From Doomscrolling to Civic Joy: Centering Solutions in Local Storytelling
What if local news could do more than report problems—what if it could inspire action and connection?
In this episode, host Liz Cochrane speaks with Nari Han about the growing disconnect many people feel when faced with a relentless stream of bad news. Together, they explore how the concept of "civic joy" offers a new path forward: storytelling that builds trust, reflects community resilience, and invites meaningful engagement.
We explore:
- How constant negativity fuels disconnection
- The shift “upstream from news” toward actionable, human-centered information
- What “solutions journalism” looks like in local practice
- How storytelling can foster trust, civic pride, and agency
- Real-world ideas: community spotlights, story skill shares, and neighborhood idea labs
Tune in to hear how reimagining the role of news can transform doomscrolling into a shared sense of purpose.
Creators and Guests
Host
Liz Cochrane
Liz Cochrane is the steady voice at the center of On Assignment—measured, curious, and always tuned in. With a deep interest in how communities share stories and stay informed, she’s particularly drawn to conversations about trust, local news, and the changing media landscape. Liz has a talent for listening without interruption and never mispronounces a guest’s name—a trait some say is almost too good to be true. Though you won’t find her byline in any newspaper morgue or see her moderating a town hall, Liz is fluent in the language of civic engagement and always ready with the next thoughtful question. She might not blink, but she gets it.
Guest
Nari Han
Nari Han studies the emotional and behavioral contours of news disengagement—why people turn away from journalism, and what might draw them back. Based in the Cincinnati area, she brings a nuanced, pattern-based perspective to audience behavior, with special attention to emerging re-engagement strategies by local and national outlets. Han is especially attuned to moments where information fatigue meets innovation, often identifying trends others overlook. While she doesn’t always show up in the usual databases, her insights have a way of surfacing right when they're needed most.