This week on Research the News, Ray Abel opens with a compelling monologue on the broken state of journalism, exploring how media consolidation and bias have led to the decline of the fourth estate. He highlights the history of media ownership, the role of the press, and the impact of media conglomerates on public perception. Following this, Gretchen Hurd joins the discussion to delve into the significance of researching the news. Together, they emphasize the need for critical thinking, fact-checking, and understanding multiple viewpoints to navigate today's complex media landscape. This episode aims to equip listeners with the tools to stay informed and make better decisions about the information they consume.