E142: FAVS News Service

E142: FAVS News Service

Author: MDDC Press Association December 3, 2025 Duration: 44:02

In this episode, Rebecca sits down with Tracy Simmons, founder of FAVS News, a unique regional wire service dedicated to reporting on religion, ethics, and values across the Pacific Northwest. Tracy shares the story of launching a religion news startup in the wake of the 2008 recession, how it grew from a local Spokane project into a multi-state newsroom with freelancers, columnists, and national syndication, and why religion reporting—done thoughtfully and ethically—matters now more than ever. They discuss what it means to cover faith communities without proselytizing, why younger journalists are increasingly drawn to the beat, and how local religion stories shape everything from politics to public life. A deep dive into journalism, curiosity, community, and the growing demand for nuanced coverage of belief in all its forms.


Ever wonder how a major local story really came together, or what a reporter was thinking when they asked that tough question? Five Dubs Podcast pulls back the curtain on the newsrooms across Maryland, Delaware, and Washington D.C. Hosts Rebecca Snyder and Kevin Berrier, through the MDDC Press Association, sit down with the journalists themselves to explore the how and why behind the headlines you read each day. This isn't just a recap of the news; it's a conversation about the process, the challenges, and the sometimes surprising human stories that unfold during the pursuit of a story. In each episode, you'll hear firsthand accounts of what it takes to cover communities in this dynamic region, from the initial tip to the published piece. The Five Dubs Podcast offers a unique, insider perspective on the function and future of local media, making the landscape of regional journalism more accessible and understandable. It’s for anyone curious about the mechanics of news gathering and the people dedicated to telling our local stories.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 50

Five Dubs Podcast
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