Community Journalism in the Digital Age: Larry Lannan's Mission to Keep Local News Alive

Larry started in radio broadcasting in 1969, spending 14 years hosting talk shows and working as a journalist before transitioning to a 28-year career with the federal government as a tax law specialist and manager.  In 2012, he launched LarryInFishers.com to cover local news in his community, which he continues to maintain today. Since 2016, Larry has also been producing podcasts, and for the past 13 years, he has focused on covering education and local government. His work has appeared in Current in Fishers, the Indianapolis Business Journal, and Fishers Magazine, and he previously had a partnership with the Hamilton County Reporter. Larry brings experience from radio, government service, and independent journalism to share insights on community communication and local news coverage. Host Cyndee Woolley sits down with Larry Lannan, a veteran communication professional whose decades-spanning career bridges radio broadcasting, federal government service, and independent digital journalism. Since launching LarryInFishers.com in 2012, Larry has become an essential voice for his rapidly growing Indiana community—transforming from a town of 8,000 when he arrived in 1991 to a thriving suburb of 107,000 today.From Radio Booth to Tax Law to Hyperlocal NewsLarry's journey began in 1969 as a radio broadcaster and journalist before spending 28 years as a federal tax law specialist. This unique combination of storytelling skills and analytical expertise now serves him as he tackles one of journalism's toughest challenges: making government accessible and engaging for busy families.The Power of Presence"I've been told by more than one elected official privately that they act differently when there's a reporter in the room," Larry shares, highlighting why his consistent attendance at city council meetings matters. His podcast gives public officials something rare—30 minutes to explain their work beyond soundbites, from complex tax law changes to ambitious infrastructure projects.Filling the VoidWith newspapers disappearing nationwide, Larry addresses a critical gap in civic engagement. His parents' hometown paper, publishing since 1866, closed five years ago—surviving economic depressions but not the digital transformation. Larry's work demonstrates how dedicated individuals can preserve community connections when traditional media fails.Why He Can't QuitDespite two attempted retirements, Larry continues because of the profound hunger for local news. "Three people came up to me at a hockey game just to thank me for doing what I'm doing," he reflects. His message resonates: when you lose local news, you lose connection with your community—and informed citizens are essential for democracy.. To learn more, visit:http://www.c2-com.com Listen to more episodes on Mission Matters:http://missionmatters.com/author/Cyndee-Woolley/