In this episode, Rebecca talks with Bob Cohn, president and CEO of The Venetoulis Institute for Local Journalism, about the organization’s rapid growth and its vision for strengthening local news. Bob discusses the Institute’s recent acquisition of the assets of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette, how the move fits into its long-term mission, and what the organization has learned from expanding The Baltimore Banner into new communities across Maryland.

They explore the business model behind the Institute’s approach to sustainable local journalism, including the role of subscriptions, advertising, philanthropy, and community engagement. Bob also shares how the organization balances startup innovation with the legacy of established news organizations, the importance of building a strong newsroom culture, and why investing in local journalism is essential to serving communities and ensuring a sustainable future for the industry.