What is Minnesota Public Radio (MPR) and what is its primary geographic focus?

Minnesota Public Radio (MPR) is a public radio network serving the U.S. state of Minnesota. It operates a regional radio network with 46 stations across the upper Midwest, offering three distinct services: News & Information, YourClassical MPR, and The Current.

What accolades has Minnesota Public Radio received for its journalism?

Minnesota Public Radio has earned significant recognition for its journalistic work, accumulating over 875 awards. These include prestigious honors such as the Peabody Award, the RTNDA Edward R. Murrow Award, the Corporation for Public Broadcasting award of the same name, and the Alfred I. duPont-Columbia University Gold Baton Award.

How does MPR rank in terms of listener support compared to other public radio networks?

As of September 2011, Minnesota Public Radio was tied with WNYC for the highest listener support among public radio networks nationwide. It also held the distinction of having the highest number of recurring monthly donors in the country.

What is the origin story of Minnesota Public Radio, including its founding date and initial location?

Minnesota Public Radio began on January 22, 1967, when its first station, KSJR-FM, began broadcasting from the campus of Saint John's University in Collegeville, Minnesota, near St. Cloud. The initiative was spearheaded by Colman Barry, the president of Saint John's University, who saw potential in FM radio as a means to extend the university's cultural and artistic reach.

Who was instrumental in the early development of MPR and what was his role?

William H. Kling, a 23-year-old graduate of Saint John's University, was hired by President Colman Barry as the director of broadcasting. Kling played a pivotal role in the network's development, leading MPR as president and CEO for 44 years until his retirement in 2011.

What financial and operational challenges led to the transfer of MPR's assets from Saint John's University?

Shortly after KSJR signed on, it became clear that the station lacked sufficient listeners in the St. Cloud area to be viable. Despite efforts to increase power to reach the Twin Cities, coverage was inadequate. By 1969, Saint John's University recognized it lacked the necessary financial and personnel resources for a full-fledged noncommercial radio station, leading to the transfer of assets to a community corporation, which eventually became Minnesota Public Radio.

What were the previous names of Minnesota Public Radio before it adopted its current name?

Before becoming Minnesota Public Radio (MPR), the organization operated under the names Saint John's University Broadcasting and Minnesota Educational Radio.

When did MPR become a founding member of National Public Radio (NPR), and what role did it play in NPR's formation?

MPR was a charter member of National Public Radio (NPR) in 1971. It had actively contributed to the groundwork for forming NPR during 1969 and 1970.

What significant programming originated from MPR in the 1970s and 1980s?

In 1974, MPR began broadcasting Garrison Keillor's 'A Prairie Home Companion,' which became a well-known public radio program. In 1980, MPR also originated the Peabody Award-winning classical music show 'Saint Paul Sunday,' which was syndicated nationally starting in 1981.

How did MPR evolve its programming to offer separate news and classical music services?

Initially, MPR broadcast a mix of classical music and NPR news/talk programming. As NPR expanded its offerings, MPR planned to split its services. This led to the acquisition of WLOL (AM) in 1980, which became KSJN (AM) and simulcast the FM station. In 1989, AM 1330 changed calls to KNOW and aired expanded NPR programming. The crucial step occurred in 1991 when MPR purchased WLOL-FM, allowing the definitive split into two networks: one for news and talk (on the KNOW frequency) and one for classical music (on the KSJN frequency).

What acquisitions and expansions did MPR undertake in the early 2000s?

In 2000, MPR acquired Marketplace Productions, which produces 'Marketplace' and related programs. In the same year, MPR founded Southern California Public Radio. In 2004, MPR began distributing its own shows via American Public Media (APM), moving away from Public Radio International (PRI), and APM became the third radio network in the U.S. to receive founding support from MPR.

How did MPR launch its third service, 'The Current'?

MPR acquired WCAL (89.3 FM) and its repeater station KMSE in Rochester from St. Olaf College in 2004 for $10.5 million. Following the acquisition, WCAL changed its call letters to KCMP in 2005 and was transformed into MPR's third service, 'The Current,' which focuses on music programming.

