Public Insight Network

Become a source for Public Radio

Inform Our Coverage

Are you concerned about the "fiscal cliff?"
If legislators and the president do not reach a budget deal by Dec. 31, 2012, automatic spending cuts and tax hikes will take place (aka "the fiscal cliff"). We want to hear from you about how this looming event is affecting your decisions, if at all.

Teachers: How are you dealing with the Connecticut school shooting?
MPR News wants to hear from teachers about how you're addressing the shooting with your students (if at all) and what your concerns are about safety at your school.
Parents: How are you talking to your kids about Newtown?
MPR News wants to hear from parents about how you're talking about the Connecticut school shooting with your kids -- if you're talking about it at all. Please share your insights here.
How's the economy looking to you?
MPR News wants to hear how the economy is looking from where you are. Please share your insights here.
On Message: Help MPR News track campaign materials
You'll be likely bombarded with political ads, fliers and emails between now and the election on November 6. We want to be able to fact check the claims made in these messages and let you know who's paying for them. But first, we need your help collecting them.

In the Network - Featured Sources & Stories

With school out, teachers talk about burnout
June brings a mix of emotions for teachers: relief over making it through another year and a sense of accomplishment after helping students learn. But for many teachers struggle this time of year, feeling completely burned out.
Recession-era students graduate into new economic reality
We asked some 2011 graduates to tell us what their first year in the job market has been like. Most of them have finally found work, but some remain underemployed after months bouncing between unpaid and paid internships, contract work and unemployment.
Stories of recovery from Minneapolis residents
We've been asking sources in our Public Insight Network to share their memories of the Minneapolis tornado last year, and what they've experienced since. They shared stories of resilience, frustration and rebuilding.
Young and underwater, homeowners face tough decisions
People in their 30s tend to be more mobile than older Americans, but many who bought homes in 2006 at the height of the real-estate market feel stuck. Falling home prices mean many of these young homeowners now owe tens of thousands more than what their houses are worth.
Art Hounds: Thomas Dolby, Werther and Lotte, and an arresting silent film in Duluth
The hounds are following a tragic, yet engagingly theatrical love story, a silent film classic with a local soundtrack, and an '80s New Wave superstar who's still going strong.
Small grocery store fills gap in W. Minn. 'food desert'
We asked members of our Public Insight Network to tell us about living far from a major grocery store.
What has early spring meant around the state?
We asked sources in our Public Insight Network to tell us what changes they've noticed due to this year's early Minnesota spring. From Crookston to Winona, they tell us the early spring has meant optimism, flexibility and a certain amount of unease.
In early spring, one family's last walk
Every sign of winter's end carries significance for Terry Strack and his wife, Cynthia Smith-Strack, because they know it will likely be their last spring together.
Think solar power can't compete with big utilities? Think again
John Farrell, a PIN source and researcher who works on energy issues, says it's a misperception that solar energy can't be economically viable.
Stimulant drinks will give you energy, but they may also get you a lecture from the dentist
Hani Hamdan, a Lakeville dentist and PIN source, points out the risks that energy drinks pose for dental health.
Newcomers say Minnesota is 'nice,' but not warm
Minnesotans may take pride in their reputation for friendliness, but many others consider "Minnesota Nice" a backhanded compliment and a social critique. The locals are loyal and neighborly, yet they tend to keep outsiders at a comfortable distance. Many young transplants -- whether from South Dakota or South America -- say making friends and finding a sense of community is daunting.
Video: Adjusting to 'Minnesota Nice'
They came to Minnesota for work, for love, to be near family, to find a better place to raise children, to escape civil war. But sources in our Public Insight Network who shared their experience adjusting to life in Minnesota all said it wasn't easy.
English-only measure still divides Lino Lakes
Thai Lee and his wife left the East Side of St. Paul for Lino Lakes three years ago, for the same reasons anyone moves to the suburbs: a bigger house to raise their children, quiet neighborhoods, strong schools, and a shorter commute to his job. It surprised Lee that his city would take on what he considers such a divisive position. He said his mother, now in her 60s, still struggles with English.

Questions?

Learn more about the Public Insight Network

Current PIN participants, please update your information here.

LEARN MORE

Frequently asked questions

Public Insight Network funders

Featured Project

A church divided, together
We explore the effect of the Aug. 21, 2009 vote allowing gay pastors to serve as clergy in the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America through the stories of Lutherans in the Public Insight Network.