North Idaho Now, one year later
This article was originally published in the Hello North Idaho magazine
One year after it’s kick-off, the North Idaho Now news podcast is developing a distinct style and subscribership has nearly quadrupled. Initially the Hagadone News Network podcast had about 1,000 listeners. That number has blossomed to between 8,000 and 10,000 listeners.
Chanse Watson, Regional Digital Editor and fearless leader of podcasting, recorded the celebrated 100th episode on January 21, 2022. The hallmark style of North Idaho Now continues to be defined as producers take cues from subscribers, Watson said.
“The show is kind of taking on a life of its own,” Watson said. “It’s been very much tailored to what we hear from our audience. They’re jumping on for local news and that’s a very convenient way to pick it up.”
North Idaho Now covers headlining news stories published in the Coeur d’Alene Press, Shoshone News-Press, Bonner County Daily Bee and the Bonners Ferry Herald. Discussion of the hottest headlines remains the focus.
Listeners like the podcast during long car rides or listen while they are doing house cleaning, Watson said. As consumer needs change, offering more options for accessing local news is paramount.
“People also like the banter on the show,” Watson said. “That’s what gives a podcast an identity. There’s the human nature of it, almost a warts ‘n all kind of thing. When you mess up a name or something, more often than not we like to leave that in there because that’s the human element.”
Keeping the tone of the show upbeat and sprinkled with humor is key, Watson said.
“We make jokes. And we make jokes about ourselves too,” Watson said. “It’s a fun, light-hearted way to look at the news. My vision for North Idaho Now was to strike a good balance. You’re going to get the facts and you’ll get the story but there’s also a little commentary mixed in there as well.”
A drab presentation of local news is definitely not on Watson’s agenda as the show develops, and when news subjects are heavy, a lighter approach is appreciated.
Former Coeur d’Alene co-host, Madison Hardy moved on from her position as a Coeur d’Alene Press reporter last December and the podcast definitely laments her contributions, Watson said.
“We’re all very happy for her and she’s going to do great in front of the camera,” Watson said. “We all miss her here in Coeur d’Alene, not only in the podcast studio but in the newsroom as well.”
Josh McDonald, County Editor at the Shoshone News-Press will continue to man the show with Watson, on Tuesdays. Two 45 minute episodes are recorded weekly and released on Tuesday and Friday.
The podcast can be accessed through Apple podcasts, Spotify, Pandora, Player FM, Google Podcasts or anywhere that listeners access music or podcast services, Watson said.
Coeur d’Alene Press reporters Devin Weeks and Hannah Neff have been contributing to the podcast since Hardy’s departure and the show will continue hosting interview guests regularly.
A musical introduction and transitional sound effects have been added to spice up the format. One sound effect features an old type-writer that belonged to Watson’s late grandfather.
“We’re playing with new ideas,” Watson said.
To listen in, visit https://nin.buzzsprout.com/ or subscribe on your favorite music app.
