San Diego News Legend Finds Freedom on the Open Road
After 41 years capturing the stories of San Diego, KFMB-TV’s “legendary” news photographer Scott Hall has traded his camera for a tent and the open road. His retirement in August 2025 marked the beginning of an expansive, unscripted adventure across North America, a stark contrast to his high-stress, impactful career.
From San Diego’s News Frontlines to Open Roads
Scott Hall spent over four decades as a dedicated journalist, often placing himself in harm’s way to deliver critical stories to the San Diego community. Partnered with reporter Jeff Zevely for the popular “Zevely Zone,” he became a familiar name behind the lens, known for his bravery and sharp eye.
His career highlights include an Emmy Award in 2003 for his harrowing coverage of the Cedar Fire, the largest wildfire in California history at the time. Hall was also on the scene of the devastating San Ysidro McDonald’s shooting in 1984, an event he recalls as hauntingly impactful. He candidly admits the news business took a toll, acknowledging the personal sacrifices and the emotional weight of reporting on grief and tragedy.
A New Chapter: The Joy of Solo Exploration
Now, at 66, Hall is embracing a slower pace, traveling solo across the U.S. and Canada in his 20-year-old Ford Expedition, camping under the stars. His journey has taken him through the picturesque landscapes of Oregon, Washington, and Colorado, and recently to the stunning fall colors of Cape Breton Island in Nova Scotia, where he experienced his first sunrise over the Atlantic.
From the vibrant forests of New England to the Outer Banks of North Carolina, Hall is finding immense joy in discovery. His path will lead him to Pensacola, Florida, for Thanksgiving with family, and he even contemplates Key West. He reflects on his travels with gratitude, noting how the country’s beauty continually inspires him and how a visit to Plymouth Rock instilled a deep appreciation for his own family’s comfort.
San Diego Business Briefs
c3 Communications Celebrates 25 Years
San Diego-based public relations firm c3 Communications, Inc. is marking its 25th anniversary with a newly redesigned, multimedia-driven website. Spearheaded by President and CEO Joice Truban Curry, the site showcases two decades of award-winning work, emphasizing strong storytelling and meaningful results.
The Evolving World of Podcasts
While many perceive an oversaturation of podcasts, data from Listen Notes, a San Francisco firm, offers a clearer picture. The number of “active” podcasts—those releasing at least one new episode since early 2025—reached 605,122 as of September 2025. This figure surpasses previous records and shows a rebound after many shows were previously deemed “dead.”
| Podcast Metric | Count (as of Sept 2025) | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Active Podcasts | 605,122 | Listen Notes |
| Total Podcasts Created | 3.6 million | Listen Notes |
| Total Episodes Globally | 185 million | Listen Notes |
| Recently “Dead” Classified | >18,000 | Listen Notes |
Globally, 3.6 million podcasts have been created since 2004, with the U.S. accounting for a significant 67% of these launches.
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Frequently Asked Questions
- What is Scott Hall doing now?
After retiring in August 2025, Scott Hall is solo road-tripping and camping across the U.S. and Canada, exploring various states and provinces. - What was Scott Hall’s career like?
Scott Hall was a “legendary” news photographer for 41 years at KFMB-TV CBS 8 in San Diego, known for his fearless coverage of major events and an Emmy-winning career. - How can I support local San Diego journalism?
You can support the Times of San Diego’s purpose-driven journalism by donating to their year-end campaign, which aims to raise $28,000 by December 31 and unlock matching funds with 100 first-time donors. - What defines an “active” podcast?
According to Listen Notes, an “active” podcast is one that has released at least one new episode since the beginning of 2025.
Your support ensures that vital local stories, like Scott Hall’s journey and crucial community news, continue to be told with integrity and passion, enriching our shared understanding of San Diego and beyond.
San Diego News Legend Hits the Open Road
