My interest in journalism dates back to junior high school and was reinforced by my education at the University of Maryland’s College of Journalism. Among the many jobs I dreamed of was an on-air personality for National Public Radio. So when a prospective client invited me to join her for an inside look at WNYC in New York, I didn’t have to give it much thought. I’ve been a proud listener and supporter of WNYC since I moved to the area more than a decade ago.
Here are a few interesting things I heard that day:
1. WYNC was owned by New York City until 1997 and the mayor often dictated the content. We even heard about how the police commissioner called and ordered the news director to stop airing a story on police brutality on the eve of their independence. It’s hard to believe this was still happening in 1997.
2. They characterize their shift to online as going from analog radio station to “digital audio destination” or one-way interaction to data-driven engagement. They predicted cars connected to the Internet will eventually “take out” satellite radio.
3. WYNC’s funding sources are evenly divided among members, on-air sponsors and institutional (philanthropy, grants, federal government).
4. One of their biggest challenges going forward will be preserving membership contributions with online only listeners who don’t hear pledge drives.
5. When asked about the sustainability of audio and plans for video, they said they believe audio is and always will be the ultimate multitasking platform.
After the studio tour, where I got to see some of the people whose voices I’ve relied upon for years to bring me the news, I checked my phone only to find a pledge drive email from WNYC. I guess it’s time to re-commit.