Every episode, radio's top hosts, PD's and media thought leaders share tips, tools, and tradecraft secrets on remaining relevant in our ever-evolving mediascape. Hosted by veteran manager and 2nd generation broadcaster David Martin and recovering radio programmer and author of "Brandwidth, America's Digital Branding Coach " Kipper McGee.
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Classic storytelling can be found around many campfires and in any Disney film. In so many cases, the very best of stories from our personal lives are heard repeatedly over years without ever being recorded. Tim Larson and Liz Wylder knew that WROK radio’s 100th birthday in 2023 would be a great springboard for this project. Future sit downs would certainly rekindle old friendships and, undoubtedly, allow everyone to learn something about the people they thought they knew well. The lightbulb ...
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S1 E87 - WHITNEY MARTIN - Director of Made For Rockford at Visitors Bureau
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53:39
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53:39Whitney Martin and Tim Larson have known each other for a long time. Sharing the back stories of television and radio is just the beginning. Charity work together, bloopers and dancing. You'll have to tune in to sort it all out. Recorded at the Rockford Area Convention and Visitors Bureau in downtown Rockford, Illinois on January 30, 2025.…
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S1 E86 - KELLIE OLIVENCIA & LAURA GIBBS-GREEN - ILLINOIS SNOW SCULPTING COMPETITION 2025
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33:22Tim Larson founded his promotional advertising company the very same year the Illinois Snow Sculpting Competition handed out their first awards. Tim has sponsored, volunteered and supplied trophies even since. Between the three of them, Laura, Kellie and Tim will draw back the curtain and share little know facts about what it takes to conduct this …
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Beyond Powerful: Valerie Geller’s Top Insights for Future-Proofing Your Media Career
17:57
17:57
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17:57Want to secure YOUR career against the unknown? In this must-listen episode multi-media powerhouse and content guru Valerie Geller drops some serious knowledge bombs about adapting and excelling in today’s hyper-digital media frenzy. Fresh off finishing her third book, BEYOND POWERFUL RADIO: An Audio Communicator’s Guide to the Digital World , Vale…
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Sean Ross-Radio's Most Intriguing Stations of 2025
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19:03Join us as Sean Ross, the renowned writer and editor behind "Ross on Radio," explores the radio industry’s path to thriving in 2025. Just in time for his annual Intriguing Stations column, discover how standout radio brands are redefining success with creative formats and localized engagement, from bilingual classics in Miami to innovative listener…
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S1 E85 - TIM JOHNSON - General Manager of KSAM & KHVL radio in Texas
1:18:52
1:18:52
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1:18:52Tim Johnson and Tim Larson worked side by side at WROK radio in Rockford, Illinois in the med '80s. Our promotional meetings were always a high level of brainstorming. They mastered the art of connecting listeners and sponsors to the overall on-air experience for the good of the station. Say it was simply fun would be a huge understatement. Tim Joh…
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S1 E83 - PHIL RAINES - Beekeeper at Raines Honey Farm
1:12:29
1:12:29
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1:12:29Phil and Sharon Raines have been vendors at Edgebrook's Farmers Market for as long as I can remember. He's never met a stranger and is filled to the brim with bee knowledge. It was a fun conversation which ranged from "going commando" in a bee suit to selling live bees to veterinarians to treat horses. Recorded in Rockford, Illinois at our Edgebroo…
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S1 E82 - BRIAN THOMAS - Professional photographer
1:04:03
1:04:03
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1:04:03Brain Thomas and Tim Larson have known each other since the late 80's. They met as members of the Ski Broncs Water Ski Show Team in Loves Park, Illinois. They have literally shared life with each other on so many levels...projects, business, campfires, photo shoots and more. Recorded on November 20, 2024 in the twelfth floor bar of the Embassy Suit…
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Beyond the Infinite Dial: Edison's Larry Rosin Reveals 5 Must-Know Survival Moves
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19:28
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19:28This time we welcome Larry Rosin, President of Edison Research and a pioneer in media and consumer insights. With over three decades of experience, Larry has shaped the audio industry’s understanding of audience behavior through groundbreaking studies like The Infinite Dial and Share of Ear. These reports spotlight the rapid changes reshaping radio…
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S1 E81 - RILEY O'NEIL - Veteran Morning show host at WROK radio in Rockford, Illinois
1:46:38
1:46:38
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1:46:38Tim Larson and Liz Wylder have known Riley O'Neil since the 80's. He celebrated his twenty third anniversary as WROK's morning show host on Halloween 2023. We all grew up in the radio industry together...getting our feet wet, stumbling and setting several broadcasting milestones. Our memories of course are all contributions to the one hundred year …
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S1 E80 - JOHN LOMBARDO of Smashed Plastic Record Pressing in Chicago
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47:14
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47:14Tim Larson and John Lombardo had only met just before the tour of Smashed Plastic Record Pressing factory in Chicago, Illinois. The recent resurgence of music on vinyl and the need shown by the region bands encouraged John and his two partners to go all in. You'll find it is a very thoughtful and purposeful manufacturing facility. They and others a…
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S1 E79 - SCOTT CHILDERS - WLS Radio historian, announcer, news reporter and more.
