Journalism.co.uk Features: The Compassionate Newsroom in 2025's Top 40 Media Podcasts Every Journalist Should Follow!
The Compassionate Newsroom

Videos

April 22, 2025

E26 Fostering, Not Forcing: How Leaders Create Safe Teams

In this conversation, Dr. Kortni discusses the importance of psychological safety in the workplace, emphasizing that it cannot simply be legislated but must be cultivated through actions and culture. She outlines practical tools for leaders to foster an environment of openness and trust, highlighting the significance of messaging, modeling, and…

View more
April 15, 2025

This Week, We Rest—Next Week, We Reconnect

Show Notes: This week, we’re pressing pause—but with purpose. There’s no new episode of The Compassionate Newsroom today because we’re practicing what we preach: self-care. Rest is a vital part of well-being, and sometimes the most compassionate choice is to take a step back and recharge. But don’t worry—we’ll be…

View more
April 9, 2025

E25 Dear News Leaders: Thank You for Leading with Heart

In this special solo episode, Dr. Kortni Alston Lemon shares a heartfelt letter of gratitude to news directors, executive producers, and newsroom leaders navigating the ever-changing landscape of journalism. This is not a how-to episode—it's a moment of reflection, appreciation, and encouragement for the leaders who carry both the story…

View more
April 1, 2025

E24 Empathy in Action: Bringing Compassion to Work

In this episode of The Compassionate Newsroom, Dr. Kortni Alston dives into the transformative power of compassion in the workplace. Dr. Kortni discusses what empathy in action looks like on a day-to-day basis and shares her personal experiences to illustrate the profound impact compassion can have on work culture and…

View more
March 25, 2025

E23 From Me to We: Relational Mindfulness in Journalism

In this conversation, Dr. Kortni Alston Lemon explores the concept of relational mindfulness, emphasizing its importance in journalism and team dynamics. She discusses how being present with others can enhance empathy, alleviate feelings of isolation, and improve communication within newsrooms. Dr. Lemon provides practical suggestions for implementing relational mindfulness practices,…

View more
March 18, 2025

E22 Navigating Compassion Fatigue in the Newsroom

Episode Summary: Welcome to another Wellbeing Wednesday with Dr. Kortni on "The Compassionate Newsroom." In this episode, Dr. Kortni dives into the prevalent issue of compassion fatigue within the journalism industry, comparing it to similar challenges faced by healthcare professionals. Drawing from an insightful article on positivepsychology.com, she explores the…

View more
March 11, 2025

E21 Wake-Up Call for Leaders: Recognizing Stress Before It’s Too Late

In this episode of The Compassionate Newsroom, Dr. Kortni Alston Lemon talks about the importance of stress management for leaders and their teams. Takeaways Dr. Kortni Alston Lemon is a happiness scholar and former news director. The Compassionate Newsroom aims to transform journalism through compassion. Workplace wellbeing and resilience are…

View more
March 4, 2025

E20 The Gift of Self-Compassion: My Birthday Episode

In this episode of the Compassionate Newsroom, Dr. Kortni Alston Lemon discusses the importance of self-compassion in journalism and how it can transform the industry. She emphasizes the need for workplace wellbeing and resilience through positive psychology, engaging with various industry experts to share actionable strategies. The episode serves as…

View more
Feb. 25, 2025

E19 The Trap of Toxic Positivity: When Good Vibes Turn Bad

In this episode of The Compassionate Newsroom, Dr. Kortni Alston Lemon introduces the concept of transforming journalism through compassion and positive psychology. She emphasizes the importance of workplace wellbeing and resilience, aiming to create a supportive culture in newsrooms. The episode invites listeners to join a journey towards a healthier…

View more
Feb. 18, 2025

E18 After the Story: Debriefing as a Tool for Mental Health in Journalism

In this episode of The Compassionate Newsroom, Dr. Kortni Alston Lemon introduces the concept of transforming journalism through compassion and positive psychology. She emphasizes the importance of cultivating workplace wellbeing and resilience among news leaders and journalists, aiming to create a supportive and healthier newsroom culture. Takeaways The Compassionate Newsroom…

View more
Feb. 11, 2025

E17: How to Ignite Positive Psychology for Yourself and Your New Team

In this episode, Dr. Kortni discusses the importance of celebrating identity and achievements in the workplace, emphasizing the value of recognizing the process of growth rather than just the outcomes. She highlights the significance of creating a supportive environment for teams and how positive psychology can empower individuals and foster…

View more
Feb. 4, 2025

E16 Listen to Lead: The Power of Constructivist Listening in Leadership

Summary: In this episode, Dr. Kortni Alston Lemon delves into the power of constructivist listening—a cornerstone of empathetic leadership and interpersonal connection. Drawing on her experience as a keynote speaker at a recent Martin Luther King Jr. breakfast, Dr. Lemon shares insights into how this listening technique can create safe,…

View more
Jan. 28, 2025

E15 The Rewrite: Aundrea Cline-Thomas on Journalism Career Reinvention

Summary In this episode of the Compassionate Newsroom, Dr. Kortni Alston Lemon engages with Aundrea Cline-Thomas, a journalist and founder of The Rewrite, a community aimed at supporting journalists in their career transitions. They discuss the importance of compassion in journalism, the challenges faced by journalists today, and the need…

View more
Jan. 22, 2025

E14 (Bonus Episode) Resilient Reporting: Retired NBC Los Angeles Journalist Beverly White’s Journ...

