WJPZ at 50

Editor's Note: This week we are re-releasing the episodes of our 2025 Hall of Fame Class.  Here, you'll catch our interview with the inspiring Geoff "Deaf Geoff" Herbert, Class of 2005.Geoff "Deaf Geoff" Herbert is a machine -serving as WJPZ's GM while working as a morning show host at a commercial station in Syracuse.   Oh by the way, he was working a night shift at Blockbuster Video (RIP) and somehow attending classes.Geoff was bitten by the radio bug early, serving as General Manager of his high school radio station in Acton, Massachusetts.  This experience made attending Syracuse and joining Z89 a no-brainer.   During his time at the helm of the station, WJPZ vastly expanded both its sports and music offerings.Yes, today's guest was born deaf, hearing only about 10% as well as the rest of us (50% with hearing aids).  He talks about giving himself his nickname/on-air moniker, his lip-reading skills (which come in handy during Syracuse basketball games), and even how he became the instructor in a music production class.It was another SU class - taught by Dr. Rick Wright - that landed him an internship at Hot 107.9, that he eventually turned into a full time producer gig before even graduating.  And his instincts were good - preparing to leave commercial radio just before his show was taken off the air for syndication.In the time since, he's become a prolific writer for Syracuse.com and the Post Standard, maintained his music chops as a Wedding DJ, and fallen in love with Syracuse as home.Referenced in this podcast:Eamon: "F*ck It (I Don't Want You Back): https://youtu.be/QYwyaCd8MyIResponse Track: Frankie: "FURB:" https://youtu.be/B1K0pUSSFUoJoin Us in Syracuse on March 4th: https://bit.ly/WJPZ50BanquetTicketsThe WJPZ at 50 Podcast is produced by Jon Gay '02 and JAG in Detroit PodcastsConnect with the WJPZ Alumni Association: https://wjpzalumniassociation.org/ Connect with the WJPZ Alumni Association: https://wjpzalumniassociation.org/

Editor's Note: This week we are re-releasing the episodes with our 2025 Hall of Fame Inductees.   Here, our host became the guest, as Jag's 2002 classmate and fellow Hall of Famer Matt DelSignore sat him down to hear his story.Today, we turn the tables on our host and put Jon "JAG" Gay, from the Class of 2002, in the hot seat.  Doing the honors is his classmate,  Matt DelSignore.Matt starts by asking Jag about the WJPZ at 50 Podcast, how the idea started, and what he's learned by hosting it.  From there, we turn to Jag's time at Syracuse and WJPZ.  His story is very similar to many previous podcast guests. He got to Syracuse wanting to be a sportscaster, but didn't really find his tribe until he started at Z89. At WJPZ, Jag had several exec staff positions, including Chief Announcer and VP of Operations the year we were in the Ostrom House.  Matt also asks Jag about the 9/11 broadcast that we discussed on a previous episode.We retrace Jag's steps through a terrible internship at Kiss 108, his first part time job in Providence, Rhode Island, then his full-time on-air career in Burlington Vermont, Detroit, New Orleans, and back to the Motor City.   It shouldn't surprise you to hear he had a lot of help from JPZ'ers along the way.Following his last radio layoff a week after he got married, Jag was a newlywed with no job and potentially facing a career change.  He credits his wife Ellen for encouraging him to start his podcast business, which he's grown since its inception in 2018.  We close on a really personal topic.   JAG's Syracuse roommate and best friend, Bill Leaf, was killed by a drunk driver in 2006, at age 25.  Bill was also a summer Z89 staffer.   Jag talks about his passion for both honoring Bill's memory and speaking out against the dangers of drunk driving.This episode was produced and edited by JAG in Detroit podcasts - learn more at https://jagindetroit.com/Connect with the WJPZ Alumni Association: https://wjpzalumniassociation.org/ Connect with the WJPZ Alumni Association: https://wjpzalumniassociation.org/

