Welcome to a special episode of On Assignment, where we explore journalism’s biggest questions and boldest challenges. Guest hosted by Jane Swisshelm, and today we’re asking: How can news organizations earn back the public’s trust?

In a time of rampant misinformation, political polarization, and digital noise, trust in the media is at a critical low. But there are real, research-backed strategies that newsrooms are using right now to rebuild that connection with the public.

We dive into:

• How transparency — like showing how stories are reported — boosts credibility.
• The power of “explain your process” tools and Trust Indicators.
• Why engagement and listening to communities fosters stronger relationships.
• The importance of accuracy, fairness, and authentically showing up in local news.
• And how “care” in journalism may be the next frontier in building lasting trust.

With insights from the Center for Media Engagement, The Trust Project, Trusting News, ICFJ, the American Press Institute, and the Reuters Institute, this episode is packed with practical ideas for how journalism can not only survive — but thrive — by earning back your trust.