Summary In this insightful conversation, Dr. Kortni Alston Lemon and Beverly White Higgs delve into the transformative impact of compassion in journalism, focusing on the challenges faced during natural disasters such as the Southern California wildfires. They explore the crucial role of mental health support for journalists, discussing the evolution…

View more
Jan. 21, 2025

E13 Cultural Compass: Indiginews Publisher Eden Fineday on Navigating Newsrooms with Indigenous V...

Summary In this conversation, Eden Fineday and Dr. Kortni discuss the importance of building trust and safe spaces in journalism, particularly for Indigenous voices. They explore embracing one's identity, the significance of self-care, and incorporating Indigenous values into newsroom culture. The dialogue emphasizes the need for compassionate leadership and the…

View more
Jan. 14, 2025

E12 Radio Television Digital News Association (RTDNA) Mental Health Initiatives: Insights from Ta...

Dr. Kortni Alston Lemon talks with Radio Television Digital News Association's (RTDNA) Tara Puckey and Christen DeBard about the importance of mental health support in newsrooms, emphasizing the need for a supportive and empathetic culture. They explore innovative self-care practices at conferences, the significance of building relationships within teams, and…

View more
Jan. 7, 2025

E11 The Resilient Newsroom: Agile and Appreciative Techniques with Ute Korinth

In this conversation, Dr. Kortni Alston Lemon and Ute Korinth discuss the pressing challenges faced by journalists today, emphasizing the importance of mental health, resilience, and compassionate leadership in the newsroom. They explore agile methods as tools for fostering collaboration and trust among team members, and highlight the need for…

View more
Dec. 31, 2024

E10: Kristen Hare’s Blueprint for Work-Life Chemistry at the Poynter Institute

Summary In this conversation, Dr. Kortni Alston Lemon and Kristen Hare explore the importance of understanding personal drivers in decision-making, the shift to remote teaching in journalism, and innovative training approaches. They discuss success stories from the Work-Life Chemistry program, emphasizing the need for humanizing leadership in journalism. The conversation…

View more
Dec. 28, 2024

Spectrum News Managing Editor Marie Torres highly recommends The Compassionate Newsroom podcast

Join Marie Torres, Managing Editor at Spectrum News, as she dives into why she highly recommends "The Compassionate Newsroom" podcast. This insightful podcast explores the importance of mental health and well-being within the journalism industry, offering vital resources and discussions that can transform any newsroom environment. Interested in more transformative…

View more
Dec. 24, 2024

E09 Emma Thomasson on Journalism Wellbeing: Addressing Burnout and Exploring Peer Support Solutions

Summary In this conversation, Emma Thomasson shares her journey through burnout in the high-pressure world of journalism and the importance of peer support networks. She discusses her transition to leadership coaching, emphasizing the need for cultural change within newsrooms to support mental health and well-being. The conversation highlights the significance…

View more
Dec. 17, 2024

E08 Shaping Resilient Newsrooms: Strategies from the American Press Institute

In this episode of The Compassionate Newsroom, Host Dr. Kortni Alston Lemon speaks with the American Press Institute's Sam Ragland, Vice President of Journalism Programs, and Emily Ristow, Director of Local News Transformation, to discuss the importance of cultivating a compassionate culture in journalism. They explore mental health conversations, the…

View more
Dec. 10, 2024

E07: Embracing Vulnerability: The Path to Authentic Leadership

In this episode, Dr. Kortni explores the transformative power of vulnerability and authenticity in leadership. Drawing insights from Yaza Jagiellowicz's article, she emphasizes how sharing our true selves can enhance connections, boost morale, and improve overall well-being. Dr. Kortni shares personal experiences and practical steps for leaders to incorporate vulnerability…

View more
Dec. 7, 2024

E06: Leading with Kindness: How Self-Compassion Enhances Leadership

In this episode, Dr. Kortni Alston-Lemon discusses the significance of self-compassion in leadership, particularly within the journalism field. She emphasizes how self-compassion enhances emotional intelligence, resilience, and the ability to lead with kindness. Dr. Kortni shares practical strategies for incorporating self-compassion into leadership styles, including meditation, self-reflection, and compassionate communication.…

View more
Dec. 3, 2024

E06: Leading with Kindness: How Self-Compassion Enhances Leadership

In this episode, Dr. Kortni Alston-Lemon discusses the significance of self-compassion in leadership, particularly within the journalism field. She emphasizes how self-compassion enhances emotional intelligence, resilience, and the ability to lead with kindness. Dr. Kortni shares practical strategies for incorporating self-compassion into leadership styles, including meditation, self-reflection, and compassionate communication.…

View more