Former TV Reporter Launches Independent News Site in Kentuckiana Region Amidst Local Journalism Decline
Shay McAlister, a former investigative reporter for Louisville's WHAS11, has launched an independent news venture called 'Shay Informed.' This new platform, which includes a website, podcast, and newsletter, aims to address the growing gap in local journalism within the greater Kentuckiana region. McAlister's initiative comes at a time when traditional news outlets are facing significant challenges. For instance, the Lexington Herald-Leader recently experienced substantial staff cuts, losing half its newsroom and eliminating key reporting beats, such as the dedicated Eastern Kentucky reporter and the city government beat. McAlister cited the shift in news consumption habits, with more people turning to social media for information, as a primary motivation for her new venture. She emphasizes long-form articles, podcasts, and social media engagement to reach audiences where they are. Her focus is on investigative and consequential reporting, a style she honed during her decade at WHAS11 covering major cases.
