Understanding the Debate: Media Bias, Public Trust, and the Role of Public Broadcasting

In an age of deep polarization and growing media skepticism, public broadcasting faces both renewed scrutiny and urgent relevance. This interactive session will explore the spectrum of arguments for and against publicly funded media—addressing concerns around bias, accountability, and audience trust.

Facilitated by communication scholar, Martín Carcasson, this 90-minute convening blends lecture, dialogue, and audience engagement to illuminate the role public media can play in strengthening democracy and civic life. Participants will be invited to ask questions, share insights, and reflect on their own relationship to public media.

- Martín Carcasson, Director, Center for Public Deliberation, Colorado State University

- Joanna Kail, CEO, Wyoming PBS

- Amanda Mountain, President and CEO, Rocky Mountain Public Media

- Amber Coté, Sr. Director, Statewide Civic Engagement, Rocky Mountain Public Media

Join Rocky Mountain PBS, Wyoming PBS, and the Center for Public Deliberation at Colorado State University as we unpack the challenges—and make the case—for public broadcasting as a trusted, community-rooted source in a divided media landscape.

Registration required. Click here to register now.