What legal dispute arose from the acquisition of WCAL by MPR?

An advocacy group for WCAL took St. Olaf College to court, alleging a breach of trust in the sale of the radio station. A judge's opinion in June 2008 described the station as a charitable trust not freely disposable by the college. However, in 2009, a court ruled in favor of MPR, stating that the statute of limitations had expired, nullifying the advocacy group's standing.

What is the current reach of Minnesota Public Radio?

As of the provided text, MPR serves a regional audience of one million listeners through 43 stations, offering three broadcast network services: News, Classical, and The Current.

What are the three primary broadcast network services offered by Minnesota Public Radio?

The three primary services offered by Minnesota Public Radio are News & Information, YourClassical MPR (classical music), and The Current (adult album alternative format).

What is the flagship station for MPR's News & Information service?

The flagship station for MPR's News & Information service is KNOW-FM, broadcasting at 91.1 FM in the Twin Cities metropolitan area.

What is the Public Insight Network (PIN), and what is its significance to MPR's newsgathering?

The Public Insight Network (PIN) is a newsgathering and networking initiative founded by MPR and developed by American Public Media in 2003. It functions by creating a community of citizens who share their insights, personal experiences, and firsthand knowledge with trusted journalists. This shared information can then be incorporated into news reports across various media platforms and has contributed to national programs like 'Marketplace'.

What is the flagship station for MPR's classical music network, and what is its current branding?

The flagship station for MPR's classical music network is KSJN (99.5 FM) in the Twin Cities. In April 2021, it was rebranded as 'YourClassical MPR,' aligning it with American Public Media's digital classical music platforms and national programming.

What is the typical programming structure for the YourClassical MPR network?

While most of the network's schedule consists of a simulcast of APM's 'Classical 24' network, YourClassical MPR also airs statewide morning and afternoon shows on weekdays and features various specials and live broadcasts.

What is the format of 'The Current,' MPR's third service, and when did it launch?

'The Current,' MPR's third service, debuted on January 24, 2005, and features an adult album alternative (AAA) music format. This format typically includes a mix of rock, indie, and alternative music.

Where did many of the initial staff and on-air personalities for 'The Current' come from?

Many of the staff and on-air personalities for 'The Current' came from other radio stations known for highlighting music from Minnesota and the Upper Midwest. These included the University of Minnesota's KUOM, community station KFAI, and commercial alternative rock outlets like REV 105 and Cincinnati's WOXY.com.

What are some of the additional music and content services offered by Minnesota Public Radio?

MPR programs several other services, including Carbon Sound (R&B and Black artists), Local Current (music from Minnesota artists), Purple Current (R&B and Hip-Hop inspired by Prince), Rock The Cradle (music for children and parents), and Radio Heartland (acoustic, Americana, and roots music). Some of these are available online and via HD Radio subchannels.

How does MPR utilize Subsidiary Communications Authority (SCA) transmissions?

MPR uses Subsidiary Communications Authority (SCA) transmissions to broadcast a Minnesota version of the Radio Talking Book Network, providing audio content to visually impaired listeners across the state in collaboration with Minnesota State Services for the Blind.

What role does MPR play in emergency communication systems?

Minnesota Public Radio serves as the radio backbone for the state's Emergency Alert System, ensuring that critical alerts can be broadcast effectively. It also provides the backbone for the state's Amber Alert system.

What types of programming are heard on MPR's News and Information service?

MPR's News and Information service features a blend of locally produced programs and national and international shows distributed by organizations like NPR.

What is the purpose of the MPRNews.org website?

MPRNews.org is a nonprofit news website maintained by MPR that covers state-specific issues such as politics, business, education, health, environment, and the economy. It provides news headlines, video, blogs, audio, and interactive elements for reader engagement.

What is the relationship between Minnesota Public Radio and American Public Media (APM)?

