The Todd DeFeo Portfolio
This portfolio represents a body of work built over time — journalism, historical research, and long-form writing shaped by a consistent approach: understand the subject, find the story, and present it with clarity and purpose.
The work spans industries and formats, from investigative reporting and feature writing to historical analysis and digital content. While the topics vary, the objective remains the same: make complex ideas accessible and meaningful to the audience.
Journalism & Reporting
Early in his career, Todd DeFeo worked as a newspaper reporter covering government, crime, and community issues. His reporting focused on uncovering the story behind the story, providing context rather than just headlines.
That work included investigative reporting recognized by the Georgia Press Association, as well as award-winning coverage of the Base Realignment and Closure (BRAC) process.
Digital Storytelling
DeFeo was an early adopter of digital storytelling at a time when many traditional newsrooms were still oriented almost entirely around print.
In 2002, he launched Railfanning.org, a digital platform that combined photography, historical research, and ongoing coverage — well before this type of independent publishing became common. The site evolved into a sustained, long-term project, reflecting both subject-matter depth and a commitment to consistent content development.
His interest in digital formats extended into his work in journalism. While working in newspapers, DeFeo embraced emerging tools and approaches, integrating blogging, video, photography, and audio to enhance traditional reporting and better serve online audiences. At a time when many in the industry were hesitant to move beyond print-first models, he focused on adapting storytelling to fit the way audiences were beginning to consume information.
That approach carried forward into work in content strategy and communications: using the appropriate format — not just the traditional one — to tell a story clearly and effectively to drive outcomes.
Historical Writing & Research
DeFeo’s work as a historian reflects a long-standing interest in how infrastructure, industry, and decision-making shape communities.
His research has resulted in multiple published books exploring railroad history, including the first comprehensive histories of several lines. His writing focuses on preserving overlooked stories and connecting them to broader historical context.
Approach
Across all formats — news reporting, historical writing, or digital content — the process is grounded in the same principles:
- Start with curiosity
- Do the research
- Focus on what matters
- Tell the story clearly
The format may change, but the fundamentals remain the same.
“He is dependable, finds good, important stories, reports on them well, writes clean copy, and makes his deadlines. I strongly recommend him.”
— Executive Editor, The Center Square