Reporter's Notebook podcast artwork

PODCAST · news

Reporter's Notebook

WTMJ news anchor & reporter Adam Roberts goes beyond the headlines to provide not just the 'what' but also the 'why' when it comes to the media's coverage of some of the biggest stories in the state of Wisconsin & across the country. Every week Adam will talk with members of the WTMJ newsroom, as well as reporters from newsrooms around the state, to get the full picture when it comes to the stories they choose to tell. In addition to the weekly podcast, you can also hear Reporter's Notebook every Sunday morning at 10am on 620 WTMJ.

  1. 67

    June 12th, 2026: Marty Brooks fired, World Cup excitement in Milwaukee, Lake Geneva's Mailboat Tour

    On this week's episode, WTMJ's Adam Roberts talks with the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel's Tom Daykin about a dramatic week for the Wisconsin Center District and its recently fired President and CEO Marty Brooks. Also, WTMJ's Neil Doyle takes a trip around Milwaukee to find the best spot to watch the FIFA World Cup, and WTMJ's Nazir Spencer spends a day on the Lake Geneva Mailboat.

  2. 66

    June 5th, 2026: Hannah Dugan returns to court, A "modest" MCTS surplus, Tick concerns

    On this week’s episode, WTMJ's Elizabeth Lintonen provides an update on former Milwaukee County Judge Hannah Dugan as a judge postpones a decision on her sentencing. Also, the Milwaukee County Transit System shares good financial news while warning of a grimmer financial future, and tick activity is increasing in Wisconsin amid broader national concern about tick-borne illness.

  3. 65

    May 29th, 2026: A Packers superstar arrested, Pain at the pump, The end of CBS News Radio

    On this week's episode, WTMJ's Adam Roberts and Greg Matzek discuss the arrest of Packers running back Josh Jacobs and how the team handled the aftermath. Also, the sagas of Wisconsin Center District President and CEO Marty Brooks and Ridglan Farms get new wrinkles, and CBS News Radio ends nearly a century of broadcasting.

  4. 64

    May 15, 2026: Tax relief proposal fails in Madison, Big Bend moves forward with major sports complex, Wisconsin gas prices ahead of Memorial Day weekend

    On this week's episode: Neil Doyle sits in for Adam Roberts and dives into a major vote that happened in Madison. Governor Tony Evers and Republican leaders proposed a tax relief and education funding packaging using some of the state's budget surplus. But ultimately lawmakers in the state Senate rejected the proposal. WISN-TV political director Matt Smith joined Wisconsin's Morning News earlier in the week to break down what happened. We are also joined by WTMJ's Nazir Spencer who has some updates on a major sports complex that is making progress in Waukesha County. Developers and city leaders are all for the facility, but some community members are pushing back. Plus, we check in with AAA and get an outlook for what travel might look like ahead of Memorial Day.

  5. 63

    Exploring the Chicago Tribune archives with Kori Rumore

    Have you ever wondered how major newspapers are able to reference coverage of events that happened sometimes more than 100 years ago? It's often thanks to decades of meticulous record-keeping that ends up in the paper's archives. Kori Rumore is a visual journalist for the Chicago Tribune, and joins Reporter's notebook to explain how that information is archived, what's contained within, and why the materials are a valuable component to storytelling.

  6. 62

    May 1st, 2026: Another SCOWIS candidate, World Press Freedom Day, Exploring the Chicago Tribune archives

    On this week's episode: Judge Pedro Colón talks with Adam after announcing his candidacy for the Wisconsin Supreme Court. WTMJ's Steve Scaffidi talks with Ukrainian journalist Olena Stek, who describes handling day-to-day responsibilities in a war-torn nation. The Chicago Tribune's Kori Rumore takes us into the newspaper's historical archives, and explains how that history serves as a valuable tool for storytelling.

  7. 61

    April 17th, 2026: Building better records requests, Hyperscale in Wisconsin, Wiseye update

    On this week's episode: WTMJ's Jessica Gatzow reports on how the sudden arrival of hyperscale data centers leaves Wisconsin’s manufacturers and contractors, utility companies and lawmakers in uncharted situations. Vice President of the Wisconsin Freedom of Information Council Christa Westerberg helps guide the process for building a solid open records request. We update our ongoing coverage on the future of Wisconsin public affairs network WisconsinEye.