Editors Note: In honor of Banquet Week - we are re-relasing the episodes of our three 2025 inductees into the WJPZ Alumni of Fame, beginning with Sharon (Goodman) Michaels, aka BB Good.   Due to a prior commitment, she is deferring her induction until next year, but we wanted to showcase her incredible story. If we were to pick one alumnus who best represented the warm, welcoming atmosphere of WJPZ, it would probably be Sharon Goodman Michaels, aka "B.B. Good" from the Class of 1993.  Several Z89'ers have come on this podcast to talk about how she welcomed them to the station, and we are thrilled to welcome her to this podcast.Like many of us, this Massachusetts native grew up loving radio - and she tells the story of how she recruited Kiss 108 DJ's to do her high school dance in Quincy. BB went to Syracuse for its communications reputation.  She got there early as part of the marching band, and quickly found WJPZ and then-leaders like Hal Rood, Scott Meach, and Brian Lapis.At her happy place, BB made friend with classmates Beth (Russell) Gorab, Bette Kestin, Jeanne Schad, Tina (Mussolino) Perkins, Melanie Kushnir, and more.How "Good" was Sharon as an undergrad?  A commercial station in Utica offered her nights, and held the job for her until she could graduate Syracuse.  From Rock 107 she went to Fly 92 in Albany, Kiss 95.7 Hartford, and JAMN 94.5 Boston.  There, while riding the T, she saw a blind box ad for what would turn out to be the midday slot on Radio Disney, based in Dallas.  A year later, they moved her show to then-MGM Studios at Disney World in Orlando.  That's right.  She was working in radio, at Disney World, every day.  She tells amazing stories of listener interactions, letters, and more.  Also, she interviewed an up and coming *NSYNC and Britney Spears.After five years in Orlando, BB's show was moved back to Dallas.  After a time, she was let go, and decided to stay home with her children.  She became very active in the Jewish community in Dallas and still is.BB has maintained her Z89 connections throughout her adult life, often crossing paths with radio folk when they came to Disney, and even doing a cameo on the sitcom According to Jim thanks to her classmate John Beck. We wrap with BB talking about how much she enjoyed returning to Banquet in 2023, and the question of whether or not the Jonas Brothers did a song...about her.Note: This interview was recorded in May.  BB asked if she could speak about the current situation in Israel and have it included in the podcast.  You can hear that conversation, recorded December 22nd, at this link: https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/rkh58zh2sg3lrhid56wvy/WJPZ-at-50-BB-Good-Insert.mp3?rlkey=p7o0ndhyszj1gaj6guu83gbwl&dl=0The WJPZ at 50 Podcast Series is produced by Jon Gay, Class of 2002, and his podcast production agency, JAG in Detroit Podcasts.Sign up for email alerts whenever we release a new episode here: jagindetroit.com/WJPZat50Want to be a guest on the pod or know someone else who would? Email Jag:  jag@jagindetroit.com.Want to stay in the loop with WJPZ Alumni events?  Subscribe to our newsletter on the right hand side of the page at http://wjpzalumni.org/Connect with the WJPZ Alumni Association: https://wjpzalumniassociation.org/ Connect with the WJPZ Alumni Association: https://wjpzalumniassociation.org/

I wanted to call your attention to some OTHER WJPZ Alumni who are doing great podcasts.  In fact, we’ve got a little something for everyone.  Today, in part 1, I’m going to introduce you to three podcasts hosted by WJPZ Alumni.There’s no bigger star in the world right now than Taylor Swift – and you’d be hard pressed to find a bigger Swiftie than Molly Nelson, class of 2014.  She and her best friend Ryan co-host “Hits Different,” a podcast devoted to all things Taylor, from news to theories, and many other Swiftie rabbit holes.  It’s edited and produced by Molly’s husband who she met at WJPZ, Alex Brewer from the Class of 2012.From America’s sweetheart to America’s pastime and the class of 2015’s Jeff Kurkjian.  Jeff grew up with baseball, thanks in large part to his reporter father, ESPN’s Tim Kurkjian.  If you love baseball, you’ll love this show, co=hosted by father and son, featuring Tim’s encylopedic knowledge, Jeff’s quick wit, and some great guests.Finally, we turn to one of WJPZ’s “OG’s” in the world of podcasting.  Stacey Simms, Class of 93.  Over 8 years ago, she began hosting Diabetes Connections, a podcast dedicated to providing news and information to those with Type 1 Diabetes.  She’s just launched “Diabetes Connections, Type 2” – dedicated to superserving those individuals with Type 2.  It’s easy to hear her WJPZ and news chops as she tells you about the show.Now these folks aren’t the only WJPZ alumni doing great podcasts.  We’ve got more to tell you about in the spaces of true crime, comedy, and more.  And if you or a WJPZ Alum you know has a podcast – be sure to let me know.   Podcast Links:His Different: A Taylor Swift Podcast: https://linktr.ee/ithitsdiffpodIs This a Great Game Or What: https://greatgameorwhat.com/Diabetes Connections Type 2: https://diabetes-connections.com/diabetesconnectionstype2/ Connect with the WJPZ Alumni Association: https://wjpzalumniassociation.org/

