Beat Check with The Oregonian

Great stuff! I agree with other reviews that say that some episodes are more engaging than others, but no matter what the topic, this is skilled, smart, labor-intensive reporting on local stuff, and I learn a lot I did not know about Portland and surrounding areas, how they work, and how the run.

I’m an OregonLive subscriber and regularly listen to Beat Check. I like the new lineup of hosts and appreciate this additional channel for in-depth content.

Not every episode is perfect, but these generally go into far more depth than the oregonlive articles, and provide valuable insight into complex issues. They have a slightly amateurish feel, but that lends a feeling of authenticity - local Oregonians who know the background, politicians, issues, and speak to other Oregonians. Thank you!

The information given on the podcast is about mediocre, I suppose. However, it is is deeply marred by poor presentation and interviewing skills. The host meanders, doesn’t seem to command a direction for the topics discussed, and only the most anodyne, and uncontroversial subjects ever seem to be broached. The also seem overly forgiving and conciliatory towards government officials and policies as to seem little more than press releases for what comes out of Salem and Portland City Hall. The field reporters also tend to give an impression of not being particularly prepared for the episodes and usually only share the most obvious points of a story with little insight or even very organized thoughts. Very much a mixed bag, and quite low quality from what I would expect from a semi major news organization.