  8. 60

    April 10th, 2026: Sidewalk talk, PFAS cleanup funding approved, Witnessing space history

    On this week's episode: Marquette University professor and media law expert Dr. Erik Ugland analyzes video of an interaction between TMJ4 reporter Ben Jordan and an employee of Potawatomi Casino & Hotel during coverage of a fire on the casino roof April 6. WTMJ's Elizabeth Lintonen recounts her experience witnessing the Artemis II launch in Florida. A pair of bills related to PFAS cleanup funding receive Governor Tony Evers's signature after years of delays.

  9. 59

    March 27th, 2026: Rescue or trespass?, Inside Wisconsin sauna culture

    On this week's episode, Adam talks with WTMJ's Jessica Tighe about her coverage on the effort to rescue dogs from Ridglan Farms in Dane County. Also, Kelly Meyerhofer, Bridget Fogarty, and Hannah Schroeder from the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel explain what's causing a recent uptick in sauna usage, both personal and professional, across Southeast Wisconsin.

  10. 58

    March 20th, 2026: A blizzard behind-the-scenes, Parkinson's advocacy in D.C., CBS News Radio ending

    Every week on Reporter’s Notebook, WTMJ’s Adam Roberts talks with members of the WTMJ newsroom, as well as reporters from newsrooms from around the state, to get the full picture when it comes to the stories they choose to tell. On this week's episode: National Weather Service Meteorologist Rebecca Kruk shares how her office planned their forecast for the record-setting blizzard that dumped more than two feet of snow across portions of Wisconsin. WTMJ's Julia Fello recounts her experience advocating for Parkinson's research funding in Washington D.C. A shocking New York Times investigative report into sexual abuse and grooming allegations against late civil rights activist Cesar Chavez leads to sweeping reaction across the country. WTMJ Director of Content Mike Spaulding explains how CBS News Radio ending operations this May after nearly 100 years will impact programming.

  11. 57

    March 13th, 2026: Oconto Falls grooming scandal, Continuing Coverage Check-In, 15 years since Fukushima

    Every week on Reporter’s Notebook, WTMJ’s Adam Roberts talks with members of the WTMJ newsroom, as well as reporters from newsrooms from around the state, to get the full picture when it comes to the stories they choose to tell. On this week's episode: Three former students in Oconto Falls join a federal civil rights lawsuit accusing the northern Wisconsin school board of allowing a culture of grooming and sexual abuse to persist over a two-decade period. We explore why this investigation could serve as a litmus test for grooming prosecution in Wisconsin. WTMJ's Neil Doyle breaks down a police chase that turned deadly on Milwaukee's south side involving a cop hanging from a speeding tow truck. We recap several stories previously covered on Reporter's Notebook in our first "Continuing Coverage Check-In". A look back at 15 years since the Fukushima earthquake and nuclear disaster in Japan.

  12. 56

    March 6th, 2026: Covering the War in Iran from all angles

    Every week on Reporter’s Notebook, WTMJ’s Adam Roberts talks with members of the WTMJ newsroom, as well as reporters from newsrooms from around the state, to get the full picture when it comes to the stories they choose to tell. On this week's episode: - A recap of our coverage of the ongoing conflict in Iran, including the perspective of WTMJ connections in the region. - Over a dozen foreign journalists were in Wisconsin this week discussing AI and technology's impact on reporting. Adam attended and shares his takeaways. - An erroneous report from the Milwaukee County Medical Examiner's Office leads to threats of legal action after a shooting inside Milwaukee's Aurora Sinai Medical Center.

  13. 55

    Black History Month Highlight: Greg Gumbel

    Throughout Black History Month, Reporter's Notebook is celebrating the accomplishments and contributions of African American journalists throughout U.S. history. This week, we tell the story of sportscaster Greg Gumbel, who's rise from the sports desk at WMAQ in Chicago to becoming the first African-American to call play-by-play in a Super Bowl all began with a push from his older brother.

  14. 54

    February 27th, 2026: Marty Brooks speaks, Physician-assisted death, The Board Break-a-thon

    Every week on Reporter’s Notebook, WTMJ’s Adam Roberts talks with members of the WTMJ newsroom, as well as reporters from newsrooms from around the state, to get the full picture when it comes to the stories they choose to tell. On this week’s episode: WTMJ's Julia Fello shares a behind-the-scenes look at the Wisconsin's Afternoon News In-Depth special on the future of the Wisconsin Center District, including an exclusive interview with WCD President and CEO Marty Brooks. WTMJ's Nazir Spencer details two stories involving the Wisconsin Interscholastic Athletic Association, one on conference realignment and another on a ticketing issue ahead of girl's state wrestling. WTMJ's Debbie Lazaga breaks down the annual J.K. Lee Board Break-A-Thon held last weekend at Brookfield Square Mall. A proposed bill would legalize assisted suicide in Wisconsin. How much of a chance does it have to make a meaningful advance through the Legislature?

