Emma Ruby is a staff writer for the Dallas Observer and former editor of the Oak Cliff Advocate, where she quickly became a voice for the neighborhood she now calls home. In this episode, Emma shares how a snarky middle school article about Miley Cyrus kicked off her journalism journey, what it was like to jump headfirst into covering Oak Cliff, and how telling stories about her neighbors helped her fall back in love with reporting.

We talk about journalism as a public service, the rise of nonprofit newsrooms, and the balancing act of writing for both the archives and the algorithm. Along the way, we dig into her coverage of the Belmont Hotel, navigating conspiracy brain, and why there's joy in hyperlocal journalism—even when you're writing about Southwest Airlines' baggage policy.

In this episode, we sit down with Matt Goodman, Online Editorial Director at D Magazine, to talk about the stories that shape Dallas. From the evolution of Oak Cliff and the power dynamics of the city to his in-depth investigative journalism—including his pivotal role in uncovering the chilling case of Dr. Death—we explore what it means to tell the stories that matter. Matt takes us behind the scenes of his reporting, from heart transplants to high-stakes legal battles, and reflects on the changing landscape of journalism in the digital age.

In episode 8, we welcome photographer Richard Doherty whose book Framing Oak Cliff offers a deeply personal visual diary of this vibrant Dallas neighborhood. Over 40 years, Richard has documented Oak Cliff’s ever-changing streets, capturing candid panoramas, quiet neighborhood scenes, and the small, often-overlooked details that define daily life. In this conversation, Richard shares his journey, revealing the stories behind his favorite shots, his unique techniques, and the inspiration that Oak Cliff provides. Join us for an exploration of Oak Cliff’s lasting impact on Richard’s work and the heart of the community as seen through his lens.