Minnesota Public Radio produces and distributes national public radio programming through American Public Media (APM). APM is the distribution arm, while MPR is the originating network for many of these programs.

What is the primary focus of the Carbon Sound service offered by MPR?

Carbon Sound is MPR's newest service, dedicated to R&B music and featuring Black artists. It is available via streaming online and on the HD 2 subchannel of KCMP in the Twin Cities.

What kind of music does the 'Purple Current' service feature?

Purple Current is an R&B and Hip-Hop service that is inspired by the music and legacy of the artist Prince.

What is 'Radio Heartland' known for?

Radio Heartland features an eclectic mix of acoustic, Americana, and roots music. This service can be accessed on the HD2 subchannel of KNOW-FM and through a separate webcast.

What programming is available on the HD3 subchannel of KNOW-FM?

The HD3 subchannel of KNOW-FM features programming from NPR and the BBC World Service. It includes additional hours of 'Morning Edition' and 'All Things Considered' that are not available on KNOW's main signal, along with other NPR and APM shows.

What are some of the MPR regional programs listed in the article?

Some of the MPR regional programs mentioned include 'The Jazz Image,' 'The Morning Show,' and 'Open Air.'

List several American Public Media programs that are heard on Minnesota Public Radio.

Several American Public Media programs heard on MPR include 'American RadioWorks,' 'American Routes,' 'As It Happens,' 'Classical 24,' 'Live from Here' (formerly 'A Prairie Home Companion'), 'Marketplace,' 'On Being' (formerly 'Speaking of Faith'), 'Performance Today,' 'Pipedreams,' 'Saint Paul Sunday,' 'The Splendid Table,' 'The Story,' 'Weekend America,' and 'The Writer's Almanac.'

What are some of the nationally distributed programs from NPR and other sources that are broadcast by Minnesota Public Radio?

Minnesota Public Radio broadcasts numerous other programs, including NPR staples like 'All Things Considered,' 'Morning Edition,' and 'Weekend Edition.' Other notable programs include 'American Routes,' 'As it Happens,' 'BBC World Service,' 'Car Talk,' 'Fresh Air,' 'On the Media,' 'Radio Lab,' 'This American Life,' and 'Wait Wait... Don't Tell Me!'

How is Minnesota Public Radio funded?

Minnesota Public Radio operates as a nonprofit organization and receives funding from various sources, including listener contributions (membership dues), foundations, corporate and private donations, government grants, advertising, education partners, and investments in publicly traded securities.

What was the financial impact of selling the Rivertown Trading Company for MPR?

The sale of the for-profit Rivertown Trading Company, once a subsidiary of MPR's parent company, generated $124 million in 1998. These profits were used to establish MPR's endowment, a portion of which now contributes to the organization's annual budget.

What were Minnesota Public Radio's total expenses for the fiscal year 2023?

For the fiscal year 2023 (July 1, 2022, to June 30, 2023), Minnesota Public Radio's total expenses were $117.1 million.

What were the largest categories of annual expenses for MPR in fiscal year 2023?

The largest expense categories for MPR in fiscal year 2023 were Salaries and wages ($47.7 million), Professional Fees and Marketing ($27.3 million), and Employee Benefits and Payroll Taxes ($10.7 million).

What was the total revenue reported by MPR on its federal tax return for 2021?

On its federal tax return for 2021, Minnesota Public Radio reported a total revenue of $174,153,779.

What were the primary sources of MPR's revenue in 2021, according to its tax return?

In 2021, MPR's largest revenue sources included Membership dues ($92,201,208), Other contributions ($32,556,823), Program service revenue ($15,541,055), and Related organizations ($11,840,216).

What was the total revenue reported by MPR on its federal tax return for 2022?

On its federal tax return for 2022, Minnesota Public Radio reported a total revenue of $113,958,386.

Which individuals were among the highest-compensated employees at MPR/APMG in 2021, and what were their approximate salaries?

