The Poynter Report Podcast

Reporting from Iran: Risks, Access, and the Realities of War Coverage

Wed, 01 Apr 2026 04:01:00 GMT

The Poynter Report features an interview with Frederik Pleitgen, Senior Correspondent for CNN International, who discusses the challenges of reporting in Iran during an ongoing conflict. He describes the difficulty of gaining access to restricted areas, working under surveillance, and reporting amid constant airstrikes, all while having limited internet access. Pleitgen also reflects on the human impact of war, sharing how civilians cope with fear and uncertainty, and how covering these events leaves a lasting emotional impact on journalists.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Paramount Warner Bros. Discovery deal. What does it mean?

Wed, 18 Mar 2026 04:01:00 GMT

The Poynter Report welcomes media reporter Sara Fischer to discuss the key ramifications of the mega deal. Drawing on her work at Axios, Fischer explains the corporate drama involving Warner Bros. Discovery, Netflix, and Paramount. She also addresses CNN's uncertain future.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Reporting through a crisis in Minnesota

Wed, 04 Mar 2026 05:01:00 GMT

The Poynter Report welcomes Steve Grove, CEO and Publisher of the Minnesota Star Tribune, to discuss how his journalists covered the protests in Minneapolis. He reflects on the emotional toll of reporting on deeply personal community stories, the arrests of local journalists, and the growing fight against misinformation. Grove also highlights the dangers reporters faced and the paper’s mission to strengthen trust, accountability, and unity through local journalism during a time of crisis.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Special Guest: NBC Nightly News anchor Tom Llamas

Tue, 03 Feb 2026 05:01:00 GMT

The Poynter Report welcomes NBC's Tom Llamas to the podcast where he shares details on his rise to fame from a 15-year old intern to the anchor of NBC Nightly News. Also hear what a typical day is for Llamas and finally his views on the role of a network evening newscast.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

PolitiFact's 2025 Lie of the Year

Tue, 16 Dec 2025 05:01:00 GMT

For the 17th year, the country's most respected fact-checking website names the "Lie of the Year". PolitiFact's Editor-in-Chief, Katie Sanders, unveils the surprising choice in this exclusive episode of The Poynter Report.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Sports, Culture and Controversy with Sally Jenkins

Wed, 19 Nov 2025 05:01:00 GMT

Sally Jenkins, longtime Washington Post sports columnist now writing for The Atlantic, breaks down what’s happening across the sports world today. She talks about gambling controversies, locker room culture, baseball's resurgence and where the WNBA is headed next.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Future of Local News and America’s Growing News Deserts

Wed, 05 Nov 2025 05:01:00 GMT

Poynter journalist Kristen Hare discusses the state of local journalism. She breaks down the rise of news deserts and how shifts in ownership and technology are changing the future of community news.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

A New Boss at CBS and the Pentagon Press Restrictions

Wed, 22 Oct 2025 04:01:00 GMT

The media reporter at The Guardian, Jeremy Barr, breaks down the latest media topics. He discusses Bari Weiss’ move to CBS, MSNBC's rebrand and separation from NBCUniversal, and the Pentagon press restrictions.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Exclusive Interview: Former Washington Post Columnist Karen Attiah

Wed, 08 Oct 2025 04:01:00 GMT

A ground breaking interview with former Washington Post columnist Karen Attiah. She discusses her recent firing following Charlie Kirk’s death. She reflects on the aftermath while raising urgent questions about the future for truth-telling journalists.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Special episode with a special guest: Chuck Todd

Wed, 24 Sep 2025 04:01:00 GMT

The former moderator of NBC's Meet the Press, joins The Poynter Podcast to discuss the future of journalism, the media and the country. He explains why he left NBC after 20 years. It's an interview you won't want to miss.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Poynter 50 Project: Gamergate

Wed, 10 Sep 2025 04:01:00 GMT

A fascinating look at how in 2014 an on-line argument about a video game had severe off-line repercussions and how "Gamergate" parallels what is happening today. Guest Alex Mahadevan also discusses how today's media still struggles to cover social media generated stories.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

A big change for a top media critic

Wed, 27 Aug 2025 04:01:00 GMT

Former CNN media reporter Oliver Darcy recently said goodbye to his high profile job with the network and went out on his own to start a newsletter and podcast. Find out what was behind that bold decision on this edition of The Poynter Report podcast.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Demise of Late Night TV

Wed, 20 Aug 2025 04:01:00 GMT

CBS cancelling the Stephen Cobert show raises the question of whether it was required part of the Paramount sale to Skydance or is late night TV on the decline and this was a smart move. Poynter Managing Editor Ren LaForme joins the Poynter Report podcast to discuss this hotly debated topic.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Christine Brennan on One of the Biggest Names in Sports

