Welcome to this week's episode of What's Happening Salem!

In this episode, Jacob Espinoza and Brandon Sommers sit down with Salem Reporter Managing Editor Rachel Alexander to discuss:

• The evolution of local journalism.
• Challenges facing local news organizations.
• The importance of community connection in reporting.
• And much more!

Timestamps:

02:17 - Rachel’s Background

04:46 - Changes in local journalism landscape

09:12 - Role of bias and objectivity in reporting

15:21 - Investigative reporting

21:34 - Salem's major stories for 2025

26:26 - Memorable stories