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RocaNews summaries
Every long episode from RocaNews, read in minutes: the key takeaways, the chapters, and a digest of the whole conversation. Capturing the world without bias or fear Our founders quit their jobs in August 2020 because they couldn’t bear consuming divisive, biased, and fear-mongering news any longer. News media had been deteriorating for years; the pandemic accelerated the trend. Our founders envisioned…
New York City's Disappearing Goths
New York City's East Village has long been a haven for counterculture, but rising rents and gentrification are pushing out the punks, goths, and anarchists who once defined the neighborhood.
Inside an Ohio Amish Family
Mike Yoder's family lives in Holmes County, Ohio, one of America's most Amish regions. While Mike and his wife Karen decided to leave the faith, his parents, siblings, and grandfather remain Amish, navigating tradition and modernity.
The Bootheel: The Midwest's Forgotten Region
RocaNews travels to the Bootheel of Missouri, a forgotten region where the Midwest becomes the South. They meet the locals, learn about the area's history, and discover the challenges and unique charm of small-town life along the Mississippi River.
One of Louisiana's Last Swamp Men
RocaNews travels deep into Louisiana's bayous to meet Rusty Borne, one of the last "swamp men" who embodies a distinct, rugged culture that is becoming increasingly rare in a globalized world.
A Rainy Saturday in Ohio
Roca News visits New Philadelphia, Ohio, to explore the lives of everyday Americans, revealing a town grappling with change but holding onto its community spirit.
Inside America's Richest Black Towns
RocaNews explores Prince George's County, Maryland, a wealthy, predominantly Black suburb outside Washington D.C., to understand its unique prosperity and community.
Inside Louisiana's French-Speaking Swamp Towns
RocaNews explores the unique culture of Cajun Country in South Louisiana, from frog hunting in the bayou to the rich history and traditions of its people.
A Rural American Childhood
Roca News travels to Missouri's Ozark Mountains, exploring the former mining towns of Bonne Terre, Leadwood, and Irondale, and discovering the unique challenges and enduring spirit of their residents.
Inside New Orleans' 24/7 Party Neighborhood
RocaNews explores the vibrant and unique culture of New Orleans' French Quarter, delving into its history, diverse communities, and the stark contrasts between its lively Bourbon Street and its quieter residential areas.
Appalachia's Wisest Mountain Man
RocaNews revisits Don, a resilient Appalachian man who previously shared his battle with cancer, to see how he's doing and to explore the changing landscape of his community. They also meet Randy, a descendant of the "Deliverance" hillbillies, who shares his perspective on self-sufficiency and life in a remote hollow.
Inside Illinois' Dying City
East St. Louis, once an "All-American City," has faced decades of decline, leading to widespread poverty and violence. This article explores the city's past, its current struggles, and the resilient spirit of its residents.
Inside South Carolina's Forgotten River Towns
In this video, RocaNews explores the forgotten river towns of South Carolina's PD region, revealing a stark contrast between the area's rich history and its current struggles with abandonment and economic decline, while also highlighting the resilience of its residents. The journey showcases the deep-rooted cultural aspects and the lasting impact of industries like cotton and tobacco on the community.
Inside the Deep South's Forgotten Cotton Towns
In this video, RocaNews explores the forgotten cotton towns of South Carolina, revealing the stark contrast between their once-wealthy past fueled by King Cotton and the current struggles with economic decline, crime, and the remnants of a deeply rooted history. The journey uncovers both the beauty and tragedy of these communities, showcasing personal stories that highlight the ongoing impact of this agricultural legacy.
Inside Texas' Most Extreme Oil Towns
In this video, RocaNews explores the unique lifestyle of oil workers in Texas' Permian Basin, highlighting the boom-and-bust cycles of towns like Kermit and Wink, as well as the challenges faced in America's least populous county, Loving County. The documentary showcases the resilience and camaraderie of those working in the oil industry, emphasizing their vital role in keeping America energy independent.
Inside Dallas’s Muslim Suburbs
In "Inside Dallas’s Muslim Suburbs," RocaNews explores the growing Muslim community in the Dallas area, particularly in Irving, often referred to as the Medina of America, while addressing misconceptions and political controversies surrounding their presence and the proposed Epic City development. The video aims to provide an authentic perspective on the lives and experiences of Muslims in Texas, countering narratives of a cultural takeover.
Inside West Virginia's Most Remote Holler
In this video, RocaNews explores Dingus, one of West Virginia's most isolated communities, challenging local stereotypes about its residents being unwelcoming and dangerous. Through candid conversations, they reveal the strong sense of community and resilience among the people living there, highlighting the beauty and complexity of life in Appalachia.
Inside West Virginia's Disappearing Capital
In "Inside West Virginia's Disappearing Capital," RocaNews explores the charming yet struggling city of Charleston, highlighting its close-knit community and beautiful architecture alongside challenges like population decline, crime, and drug addiction. The video captures the dichotomy of a city rich in history and warmth, facing modern-day issues.
Appalachia's Disappearing Mountain Men (pt. 2)
A community rallied via GoFundMe to provide a truck and camper to "Appalachia's Disappearing Mountain Man," Delhi Schuler, demonstrating the power of collective action and compassion.
Inside the Death of the Vegas Strip
Las Vegas is struggling as corporate ownership prioritizes profit over experience, leading to higher prices and declining tourism, with a widening gap between the wealthy and budget travelers.
Inside California's Most Mexican City (98% Hispanic)
A stark contrast between California's decaying Klexico and Mexico's booming Mexalei highlights differing economic realities and the complex nature of the American dream on the border.
Inside America's Most Extreme Desert Town
Extreme desert towns like Darwin and Trona reveal intentional living and necessity-driven existence, highlighting unique community dynamics and personal freedom amidst harsh conditions.
Inside America's Most Exotic Suburb (Texas)
Sugarland, Texas, showcases a thriving, prosperous, and highly diverse community, demonstrating successful immigrant integration despite some local controversy.
Inside California's Billionaire Hideout
Exploring California's Coachella Valley, this video contrasts the lives of the ultra-wealthy with the working class, revealing surprising gratitude and resilience amidst vast economic disparity.
Inside Texas's Forgotten Coastline
Explore Texas's forgotten coastline, from the growing beaches of South Padre Island to the industrial might of Corpus Christi's oil refineries.