Wed, 30 Jul 2025 04:01:00 GMT

One of the top sports journalists in the world is Christine Brennan, the USA Today Sports Columnist. She shares her insights on her latest book on WNBA superstar Caitlin Clark and how she became a singular athlete who transcended their sport.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

A Conversation with America's Writing Coach

Wed, 16 Jul 2025 04:01:00 GMT

Roy Peter Clark, through his teaching and books, has helped countless journalists and non-journalists alike become better writers. Known as "America's Writing Coach," Clark joins host Tom Jones to talk about his journey, and offers more lessons on what it takes to be a good writer.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Is Your News Diet Healthy or Unhealthy?

Wed, 02 Jul 2025 04:01:00 GMT

Many people are complaining about being overwhelmed by the news. How can they cope while still being informed? Join this fascinating discussion with the Poynter's Ren LaForme and host Tom Jones on The Poynter Report.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

AI: The Death of Journalism or Its Savior?

Wed, 18 Jun 2025 04:01:00 GMT

Should journalists be afraid of AI or embrace it? What will the newsroom of the future look like with AI? Will AI cost journalists their jobs or enhance their craft? This is a "must listen" for anyone in the media. The Director of MediaWise, and AI expert, Alex Mahadevan is the guest on the Poynter Report Podcast.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Is Press Freedom Dead?

Wed, 04 Jun 2025 04:01:00 GMT

What does the immediate future hold for the press during the Trump Administration? And how has the White House Press Corps changed? Has it gotten better? Poynter Institute Media Reporter Angela Fu provides some important insight on The Poynter Report Podcast.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

MSNBC’s Jen Psaki

Mon, 05 May 2025 04:01:00 GMT

Special guest Jen Psaki joins The Poynter Report to discuss her new show on MSNBC. She talks about what will make the show unique while discussing the media’s role in today’s political environment.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

America's Secret War in the Ukraine

Mon, 21 Apr 2025 04:01:00 GMT

A year-long New York Times investigation has uncovered that the U.S. is playing a deeper, longer role in the war in Ukraine than most realize. The reporter who broke the story is Adam Entous and he joins The Poynter Report with the shocking details contained in the “The Secret History of the War in Ukraine”.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Young Teens and Social Media

Mon, 07 Apr 2025 04:01:00 GMT

Brand new research answers the question, "what effect does social media have on young teens?". Listen to the shocking results in this ground-breaking episode of the Poynter Report with research professor Justin Martin from the University of South Florida's Journalism Department in St. Petersburg, Florida.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Young Teens and Cell Phone Usage

Tue, 25 Mar 2025 04:01:00 GMT

What effect does cell phone usage have on young teens? You will be shocked by the answer based on groundbreaking research just being released. This episode is a "must-listen" for all parents. Journalism Professor Justin Martin from the University of South Florida-St. Petersburg is the guest.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Biggest Media Events in the Last 50 Years

Mon, 10 Mar 2025 04:01:00 GMT

What are the top 50 media events of the last half century? Some of the answers will surprise you, but there's more. Learn how you can help choose those events. Join Poynter's Ren LaForme and Tom Jones as they unveil Poynter 50—a landmark project celebrating 50 years of journalism excellence.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Trump Administration and Media Bans

Mon, 24 Feb 2025 05:01:00 GMT

The Associated Press’ removal from official White House activities is sparking outrage among media organizations and first amendment advocates. What does this mean for the future of American media under President Trump? For an insider’s look into the issue, tune into The Poynter Report Podcast with special guest, former Washington Post media reporter Paul Farhi.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

A Bonus Podcast: Tom Brady the Announcer: Boom or Bust?

Mon, 03 Feb 2025 05:01:00 GMT

Tom Brady’s move to the broadcast booth will come under a microscope as he broadcasts his first Super Bowl. How will the former football star handle the pressure? How does his minority ownership position in the Las Vegas Raiders affect his announcing future? Will he complete is 10-year contract? For a look into this and the big game tune into this special episode of The Poynter Report Podcast with special guest The Athletic’s Richard Deitsch.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Meta Drops Fact-Checking. What does it mean?

