E171: Star-Democrat Newsletter with Orestes Baez & Betsy Griffin – Best Moves 2025

E171: Star-Democrat Newsletter with Orestes Baez & Betsy Griffin – Best Moves 2025

Author: MDDC Press Association June 17, 2026 Duration: 46:07

In this episode, Rebecca talks with Orestes Baez of APG Media of the Chesapeake and Betsy Griffin of The Star-Democrat about their “Best Move” of 2025: a full-scale overhaul of their newsletter strategy. What began as a fragmented system evolved into a unified, high-performing product reaching more than 96,000 subscribers with open rates well above industry averages.

They discuss how restructuring their approach—integrating content, advertising, and audience strategy—created new revenue opportunities while strengthening direct connections with readers outside of algorithm-driven platforms. The conversation also explores how personalization, data-driven decision-making, and constant testing shape the newsletter’s success, along with how the product fits into broader goals like subscriber growth and community engagement. Along the way, they reflect on balancing innovation with tradition, from AI experimentation to maintaining the local identity that keeps readers coming back.


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
Podcast Episodes
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