Episode Details

In this episode of Rebuilding Local News, "The Citizen Perspective," Zoe Chrisostomides (HON '26) speaks with Fitchburg resident and Fitchburg State University librarian Lori Steckervetz about the challenges of finding reliable local news in a community with limited coverage. They discuss relying on social media and word of mouth, the importance of independent reporting, and how the lack of local news can affect civic engagement, community involvement, and the way residents understand their city.  

This is the second episode in a six part podcast series exploring the challenges facing local journalism and the possible paths forward.  (The third episode ("Broadcast and the Digital Transition") will drop on Friday Oct 16.)

***

Rebuilding Local News was written, produced, and edited by Zoe Chrisostomides, a 2026 graduate of Fitchburg State University.  The project was created as part of her Honors Program Thesis, during which she worked closely with her thesis advisor professor of journalism, Dr. Wafa Unus.  In addition to being a Commonwealth Honors Scholar, she majored in Business Administration and Interdisciplinary Studies, with a minor in Political Journalism.  

While at Fitchburg State, Zoe was the co-creator of North Central News, an award-winning local news program produced in collaboration with Fitchburg Access Television (FATV).  Zoe is passionate about community-focused storytelling and local journalism and looks forward to a career in broadcast television.

***

Episode transcript can be found here.

Click here to learn more about Perseverantia.  Join us for programming updates on Instagram.  Or reach out with ideas or suggestions at podcasts@fitchburgstate.edu.