  15. 53

    February 20th, 2026: The Speaker's Retiring / Turnover, AI, and Lynyrd Skynyrd / A Sturgeon Spearing Adventure

    On this week's episode: - Ahead of a marathon Wisconsin Assembly floor session, Speaker Robin Vos makes headlines of his own by announcing he won't seek re-election in the fall. - The Milwaukee Journal Sentinel's Quinn Clark breaks down her investigative report on the turnover withing Kenosha County District Attorney Xavier Solis's office. - WTMJ's Erik Bilstad shares his experience out on frozen Lake Winnebago for opening weekend of the 2026 sturgeon spearing season. - We recap the accomplishments of late sportscaster Greg Gumbel in our final Reporter's Notebook Black History Month Highlight.

  16. 52

    Black History Month Highlight: Roi Ottley

    Throughout Black History Month, Reporter's Notebook is celebrating the accomplishments and contributions of African American journalists throughout U.S. history. This week, we tell the story of Roi Ottley, the son of Grenadian immigrants who would write thought provoking pieces on the life of African Americans in the early 20th century inner city, before becoming the first Black journalist reporting on the front lines of World War 2, while navigating censorship of the harsh reality faced by African American soldiers on the European front.

  17. 51

    February 13th, 2026: Privacy vs the public's right to know, Stolz tops the podium, the state of the paper

    Every week on Reporter’s Notebook, WTMJ’s Adam Roberts talks with members of the WTMJ newsroom, as well as reporters from newsrooms from around the state, to get the full picture when it comes to the stories they choose to tell. On this week's episode: WTMJ News Director Tiff Pua provides a look at the decision making made in the coverage of the sexual assault allegations levied against Wisconsin Center District CEO Marty Brooks by Milwaukee Common Council President José Pérez. WTMJ's Nazir Spencer analyzes the "ICE Out Milwaukee" legislation proposed by the City's Common Council aimed at limiting cooperation with federal immigration enforcement. The Milwaukee Journal Sentinel's Lori Nickel is covering the Winter Olympics from Italy, with emphasis on speedskater and Kewaskum-native Jordan Stolz. She shares the unseen challenges of being a local reporter butting up against national and international outlets. We continue our Reporter's Notebook Black History Month Highlights with the story of Roi Ottley. Milwaukee Journal Sentinel Executive Editor Greg Borowski discusses what the paper is doing to stay relevant amid the rapid change and consolidation within the newspaper industry.

  18. 50

    Black History Month Highlight: Ida B. Wells

    Throughout Black History Month, Reporter's Notebook is celebrating the accomplishments and contributions of African American journalists throughout U.S. history. This week, we tell the story of Ida B. Wells, an investigative reporter who shed light on the horrors of lynching during the 1800s through her work at the Memphis Free Speech and Headlight, as well as in two earth-shattering publications in the 1890s read across the country and around the world.

  19. 49

    February 8th, 2026: Milwaukee County contract conundrum, What does Giannis want?, WisconsinEye Returns

    Every week on Reporter’s Notebook, WTMJ’s Adam Roberts talks with members of the WTMJ newsroom, as well as reporters from newsrooms from around the state, to get the full picture when it comes to the stories they choose to tell. On this week’s episode, WTMJ's Neil Doyle talks with Adam about the lapse of a Milwaukee County healthcare contract that led to subsequent political issues for County Executive David Crowley last week. Also, Milwaukee Bucks beat writer for the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel Jim Owczarski joins to break down his exclusive interview with Giannis Antetokounmpo published under 24 hours before the NBA trade deadline. Adam provides another update on the situation involving public affairs network WisconsinEye. And in our first Black History Month Highlight, we tell the story of investigative journalist Ida B. Wells.

  20. 48

    January 31st, 2026: WisconsinEye President Jon Henkes, A sudden resignation, Going in-depth on food deserts

    Every week on Reporter’s Notebook, WTMJ’s Adam Roberts talks with members of the WTMJ newsroom, as well as reporters from newsrooms from around the state, to get the full picture when it comes to the stories they choose to tell. On this week’s episode, WisconsinEye President and Co-Founder Jon Henkes shares an update on where things stand with the public affairs network, we recap the sudden resignation of Milwaukee Community Wellness & Safety Director Adam Procell, and WTMJ's John Mercure and Julia Fello share what they learned about food deserts as part of their in-depth conversation on Wisconsin's Afternoon News.

