[EN] The State of Rural News in Appalachia

Across Western North Carolina and Central Appalachia, the absence of local media outlets leaves many of our communities without the vital local information needed for longterm health and resilience, especially for community members who don't speak English. In this episode, we speak with Ryan Eller, Executive Director of the Appalachia Funders Network, about the state of rural news, how crises like COVID-19, Hurricane Helene, and political polarization demonstrate its importance, and opportunities to strengthen and sustain local media outlets across our region. Learn more through these resources mentioned in the podcast: 'The State of Local News' from the Medill Local News Initiative 'The State of the News Business in Central Appalachia - Models for Reinvestment' by the Appalachia Funders Network Rural News Fund (for our local media groups across Appalachia!)