The media world was abuzz with news of The Atlantic’s stunning victory over The New Yorker at the 2024 National Magazine Awards. While this may seem like a minor rivalry in the grand scheme of things, to Rusty Foster, the creator of the popular newsletter Today in Tabs, it was big news.
Foster, who writes his newsletter from the serene setting of Peaks Island, Maine, captured the attention of media insiders with his fanciful report on The Atlantic’s triumph. He humorously described The New Yorker’s editor, David Remnick, solemnly folding up and eating his prepared speeches as The Atlantic swept the awards.
Despite his distance from the hustle and bustle of New York City, Foster has carved out a niche for himself in the media industry. With a devoted readership of over 36,000 subscribers, he has found success in a landscape where many veteran journalists are struggling to find work.
Foster’s unique perspective and writing style have endeared him to readers and colleagues alike. His newsletter, Today in Tabs, offers a quirky snapshot of what’s trending in the media world, delivered with a mix of cynicism and humor that sets it apart from other industry newsletters.
As Foster prepares to take a hiatus from Today in Tabs to hike the Appalachian Trail with his oldest child, readers are eagerly anticipating his new venture, Today on Trail. With over 2,000 subscribers already signed up, Foster’s chronicle of his five-month hike promises to be a unique and engaging addition to his body of work.
Despite his deep immersion in the online world, Foster remains grounded in his offline pursuits, from kayaking and hiking to participating in wilderness search-and-rescue missions. As he looks forward to his time away from the digital noise, Foster muses on what new discoveries he may make when disconnected from the constant stream of information.
In a media landscape dominated by headlines of turmoil and division, Rusty Foster’s journey from the quiet shores of Peaks Island to the Appalachian Trail offers a refreshing and introspective perspective on the ever-evolving world of journalism and online culture.