  21. 47

    January 23rd, 2026: MPS desegregation, A packed gubernatorial forum, WisEye update

    Every week on Reporter’s Notebook, WTMJ’s Adam Roberts talks with members of the WTMJ newsroom, as well as reporters from newsrooms from around the state, to get the full picture when it comes to the stories they choose to tell. On this week's episode, Milwaukee Journal Sentinel K-12 education reporter Kayla Huynh shares data on "hyper segregated" schools in Wisconsin's largest school district. Also, seven Democratic candidates vying to replace Wisconsin Governor Tony Evers speak on small business concerns and I.C.E. activity, and there could be hope for the return of public affairs network WisconsinEye.

  22. 46

    January 16th, 2026: Reporter's Notebook: Journalism amid chaos in Venezuela, No WisEye means no recording

    On this week's episode, Adam talks with Director of the Reporters Without Borders Latin American Bureau Artur Romeu on how domestic and foreign press are navigating a tense situation amidst political turmoil in Venezuela.

  23. 45

    January 11th, 2026: Renewed unrest in Minneapolis, So long, Post-Gazette, Wisconsin sports highlights

    Every week on Reporter’s Notebook, WTMJ’s Adam Roberts talks with members of the WTMJ newsroom, as well as reporters from newsrooms from around the state, to get the full picture when it comes to the stories they choose to tell. In this episode: A recap of the unrest unfolding in Minneapolis, Minnesota following an I.C.E. agent shooting and killing Renee Good A look at how a newspaper in operation for 240 years stunned their community with the announcement of their impending closure WTMJ's Nazir Spencer recaps his weekend covering the Team USA Speedskating Trials at the Petit National Ice Center Hudson Star Observer Sports Editor Bob Burrows details how UW-River Falls was able to win the NCAA D3 football national championship over North Central

  24. 44

    December 24th, 2025: Editor by day, Christmas story author by night

    On a Christmas Eve edition of Reporter's Notebook, WTMJ's Adam Roberts sits down with Milwaukee Journal Sentinel Executive Editor Greg Borowski. Every Christmas, Greg publishes an original story as part of a tradition dating back to 1996. Greg shares how the stories began, what makes them so re-readable, and offers his thoughts on stories to watch for in 2026.

  25. 43

    December 21st, 2025: A critical window for Milwaukee restaurants, Examining the Dugan verdict

    Every week on Reporter’s Notebook, WTMJ’s Adam Roberts talks with members of the WTMJ newsroom, as well as reporters from newsrooms from around the state, to get the full picture when it comes to the stories they choose to tell. In this episode: WTMJ's Elizabeth Lintonen takes us inside the Federal Courthouse in downtown Milwaukee where Judge Hannah Dugan was found guilty of felony obstruction. OnMilwaukee Dining Editor Lori Fredrich analyzes a recent stretch of Milwaukee-area restaurant closures, and shares how business owners are using social media to show the gravity of the situation. Wisconsin State Senator Mark Spreitzer (D-Beloit) explains a new bill that would establish a tax-funded public affairs broadcasting network to replace WisconsinEye, which went dark December 15 due to a lack of funding.

  26. 42

    December 5th, 2025: What's public and what's private?, Milwaukee Catholic church consolidations

    Every week on Reporter's Notebook, WTMJ's Adam Roberts talks with members of the WTMJ newsroom, as well as reporters from newsrooms from around the state, to get the full picture when it comes to the stories they choose to tell. On this week's episode, Director of Marquette Law School's Water Law and Policy Initiative David Strifling explains why a municipal court case in Shorewood could end up before the Wisconsin Supreme Court. Also, the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel's Sophie Carson details the ongoing debate over church consolidations in the Archdiocese of Milwaukee.

  27. 41

    November 26th, 2025: Lou Chukman on sketching the "Slender Man Stabber"

    Courtroom ​sketch ​artist ​Lou Chukman ​was ​in ​the ​room ​while ​Morgan ​Geyser, ​the ​"Slenderman" ​stabbing ​assailant, ​received ​her ​extradition ​hearing ​in ​Cook ​County, ​Illinois following her disappearance from a Madison group home and subsequent arrest in a Chicago suburb. Chukman joins Reporter's Notebook to share what Geyser was like in court, how quickly the deadline can be for sketches, and what has kept him in an ever-changing industry for 50 years.