We're talking today with Matthew Reschke, also known as R Source, from the class of 2012. Matt's connection to WJPZ started in his childhood, growing up near Syracuse and engaging with the station's DJs through AOL - before even AIM.Matthew's academic path took him from Onondaga Community College to LeMoyne College, where he first dabbled in college radio. His journey to WJPZ was not straightforward; it involved exploring different educational paths and eventually finding a flyer that led him to Z89, introducing him to a community that would significantly shape his experiences and aspirations. Working alongside notable figures like Alex Silverman and Mina Llona, Matthew found a sense of belonging and purpose within the station.Our discussion shifts to Matthew's contributions to WJPZ, highlighting his creation of the mix show "Off The Hook." This show was a blend of local music and hip-hop, filling a gap in Syracuse's radio landscape. The segment "Bump It or Dump It" became a hallmark of his time on air, engaging listeners in a direct and interactive way. Matthew's dedication to authenticity and community engagement through his show exemplifies the impact one can have in the radio industry.Reflecting on the broader impact of WJPZ, we acknowledge the invaluable network and learning opportunities it provides. The station is more than just a platform for broadcasting; it's a community that fosters growth, learning, and mutual support. Our conversation with Matthew underscores the importance of seizing opportunities, learning from those around us, and contributing to a community that has given us so much. Connect with the WJPZ Alumni Association: https://wjpzalumniassociation.org/

Every year, the WJPZ Alumni Association, via the Berrell Award, sends two students to an industry event.  In 2023, GM Grace Denton and former sports director Joe Puccio went to Vegas for the National Association of Broadcasters (NAB) Show.  We sat down with them to hear about the experience.We've met Grace in her previous episode with PD Maddie Doolittle.  So first we meet Joe and get his background.  And we hear about their summer 2023 positions- Grace at Taylor Swift's Republic Records (thanks Adam Eisenberg) and Joe at the Cape Cod Baseball League.After coincidentally being on the same flight at Stephen "Tex" Kurtz, Grace and Joe hit the ground in Vegas running, checking out as much tech as possible from brands they knew, and some they didn't.   They described themselves as "kids in a candy store" with Grace zeroing in on overall station tech and Joe focused on the sports side.  But the experience was about so much more than tech.In true Z89 networking fashion, Joe's Cape Cod League boss, WJPZ alum Dan Duva is the radio voice of the Las Vegas Golden Knights.  He took Grace and Joe out for a night on the town.   And while Joe wasn't yet 21, Grace had just had her birthday, which led to a wondeful wine selection.You'll hear some great Vegas stories from Grace and Joe - from getting headshots, to receiving an invite to speak to a class in Atlanta, to eating gelato with some Citrus TV classmates who were in town for a different conference.Overall, today's guests share what an amazing opportunity this was.  This year, GM Patrick Chambers and PD Ilana Epstein will be heading to Morning Show Boot Camp in San Diego!The WJPZ at 50 Podcast Series is produced by Jon Gay, Class of 2002, and his podcast production agency, JAG in Detroit Podcasts.Sign up for email alerts whenever we release a new episode here: jagindetroit.com/WJPZat50Want to be a guest on the pod or know someone else who would? Email Jag:  jag@jagindetroit.com.Want to stay in the loop with WJPZ Alumni events?  Subscribe to our newsletter on the right hand side of the page at http://wjpzalumni.org/ Connect with the WJPZ Alumni Association: https://wjpzalumniassociation.org/

If you don't know Adam and Kelly (Foster) Shapiro's backstory, you might assume it's yet another romance started in the halls of WJPZ.   Their story, as you'll hear here, is a much different road than than other Z89 couples.Both members of the Class of 1992, they were certainly friendly in school, and had mutual friends, but didn't spend a ton of time together outside the station.   Kelly joined the promotions department, eventually working her way up to legal director.   Adam was a sports guy who became assistant sports director and a talk show host.We've referenced the late SUNY-Oswego professor John Oldfield on the podcast before, but Kelly really explains what a thorn in WJPZ's side this man was.   He was always trying to have a "gotcha" moment in the middle of Z89 renewing its FCC license.  This adversary, and the myriad of folks who helped the station through license renewal, would end up teaching Kelly valuable career and life lessons before graduation.   In fact, history would repeat itself, in a way.  Nearly a decade later, when Kelly was President of the Alumni Association, she would have a hand in getting the station through its Receievership Era, as outlined by Harry and Dena in their episode.In this podcast, you'll hear about the remarkable careers of this Z89 power couple - with Adam producing newscasts from Syracuse to Vegas to Miami to New York.   Kelly started in radio but found her home on the agency side, working for many different firms, before ultimately being recruited to work for Rolex, where she's been since 2014.But for as successful as Adam and Kelly have been, you'll hear more today about the WJPZ family then their long list of accomplishments.   This includes the now-Shapiros reconnecting at the 2000 Banquet, and developing a deep and meaningful friendship that eventually turned into more - even if there were some hilarious speed bumps along the way, including a great airplane story with a WJPZ connection.One of the benefits of marrying someone you went to school with is that their college friends are your college friends, and Adam and Kelly share that unique perspective.John Oldfield Obituary: https://news.syr.edu/blog/2009/07/31/college-mourns-passing-of-professor-emeritus-john-oldfield/The WJPZ at 50 Podcast Series is produced by Jon Gay, Class of 2002, and his podcast production agency, JAG in Detroit Podcasts.Want to stay in the loop with WJPZ Alumni events?  Subscribe to our newsletter on the right hand side of the page at http://wjpzalumni.org/ Connect with the WJPZ Alumni Association: https://wjpzalumniassociation.org/

