested nearly $300,000 into collaborative reporting and newsroom support.
  • From covering tribal sovereignty to mental health, partnerships are creating deeper, smarter journalism.
  • OMC is now tackling the pipeline challenge, with efforts to train the next generation of reporters starting in high schools.
  • Creative outreach, such as the “Free Press Isn’t Free” music video, is helping to make the case for local news.

📌 Listen to Episode 2 on Spotify | Listen on Apple | Watch on YouTube

Why this matters

Whether you’re experimenting with revenue models or trying to reach new audiences, the Keep It Local podcast brings you real-world insights from leaders who are moving local media forward. These are stories of action, not just talk, and you can take their lessons back to your team today.

✅ Journalism that pays for itself
✅ Audiences that trust what you publish
✅ Workflows that reduce burnout and grow capacity

Follow and share

🎧 Subscribe on your favorite podcast platform (Spotify | Apple | YouTube)
⭐ Rate and review if you like what you hear. It helps us grow.
🔁 Share with a colleague who believes in the power of local media.

Editor’s note: Artificial Intelligence was used to create an initial summary of this article, which was then edited by LMA staff.