Speedy Morman’s Exit: A Trend in Media?

After more than a decade with Complex, Speedy Morman has announced his departure, marking the end of an incredible era. He’s not just leaving a job; he’s stepping into the growing movement of Black journalists and media personalities who are choosing to bet on themselves and go independent. This shift reflects significant changes happening across the media landscape.

A Decade at Complex and a Leap to Independence

Morman, who hosted the show ‘360 with Speedy,’ described his time at Complex as an “incredible era.” He’s excited to continue his passion for interviewing and connecting with people on a deeper level, but now with new partners and audiences. “I can’t wait to see what the next 10 years have in store,” he shared, signaling a bright future ahead.

His decision to go independent places him alongside a growing number of Black journalists who are leaving traditional media outlets. Factors like media acquisitions, widespread layoffs, and evolving consumption habits are forcing many to find new, creative ways to pursue their love for storytelling.

Why Journalists Are Choosing Independence

Former beauty editor and journalist Kayla Greaves points to several key reasons for this trend. “People don’t read anymore. It’s a harsh reality, but it’s reality and we see a lot of traditional media outlets crumbling because of it,” she explains. The shift towards digital content consumed on phones, through videos and audio, means traditional outlets are struggling to adapt.

Greaves also notes that many newsrooms were initially resistant to allowing their editors to become front-facing digital talent. Philip Lewis, president of the Washington Association of Black Journalists, echoes this sentiment, highlighting a “growing number of journalists who have become increasingly disillusioned with the state of our industry.” Many feel news outlets are unwilling to pay a living wage or are afraid to report truthfully on critical issues.

Building Your Own Platform: Autonomy and Control

The desire for autonomy is a major driving force. Entertainment journalist Gia Peppers noticed the precariousness of traditional media early on, leading her to freelance and build her own brand. “I decided then that I would become my own brand and lend my voice to stories and projects that felt aligned with what I wanted to contribute to the world,” she shared.

The acquisition of platforms like Twitter by billionaires has further underscored the importance of owning your audience. Lewis emphasizes the need for a “direct-to-consumer model” through newsletters, websites, or blogs, where content isn’t subject to algorithm changes. This autonomy allows journalists to share stories on their own terms, without layers of approval or the fear of ideas being co-opted.

The Future of Journalism: Independent or Cooperative?

While independent media offers exciting possibilities, it’s not without its challenges. Greaves and Lewis agree that while “journalist-led” platforms could be the future, they require significant funding and experienced leadership. They caution that a million Substack newsletters can’t replace the robust teams of reporters, editors, and fact-checkers needed for in-depth investigative journalism.

Lewis suggests that “worker-owned journalism cooperatives” might be the most sustainable path forward, emphasizing that while one journalist can’t do everything, a team can. The rise of independent creators like Morman signifies a powerful shift, but the industry as a whole is still navigating how to best support and fund impactful journalism in this new era.

• Speedy Morman is leaving Complex after 10 years to pursue independent ventures.
• His departure reflects a larger trend of Black journalists leaving traditional media.
• Reasons include changing media consumption, layoffs, and a desire for autonomy.
• Journalists are building their own platforms via newsletters, podcasts, and more.
• The future may lie in well-funded, journalist-led platforms or worker-owned cooperatives.