“Planet Money” to host training session on international trade coverage

NPR’s “Planet Money” is hosting a two-day radio training for member station reporters and editors who cover business and international trade.

As the U.S. starts to renegotiate NAFTA and rethinks free trade, every state will feel the impact. At this training, you will learn how “Planet Money” uses narrative and humor to explain complicated economic ideas. You will get to pitch your stories and get editorial feedback from our hosts. And you’ll hear from experienced international correspondents on how to cover cross-cultural issues.

The training will take place in Mexico City on Sept. 21-22. We will cover the training costs, hotel and meals during the day. Member stations are responsible for getting their reporter or editor to Mexico City (airfare is usually $300-500).

Requirements: This training will be best for mid-level reporters and editors with some business reporting experience. Spanish language skills will be helpful, but not required. You must have a passport and be comfortable traveling in a foreign country. If you are chosen, we will ask you to bring a story in progress for a group edit.

To apply: Send an email to Robert Smith (rsmith@npr.org) with ‘Mexico Training’ in the subject line. Please explain why you think this training will benefit your reporting and your station. Give us links to two stories that you feel show your capabilities. And include the name and contact info for your editor or news director who approved your application.