  28. 40

    Reporter's Notebook Podcast Exclusive: Wisconsin Eye President and CEO Jon Henkes

    On November 20th, 2025, visitors to the Wisconsin Eye website were greeted with the following message: "Effective December 15th, WisconsinEye will stop event coverage due to a lack of funding." Wisconsin Eye functions as a coverage mechanism for committee hearings, floor sessions, press events, and all things state capitol in Madison. It's often referred to as Wisconsin's version of C-SPAN. How does the website operate, why has funding dried up, what happens next, and what can be done to save the service? President and CEO of Wisconsin Eye Jon Henkes explains in this Reporter's Notebook Podcast Exclusive.

  29. 39

    November 21st, 2025: Iron District emails, WisconsinEye in jeopardy

    WTMJ news anchor & reporter Adam Roberts goes beyond the headlines to provide not just the ‘what’ but also the ‘why’ when it comes to the media’s coverage of some of the biggest stories in the state of Wisconsin & across the country. This week, Adam discusses in-depth an exclusive story detailing interest in the land currently earmarked for a professional soccer stadium in downtown Milwaukee. Also, President and CEO of WisconsinEye Jon Henkes joins to share more about the uncertain future of the service.

  30. 38

    November 16th, 2025: The DNR Aeronautics Program, Writing music reviews with Piet Levy

    This week on Reporter's Notebook, WTMJ's Jessica Gatzow shares her fly-along experience with the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources' Aeronautics Program. Also, music and entertainment reporter for the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel Piet Levy offers his insight on capturing the emotions of a live show, and the health of Milwaukee's concert and music scene.

  31. 37

    November 9th, 2025: Government shutdown update, Milwaukee Pro Soccer project latest, new Milwaukee ICT bureau

    This week on Reporter's Notebook: WTMJ's Adam Roberts provides a look back at the Milwaukee Pro Soccer development, including a related effort unfolding in Green Bay. Also, WTMJ's Nazir Spencer shares his experience covering the Milwaukee Christmas Tree harvest, and IndiJ Public Media President and CEO Katie Oyan details an upcoming ICT bureau with a focus on reporting Native American news in Milwaukee.

  32. 36

    October 12th, 2025: Cutting through the noise of a government shutdown with CNN's Manu Raju

    Each week on Reporter's Notebook, WTMJ news anchor & reporter Adam Roberts goes beyond the headlines to provide not just the ‘what’ but also the ‘why’ when it comes to the media’s coverage of some of the biggest stories in the state of Wisconsin & across the country. This week on the show, CNN's Chief Capitol correspondent and anchor of "Inside Politics Sunday" Manu Raju discusses how he cuts through the clutter on Capitol Hill as a government shutdown continues with no end in sight.

  33. 35

    October 5th, 2025: The art of listening, Bucks media day, Environmental news with Jessica Gatzow

    WTMJ news anchor & reporter Adam Roberts goes beyond the headlines to provide not just the ‘what’ but also the ‘why’ when it comes to the media’s coverage of some of the biggest stories in the state of Wisconsin & across the country. This week, Adam discusses how reporters listen for important details while on assignment, WTMJ's Nazir Spencer recaps Bucks media day, and WTMJ's Jessica Gatzow breaks down two environmental stories that may have flown under your radar.

  34. 34

    September 28th, 2025: Gubernatorial moves, The future of two downtown Milwaukee venues, Responsible AI usage in newsrooms

    WTMJ news anchor & reporter Adam Roberts goes beyond the headlines to provide not just the ‘what’ but also the ‘why’ when it comes to the media’s coverage of some of the biggest stories in the state of Wisconsin & across the country. This week, The Milwaukee Journal Sentinel's Tom Daykin breaks down a study that could recommend the demolition of both the UWM Panther Arena and the Miller High Life Theatre in downtown Milwaukee. And former Poynter Institute instructor Al Tompkins discusses responsible use of artificial intelligence in newsrooms.

  35. 33

    September 21st, 2025: The role of open records, Human remains found in Washington State, Analyzing the "no comment" response

    WTMJ news anchor & reporter Adam Roberts goes beyond the headlines to provide not just the ‘what’ but also the ‘why’ when it comes to the media’s coverage of some of the biggest stories in the state of Wisconsin & across the country. This week: Adam explores a story involving six children found locked in a storage facility on Milwaukee's north side, and the role open records request play in the coverage. A jury questionaire teases what potential jurors will be asked in the trial of Milwaukee County Judge Hannah Dugan. WTMJ's John Mercure recaps new information on the search for Pewaukee-native Travis Decker, accused of murdering his three young daughters in rural Washington State. Wisconsin Watch Managing Editor Jim Malewitz analyzes public officials' use of "no comment" to avoid answering tough questions from the media.