While many of us flipped burgers or bagged groceries in high school, Dave Roberts was reading the news on an AM station and (literally) herding cats as a 15 year old.   When he toured Syracuse and saw the WJPZ prize van, and he met Hal Rood, Jim Remeny and more. He knew it was where he had to be.After starting on overnights, Dave quickly climbed the ranks to news director and eventually VP of Business.  That may sound like a strange trajectory, but Dave's always loved news (and meterology).  And when the station was in dire financial straits, he knew he either had to write a check, or go collect checks.    The first of course was not an option.You'll hear about some WJPZ firsts in today's episode.  Dave tells us how our non-commercial station managed to get beer money on the air, through a lucrative (and creative) campaign with Pabst Blue Ribbon.   He also signed a sponsorship with the University's study abroad program, closing the deal in an unusual way.   And at a time where NOBODY had voicemail, he helped set up the "Z89 line" - with 5 different mailboxes for contest information and more.The real defining moment of Dave's time in Syracuse,  however, was the bombing of Pan Am 103 in 1988.  We chat at length about the emotion of those weeks and months, as well as the crucial role WJPZ played as an information resource for those who just couldn't wait for the evening news or the next day's newspaper.  Everyone stepped up, comforted each other, and navigated the best they could.By the time Dave graduated in 1992, Z89 had become a household name in the industry - his experience there landed him major market interviews, but he followed his passsion for meterology - and went to Ottumwa, Iowa.  Then, there were stops in Missouri, Alabama, Fort Myers, Cincinnati, and Mississippi.  Today's guest really fell in love with Jackson, Mississippi (before Mark Ronson and Bruno Mars did), and has made this market home.  And yes, he got all his certifications along the way. Throughout today's episode, you'll hear Dave talk about his love of Z89 and our family.  And you'll also hear a great story about being trapped in Providence with Brian Lapis during a blizzard - and what happened next.   And even a little bit about what WJPZ taught him about being a realtor.The WJPZ at 50 Podcast Series is produced by Jon Gay, Class of 2002, and his podcast production agency, JAG in Detroit Podcasts.Sign up for email alerts whenever we release a new episode here: jagindetroit.com/WJPZat50Want to be a guest on the pod or know someone else who would? Email Jag:  jag@jagindetroit.com.Want to stay in the loop with WJPZ Alumni events?  Subscribe to our newsletter on the right hand side of the page at http://wjpzalumni.org/ Connect with the WJPZ Alumni Association: https://wjpzalumniassociation.org/

Kevin Tippy Martinez, '88, is the Senior Vice President of Marketing Communications for the Seattle Mariners. It's no surprise that this New Jersey native, with passions for baseball and broadcasting, found himself transferring in to Syracuse.Once he got to SU, Martinez was actively involved with both Z89 and WAER, where he honed his skills in sports broadcasting and DJing. Not many students worked for both stations at that time, but this chief announcer made it work. He simply couldn't walk away from the sports opportunities at WAER or the incredible camaraderie at Z89.  In fact, you'll love the story he tells about Carl Weinstein walking in to his shift to flip the format and imaging.After graduation, Kevin went to the ABC Television Network in New York City, working in affiliate relations and marketing, and gradually made his way into ABC Sports. Then, Emmis Communications' Jeff Smuylan bought the Seattle Mariners.  Despite being very happy near home and at ABC, the chance to work in Major League Baseball was too good to pass up.The new marketing team took many radio ideas (including those learned at WJPZ) to do what was then some pretty innovative entertainment at Mariners' games.  Custom walk-up music for hitters?  It started here.    And outside a brief stint with the Boston Celtics, Kevin's been with the M's for over 30 years.Throughout the podcast, Martinez reflects on the relationships and friendships he formed during his time at WJPZ and in his professional life. These connections have been enduring and impactful. And we'd  be remiss not to ask his opinions on the evolution of baseball, the importance of adapting to changing fan preferences, and the strategies employed by the Mariners to engage with their audience.The WJPZ at 50 Podcast Series is produced by Jon Gay, Class of 2002, and his podcast production agency, JAG in Detroit Podcasts.Sign up for email alerts whenever we release a new episode here: jagindetroit.com/WJPZat50Want to be a guest on the pod or know someone else who would? Email Jag:  jag@jagindetroit.com.Want to stay in the loop with WJPZ Alumni events?  Subscribe to our newsletter on the right hand side of the page at http://wjpzalumni.org/ Connect with the WJPZ Alumni Association: https://wjpzalumniassociation.org/

