Austin Amestoy
Morning Edition Host and ReporterAustin graduated from the University of Montana’s journalism program in May 2022. He came to MTPR as an evening newscast intern that summer, and jumped at the chance to join full-time as the station’s morning voice in Fall 2022. He also hosts MTPR's podcast The Big Why, where he joins other MTPR reporters in answering listener questions about Montana.
Austin grew up in Laurel, Montana, and loves covering all things state politics, policy and beyond. In his free time, Austin enjoys creative writing, watching and critiquing films, and long walks through Fort Missoula.
He is best reached by emailing austin.amestoy@umt.edu.
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MTPR is interviewing candidates running for federal office in 2026. MTPR's Austin Amestoy speaks with Patrick McCracken, a Libertarian running for Montana’s eastern district U.S. House seat. -
MTPR is interviewing candidates running for federal office in 2026. MTPR's Austin Amestoy speaks with Ray Curtis, a Republican running for Montana's western U.S. House seat. -
A spike in rent across Montana during the pandemic coincided with the rise of tenants unions in the state. These organizations of renters have sought solutions from property managers for rent hikes and maintenance backlogs, among other issues. Montana PBS reporter Matthew Standal joined MTPR’s Austin Amestoy with more. -
Some Montana schools are seeking levies to fund staff salaries and mounting technology expenses -
Hundreds of miles of open road can stretch between expectant mothers and the maternity care they need in rural Montana. That’s where trained, non-medical professionals called “doulas” can help fill the gap. Montana was set to start reimbursing doulas through Medicaid this year, but federal cuts to the health program have put that plan on ice. -
The Montana Supreme Court heard arguments Friday in a case that could impact how voters pass laws from the ballot box. Plaintiffs say a 2023 law passed by legislators puts unconstitutional restrictions on citizen-led initiatives. -
In 1916, four years before women nationwide won the right to vote, Montanans elected Jeannette Rankin to Congress. She served two nonconsecutive terms, retiring in 1943. Rankin was the first woman in the country – and the last woman in Montana – to hold congressional office. One listener wants to know why. -
Trout are prized and ubiquitous residents of Montana’s waterways. They’re less commonly found in the classroom – unless you know where to look. In the Bitterroot Valley, some students are getting a hands-on lesson in what it takes to raise rainbow trout. -
Briefs: A temporary block on abortion restrictions will remain in place as a lawsuit challenging them continues; The public can weigh-in on Lolo National Forest plan revisions; UM plans April 6 public forum with university president candidate. -
More than 200 of the brightest young minds from across the state filled a gymnasium at UM this week for the 71st annual Montana Science Fair. Students showcased their work – from magnetic levitation, to drone laser tag – and competed for a chance to enter the national science fair.
