In this episode of the News Nirvana podcast, host Nick Parker engages in a compelling conversation with Jason and Courtney Cole, the founders of the Excelsior Citizen, a community newspaper in Excelsior Springs, Missouri. They discuss the challenges faced by local journalism, particularly in areas known as news deserts, where traditional newspapers have diminished or disappeared. The Coles share their journey of launching their newspaper in response to significant local events, including a microburst, a flood, and the collapse of a historic building, all occurring in June 2021. They highlight the importance of timely news coverage and community engagement, explaining how they utilized social media to keep residents informed and organized. The episode also delves into their innovative business model, which emphasizes accessibility and community support through a pay-what-you-want donation system. Additionally, they explore the integration of technology and AI in their reporting processes, discussing ethical considerations and the evolution of their content creation. Tune in to learn how the Excelsior Citizen is redefining local journalism and fostering community connections in a rapidly changing media landscape.