2:09:07
2:09:07
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2:09:07Scott Childers is the definition of a radio station's utility person...he can do everything...and does. Tim Larson spent all afternoon in the WLS studios in downtown Chicago reliving the Big 89 days. It's WLS's 100th birthday! And thanks to Michael Garay for sharing his career from behind-the-scenes. You'll hear many audio inserts from past WLS air…
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S1 E78 - ZOEY NORRIS - Miss Rodeo Kentucky 2024
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30:01
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30:01Learn all about this twenty two year old rodeo pageant queen. She has four dogs, collects garbage for a living and is a rodeo barrel racer. Oh there's more. It was a very hot day in Kentucky as we set up shop inside her barn. Recorded September 22, 2024.By Tim Larson
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Crush It Now: Unlock Kelly Ford’s 5 Power Tips to Media Mastery
19:10
19:10
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19:10Kelly Ford is making waves as the newly named Music Director and afternoon host at 103.1 The Wolf on Long Island and continues to connect with listeners across the country as host of the nationally syndicated Backstage Country. Known for her warm, authentic style, Kelly has built a remarkable career in country radio, beginning with a 20-year run at…
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S1 E77 - IRLENE MANDRELL - Musician, National television show host, Model and much more!
56:21
56:21
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56:21Irlene is the youngest of the Mandrell sisters. Tim Larson has known Barbara and Louise for decades, but had only known Irlene for seventeen minutes on the phone before sitting down for this chat in her kitchen. She is personality plus and willing to talk about anything thrown at her. It was 96 degrees that day in Tennessee. Recorded September 20, …
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Steve Goldstein says "Evolve NOW Or Fall Behind" – 5 Tips and 1 Warning
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22:20
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22:20Get ready for a deep dive into the future of audio with Steve Goldstein, founder of Amplifi Media and one of the most experienced voices in podcasting today. In this episode, Steve uncovers how the landscape of radio, TV, and print is shifting dramatically as on-demand platforms take center stage. Discover why younger audiences are moving away from…
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S1 E76 SAMANTHA HOCHMANN - Deep Inside the Tinker Swiss Cottage
57:45
57:45
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57:45Tim Larson and Samantha Hochmann had known each other for a grand total of sixty seconds, but, as it turns out, their common ground stories stretched for centuries. Robert Tinker was a generous man to the city of Rockford, Illinois. Mary and Jessie followed suit in so many ways. Learn how and enjoy this historical conversation surrounding the mansi…
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Engage And Retain: 5 Steps Revealed - David Moore, KSLX, Phoenix
19:46
19:46
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19:46In this episode, David Moore, Brand and Content Director/Operations Manager for KSLX/KDKB/KAZG, Hubbard Radio Phoenix, shares insights from over three decades in radio. He discusses the essential skills needed to thrive in today’s rapidly evolving industry, the importance of staying "plugged in," and the evolving role of radio program managers. Dav…
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S1 E75 KATHI KRESOL - Author of books and articles about Rockford, Illinois history
1:33:49
1:33:49
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1:33:49Kathi Kresol is the author of Murder & Mayhem in Rockford, Illinois and Haunted Rockford. Tim Larson had only known Kathi for ten minutes and decided to record this episode on 815 Day (August 15, 2024) at the Edgebrook Shopping Center. Since Kathi is a thorough researcher and Tim is a Rockford native, everyone thought it was a safe bet that these t…
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AI and Radio: Tracy Johnson's 7 Tips and 1 Secret Weapon
25:41
25:41
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25:41Legendary radio consultant Tracy Johnson joins hosts Dave Martin and Kipper McGee to share his insights on the critical need for radio to become more provocative and emotionally engaging. Tracy emphasizes the necessity for boldness and innovation, but addresses the challenge of balancing innovation with risk, urging stations to listen to and empowe…
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Mike McVay’s Essential Must-Knows to Future-Proof Your Career
23:51
23:51
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23:51In our 200th episode, we welcome back radio veteran Mike McVay, winner of the 2024 Giants of Broadcasting Award among many other accolades. Known for his programming excellence and industry insights, Mike shares his expertise on evolving leadership roles, integrating niche media, and revitalizing the listening experience. He discusses future challe…
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S1 E74 2024 INSPIRATIONAL COUNTRY MUSIC AWARDS Red Carpet Interviews
1:23:25
1:23:25
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1:23:25Steve Bridgmon invited Tim Larson to be part of the Media Team at the Inspirational Country Music Awards at the Grand Ole Opry House in Nashville, Tennessee. Tim talked to sixty six people in a little less than two hours just before they stepped onto the red carpet. Recorded May 29, 2024.By Tim Larson
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S1 E73 PHIL STILLERMAN - The King of Birthday Adventures!
1:40:54
1:40:54
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1:40:54Phil's wife Della does extensive research to find just the right adventure for his birthday gifts. From flyer a glider to driving an Indy 500 car. Learn all about the fun details and how Phil ended up in a film with Matt Damon. Recorded in Indianapolis, Indiana May 31, 2024.By Tim Larson
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S1 E72 CICADAS - The show with a million guests!
12:05
12:05
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12:05This episode was recorded in Tim Larson's backyard as he was surrounded by a countless number of cicadas.By Tim Larson
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S1 E71 SPIFF CARNER - Former WZOK Morning Host with Randy Cook & WROK/WZOK Continuity Director
1:02:42
1:02:42
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1:02:42Rick "Spiff" Carner is joined by John Strandin along with Tim Larson. Spiff was the director of the commercial writing department and co-host of the WZOK morning show with Randy Cook. Spiff's time with Nolte Communications in Rockford, Illinois was 1981-1986. John was a member of the award winning news department for twenty four years. Recorded in …
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The Station Whose Name Says It All...with PRIDE! Meet KGAY's Brad Fuhr & Chris Shebel
24:42
24:42
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24:42In honor of LGBTQ+ Pride Month, Brandwidth on Demand features Brad Fuhr, owner of KGAY Radio in Palm Springs, and Chris Schebel, KGAY's Program Director. KGAY Radio in Palm Springs, known for pride and inclusivity, integrates radio with digital content through the Gay Desert Guide. Brad and Chris share insights on creating a vibrant community hub, …
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S1 E70 LOUISE MANDRELL - Country music artist and television personality
1:24:58
1:24:58
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1:24:58Tim Larson and Louise Mandrell first met on her tour bus at a northern Illinois county fair in 1979. They visited again in backstage dressing rooms in 1980 and 1981 before Louise and her sisters, Barbara and Irlene, kicked off their successful variety television show on NBC. Louise and Tim literally bumped into each other backstage at the Grand Ole…
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S1 E68 TONY WOLFE - East Tennessee stories from a first cousin
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44:19
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44:19Tony Wolfe and Tim Larson are first cousins. We can ride around the mountains of east Tennessee in a truck and never have the same conversation twice. Recorded in Tony's kitchen on Memorial Day, May 27, 2024.By Tim Larson
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S1 E69 BILL CODY - Morning man for 30 years on WSM radio in Nashville, Tennessee
55:53
55:53
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55:53Bill Cody and Tim Larson had only talked briefly on the phone six months prior to sitting down in the showcase studio of WSM Radio inside the Opryland Hotel. Their careers oddly have run parallel so the stories were very easy. Even if you're not a huge country music fan, you are sure to enjoy this conversation. Recorded May 28, 2024.…
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S1 E67 TIM LARSON - Radio in Charleston, West Virginia 40 years ago!
