"Journalism is the only profession that is protected by the First Amendment... but private equity and hedge funds have been involved with disastrous consequences." In this episode, host Paul Brandus delves into the issue of the decline of local print journalism and news deserts, focusing on the impact of hedge funds and private equity firms acquiring newspapers. Guest Margot Susca, an assistant professor of journalism, sheds light on how these financial entities prioritize profit over responsible journalism, leading to the decline of local news coverage. There is also a correlation between news deserts, voter apathy, and susceptibility to disinformation, particularly in marginalized communities. The episode also explores the alarming spread of disinformation and Islamophobia in India, where the government's control over media exacerbates the dissemination of false narratives. Along with insights from Pearl D'Souza on the challenges faced by Indian citizens in accessing unbiased and factual information amidst a landscape dominated by propaganda and disinformation. [00:01:40] Hedge funds and journalism industry. [00:07:06] Hedge fund ownership in journalism. [00:10:38] Hedge funds impact on journalism. [00:13:28] Pink Slime journalism. [00:17:45] Misinformation in immigrant communities. [00:24:12] Crackdown on media and dissent. [00:30:10] Islamophobia in political narratives. [00:32:25] Islamophobia and population growth. Got questions, comments or ideas or an example of disinformation you'd like us to check out? Send them to [email protected]. Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts. Special thanks to our guests Margot Susca and Pearl D'Souza , our sound designer and editor Noah Foutz, audio engineer Nathan Corson, and executive producers Michael Dealoia and Gerardo Orlando. Thanks so much for listening. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices