Episodes

Join Dr. Kortni Alston Lemon as she explores the intersection of positive psychology and journalism. Discover how positivity isn't about ignoring challenges but building resilience through frameworks like PERMA. Dr. Kortni shares personal stories and insights on how journalists can thrive amidst the emotional weight of their work. Key Points: Understanding positivity beyond "Pollyanna" and its role in resilience. The PERMA framework: Positive Emotions, Engagement, Relationships, Meaning, and Ac...

Summary In this heartfelt episode, Dr. Kortni Alston Lemon reflects on her personal journey of grief following the loss of her mentor and friend, Rose Tibayan. As she navigates her emotions, she emphasizes the importance of pausing to honor one's feelings and the impact of grief on journalists. Dr. Kortni shares the profound lessons learned from Rose's life, her legacy of compassion, and the significance of supporting one another through loss. This episode serves as a reminder that healing is a...

In this deeply personal and timely episode of The Compassionate Newsroom, Dr. Kortni Alston Lemon — happiness scholar, former news director, and the great-granddaughter of a slave — reflects on the meaning of Juneteenth through the lens of compassion, resilience, and justice. From her early reporting days in Houston covering Juneteenth on Galveston Island, to her ongoing work shaping mental health and well-being in journalism, Dr. Lemon invites listeners into a space of remembrance, healing, ...

In this episode of The Compassionate Newsroom , Dr. Kortni Alston Lemon explores the rising crisis of burnout among journalists and newsroom leaders. Drawing from the latest research conducted by the Reynolds Journalism Institute, Dr. Kortni shares insights about the widespread impact of burnout across the profession, the culture of silence that surrounds it, and the systemic challenges that perpetuate it. She also offers practical, evidence-based strategies for creating more compassionate, su...

Show Notes: This week, we’re pressing pause—but with purpose. There’s no new episode of The Compassionate Newsroom today because we’re practicing what we preach: self-care. Rest is a vital part of well-being, and sometimes the most compassionate choice is to take a step back and recharge. But don’t worry—we’ll be back next week with another powerful conversation to support you and your newsroom. In the meantime, this is a perfect opportunity to catch up—or better yet, binge—past episodes f...

Certified to Care Becoming a Mental Health First Aider in Your Newsroom Part 3 of 3 – Mental Health First Aid Series Hosted by Dr. Kortni Alston Lemon In the final episode of this special three-part series, Dr. Kortni shares how Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) training can transform newsrooms from the inside out. Drawing from her experience as a news director, happiness scholar, and certified MHFA Instructor, she explains how this evidence-based training equips journalists and news leaders to...

In this second episode of our three-part series, Dr. Kortni Alston Lemon—former news director turned happiness scholar and certified Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) Instructor—breaks down the heart of MHFA and why it belongs in every newsroom. You’ll learn what MHFA is (and what it isn’t), how the ALGEE action plan works, and hear powerful examples of real newsroom situations where the training can save lives and protect mental well-being. Dr. Lemon also shares insights from groundbreaking case studies and voices of journalists directly impacted by systemic injustice and trauma. If you’ve ever wondered how to show up for your colleagues—or yourself—this episode is for you.

Why Newsrooms Need Mental Health First Aid Now Welcome to The Compassionate Newsroom ! In this first episode of our three-part series on Mental Health First Aid , Dr. Kortni Alston Lemon shares why this life-changing training is a must-have in journalism today. From breaking news to burnout, journalists face extraordinary levels of stress, trauma, and emotional exposure—yet few are trained to recognize when colleagues are in crisis or how to respond. This episode dives into the urgent need...

📝 Episode Summary: In this episode of The Compassionate Newsroom, Dr. Kortni Alston Lemon takes you behind the scenes of two powerful speaking engagements that highlight the urgent need for systemic well-being in journalism. Fresh from the NABJ Emerging Journalists and Investigative Reporting Summit at The New York Times and The Carter Center’s Executive Forum, Dr. Kortni shares why the NABJ Wellness Task Force must not be the first—or only—line of defense. Instead, it’s time to recognize the ...

In this conversation, Dr. Kortni discusses the importance of psychological safety in the workplace, emphasizing that it cannot simply be legislated but must be cultivated through actions and culture. She outlines practical tools for leaders to foster an environment of openness and trust, highlighting the significance of messaging, modeling, and mentoring. The discussion also touches on the role of leadership in creating a climate where team members feel safe to express themselves without fear of...

Show Notes: This week, we’re pressing pause—but with purpose. There’s no new episode of The Compassionate Newsroom today because we’re practicing what we preach: self-care. Rest is a vital part of well-being, and sometimes the most compassionate choice is to take a step back and recharge. But don’t worry—we’ll be back next week with another powerful conversation to support you and your newsroom. In the meantime, this is a perfect opportunity to catch up—or better yet, binge—past episodes fill...

In this special solo episode, Dr. Kortni Alston Lemon shares a heartfelt letter of gratitude to news directors, executive producers, and newsroom leaders navigating the ever-changing landscape of journalism. This is not a how-to episode—it's a moment of reflection, appreciation, and encouragement for the leaders who carry both the story and the soul of the newsroom. Dr. Kortni—a happiness scholar and former news director—offers affirmations, inspiration, and a gentle reminder that leadership do...

