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Buying your hometown newspaper, with Samantha & Greg Enslen

Jun 27, 2024

Samantha Enslen, an entrepreneur who recently bought a hometown newspaper, and her co-owner Greg Enslen, an advocate for community journalism, dive into the vibrant world of local news. They discuss refreshing outdated systems and widening news coverage to engage readers. The duo tackles the balance between print and digital content, the hurdles of ad sales, and the role of AI in journalism. Their passion for hyper-local reporting shines through, highlighting the importance of authentic stories and community ties.

46:13

Creator website

Episode guests

Greg Enslen

Samantha Enslen

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Episode notes

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

Samantha and Greg Enslen emphasize the importance of hyper-local reporting to strengthen community connections and fill news gaps left by competitors.

The couple's transition to modern business practices, including cloud-based systems and freelance writers, aims to revitalize the local newspaper's operations and sustainability.

Deep dives

The Purchase Decision Behind a Local Newspaper

The decision to buy a local newspaper, the Tippie Canoe Gazette, stemmed from a desire to keep it open when faced with potential closure. Greg Enslen had aspired to own the newspaper for years, continually trying to bid whenever it went on sale. After receiving a call from the editor about the possibility of shutting down the paper, he, along with his wife Samantha, engaged in discussions that culminated in their purchase. Recognizing the importance of local journalism, they aimed to demonstrate that local newspapers could still thrive despite a common perception of decline in the industry.

Intro

2min

Revitalizing Local Journalism

14min

Strategies for Revitalizing a Local Newspaper

5min

Navigating Community Engagement in Local News

11min

Reviving Local Journalism: Community Solutions for Authentic News

4min

Navigating the Role of AI in Local Journalism

2min

The Charm of Local Journalism

10min

Gratitude and Health Insights

2min

998. This week, I talked with Samantha and Greg Enslen, who recently purchased their hometown newspaper, the "Tippecanoe Gazette" in Tipp City, Ohio. Sam and Greg shared how they are making it work, from updating antiquated systems to expanding news coverage and readership. We also discussed balancing print and digital content, the challenges of ad sales and subscriptions, their commitment to hyper-local reporting, their thoughts on AI in journalism, and the colorful stories that make small-town news so much fun. Whether you're an aspiring journalist or are simply curious about the future of local news, you'll be inspired by the Enslens' dedication to keeping community journalism alive.

Visit the "Tippecanoe Gazette" online: https://www.tippgazette.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TippecanoeGazette

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tippcitygazette/

| Edited transcript with links: https://grammar-girl.simplecast.com/episodes/enslen/transcript

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