In 2021, some of the highest-compensated individuals included David Kansas (Former EVP & President, APM) at $652,287, Jon McTaggart (President & CEO, APMG) at $558,767, Kai Ryssdal (Host) at $469,760, and Duchesne Drew (President MPR) at $452,712.

In which states outside of Minnesota does Minnesota Public Radio operate broadcast stations?

Minnesota Public Radio operates stations in South Dakota (Brookings and Sioux Falls), Michigan (Houghton), Iowa (Decorah), and Idaho (Sun Valley).

How are the News & Information and Classical music services typically provided to listeners in MPR's coverage areas?

Most areas served by MPR's network receive both a classical music station and a news and information station, ensuring broad access to both types of programming.

Which specific Minnesota cities and areas are served by MPR's 'The Current' service?

MPR's newest service, 'The Current,' is available in Austin, Hinckley, Mankato, the Twin Cities, New Ulm, Rochester, St. Cloud (Collegeville), and St. Peter.

How does MPR contribute to the American Archive of Public Broadcasting?

Original materials from Minnesota Public Radio have been contributed to the American Archive of Public Broadcasting, ensuring their preservation and accessibility for future reference.

What is the purpose of the Public Insight Network (PIN) initiative founded by MPR?

The Public Insight Network (PIN) was created to facilitate newsgathering by connecting journalists with a community of citizens who provide insights, personal experiences, and firsthand knowledge on various topics, enriching the reporting process.

What is the relationship between Minnesota Public Radio and American Public Media Group?

Minnesota Public Radio is owned by American Public Media Group (APMG), which oversees the production and distribution of national public radio programming.

What is the significance of the 'YourClassical' brand in relation to MPR?

The 'YourClassical' brand is used by American Public Media for its digital classical music platforms and nationally distributed programming. MPR's classical music network, KSJN, was rebranded as 'YourClassical MPR' in April 2021 to align with this umbrella branding.

Minnesota Public Radio Wiki: Minnesota Public Radio: Tuning into the Airwaves of Information and Culture

Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

When you are ready...
🎮 Play the Wiki2Web Clarity Challenge Game🎮

The MPR Network

Public Radio Ecosystem

Minnesota Public Radio (MPR) stands as a prominent public radio network serving the state of Minnesota and extending its reach across the upper Midwest. It operates through three distinct services: MPR News & Information, YourClassical MPR, and The Current, collectively comprising a 46-station regional network.

Organizational Structure

MPR is owned and operated by American Public Media Group, a non-profit organization dedicated to public broadcasting. The network is affiliated with National Public Radio (NPR), American Public Media (APM), and Public Radio Exchange (PRX).

Headquarters and Leadership

The network's headquarters are situated in St. Paul, Minnesota. As of recent reporting, Duchesne Drew serves as the President of Minnesota Public Radio, guiding its strategic direction and operations.

A Legacy in Broadcasting

Genesis and Early Growth

Minnesota Public Radio traces its origins back to January 22, 1967, when KSJR-FM first broadcast from Saint John's University in Collegeville, Minnesota. Visionary leadership, particularly from Father Colman Barry, recognized radio's potential for community outreach. William H. Kling was appointed director of broadcasting, initiating the network's journey.

Evolution and Expansion

Facing early financial and logistical challenges, the operation transitioned to a community corporation, eventually becoming Minnesota Public Radio. Under Kling's 44-year leadership, MPR became a charter member of NPR in 1971, expanded its reach with new stations, and developed a highly acclaimed news department. The network also pioneered influential programs like A Prairie Home Companion and Saint Paul Sunday.

Service Diversification

In the 1990s, MPR strategically split its programming into distinct news/talk and classical music networks. The acquisition of WLOL-FM in 1991 facilitated this crucial separation. Further expansion occurred with the acquisition of Marketplace Productions and the founding of Southern California Public Radio. The 2005 acquisition of WCAL led to the creation of MPR's third service, "The Current," focusing on contemporary music.

Core Broadcasting Services

MPR News

The MPR News service offers a comprehensive blend of locally produced programming and national/international news from NPR. Its flagship station, KNOW-FM (91.1 FM) in the Twin Cities, anchors a network recognized for its award-winning journalism and innovative Public Insight Network, which leverages citizen expertise.

