The labor and uphill battle of independent storytelling is finally paying off for longtime journalist Don Lemon and his independent media company, Lemon Media Network (LMN), as they introduce new team members and celebrate 10 million followers across social media platforms. This milestone comes at a time when journalism budgets are being cut, and layoffs are occurring across the country.
After just two years, the platform, which has been solely funded by its audience and Lemon himself, has seen tremendous growth in followers and support, with 50% growth over the past year. This growth is especially evident in the network’s recent accolades: winning Best Video Podcast Host at the 30th annual Webby Awards, the Social Impact Award from Hollywood Unlocked, and four NAACP Image Awards, all within the last year.
After transitioning from his time on CNN, Lemon has made it a point to advocate for authentic journalism and hands-on storytelling that centers around accountability. His relentless efforts have allowed him to push past naysayers and federal opposition and stand firm in his belief in the power of independent media.
“Two years ago, people told me independent media was a step down. Ten million followers later, I think we’ve answered that,” Lemon explained in a statement released yesterday.
He continued: “While legacy media chases false equivalence, outrage and endless food fights, audiences are moving toward voices that feel authentic, direct and trustworthy. There’s a real freedom in what we’re doing here. No corporate boss, no fear of losing the job for telling the truth. We answer to the audience, not the elite, the oligarchs or the Oval Office. That’s what freedom of the press is supposed to mean. The networks have the resources. We have the relevance. They should be asking themselves why.”
As part of LMN’s expansion, they are also appointing new team members who will help to increase their programming efforts and heighten their political coverage as we inch closer to the 2026 midterm elections. Douglas Robins has been hired as Director of Operations, where he will spearhead daily operations, business strategy and analytics, following roles as a Policy Advisor in the Louisiana Governor’s Office and at McKinsey & Company.
“Douglas’ task is to grow this network in a media landscape that has no roadmap,” Lemon explained. “We’re writing one for Lemon Media Network, and maybe one day other independent journalists who are just starting out will be able to use it. His experience at McKinsey makes him well qualified, and we’re grateful he chose us.”
Daniel Grimes is another new addition to the team. He joins the network after his time at Spectrum News and WDBJ7 in Roanoke, Virginia, where he covered political news and led interviews with political leaders. He will now be working with LMN as their first D.C. correspondent.
“When I met Daniel, I knew right away that his personality and brand of journalism would fit right in with what we’re doing,” Lemon said. “He knows the Hill like the back of his hand, and that’s going to be a real plus for our viewers. He’ll be integral to our coverage heading into the 2026 midterms and the 2028 presidential election. We’re lucky to have him and happy he chose us as his next career move.”
The team also celebrates the promotion of Nikki Machrone and Andy Myers, who have had foundational roles in the network’s existence. Manchrone joined the team working with Lemon as a producer for The Don Lemon Show. Her new role transitions her from founding senior producer to executive producer. Andy Myers has been promoted from founding technical director to senior technical director. Both bring their own dynamic experiences to the table after having previously worked for companies such as SiriusXM and HBO.
On May 11, the team celebrated the launch of The Lemon Lucky 7, a daily newsletter by Lemon as part of their expansion, now available on Substack. Users can subscribe to receive a roundup of stories to kick off each day as they continue to watch the platform evolve.
“It’s an exciting time for us, and we’re just getting started,” Lemon said. “If you want real journalism, real conversation, real community and real accountability, Lemon Nation is where you’ll find it. We are growing every day. If you’re not part of it yet, you’re missing out.”