Gita Jackson, Alex Sujong Laughlin, and Rusty Foster discuss the evolving media landscape and the need for independent media. They delve into topics such as the challenges and changes in the media industry, the rise and fall of the podcasting industry, the importance of sustainability, and prioritizing mental health in the workplace.
The rise of independent media reflects a similar moment in 2010-2012, with new blog ships and independent media companies emerging.
Sustainability and creating a stable industry for writers and journalists are key focuses of the independent media movement, emphasizing equitable structures, fair pay, and supportive work environments.
Deep dives
The Rise of Independent Media
The podcast discusses the rise of independent media and how it mirrors a similar moment in 2010-2012 when many entrepreneurs launched their own websites. The current landscape sees the emergence of new blog ships and independent media companies. The guests on the podcast, Gita, Alex, and Rusty, are all running independent media companies and discuss their experiences.
Challenges and Opportunities in Media Industry
The podcast explores the challenges faced in the media industry, such as layoffs and financial difficulties, but also finds hope in the growing independent media movement. The guests share their personal experiences of layoffs and the need for reinvention and sustainability in media. They discuss the importance of creating a stable industry for writers and journalists.
Sustainability and the Future of Independent Media
Sustainability becomes a focal point of the conversation, as the guests discuss the need for equitable structures, fair pay, and supportive work environments. They emphasize the importance of avoiding burnout and fostering healthier work patterns. The idea of industry leadership, transparency, and collaboration is also discussed, with examples from the guests' own organizations.
The Revival of Blogging and Paying for Content
The podcast highlights the revival of blogging and the positive trend of audiences willing to pay for quality content. The guests share anecdotes of how they have found success and fulfillment in writing for the internet and receiving direct support from their audience. They express hope in the return of sustainable business models that allow writers to make a living and create meaningful work.
To kick things off, we had a roundtable conversation with a trio of makers and thinkers, all of whom are creating independent media. They are Gita Jackson (Aftermath), Alex Sujong Laughlin (Defector Media), and Rusty Foster (Today in Tabs).
We wanted to talk with Gita, Alex and Rusty about the current state of media, and why each of them has decided to strike out beyond the big, legacy media organizations and create something new.
You can find Never Post, including all episodes, at neverpo.st.