When student journalists at Indiana University published routine accountability reporting, they did not expect rising pressure from the institution they were covering. Behind closed doors, university leaders began to question editorial decisions, push advisers to intervene, and restrict the independence that had long defined the newsroom. In this episode of News Over Noise, hosts Matt Jordan and Cory Barker talk with Jim Rodenbush, former director of student media at Indiana University, about the events that led to his removal, the political climate surrounding universities, and the growing divide between public relations priorities and independent reporting. The story in Indiana reflects a larger national trend that affects press freedom, the future of student media, and the communities that rely on young reporters to fill widening gaps in local news coverage.

Artificial intelligence is reshaping how we create, consume, and trust information. In this special crossover episode of News Over Noise, Cory Barker and guest co-host Jenna Spinelli explore AI’s impact on news, education, and democracy with Sean Marcus of the Poynter Institute, Pamela Brunskill of the News Literacy Project, and Jenna Meleedy of the National Association for Media Literacy Education. Together, they unpack the rise of deepfakes, the “liar’s dividend,” and how educators are helping students mind the gap between breaking news and verified information. They also share strategies for navigating misinformation, using AI ethically in the newsroom, and maintaining trust in an era when technology can fabricate anything.

As part of Spotlight PA’s book club, read the essays by Tre Johnson, then discuss with the author on May 28.

She has spent decades helping others struggling to make ends meet. Now the rising cost of gas and groceries has left Dalene Basden feeling the strain herself.

After an appeals court tried to end telemedicine access to mifepristone, one of the two pills used in a medication abortion, the Supreme Court stepped in. Here's what's happened and what's to come.

A group of emergency experts wants the Trump administration to raise the bar for federal help after disasters, and also make it easier for survivors to get money quickly.

This week on the charts, Noah Kahan's coronation as an A-list superstar is complete, while another artist makes serious waves as well: the late Michael Jackson.

The office investigates detainee deaths and access to medical care, among other issues. It's being wound down, even as the number of detention deaths and length of detention stays has grown.