Behind the Beacon
We’re thrilled to share something we’ve been building quietly (and passionately!): the launch of our brand‑new podcast, “Behind the Beacon.” Chief Revenue Officer Daralyse Lyons talks with Owner & Publisher Emily Smith on what it takes to run a newsroom in today's media climate. Not from the editor and writer side, but the business and operations it takes to make it happen.
We’re thrilled to share something we’ve been building quietly (and passionately!): the launch of our brand‑new podcast, “Behind the Beacon.” Chief Revenue Officer Daralyse Lyons talks with Owner & Publisher Emily Smith on what it takes to run a newsroom in today's media climate. Not from the editor and writer side, but the business and operations it takes to make it happen.
Episodes
Episodes


Jun 18, 2026
Episode 6: Access, Barriers & Civic Engagement
Jun 18, 2026
Jun 18, 2026
38 min
In this episode of Behind the Beacon, Chief Revenue Officer Daralyse Lyons and Owner & Publisher Emily Smith reflect on The Power of Participation, the June 2 community conversation co-hosted with the Doylestown Action League and moderated by Connor O’Hanlon. They unpack the themes and questions that surfaced during the event, including barriers, accessibility, civic engagement, and personal empowerment.
From technology gaps to language access, from paywalls to social‑media echo chambers, Daralyse and Emily explore the structural challenges that shape how people get information. They also speak candidly about the Beacon’s commitment to accessibility, the financial realities of keeping news free to read, and the evolution of the Beacon’s identity beyond its early “progressive” label.
This episode offers practical ways for community members to get involved, support local journalism, and help strengthen civic engagement across Bucks County.
Resources mentioned:
The Signal Podcast
The Beacon’s Voter Guide featuring the Committee of 70’s ballot‑builder widget
The Beacon x Technically collaborative series on digital voting accessibility
Jun 18, 2026
38 min






