The evolution of digital journalism and the early days of the internet are examined through the career of journalist Lisa Napoli. Starting as an intern at CNN’s inception, Napoli transitioned through various experimental media ventures, including the shopping channel Q2, the online service Delphi, and the New York Times’ early web-only section, CyberTimes. These experiences highlight the chaotic, "Wild West" nature of early digital media, where traditional news organizations struggled to define their online presence and business models. Key insights include the shift from scheduled news cycles to the 24/7 "always-on" culture, the technological challenges of early web integration, and the recurring pattern of corporate mania surrounding new platforms. Napoli’s trajectory reflects the broader industry transition from traditional print and television to the digital-first landscape that defines contemporary media.
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