Episode 2: Creative Problem Solving

In this episode of “Behind the Beacon,” hosts Daralyse Lyons and Emily Smith unpack what it really means to be creative problem solvers in local journalism. From designing ads to managing a newsroom, they reveal how curiosity, flexibility, and collaboration power the Bucks County Beacon’s vision and mission.
Emily shares how her journey from a graphic designer/web developer to owner and publisher have shaped the Beacon’s visual identity and startup spirit. Her knack for turning design challenges into business solutions helped transform the Beacon from an experimental idea into a newsroom that reaches nearly 40,000 readers every month. Daralyse reflects on how her own creativity—rooted in curiosity and a childhood steeped in storytelling—fuels her approach to community engagement and revenue diversification.
They revisit the Beacon’s “fail fast and learn” culture, sharing lessons from Beacon Fest, a bold experiment that became their “best failure.” And they share about the Beacon’s next event, which you will not want to miss!
On June 2, the Beacon is spearheading a FREE community event, “The Power of Participation.” Co‑hosted with the Doylestown Action League and moderated by Connor O’Hanlon, this dynamic panel discussion will bring together local leaders Lauren Cristella, Amy Widestrom, Ariel Virk, and Nick Emeigh for an empowering conversation about civic engagement, mental health, and inclusive policy. Because creative problem solving doesn’t just happen in the newsroom. It happens when people come together!
Be sure to listen to this episode, check out the June 2nd event, and support the Beacon at buckscountybeacon.com/support-the-beacon.