The Grill Room Can MSNBC Survive Without NBC?
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Aug 26, 2025 Andy Lack, former chairman of NBC News and MSNBC, dives into the pressing issues facing television news today. He discusses the fallout from CBS's Trump settlement and the challenges of MSNBC's identity. Lack sheds light on his new mission to launch sustainable local news outlets in the Deep South, emphasizing the importance of community-driven journalism. He also explores efforts to bridge political polarization through dialogue, advocating for local stories and investigative reporting as vital tools for accountability.
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Southern Roots Spark Local News Mission
- Andy Lack traced his motivation for Southern local journalism to family roots in Greenville, Mississippi and early mentorship with Bill Moyers.
- He registered Mississippi Today a decade ago and even joked about bringing Today Show talent to the region.
Investigations Are The Local Edge
- Lack argues investigative journalism is the core value proposition for digital nonprofit local news in the Deep South.
- He focuses resources there because holding power to account fills a major regional reporting gap.
Use Foundations To Fund Investigations
- Build nonprofit local outlets by securing foundation support and proving performance to donors.
- Use those revenues to hire investigative reporters who can demonstrate impact to sustain funding.