At a time when journalism is more important—and more threatened—than ever, machine learning enables us to reimagine the way communities stay informed.

AI empowers us to transcribe interviews with remarkable substance and speed, creating stories with expert content from dozens of sources. But Smartacus is more than just a tool for faster reporting. It’s a platform for civic storytelling—a way for communities to speak with clarity, context, and collective intelligence.

In an era of shrinking newsrooms and fractured public trust, Smartacus helps citizen journalists, community organizations, and local leaders gather facts, illuminate voices, and foster meaningful dialogue. By combining the analytical power of AI with the ethical principles of responsible journalism, we aim to rebuild the public square—one story at a time.

Whether we’re elevating underrepresented perspectives or exploring the impact of new technologies on daily life, Smartacus is a reminder that journalism, when democratized and ethically guided, can still be a force for connection, accountability, and hope.

Dan Forbush and Bill Walker