Our First VIDEO “On Assignment Podcast” Episode: Local Hero Phil Williams

“If you don't do it, who will,” is my challenge (to young reporters). Because we need journalists more than ever. And it requires courage. It's not easy. But the work is important, the cause is just, and it needs to be done.”

– Phil Williams, News Channel 5 Nashville’s Chief Investigative Reporter

Click the image to watch our first VIDEO podcast!

News Channel 5’s Chief Investigative reporter Phil Williams is a local legend in his hometown of Nashville, TN.  His many fans say he’s a local hero. Over his 40 year career, Wiliams has been the recipient of five duPont-Columbia Awards - among many other prestigious awards.  He was also honored by John Oliver with the title of “Nashville’s Nosiest Bitch.” - His  most recent 2025 duPont honored  a wide ranging investigative series, Hate Comes to Main Street, which unmasks the right-wing hate, political extremism, and conspiracy theories affecting political life in Tennessee.

In this episode, Williams sits down with the J School Prizes Department’s’ Abi Wright and Lisa Cohen to talk about his award winning investigation, its impact, and the obligations he and other journalists have to report, even at the risk of their own personal safety..

Watch Phil Williams Hate Comes to Main Street series here.

Read his unusually personal editorial about reporting in these times here. 

Do you have original, deeply reported audio or video journalism from the past year that you’re proud of? Enter before the Jul 1, 2025 deadline for the 2026 duPont-Columbia awards. Go to our Entry Info button on the upper right corner or more info and to enter.