In this episode of The Compassionate Newsroom, Dr. Kortni Alston dives into the transformative power of compassion in the workplace. Dr. Kortni discusses what empathy in action looks like on a day-to-day basis and shares her personal experiences to illustrate the profound impact compassion can have on work culture and personal well-being. What You'll Learn: Definition of Compassion in the Workplace: Understanding compassion as an actionable form of empathy and its importance in the professional...

In this conversation, Dr. Kortni Alston Lemon explores the concept of relational mindfulness, emphasizing its importance in journalism and team dynamics. She discusses how being present with others can enhance empathy, alleviate feelings of isolation, and improve communication within newsrooms. Dr. Lemon provides practical suggestions for implementing relational mindfulness practices, such as group check-ins and the no comment rule, while highlighting the need for leadership support in fostering...

Episode Summary: Welcome to another Wellbeing Wednesday with Dr. Kortni on "The Compassionate Newsroom." In this episode, Dr. Kortni dives into the prevalent issue of compassion fatigue within the journalism industry, comparing it to similar challenges faced by healthcare professionals. Drawing from an insightful article on positivepsychology.com, she explores the causes, symptoms, and impacts of compassion fatigue on journalists who frequently engage with traumatized individuals. Through this d...

In this episode of The Compassionate Newsroom, Dr. Kortni Alston Lemon talks about the importance of stress management for leaders and their teams. Takeaways Dr. Kortni Alston Lemon is a happiness scholar and former news director. The Compassionate Newsroom aims to transform journalism through compassion. Workplace wellbeing and resilience are essential in newsrooms. Positive psychology can help cultivate a healthier newsroom culture. Compassion can be a competitive advantage in journalism. The...

In this episode of the Compassionate Newsroom, Dr. Kortni Alston Lemon discusses the importance of self-compassion in journalism and how it can transform the industry. She emphasizes the need for workplace wellbeing and resilience through positive psychology, engaging with various industry experts to share actionable strategies. The episode serves as a celebration of self-compassion and encourages listeners to cultivate kindness in their professional lives. Takeaways Self-compassion is a gift ...

In this episode of The Compassionate Newsroom, Dr. Kortni Alston Lemon introduces the concept of transforming journalism through compassion and positive psychology. She emphasizes the importance of workplace wellbeing and resilience, aiming to create a supportive culture in newsrooms. The episode invites listeners to join a journey towards a healthier and happier newsroom environment. Takeaways Transforming the heart and soul of journalism is essential. Workplace wellbeing and resilience are c...

In this episode of The Compassionate Newsroom, Dr. Kortni Alston Lemon introduces the concept of transforming journalism through compassion and positive psychology. She emphasizes the importance of cultivating workplace wellbeing and resilience among news leaders and journalists, aiming to create a supportive and healthier newsroom culture. Takeaways The Compassionate Newsroom aims to transform journalism. Positive psychology can enhance workplace wellbeing. Compassionate leadership is essenti...

In this episode, Dr. Kortni discusses the importance of celebrating identity and achievements in the workplace, emphasizing the value of recognizing the process of growth rather than just the outcomes. She highlights the significance of creating a supportive environment for teams and how positive psychology can empower individuals and foster a flourishing workplace culture. Takeaways Recognizing achievements boosts team morale. Focus on the process, not just the outcome. A growth mindset encou...

In this episode, Dr. Kortni Alston Lemon delves into the power of constructivist listening—a cornerstone of empathetic leadership and interpersonal connection. Drawing on her experience as a keynote speaker at a recent Martin Luther King Jr. breakfast, Dr. Lemon shares insights into how this listening technique can create safe, seen, and connected interactions.

In this episode of the Compassionate Newsroom, Dr. Kortni Alston Lemon engages with Aundrea Cline-Thomas, a journalist and founder of The Rewrite, a community aimed at supporting journalists in their career transitions. They discuss the importance of compassion in journalism, the challenges faced by journalists today, and the need for a supportive community. Aundrea shares her personal journey of leaving traditional media to create a space for healing and growth, emphasizing the significance of mental health and workplace wellbeing in the industry. The conversation also touches on the role of news organizations in fostering a culture of care and the qualities of compassionate leadership.

In this insightful conversation, Dr. Kortni Alston Lemon and Beverly White Higgs delve into the transformative impact of compassion in journalism, focusing on the challenges faced during natural disasters such as the Southern California wildfires. They explore the crucial role of mental health support for journalists, discussing the evolution of newsroom culture towards prioritizing the psychological safety and well-being of reporters on the front lines. Beverly shares her personal experiences with trauma while covering wildfires and highlights the importance of having robust support systems and open communication in news organizations. The dialogue further touches on empathetic leadership and its capacity to foster a healthier work environment, concluding with reflections on compassionate leadership and the rewarding aspects of life post-journalism career.

In this conversation, Eden Fineday and Dr. Kortni discuss the importance of building trust and safe spaces in journalism, particularly for Indigenous voices. They explore embracing one's identity, the significance of self-care, and incorporating Indigenous values into newsroom culture. The dialogue emphasizes the need for compassionate leadership and the impact of trauma-informed practices in journalism, ultimately advocating for a more humane and supportive approach to storytelling. Eden discusses racism, unconscious bias, and protecting one's mental health.