YourClassical MPR

Dedicated to classical music, YourClassical MPR operates on 18 full-power stations and various translators. Primarily simulcasting APM's Classical 24 service, it also features statewide morning and afternoon shows and special broadcasts, providing a rich classical music experience.

The Current

Launched in 2005, The Current champions an Adult Album Alternative (AAA) format, showcasing music from Minnesota and the Upper Midwest alongside national and international artists. Its programming is largely locally produced, with KCMP (89.3 FM) serving as the flagship station.

Signature Programs

MPR Regional Programs

MPR produces several programs tailored to its regional audience, including:

The Jazz Image
The Morning Show
Open Air

American Public Media Programs

Through its parent organization, MPR distributes nationally recognized programs such as:

American RadioWorks
American Routes
Marketplace
Performance Today
The Splendid Table
The Writer's Almanac

Brains On!
Classical 24
Composers Datebook
The Daily
Marketplace Morning Report
Marketplace Tech
Pipedreams
Smash Boom Best
SymphonyCast
On Being (formerly Speaking of Faith)
Live from Here (formerly A Prairie Home Companion)

Other Notable Programs

The MPR network also features a variety of other acclaimed public radio programs, including:

All Things Considered
Fresh Air
Morning Edition
On the Media
Radio Lab
This American Life
Wait Wait... Don't Tell Me!
The World

Financial Overview

Revenue Streams (2021)

MPR's total revenue in 2021 was approximately $174.15 million. Key sources include:

Membership dues: ~$92.2 million
Other contributions: ~$32.6 million
Program service revenue: ~$15.5 million
Government grants: ~$7.8 million
Royalties: ~$5.5 million
Advertising: ~$4.6 million

MPR Revenue Details (2021)
Category	Dollars
Membership dues	$92,201,208
Related organizations	$11,840,216
Government grants	$7,782,345
Other contributions	$32,556,823
Publicly traded securities	$2,321,333
Program service	$15,541,055
Advertising	$4,594,444
Other earned	$2,830,605
Royalties	$5,456,642
Other	$1,350,441
Total Revenue	$174,153,779

Expense Allocation (FY 2023)

Total expenses for FY 2023 amounted to $117.1 million. The largest expense category was salaries and wages.

MPR Expenses Summary (FY 2023)
Category	Millions of dollars
Salaries and wages	47.7
Employee Benefits and Payroll Taxes	10.7
Professional Fees and Marketing	27.3
Production and Acquisition	13.6
Office and Occupancy	1.1
Interest	0.2
Depreciation and Amortization	3.0
Financial	1.2
Other Expenses	2.1
Total Expenses	117.1

Executive Compensation

Compensation for key personnel reflects the scale of operations. In 2021, the average compensation for the eight highest-compensated employees was approximately $486,805, with figures showing an increase in 2022.

Highest Compensated Employees (2021)
Person	Position	Compensation
David Kansas	Former EVP & President, APM	$652,287
Jon McTaggart	President & CEO. APMG	$558,767
Kai Ryssdal	Host	$469,760
Kevin Gilman	National Account Executive	$465,520
Duchesne Drew	President MPR	$452,712
Michael Lewis	Senior Vice President & GCO	$452,105
David Brancaccio	Host	$423,104
Morris Goodwin JR.	Senior Vice President & CPO, AMPG	$420,185

Broadcast Reach

Regional Network

MPR's extensive network comprises dozens of stations and translators, ensuring broad coverage across Minnesota and extending into neighboring states such as South Dakota, Michigan, Iowa, and Idaho. This infrastructure allows for widespread dissemination of its news, classical, and contemporary music programming.

Major Metropolitan Areas

Key metropolitan areas like the Twin Cities, Duluth, and Rochester are served by MPR's full suite of services: MPR News, YourClassical MPR, and The Current. This multi-service approach caters to diverse listener preferences within these significant population centers.

