Shows

Learning from Minnesota businesses that thrived during the pandemic
Many small businesses closed or barely survived during the COVID-19 pandemic. But plenty of businesses got started, and some grew. MPR News host Angela Davis talks with economics contributor Chris Farrell and business owners about the small businesses that pulled ahead during the last two years. 
North Star Journey: MPR News stories on the history and culture of Minnesota communities
Each Sunday, MPR News host Angela Davis brings you stories from North Star Journey, a series from MPR News focusing on the history and culture of Minnesota communities. This episode includes stories from Brandt Williams, Nina Moini and Hannah Yang.
Will the Legislature pass paid family leave?
Are more Minnesota workers closer to getting paid time off work to bond with a child, cope with illness, or care for sick family members?  Host Mike Mulcahy talks with two state legislators about different proposals for paid family leave. Plus, should Minnesota pay for school breakfasts and lunches for all students? 
NCAA Women’s Final Four comes to Minneapolis, showcasing strides in equity
The four top college women's basketball teams will face off in Minneapolis this weekend in the NCAA Women’s Final Four tournament. MPR News host Angela Davis talked with a coach for the University of Minnesota’s women’s basketball team and an expert on women in sports about the Final Four Tournament and gender disparities in sports. 
Women's Final Four offers homecoming for Bueckers
The 2022 Women's Final Four tips off in Minneapolis on Friday night with a lot to offer, and a lot to prove — not just for the athletes, but also for the NCAA and the host city.
Kelly Weill on why conspiracy theories are spreading faster than ever
Despite centuries of evidence pointing otherwise, there are still people who believe the Earth is flat — and their numbers are growing, thanks to social media and a reinvigorated culture of conspiratorial thinking. Journalist Kelly Weill has studied the flat Earth movement for years. Her new book is “Off the Edge: Flat Earthers, Conspiracy Culture, and Why People Will Believe Anything.”
Minnesota welder Seven Bailey on trans visibility and amplifying voices through their work
Even if you haven’t heard Seven Bailey’s name yet, you’ve seen their work. Bailey constructed the iconic metal fist in George Floyd Square, as well as the massive 10-ton Nimbus sculpture on Nicollet Mall in front of Minneapolis Central Library.
Former West Side Flats residents have mixed memories about their old neighborhood
Some of the earliest immigrants to the city of St. Paul lived in areas that were eventually torn down, leaving residents to find new places to live. Many Mexican immigrants settled in areas like Swede Hollow and the West Side Flats. Use the audio player above to listen to the full conversation. Subscribe to the Minnesota Now podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts.