I enjoyed having Dr. Wenzel as a guest. She had a great story that really showed her progression in journalism, which was insightful for me. She has reported all over the place! It was interesting to see how much of her work became longer more involved research projects rather than straightforward news writing. Solutions journalism takes more time, more work, and more research. But the results can have a greater impact.

I really loved the use of the listening posts, although I was disappointed they abandoned the fish design. If I had a choice between talking into a post or a fish, I would choose fish 100 percent of the time. I just don’t understand.

I guess the important thing is that we are talking about people in our stories, real human beings. There is a great deal of trust involved when someone gives you their name to use in the writing or broadcasting of something that will be completely out of their hands once you walk away. That trust has to be earned, respected, and recognized for what it is — a leap of faith on their part. We can’t always report what people want to hear, but we can always show our appreciation for the people that allow us to speak on their behalf. Part of journalistic integrity, the heart of journalistic storytelling, revolves around maintaining strong relationships. Relationships with sources, readers, co-workers, residents, mentors, and the members our stories might ultimately affect. It is not an easy task. It is much easier neglected and ignored, but it is as much a priority as any other aspect of journalism. Right next to tables. Tables are very important. You set up a table outside a library and the quotes will be rolling in. No more ambushing people on the street with a pen and paper in their face. I’m getting me some signs and a portable table and setting up shop on the street for every story I do from here on out.