The Power of Local News in Fighting Misinformation: Journal Club Episode 5

About this episode

This episode discusses the role of local journalism in combating misinformation based on new research.

In this episode of UnSpun Journal Club , we break down new research on one of the biggest challenges in today’s information environment: misinformation. Most conversations focus on fact-checkers or national media. But this paper argues something different—that local journalism may be one of the most effective tools we have for stopping misinformation where it starts. We explore why misinformation spreads so effectively, why traditional responses often fall short, and what role local news might play moving forward. The question is not just whether local journalism works. It’s whether it will still exist when we need it. Original paper here: A new hope: Local journalism as a mitigation hub for misinformation by Gregory Perreault and Phoebe Maares. Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

People in this episode

Host: Amanda Sturgill

Topics covered

• local news
• misinformation
• journalism
• fact-checking
• media
• information environment

Keywords

• local journalism
• misinformation
• fact-checkers
• media challenges
• information spread

More episodes of Unspun

• Is media bias getting worse: Are politicians right? · June 9, 2026 · 32 min
• How to say nasty things while staying popular: UnSpun Journal Club · May 26, 2026 · 16 min
• News Consolidation is Bad for Audiences · May 19, 2026 · 25 min
• How AI Swarms Could Make Social Media Intolerable | UnSpun Journal Club · May 12, 2026 · 19 min
• Is it bad for blllionaires to control the news? Unspun Rewind · May 5, 2026 · 24 min
• Why the News Feels So Overwhelming (And What It’s Doing to You · April 28, 2026 · 32 min