Digital and HD Presence

Beyond traditional over-the-air broadcasts, MPR leverages digital platforms, including HD Radio subchannels and online streaming. This ensures accessibility across various devices and formats, including specialized streams like Purple Current and additional NPR/BBC content on KNOW-FM's HD3 channel.

Teacher's Corner

Edit and Print this course in the Wiki2Web Teacher Studio

Edit and Print Materials from this study in the wiki2web studio

Click here to open the "Minnesota Public Radio" Wiki2Web Studio curriculum kit

Use the free Wiki2web Studio to generate printable flashcards, worksheets, exams, and export your materials as a web page or an interactive game.

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Are you ready for the Wiki2Web Clarity Challenge?

Learn about minnesota_public_radio while playing the wiki2web Clarity Challenge game.

Unlock the mystery image and prove your knowledge by earning trophies. This simple game is addictively fun and is a great way to learn!

Play now

Explore More Topics

Discover other topics to study!

attack on pearl harbor

list of deputy chief ministers of maharashtra

pressure vessel

united states ambassador-at-large to monitor and combat trafficking in persons

576i

seinfeld

psychology

cattell–horn–carroll theory

master race

second french empire

References

Peabody Awards for MPR. Retrieved September 2014.

Profile of Colman Barry at MPR's 50th anniversary site

A full list of references for this article are available at the Minnesota Public Radio Wikipedia page

Feedback & Support

To report an issue with this page, or to find out ways to support the mission, please click here.

Disclaimer

Important Notice

This page was generated by an Artificial Intelligence and is intended for informational and educational purposes only. The content is derived from publicly available data and may not be entirely comprehensive or up-to-date.

This is not professional advice. The information provided herein is not a substitute for consulting official Minnesota Public Radio documentation or seeking expert advice in media, broadcasting, or finance. Always verify information with primary sources.

The creators of this page are not responsible for any errors or omissions, or for any actions taken based on the information provided.

Minnesota Public Radio

💡 Dive in with Flashcard Learning! 💡

The MPR Network ℹ️

🌐 Public Radio Ecosystem

🏢 Organizational Structure

📍 Headquarters and Leadership

A Legacy in Broadcasting 📜

🚀 Genesis and Early Growth

📈 Evolution and Expansion

🔄 Service Diversification

Core Broadcasting Services 🎧

📰 MPR News

🎶 YourClassical MPR

🎵 The Current

Signature Programs 🎙️

📻 MPR Regional Programs

🌍 American Public Media Programs

📻 Other Notable Programs

Financial Overview 💰

📊 Revenue Streams (2021)

💸 Expense Allocation (FY 2023)

🧑‍💼 Executive Compensation

Broadcast Reach 📡

📍 Regional Network

🏙️ Major Metropolitan Areas

💻 Digital and HD Presence

Teacher's Corner 🧑‍🏫

Edit and Print this course in the Wiki2Web Teacher Studio

True or False? 🤔

❓ Test Your Knowledge! ❓

Gamer's Corner 🎮

Are you ready for the Wiki2Web Clarity Challenge?

Explore More Topics

📜 Discover other topics to study!

References

📜 References

Feedback & Support 👍

To report an issue with this page, or to find out ways to support the mission, please click here.

Disclaimer ⚠️

📜 Important Notice

Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

The MPR Network

Public Radio Ecosystem

Organizational Structure

Headquarters and Leadership

A Legacy in Broadcasting

Genesis and Early Growth

Evolution and Expansion

Service Diversification

Core Broadcasting Services

MPR News

YourClassical MPR

The Current

Signature Programs

MPR Regional Programs

American Public Media Programs

Other Notable Programs

Financial Overview

Revenue Streams (2021)

Expense Allocation (FY 2023)

Executive Compensation

Broadcast Reach

Regional Network

Major Metropolitan Areas

Digital and HD Presence

Teacher's Corner

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Discover other topics to study!

References

Feedback & Support

Disclaimer

Important Notice