Can Journalism Survive? (With UC Berkeley Journalism Dean Michael Bolden)
Podcast: The Rip CurrentPublished On: Wed Nov 05 2025
Description: This week I speak with Michael Bolden, the new Dean of the UC Berkeley Journalism School, about his personal journey from Mobile, Alabama, to leading one of the country’s top journalism schools. We agree — because of course — on the philosophical importance of journalism, but it’s the complications brought by AI and media technology, and the rise of influencer culture, where things get complicated. Bolden emphasizes the necessity of adapting journalism education to future demands, including the incorporation of AI and influencer collaborations, and together we try to sort out how to bring together the best of this new, open world of information and the old world of true expertise and editorial rigor.00:00 Introduction: The Impact of Personal Background on Journalism00:29 The State of Journalism Today01:07 Challenges Facing Modern Journalism02:27 Introducing Michael Bolden: A Career in Journalism03:56 Michael Bolden’s Early Life and Influences07:17 The Importance of Representation in Journalism14:04 Navigating Professional Challenges19:53 The Future of Journalism Education27:31 The Evolving Role of Journalists28:53 The Decline of Traditional Media33:38 The Rise of Influencers and Independent Journalists38:32 Political Influence and Media Ownership47:25 AI and the Future of Journalism57:12 Innovative Journalism Models59:20 Conclusion and Final Thoughts This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.theripcurrent.com/subscribe
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