Building a Sustainable Future for Local News with Liz White

Sustainable local journalism requires more than a single source of revenue. It requires experimentation, collaboration and a culture willing to embrace transformation.Local Media Association coach and consultant Liz White joins Keep It Local host Ryan Welton at Local Media Fest 2026 in Chicago to discuss how Local Media Association helps news organizations develop new ideas and build stronger business models.White explains how LMA’s labs combine peer learning with hands-on coaching, giving local media leaders a place to discuss shared challenges and experiment together. She also outlines the revenue pillars that can support long-term sustainability, including events, digital agencies and philanthropy—all built upon a foundation of trusted local journalism.A fifth-generation family media owner and former publisher in central Connecticut, White previously participated in LMA programs and served eight years on the organization’s board. Now, she uses those experiences to coach other publishers through their own transformation.In this episode:• Why collaboration is so valuable for local media leaders• How LMA’s labs combine peer learning and individual coaching• Why transformation must become part of a company’s culture• How multiple revenue pillars can strengthen a news organization• Why trusted local journalism must remain the foundationKeep It Local is a podcast from Local Media Association. If you'd like to be a guest on an episode or to sponsor the podcast, reach out to Lindsey Estes ([email protected]) and Ryan Welton ([email protected]).