  36. 32

    September 14th, 2025: Covering Charlie Kirk's assassination, remembering 9-11, Milwaukee's new streetcar manager speaks, Flying with the 128th

    WTMJ news anchor & reporter Adam Roberts goes beyond the headlines to provide not just the ‘what’ but also the ‘why’ when it comes to the media’s coverage of some of the biggest stories in the state of Wisconsin & across the country. This week: A lookback at the assassination of Charlie Kirk, including reaction from Wisconsin politicians. WTMJ's Nazir Spencer describes the scene at the War Memorial Center in Milwaukee on the 24th anniversary of the September 11th attacks. A conversation with James Vineau, the new Milwaukee streetcar system manager, in his first public comments since taking the job. A fly-along aboard a KC-135 Stratotanker ahead of the 128th Air Refueling Wing's 2025 Open House event.

  37. 31

    An exclusive conversation with new Milwaukee Streetcar System Manager James Vineau

    The Milwaukee streetcar faces an uncertain future amid consistent maintenance issues, an unclear path towards funding expansion and questions over how to make the system profitable. Additionally, the position of city streetcar system manager was vacant for months following the resignation of Andrew Davis-Lockward in October of 2024 which city records note was "in lieu of discharge"," according to city records". That position has now been filled, with the city electing to hire an outside name with a unique background. James Vineau, a dual US-French citizen who last worked as senior director of transit operations and maintenance for RAPT Dev, accepted the job in June. In his first public comments since his hire, he tells WTMJ's Adam Roberts what drew him to Milwaukee, how his experience in Qatar will factor into his goals in Milwaukee, and more.

  38. 30

    September 7th, 2025: Trial date set for Judge Hannah Dugan, Naming rights for the Domes?, Investigating MCTS fare evasion

    WTMJ news anchor & reporter Adam Roberts goes beyond the headlines to provide not just the ‘what’ but also the ‘why’ when it comes to the media’s coverage of some of the biggest stories in the state of Wisconsin & across the country. This week, Adam chats with WTMJ's Nazir Spencer about his experience at the Federal Courthouse in Milwaukee where a judge set a trial date for Milwaukee County Judge Hannah Dugan. Also, WTMJ's Greg Matzek explains how "Wisconsin't Midday News" plots continuing coverage stories, Adam explores some interesting happenings at the Milwaukee County Parks and Culture Committee hearing, and FOX6's Bryan Polcyn details his investigation into just how bad fare evasion is on Milwaukee County Transit System buses.

  39. 29

    August 31st, 2025: Emotional coverage in Minneapolis, Questioning Vice President Vance in La Crosse, Murky waters in Hayward

    WTMJ’s Reporter’s Notebook takes a deeper dive on some of the biggest stories of the week, as told by the reporters covering the news. The show also explores stories that deserve an extra examination. This week, WTMJ's Adam Roberts examines what it sounds like when emotions show through during coverage of school shootings, as well as his question for Vice President JD Vance during an event Thursday in La Crosse. Also, WOJB General Manager Karl Habeck explains how his station is preparing for the end of the Corporation for Public Broadcasting, and WTMJ's Sean Brynda recaps a legal fight over the future of an Oak Creek Buc-ee's.

  40. 28

    A community liason: The future of WOJB in northwest Wisconsin with Karl Habeck

    On ​August ​1, ​the ​Corporation ​for ​Public ​Broadcasting ​announced ​plans ​to ​wind ​down ​operations ​by ​September ​30th ​of ​this ​year, ​• ​• ​save ​for ​a ​small ​transition ​team ​that ​will ​remain ​employed ​until ​January. ​​How ​this ​will ​fully ​impact ​the ​landscape ​of ​public ​media ​in ​the ​US ​still ​remains ​unclear. ​In ​northwestern ​Wisconsin, ​the ​state's ​only ​independent ​native ​radio ​station ​already ​is ​navigating ​these ​murky ​waters. ​WOJB ​based ​just ​southeast ​of ​Hayward, ​also ​known ​as ​Woodland ​Community ​Radio, ​first ​hit ​the ​airwaves ​in ​1982. ​It's ​the ​lone ​public ​radio ​station in ​Wisconsin ​currently ​listed ​as ​at ​risk ​of shutting down in ​recent ​analysis ​by ​the ​advisory ​firm ​Public ​Media ​Company. ​​Station ​General ​Manager ​​Carl ​Habeck ​joins Reporter's ​Notebook.