51:33
51:33
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51:33Tim decided to set up his equipment on the shores of the Kanawha River in Charleston, West Virginia on the Friday before Memorial Day Weekend 2024. The state capital was over his shoulder as the radio stories from forty years ago poured out. Tim worked at WKAZ/WQBE and WVSR radio stations from 1982-1984 when he was in his early twenties. Recorded M…
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Game-Changing Insights from B96’s Molly Cruz
21:41
21:41
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21:41Gain valuable insights from Molly Cruz, Brand Manager for B96, WBBM-FM in Chicago. Discover strategies for navigating market differences, effective programming, and team leadership. Learn how to build brand awareness, engage with the community, and maintain a positive mindset. Whether you're an aspiring radio professional or a seasoned Brand Manage…
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Morning Show Hacks: 7 Insights from 2 Guys Named Chris
16:55
16:55
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16:55This time we're joined by Chris Kelly and Chris Demm, the co-hosts of the popular morning radio show "2 Guys Named Chris". With over 25 years of success, Chris and Chris share their journey from initial radio rivalry to teaming up to become a top-rated morning show. The duo discusses their unique chemistry, supported by producer Josh Ellinger and m…
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Swipe Right for Radio: Eryn Cooper's 5 Essential Tips for Media's Future
17:26
17:26
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17:26This time, we feature Nashville’s Multimedia Queen. WSM-AM's Eryn Cooper, a multimedia journalist, morning show producer, emerging radio personality, and self-proclaimed "professional fan." Eryn discusses her career path, how she's advanced from radio newbie to assistant brand manager and on-air talent in just two years, and her current roles worki…
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S1 E66 RON ROMERO & DEBYJO ERICKSEN - Illinois Rock & Roll Museum and Hall of Fame
51:23
51:23
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51:23The Illinois Rock & Roll Museum and Hall of Fame sits on Route 66 in Joliet, Illinois! Ron Romero and Debyjo Ericksen are the amazing organizers of this magical project. Hear the stories surrounding the inductees, collectibles, history and community involvement. It's a true testament to the meaning of volunteerism, philanthropy, passion, and the de…
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S1 E65 TIM LARSON - The Story of Arthur and Sanford
7:59
7:59
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7:59This story aired on WLUV radio in Rockford/Loves Park, Illinois by your podcast host Tim Larson on March 31, 2021. It was written in a Paul Harvey "Rest of the Story" format.By Tim Larson
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S1 E64 EMANUEL LARSON - The Cremation of Sam McGee by Robert Service
12:37
12:37
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12:37Tim Larson's grandfather could recite Robert Service's The Cremation of Sam McGee by memory until the day before he died at the age of ninety six. Emanuel Larson's goal was to verbally paint within your mind with the poetry he spoke. Recorded in Rockford, Illinois June 6, 1979.By Tim Larson
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S1 E63 RACHEL DANIEL - Professional Alaskan Tour Guide
21:04
21:04
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21:04My other stories of the tour of Alaska with Rachel Daniel will be told a hundred more times, but this one of hers is a real gem. More than fourteen people should hear her recollection of her first moose hunt. Recorded on a small shuttle bus somewhere in Alaska in September of 2021.By Tim Larson
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S1 E62 - LARRY KANFER - Professional Photographer and Author
1:23:21
1:23:21
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1:23:21Larry Kanfer and his wife Alaina were connected to Tim Larson in 2009 through the Aldeen Golf Club barn renovation. Tim's grandfather Emanuel Larson built the barn in 1928 when the property was a dairy farm. The Kanfers were working on their book Barns of Illinois. The two projects intersected and they have been friends since. Recorded March 12, 20…
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From Fear to Resilience: Steve Reynolds helps you navigate Radio's changes
24:59
24:59
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24:59Steve Reynolds is a renowned radio talent coach focusing on Top 10 Talent. With a career that started in the 1990s, he has worked his way up from on-air positions to programming and management roles at notable stations including the legendary WRAL. In 2001, he established the Reynolds Group, offering innovative strategies and assistance to top show…
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