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Fake News: The rise of an AI 'newsroom' in northern Michigan

Jonah Ezell reads coverage of his chicken farm by the AI-powered newsroom Prism News. (Credit: Maxwell Howard / IPR News. Courtesy: Jonah Ezell)
Maxwell Howard / IPR News
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Jonah Ezell
Jonah Ezell reads coverage of his chicken farm by the AI-powered newsroom Prism News. (Credit: Maxwell Howard / IPR News. Courtesy: Jonah Ezell)

Earlier this spring, a new local newsroom appeared in Grand Traverse County seemingly overnight. The site, called Prism News, publishes two to six local stories a day under the bylines of nearly 40 journalists.

But here’s the catch: None of those reporters exist.

Also, the latest on Line 5, which was granted some key permits this week.

Reporting for this episode by Maxwell Howard and Vivian La.


Producer: Austin Rowlader
Editor: Steve Junker
Host: Ed Ronco
Music: Blue Dot Sessions