Mike Roberts, Class of 1979, is one of the people who helped kept WJPZ alive in the early days.  With the station's founders having graduated, Mike empowerd a team to run radio station, passing its educational lessons forward to the next generation of broadcasters.Arriving on campus in 1975, he quickly found WJPZ 1200 AM in the Spectrum Records building and told Bill Bleyle that he wanted to be involved. In addition to his airshift, he learned how to do everything - down to changing the needles on the turntables.   In the early days, the industry was noticing the station more than the locals. But soon, they had staffers working professionally in the market (WAER did not).  Mike shares some stories of alumni who went on to great success.As for Mike, he took the tight formatics he learned at WJPZ and went on to work in Syracuse himself, at WNDR (briefly) and WHEN.  Eventually he went to work for Reagan Henry, where he was on to Cincinnati, and eventually Atlanta.After turning around some small AM stations, Mike went to the top dog in a major market - becoming morning show host at the legendary urban V103 in Atlanta.  They were one of the first urban stations to do a talk-centered morning show, and the first urban station to bill $1 million - monthly.Mike shares a story about the power of radio - one of the proudest moments of his career.  He was at V103 from 1986-1988. During the Rodney King uprising in 1994, V went to an all news format, bringing on community leaders and stressing the need for Atlanta to stay peaceful.  They were later recognized by local government for keeping Atlanta from exploding.  Not coincidentally, that's when V103 had its highest ratings ever.Mike soon got the ownership bug, and as the hip hop scene was exploding in the late 90's, today's guest was approaching 40 years old.   V103 was also getting competiton on both ends of their demo.   He bought several stations in nearby Macon, Georgia, as he wound down his time in Atlanta.   Today, he owns one, WQMJ, Magic 100.  It's an R&B oldies station that does its own newscasts, several times daily, to superserve its local audience.Mike takes us through his typical work week, and reflects on the current state of radio, and its need to stay local to stay relevant.   And we conclude with the story of a classic prank pulled on him while live on the air at WJPZ.The WJPZ at 50 Podcast Series is produced by Jon Gay, Class of 2002, and his podcast production agency, JAG in Detroit Podcasts.Sign up for email alerts whenever we release a new episode here: jagindetroit.com/WJPZat50Want to be a guest on the pod or know someone else who would? Email Jag:  jag@jagindetroit.com.Want to stay in the loop with WJPZ Alumni events?  Subscribe to our newsletter on the right hand side of the page at http://wjpzalumni.org/ Connect with the WJPZ Alumni Association: https://wjpzalumniassociation.org/

Today we interview Marc Bokoff,  from the class of 1987. A management major, Marc came to the station as business manager under then-GM Larry Barron, before becoming general manager himself.  He took over the station in the midst of the station changing from a block format to the much more tighly programmed CHR format it still has today.As GM, Marc and the staff faced backlash for this change, leading accusations of racial bias and subsequent protests. We get his perspective (through his 37-year-old notes) of having to shut the station down for the evening, the negotiations, personal threats he received, and the eventual resolution to the protest.  Following the event, Marc stepped down as General Manager, partly due to concerns over his own personal health at the time.Marc reflects on how these experiences at WJPZ profoundly impacted his professional life. Despite majoring in general studies in the business school, he gained invaluable hands-on experience in business management through his work at the radio station. This experience became more educational and instrumental than his formal business studies, equipping him with skills in advertising, marketing, budgeting, and negotiation.After graduation, Marc briefly joined his family's supermarket business before venturing into the travel industry, where he has been for over 35 years. He discusses the various adaptations and changes he had to make in his business, especially with the rise of internet travel services and the impact of world events like COVID-19 and geopolitical conflicts. He emphasizes the importance of adaptability and resilience, drawing parallels between the challenges he faced in college and those in his professional life.Despite some trying moments, Marc is grateful for the skills and experiences gained at WJPZ, which have significantly shaped his career and personal growth. He highlights the station's role as an educational incubator and its impact on students beyond those interested in broadcasting careers. The WJPZ at 50 Podcast Series is produced by Jon Gay, Class of 2002, and his podcast production agency, JAG in Detroit Podcasts.Sign up for email alerts whenever we release a new episode here: jagindetroit.com/WJPZat50Want to stay in the loop with WJPZ Alumni events?  Subscribe to our newsletter on the right hand side of the page at http://wjpzalumni.org/ Connect with the WJPZ Alumni Association: https://wjpzalumniassociation.org/

