Home
cover of episode Not an Internet Error: How 404 Media Aims to Shake Up Online Journalism

Not an Internet Error: How 404 Media Aims to Shake Up Online Journalism

2024/9/11
logo of podcast On the Media

On the Media

Chapters

404 Media, a worker-owned news outlet, was founded by former Vice Motherboard journalists after Vice's bankruptcy. They prioritize serving readers directly and avoid outside investment to maintain control. They operate leanly, working remotely and cutting overhead.
  • 404 Media was founded by former Vice Motherboard journalists.
  • They chose a worker-owned model to have more control over their work.
  • They operate leanly without outside investment, working remotely to minimize costs.

Shownotes Transcript

Last summer, OTM host Micah Loewenger reported a piece) about the rise of worker-owned newsrooms: Hell Gate, a local New York publication, and Defector, a national outlet focused on sports and culture. 

Inspired by Defector and Hell Gate, more worked-owned outlets have come on the scene — including 404 Media), known for its mix of fun internet coverage and hard-nosed investigations. In this week’s midweek podcast, Micah speaks to 404 co-founder Samantha Cole about the challenges they have faced since they started their own outlet. Plus, what their success can teach us about the future of news.

On the Media is supported by listeners like you. Support OTM by donating today (https://pledge.wnyc.org/support/otm)). Follow our show on Instagram), Twitter) and Facebook) @onthemedia, and share your thoughts with us by emailing [email protected].