The Great Media Exodus: Why More Journalists Are Ditching Legacy News for Independence
Nearly $25 billion. That’s the projected revenue for the creator economy in 2024, a figure that’s rapidly attracting a new wave of talent – and not just influencers. A growing number of seasoned journalists, once pillars of traditional news organizations, are now building their own audiences and brands on platforms like Substack, YouTube, and independent networks. The recent departure of Terry Moran from ABC News, following a suspension over social media commentary, is just the latest example of this seismic shift, and a signal of what’s to come.
The Moran Case: A Catalyst for Change
Moran’s dismissal, triggered by a post calling former President Trump and Stephen Miller “world-class haters,” has ignited a debate about journalistic objectivity and the constraints faced by reporters within large media corporations. ABC News cited a violation of its policies, but the incident has resonated with journalists feeling increasingly stifled. The network’s prior $16 million settlement with the Trump administration over perceived bias further underscores the pressures facing legacy media. As Jim Acosta, now thriving on Substack, put it: “Come on in, Terry. The water is warm.”
From Reporting to Commentary: A New Revenue Model
The trend isn’t simply about disgruntled journalists finding new homes. It’s about a fundamental shift in how news is consumed and monetized. Many departing figures – including Acosta, Ryan Lizza, Don Lemon, Chuck Todd, and Joy Reid – aren’t replicating their former roles. Instead, they’re leaning into commentary, analysis, and direct engagement with their audiences. This pivot allows for a more intimate relationship with subscribers, fostering loyalty and generating sustainable income. **Independent journalism** offers a direct line to consumers, bypassing the gatekeepers of traditional media.
Substack as a Launchpad
Substack has emerged as a particularly popular platform for this transition. Its subscription-based model allows journalists to directly profit from their work, free from the advertising pressures and editorial constraints of legacy organizations. Ryan Lizza, founder of the independent publication Telos on Substack, believes Moran would be a “huge hit” on the platform. The appeal is clear: control, creative freedom, and a direct connection to a paying audience.
Beyond Substack: Expanding the Independent Media Landscape
The independent media revolution extends beyond newsletters. Ben Meiselas, co-founder of the progressive network Meuedoucha (boasting nearly 5 million YouTube subscribers), has publicly courted Moran, highlighting the success of their model and recent hires like Katie Phang, who joined after her MSNBC show was canceled. This demonstrates a growing ecosystem of independent platforms vying for talent and audience share. Chris Cillizza, formerly of CNN, is focusing on building his presence on YouTube, recognizing the platform’s potential for reach and engagement.
The “Seller” Mindset: A New Skillset for Journalists
Cillizza emphasizes a crucial shift in mindset for journalists going independent: “You have spent your whole life as a buyer. Now you are a seller.” This requires developing new skills in marketing, audience development, and content promotion. It’s no longer enough to simply be a good reporter; independent journalists must also be entrepreneurs.
The Implications for Legacy Media
The exodus of talent isn’t just a personal win for these journalists; it’s a wake-up call for legacy media. As Lizza points out, Moran’s dismissal “sends a chilling message to reporters” still working within large corporations, raising concerns about the erosion of editorial independence. The increasing influence of external pressures, particularly from political entities, is forcing journalists to question the viability of maintaining objectivity within these structures. This trend is exacerbated by what Cillizza describes as an “utter lack of creativity” within cable news, outside of Fox News, suggesting a fundamental need for reinvention.
The rise of independent media isn’t about replacing traditional journalism entirely. It’s about creating a more diverse and resilient media ecosystem. As Acosta argues, once independent media gains enough traction, it will force legacy organizations to “adjust and grow a stronger spine.” Until then, the public will continue to seek out journalists who are willing to “hold Trump’s feet to the fire” without fear of reprisal.
The future of news isn’t about bigger budgets or fancier sets; it’s about agility, authenticity, and a direct connection with the audience. It’s about being a “little boat” that can “maneuver quickly,” as Cillizza aptly puts it. The great media exodus is underway, and it’s reshaping the landscape of journalism as we know it.
What strategies are you seeing work best for independent journalists? Share your insights in the comments below!