Scott Greene, '93, grew up just outside Boston wanting to be a newspaper reporter.  He did it in high school and came to Syracuse wanting to pursue that career.   But WJPZ quickly drew him in, and he says the only columns he wrote for the Daily Orange ended up being Wrestlemania previews.Scott came to the station as the classes of 90 and 91 were taking the reigns.  His group quickly got their footing, and passed the torch to '94 and '95.   And yes, Scott names names from all of these groups.While a student, Scott worked at KIX FM, before it became B104.7.   Not interested in country, he went over to 95X to become the promotions director right around graduation.After a few years there, Scott headed home to Boston, where he worked in marketing, with partners like Rolling Stone magazine and more.  Another reinvention, he got his masters' degree and began teaching middle school.  He continued in that field after following his wife home to western Massachusetts.   After he tired of disciplining middle school students (can you blame him?) he went back to his first love -newspaper.  He's now the sales manager of Reminder Publishing, which puts out several local, weekly newspapers in the area.   We spend some time talking about the newspaper business, and where he sees it thriving at the local level through strategic partnerships.Scott leaves us with two classic Z89 stories.  One involves Bruce Springsteen tickets - and the other involves all the commercial overnight jocks in town playing the same record at the same time.   He explains, and the story ends at a very familiar place.The WJPZ at 50 Podcast Series is produced by Jon Gay, Class of 2002, and his podcast production agency, JAG in Detroit Podcasts.Sign up for email alerts whenever we release a new episode here: jagindetroit.com/WJPZat50Want to be a guest on the pod or know someone else who would? Email Jag:  jag@jagindetroit.com.Want to stay in the loop with WJPZ Alumni events?  Subscribe to our newsletter on the right hand side of the page at http://wjpzalumni.org/ Connect with the WJPZ Alumni Association: https://wjpzalumniassociation.org/

Links!All of Marty's current work, including podcasts: https://weeklyhumorist.com/Marty's archive of Z Morning Zoo bits, including the full Rick Wright tour of the Ostrom House: https://www.mediafire.com/folder/ascjv18c57ajw/Z_Morning_Zoo_audioMarty D was best known at WJPZ for hosting the Z Morning Zoo, alongside Peterman and Emily Zizza (now Almas).  But you'll learn much more about him in today's episode.  You'll hear how he was a radio nerd like most of us, growing up listening to Baltimore and DC morning shows.An illustrator and artist by trade, Marty looked at art schools but decided on going to a more general school with an art program.  That brought him to Syracuse, and it was a sign on a dorm-mate's door that said "listen to me on the radio" that led him to Z89.  Staring on the 4-6 stuff, he found himself sticking around to hang out with Spike and Nick B  - these were college students doing morning radio!Marty's creative chops were best suited for morning radio -as he found out in other dayparts, and eventually he was offered the show.   Having learned from Baltimore radio, and having two cohosts who had interned in Boston radio, they quickly assembled the archetypal morning show - with the requisite "dick, dear, and dork."We've spoken of the Ostrom house before on this podcast - Marty loved doing the show there his senior year.  It was a house, and he quickly set up a coffee maker and made himself at home.   And the myriad of equipment issues taught him how to overcome almost any obstacle - a skill set he's used in the time since graduation.    Imagine figuring out how to get a show on the air, but you walk into the studio and there's no microphone.   They figured it out.One of the strengths of the show was their community interaction - doing live broadcasts everywhere they could, doing benchmark contest and games, and more.    We asked Marty if he ever thought about doing it professionally.  His answer may surprise you.As for what he did do professionally, Marty takes us through his 20+ year career in New York, working for Mad Magazine, David Letterman and National Lampoon.   Then, he leveraged his skills, experience, and network to start his own company - Humorist Media - doing everything from live events, to podcasts, and now even book publishing.Marty is currently serving on the WJPZ Alumni Association Board, in addition to being the official illustrator of the Alumni Association and this podcast. The WJPZ at 50 Podcast Series is produced by Jon Gay, Class of 2002, and his podcast production agency, JAG in Detroit Podcasts.Sign up for email alerts whenever we release a new episode here: jagindetroit.com/WJPZat50Want to be a guest on the pod or know someone else who would? Email Jag:  jag@jagindetroit.com.Want to stay in the loop with WJPZ Alumni events?  Subscribe to our newsletter on the right hand side of the page at http://wjpzalumni.org/ Connect with the WJPZ Alumni Association: https://wjpzalumniassociation.org/

John sent some great 1990's pics from the station. You can view them here: https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fo/zxxnn6pconq7p45fvidd1/h?rlkey=ny9i0u512pve0tf915i58xtl3&dl=0John Beck, Class of 1995, has gone on to a prolific writing career in Hollywood, having worked on everything from The Hughleys to Fuller House, to Liv and Maddie, and more.   A TV guy through and through, it was actually Dave Gorab who approached him, over at then-UUTV, to come do the Crazy Morning Crew at Z89.John is very honest at the start of the show, sharing his hesitation for coming on the podcast.  Because his path was non-traditional, not having toiled in overnights, etc, he wondered if he was "worthy," but BB Good talked him into it, and we are so glad she did.Soon, John, Julian Keel, and their other teammates were pulilng serious ratings, finishing in Top 10 in the Syracuse market.  We talk about some great bits that made the air - from Professor McPhibious and Love Pumping Horace - to some bits that...well, were not approved for the WJPZ airwaves.John also tells the story of the "We Own a Giant Trampoline Club" - and how they collected enough money to buy one from Sam's Club and granted all members free access to the trampoline in their yard - no matter the hour or their level of sobriety. And if you don't know how the trampoline met its demise, it's worth hearing.  And yes, it's another WJPZ lesson applied to the "real world."We turn to John's Hollywood career - starting off fetching lunch for Corey and Topanga on Boy Meets World, to eventually landing in the writers' room with his fellow SU-alum writing partner Ron Hart.  And his career is littered with alumni stories along the way - from meeting BB Good's family to spotting Dion and Kafele at a taping of The Hughleys - to a very cool connection with Kid Michael Rock, and his daughter.John also explains the recent Hollywood strikes - in layman's terms.   A lot has to do with codifying some of Hollywood's "unwritten rules" and making sure the playing field is fair for all with the advent of large streamers such as Netflix, Hulu, Disney and more.In addition to some classic Rick Wright stories, we conclude with John's advice for writers coming up in 2024.  Yes, it's about who you know and being in the "right place at the right time," but there's so much more to it than that.   Writers write.  Always be writing.   And spend equal time working on your job and your career .  John explains this in the podcast. Connect with the WJPZ Alumni Association: https://wjpzalumniassociation.org/

As the son of a radio station owner, Tony Renda grew up in broadcasting.  His dad, Tony Renda Sr, started with an AM station in East McKeesport, Pennsylvania, before growing the company to many station in several markets.Growing up near Pitt, Tony Jr. new about the Big East, and of course Syracuse. His dad was an alum.  But he didn't go straight from high school to Central New York; he didn't have the grades.   So he spent a year at Ohio University before transferring.Once in the 315, Tony's fraternity brother, Scott Taylor, was VP of Business at the station, and he brought Tony over.  Like many of us, Tony was in awe from the moment he walked in - from the jocks, to the sports and news guys, to even the bumper stickers on the wall. He knew he had to be there.He quickly became development director, then VP of Business, which provided the opportunity to stay in Syracuse for the summer of 1993, when the station gave away a Geo Tracker.  You've probably heard that story before, but today, you'll hear Tony tell the story of walking into Billy Fuccillo's office and securing the car.After graduation, he could have gone straight into the family business, but Tony first wanted some real life experience. He followed Scotty T to Katz Media in New York, where he honed his skills.   Eventually he did come to Renda Broadcasting, starting in Jacksonville, and having worked in Pittsburgh and now Fort Myers-Naples, Florida.In today's episode, you'll also hear what Tony looks for when he interviews a job candidate. It's an important lesson.To learn more about Renda Broadcasting and career opportunities, visit https://rendabroadcasting.com/The WJPZ at 50 Podcast Series is produced by Jon Gay, Class of 2002, and his podcast production agency, JAG in Detroit Podcasts.Sign up for email alerts whenever we release a new episode here: jagindetroit.com/WJPZat50Want to be a guest on the pod or know someone else who would? Email Jag:  jag@jagindetroit.com.Want to stay in the loop with WJPZ Alumni events?  Subscribe to our newsletter on the right hand side of the page at http://wjpzalumni.org/ Connect with the WJPZ Alumni Association: https://wjpzalumniassociation.org/

Today's guests are three ladies, three years apart, who have formed an enduring frienship via WJPZ that has lasted over 20 years.Tracey (Chilandese) Turner got to the station when Harry and Dena were running a skeleton crew, having just shepherded the station through it's second format change (back to Z89) in just a few years.   Trace joined the station as a sophomore, just as Matt DelSignore was taking over for Harry as GM and PD.  Harry provided guidance for promotions, and let his dynamic duo take over.Sarah (Dumont) Fox had no desire to be on the air, but this Plattsburgh native soon found a love for Public Relations.  When Dena left, Sarah volunteered to take on that role, coordinating everything from alumni relationships to Banquets.As these two ascended to station leadership, Lisa entered as a freshman.  This die-hard sports fan started doing on-air work and made fast friends off-air with Tracey and Sarah.  It was a friendship that transcended the walls of the station.Today's guests credit their WJPZ lessons as great prepration for their careers.  Tracey has worked in music since graduation.  Sarah's been in healthcare PR, and Lisa went from NBC page to talent booker to Derek Jeter's outlet, The Players' Tribune.In this episode, you'll hear about "Shake Your Bon Bon For Ricky Martin," a treacherous trip with a car full of balloons, and some heated moments in the Red Sox-Yankees rivalry.  (Poor Lisa had to share a wall with Jag one year).But you'll also hear about enduring friendships, including Matt DelSignore joining Sarah for moral support on a week-long job interview trip to New York City before graduation.  Where did they sleep?  Tracey's couch and loveseat.Throughout today's podcast, you'll hear about the inclusive culture of Z89 (as opposed to some more traditional classrooms).  The knowledge passed down over these 3 years are right in line with the last 50.The WJPZ at 50 Podcast Series is produced by Jon Gay, Class of 2002, and his podcast production agency, JAG in Detroit Podcasts.Sign up for email alerts whenever we release a new episode here: jagindetroit.com/WJPZat50Want to be a guest on the pod or know someone else who would? Email Jag:  jag@jagindetroit.com.Want to stay in the loop with WJPZ Alumni events?  Subscribe to our newsletter on the right hand side of the page at http://wjpzalumni.org/ Connect with the WJPZ Alumni Association: https://wjpzalumniassociation.org/