  41. 27

    August 24th, 2025: Examining the use of graphic video in TV news coverage, Five years since unrest in Kenosha

    WTMJ’s Reporter’s Notebook takes a deeper dive on some of the biggest stories of the week, as told by the reporters covering the news. The show also explores stories that deserve an extra examination. This week, TMJ4's Jenna Rae explains the editorial decision to show unedited video of a collision on Water Street in downtown Milwaukee that severely injured two young women the night of July 20th. Also, former WTMJ assignment editor Alex Crowe and reporter Tony Bettack look back on the station's coverage of the 2020 riots in Kenosha, Wisconsin following the shooting of Jacob Blake and subsequent double deadly shooting involving Kyle Rittenhouse.

  42. 26

    August 17th, 2025: Historic flooding hits Southeast Wisconsin, The Power of Friendship continues for the Brewers

    WTMJ’s Reporter’s Notebook takes a deeper dive on some of the biggest stories of the week, as told by the reporters covering the news. The show also explores stories that deserve an extra examination. This week, WTMJ's Adam Roberts, Sean Brynda and Nazir Spencer recap coverage of historic floods across Southeast Wisconsin. Also, Storm Team 4 Chief Meteorologist Brian Niznansky details how the station handled wall-to-wall flood coverage Saturday night. And WTMJ's Greg Matzek mashes up a week's worth of highlights as the Milwaukee Brewers earn fans free George Webb burgers by winning 12 in a row.

  43. 25

    Pizzas, Meatballs and Mammoths: The economics of minor league baseball rebrands

    What do frozen pizzas, supper clubs and mammoths all have in common? Each one has been used as an alternative identiy for a professional baseball team this summer. And if you talk to the leaders of the actually-named Wisconsin Timber Rattlers, Beloit Sky Carp and Erie SeaWolves respectively, they all wonder why they didn't try it out sooner. WTMJ's Adam Roberts explores the phenomenon of minor league baseball temporary rebrands, including how much money the theme nights bring in.

  44. 24

    The State of Wisconsin Ag with Pam Jahnke

    Host of "The Midwest Farm Report" Pam Jahnke joins Reporter's Notebook with a look at where the agriculture industry currently sits in Wisconsin, including what new technology is reshaping the industry.

  45. 23

    August 10th, 2025: Politicians at the Wisconsin State Fair, The State of Wisconsin Agriculture, Minor League Baseball Rebrands

    WTMJ’s Reporter’s Notebook takes a deeper dive on some of the biggest stories of the week, as told by the reporters covering the news. The show also explores stories that deserve an extra examination. The featured stories included in this episode: WTMJ's John Mercure explains how Wisconsin's Afternoon News handles the plethora of Wisconsin politicians who want airtime at the Wisconsin State Fair. Host of "The Midwest Farm Report" Pam Jahnke discusses the current state of Wisconsin agriculture. TMJ4's Megan Lee provides an update on a legal dispute between her station and the St. Francis School District. WTMJ's Adam Roberts explores the economics behind minor league baseball temporary rebrandings.

  46. 22

    July 27th, 2025: Tragedy in La Crosse, Governor Evers makes a decision, photojournalism in the era of AI

    WTMJ’s Reporter’s Notebook takes a deeper dive on some of the biggest stories of the week, as told by the reporters covering the news. The show also explores stories that deserve an extra examination. This week on the show: WTMJ's Adam Roberts analyzes the disappearance and death of 22-year-old Eliotte Heinz, who drowned in the Mississippi River after a weekend night out in La Crosse. WTMJ's Kristin Brey breaks down what happens next now that Wisconsin Governor Tony Evers has decided not to seek a third term. The Milwaukee Journal Sentinel's Dan Bice reports on why Milwaukee Alderman Lamont Westmoreland has drafted a resolution aiming to receive a bigger parking spot. WTMJ's Sean Brynda explore how Kohl's shares reached "meme stock" status last week amid a slew of shorting by online traders. A profile of the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel's Mike De Sisti, who details how photojournalists are adapting to the era of artificial intelligence.

  47. 21

    July 20th, 2025: The art of sourced reporting, analyzing the Madison ballot investigation, Milwaukee journalist Q&A

    WTMJ’s Reporter’s Notebook takes a deeper dive on some of the biggest stories of the week, as told by the reporters covering the news. The show also explores stories that deserve an extra examination. The featured stories included in this episode: WTMJ's John Mercure shares the process of culitvating sources following his report that Governor Tony Evers is not planning on seeking a third-term in office. The Milwaukee Journal Sentinel's trending political reporter Hope Karnopp examines the lasting impact on ballot counting in Wisconsin following the Wisconsin Elections Commission's investigation into nearly 200 uncounted absentee ballots in Madison last November. WTMJ's Julia Fello details the emotional scene at Jaycee Quarry in Sheboygan this week, where a 13-year-old was found dead Wednesday after going swimming with friends. The Milwaukee Journal Sentinel's health and environmental reporter Madeline Heim provides an update on The Black Hawk Bridge, which is poised to demolished later this year, months ahead of schedule. CBS58 repoter A.J. Bayatpour recaps his experience serving on a panel of four Milwaukee-area journalists during a Q&A with members of the public.

  48. 20

    PODCAST EXCLUSIVE: Examining cyclist safety on Milwaukee streets with The Milwaukee Journal Sentinel's Jessica Van Egeren

    The Milwaukee Journal Sentinel's Assistant Breaking News Editor Jessica Van Egeren shares the story of Zane Staubach, a 38-year-old who was struck on his bike by a driver in Milwaukee's Walker's Point neighborhood, and how its impacting cyclists' desire to continue riding around the city.

  49. 19

    July 13th, 2025: An MCTS financial fiasco, Milwaukee arts winners and losers, book censorship in Wisconsin prisons

    This week's episode of Reporter's Notebook includes an analysis of the ongoing MCTS financial issues, how the City of Milwaukee aims to close a $100 million budget gap, looming cuts for the Milwaukee art scene and how organizations are navigating a lack of federal funding, and an examination of book censorship inside Wisconsin prisons.

  50. 18

    June 29th, 2025: Covering an officer-involved shooting, Pete Hegseth lambasts press corps, Wisconsin's newest 'Jeopardy!' champion

    WTMJ’s Reporter’s Notebook takes a deeper dive on some of the biggest stories of the week, as told by the reporters covering the news. We also explore stories that deserve an extra examination. The featured stories included in this episode: WTMJ News Director Tiff Pua analyzes the importance of facts over fast relating to the coverage of an officer-involved shooting June 26th on Milwaukee's north side. CBS Pentagon Reporter Eleanor Watson explains the role of the Pentagon press corps after Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth criticized the media also questioned the language being used by news outlets. WTMJ's Nazir Spencer provides an update on the case of Demetric Scott, the man from Milwaukee accused of forging letters containing threats towards President Donald Trump in order to get a witness deported. WTMJ's Dominic Cotroneo explains the hype behind Brewers pitching phenom Jacob Misiorowski, and where his dominant start ranks among Milwaukee greats on the mound. WTMJ's Adam Roberts talks with Micah Fritz, the man from Mequon who became the latest 'Jeopardy!' champion from Wisconsin this past week.

Type above to search every episode's transcript for a word or phrase. Matches are scoped to this podcast.

Searching…

We're indexing this podcast's transcripts for the first time — this can take a minute or two. We'll show results as soon as they're ready.

No matches for "" in this podcast's transcripts.

Showing of matches

No topics indexed yet for this podcast.

Loading reviews...

ABOUT THIS SHOW

WTMJ news anchor & reporter Adam Roberts goes beyond the headlines to provide not just the 'what' but also the 'why' when it comes to the media's coverage of some of the biggest stories in the state of Wisconsin & across the country. Every week Adam will talk with members of the WTMJ newsroom, as well as reporters from newsrooms around the state, to get the full picture when it comes to the stories they choose to tell. In addition to the weekly podcast, you can also hear Reporter's Notebook every Sunday morning at 10am on 620 WTMJ.

HOSTED BY

620 WTMJ

CATEGORIES

Frequently Asked Questions

How many episodes does Reporter's Notebook have?

Reporter's Notebook currently has 50 episodes available on PodParley. New episodes are automatically indexed when they're published to the podcast feed.

What is Reporter's Notebook about?

WTMJ news anchor & reporter Adam Roberts goes beyond the headlines to provide not just the 'what' but also the 'why' when it comes to the media's coverage of some of the biggest stories in the state of Wisconsin & across the country. Every week Adam will talk with members of the WTMJ newsroom, as...

How often does Reporter's Notebook release new episodes?

Reporter's Notebook has 50 episodes. Check the episode list to see recent publication dates and frequency.

Where can I listen to Reporter's Notebook?

You can listen to Reporter's Notebook on PodParley by clicking any episode. We provide an embedded audio player for direct listening, and you can also subscribe via your preferred podcast app using the RSS feed.

Who hosts Reporter's Notebook?

Reporter's Notebook is created and hosted by 620 WTMJ.
URL copied to clipboard!