Last Deadline: A Pair of Newsroom Legends Sign Off episode artwork

EPISODE · Jan 8, 2026 · 59 MIN

Last Deadline: A Pair of Newsroom Legends Sign Off

from 27Speaks · host The Express News Group

Two of The Express News Group’s most enduring newsroom fixtures decided that 2025 would be the year they finally stepped away from journalism. At the end of December, photo editor Dana Shaw and reporter Stephen J. Kotz officially filed their last stories. For more than three decades, Shaw was a constant presence at the region’s most important moments — from protests and public meetings to wildfires and parades. And for over 30 years on the East End, Kotz — who also had stints as a news editor — chronicled the villages, towns, people and personalities of the South Fork with relentless curiosity and determination. This week, the editors sit down with Shaw and Kotz for a candid “exit interview,” filled with unforgettable anecdotes, hard-earned wisdom, and reflections on a lifetime spent chasing the story.

Two of The Express News Group’s most enduring newsroom fixtures decided that 2025 would be the year they finally stepped away from journalism. At the end of December, photo editor Dana Shaw and reporter Stephen J. Kotz officially filed their last stories. For more than three decades, Shaw was a constant presence at the region’s most important moments — from protests and public meetings to wildfires and parades. And for over 30 years on the East End, Kotz — who also had stints as a news editor — chronicled the villages, towns, people and personalities of the South Fork with relentless curiosity and determination. This week, the editors sit down with Shaw and Kotz for a candid “exit interview,” filled with unforgettable anecdotes, hard-earned wisdom, and reflections on a lifetime spent chasing the story.

NOW PLAYING

Last Deadline: A Pair of Newsroom Legends Sign Off

0:00 59:52

No transcript for this episode yet

We transcribe on demand. Request one and we'll notify you when it's ready — usually under 10 minutes.

No similar episodes found.

No similar podcasts found.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is this episode of 27Speaks?

This episode is 59 minutes long.

When was this 27Speaks episode published?

This episode was published on January 8, 2026.

What is this episode about?

Two of The Express News Group’s most enduring newsroom fixtures decided that 2025 would be the year they finally stepped away from journalism. At the end of December, photo editor Dana Shaw and reporter Stephen J. Kotz officially filed their last...

Can I download this 27Speaks episode?

Yes, you can download this episode by clicking the download button on the episode player, or subscribe to the podcast in your preferred podcast app for automatic downloads.
URL copied to clipboard!