System/Policy
FCC chair requests investigation into NPR, PBS underwriting
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In a letter to CEOs of both organizations, Chairman Brendan Carr wrote that some underwriting announcements may “cross the line” into advertising.
LAist expands news coverage through CBS Los Angeles partnership
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The partnership gives LAist access to CBS Los Angeles’ live newscasts, online livestreams and press conference coverage.
Programs/Content
More than a dozen stations pick up Vox’s ‘Today, Explained’
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While some stations are welcoming the show, other programmers are wary of furthering public radio’s relationship with for-profit producers.
People
Comings and goings: NPR adds head of philanthropic ventures, new EP joins ‘The Takeaway’ …
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Josh King most recently worked as VP of corporate sponsorships for National Geographic.
Obituaries
Leo Eaton, producer who led international co-productions for Maryland Public Television, dies at 76
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After an early career in British television, Eaton reinvented himself as a prolific producer of documentary films for PBS.
Programs/Content
APM will handle distribution of Classical 24
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“We believe that bringing production and distribution under the same roof will provide a more streamlined process for our station partners and be a seamless experience for our listeners,” said an APMG executive.
Programs/Content
Classical stations see audience, fundraising successes as listeners seek refuge during pandemic
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“People really felt the value of the station to a greater degree during the pandemic and wanted to make certain that the station had the funding it needed to not just survive but thrive,” said Brenda Barnes, CEO of KING FM in Seattle.
System/Policy
Biden administration requests $565M for CPB in FY2025, supports proposed change to interconnection funding
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The administration endorsed a CPB proposal that could free up system support funds for other uses.
People
Comings and goings: NPR adds evening and overnight staff, KET promotes employees …
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NPR hired Fernando Alfonso III, Kevin Drew and Ayana Archie for its evening and overnight Newshub.
Programs/Content
Public radio’s ‘On Being’ will move to seasonal podcast
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“I watched the ‘Car Talk’ guys actually die and still be on the radio … and I said to myself, ‘At some point, this is going to end, or it’s going to morph into a new form,” said host Krista Tippett.
Programs/Content
Inaugural PBS diversity report highlights BIPOC contributions to programming
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The network said that in fiscal year 2021, 51% of its nationally programmed prime-time schedule “included diverse on-screen talent; was produced, written or directed by diverse makers; and/or explored diversity-related topics.”
Development
The power of partnerships, promotion and pledge to drive revenue
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The way we make connections that lead to support is just as important as the way we connect through great content.