Mon, 27 Jan 2025 05:01:00 GMT

Mark Zuckerberg's decision to remove Meta's fact-checking program raises pressing questions about the future of social media. Where does this leave the public’s trust? As misinformation spreads faster than ever, can users hold out hope for an ethical commitment to truth? For a fascinating look into the situation, listen to the season 2 premiere of The Poynter Report Podcast with special guest the Director of the International Fact Checking Network, Angie Drobnic Holan.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Fixing Local TV News

Mon, 16 Dec 2024 05:01:00 GMT

Fewer people are watching local TV news —but why? Media industry expert, journalism professor, and author Elliott Wiser provides insights into that question. What, if anything, can be done to stop the decline in revenue and viewership associated with local TV news. Find out the answers to these questions and more on the season finale of The Poynter Report.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

David Bauder, AP’s national media writer

Mon, 02 Dec 2024 05:01:00 GMT

With the election behind us, what’s next for the media? Join David Bauder, AP’s national media writer, for an insider's take on media trends and ratings. From the role of Elon Musk to "Trump bumps" and "Trump slumps," Bauder offers a fresh perspective and reasons to stay hopeful about the future of journalism. Stay informed about the latest in media and journalism on The Poynter Report.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Poynter's Senior Vice President Kelly McBride and Poynter.Org Managing Editor Ren LaForme

Mon, 18 Nov 2024 05:01:44 GMT

Election results are in and it's time to give the media a grade for its performance. The Poynter Institute's Kelly McBride and Ren LaForme provide an unfiltered look at the media’s role during this election's pivotal moments. They’ll dive into how polls were handled, dissect the dramatized character tropes of candidates, and tackle the tough questions about a so-called "vilified" media. Get critical insights into journalism, only on The Poynter Report.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Katie Sanders, Editor-in-Chief of PolitiFact

Mon, 04 Nov 2024 05:01:01 GMT

Curious about what’s really true in politics? Join PolitiFact’s Editor-in-Chief, Katie Sanders, as she breaks down the truth-finding process behind America’s leaders' political claims. Discover the methods used to uncover fact from fiction, how misinformation gets weaponized, and which absurd statements are running for the infamous "Lie of the Year" award. Don't miss this exclusive deep dive to find the truth on The Poynter Report.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Steve Kornacki, NBC/MSNBC Political Analyst

Mon, 21 Oct 2024 10:48:58 GMT

NBC/MSNBC's political analyst Steve Kornacki steps away from the big board to discuss what the polls are saying about the upcoming presidential race. He discusses the challenges polling Donald Trump's performance and whether Kamala Harris's late entry into the race is helping or hurting. You've seen him an TV, now listen to what he's saying to The Poynter Reports' Tom Jones.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Neil Brown, President of the Poynter Institute

Mon, 07 Oct 2024 04:00:56 GMT

The President of The Poynter Institute, Neil Brown, joins host Tom Jones to explore the challenges of fact-based journalism, the rise of emerging digital news platforms, and how the industry is embracing modern approaches in delivering the news.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

NPR TV Critic Eric Deggans

Mon, 23 Sep 2024 04:00:23 GMT

In the premier episode of the Poynter Report Podcast NPR's Television critic, Eric Deggans, discusses the declining influence of cable news networks during this election. Host Tom Jones and Deggans also dive into the concept of the "truth sandwich" and its role in modern journalism as well as the changes taking place in streaming platforms.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Poynter Report Podcast

Reporting from Iran: Risks, Access, and the Realities of War Coverage

The Paramount Warner Bros. Discovery deal. What does it mean?

Reporting through a crisis in Minnesota

More turmoil at the Washington Post

Special Guest: NBC Nightly News anchor Tom Llamas

PolitiFact's 2025 Lie of the Year

Sports, Culture and Controversy with Sally Jenkins

The Future of Local News and America’s Growing News Deserts

A New Boss at CBS and the Pentagon Press Restrictions

Exclusive Interview: Former Washington Post Columnist Karen Attiah

Special episode with a special guest: Chuck Todd

The Poynter 50 Project: Gamergate

A big change for a top media critic

The Demise of Late Night TV

Christine Brennan on One of the Biggest Names in Sports

A Conversation with America's Writing Coach

Is Your News Diet Healthy or Unhealthy?

AI: The Death of Journalism or Its Savior?

Is Press Freedom Dead?

MSNBC’s Jen Psaki

America's Secret War in the Ukraine

Young Teens and Social Media

Young Teens and Cell Phone Usage

The Biggest Media Events in the Last 50 Years

The Trump Administration and Media Bans

A Bonus Podcast: Tom Brady the Announcer: Boom or Bust?

Meta Drops Fact-Checking. What does it mean?

Fixing Local TV News

David Bauder, AP’s national media writer

Poynter's Senior Vice President Kelly McBride and Poynter.Org Managing Editor Ren LaForme

Katie Sanders, Editor-in-Chief of PolitiFact

Steve Kornacki, NBC/MSNBC Political Analyst

Neil Brown, President of the Poynter Institute

NPR TV Critic Eric Deggans