"Kid" Michael Rock grew up taping Casey Kasem and trying to talk up the songs himself.  So it's not surprising that he applied to Syracuse, and only Syracuse.  And he set out to find WJPZ before his parents had finished unpacking him into Flint Hall.  Who was the first person he met at the station? BB Good.Kid got his FCC license and was soon doing every airshift, including mornings with Steve Donovan (then "Abe Froman").   Ironically, they'd end up competing against each other years later.Rock retells the WJPZ at 50 stories of Spunky the Midget Wrestler and getting drunk on the air with a police officer from his perspective.  You'll also hear about his brilliant move to take his girlfriend to Phantom of the Opera in Toronto - and what he did to blow the weekend.Michael says as much as he learned about radio at WJPZ,  he learned even more about management.   They are lessons that have served him well in his current role as director of content for Fun 107, a station he's been at for decades.Many jocks don't want to spend time on the "internet" aspects of their show, but Kid tells us why it's so important to focus on more than what's just coming out of the FM speakers at that exact moment.For someone who's worked in local radio for so long, how does he see the industry surviving?  By staying local.  Rock elaborates on that and how he does it.The WJPZ at 50 Podcast Series is produced by Jon Gay, Class of 2002, and his podcast production agency, JAG in Detroit Podcasts.Sign up for email alerts whenever we release a new episode here: jagindetroit.com/WJPZat50Want to be a guest on the pod or know someone else who would? Email Jag:  jag@jagindetroit.com.Want to stay in the loop with WJPZ Alumni events?  Subscribe to our newsletter on the right hand side of the page at http://wjpzalumni.org/ Connect with the WJPZ Alumni Association: https://wjpzalumniassociation.org/

Today's guest is play-by-play man David Resnick, a 2010 WJPZ alum.  He reached out to us because he wanted to make sure we recognized the All Star sports department he worked with at Z89 - many who have gone on to great success in the sports industry, as you'll hear.As David says, the "Cold War" between WJPZ and WAER had thawed by the time he got on campus, and he got involved in everything he could - working simultaneously at both radio stations AND Citrus TV. He emphasizes that being willing to try different roles and work for multiple outlets allowed him to gain a well-rounded skillset and learn from a variety of mentors.David also highlights the unique camaraderie and bonding that occurs among sports broadcasters, especially during road trips to cover games. While many of us spent hours and hours together inside and out of the station, there's nothing quite like the bonding that happens on those sports road trips. These experiences helped him build lasting friendships and connections within the industry.  You'll also hear how then-women's Coach Q made sure to give WJPZ as much content and time as possible.Since graduation, David has been a freelance play-by-play broadcaster, based out of New York City. You'll find out why he refers to teams and networks as "clients," as he discusses the challenges and rewards of freelancing, including the need to constantly network and seek out new opportunities. He also shares some valuable advice for aspiring sports broadcasters, emphasizing the importance of building a strong reputation, being adaptable, and considering alternative roles within the sports media landscape.  With the advent of streaming, there are more video play-by-play opportunities than ever!The WJPZ at 50 Podcast Series is produced by Jon Gay, Class of 2002, and his podcast production agency, JAG in Detroit Podcasts.Sign up for email alerts whenever we release a new episode here: jagindetroit.com/WJPZat50Want to be a guest on the pod or know someone else who would? Email Jag:  jag@jagindetroit.com.Want to stay in the loop with WJPZ Alumni events?  Subscribe to our newsletter on the right hand side of the page at http://wjpzalumni.org/ Connect with the WJPZ Alumni Association: https://wjpzalumniassociation.org/

Hey, it’s Jag.  Again, thank you so much for your support of the WJPZ at 50 podcast, which as of today, January 23, 2024, now has almost 13,000 downloads!We’re starting to wind down the series, but wanted to make sure you had a chance to hear from all of the incredible people we’ve talked to, BEFORE we all get together in Syracuse.  So from now until we run out of episodes, probably the middle of February, we’ll go back to our original release schedule of every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday.    Also, a quick thank you to Matt Friedman, who of course handles the PR for the show by posting each episode on Facebook.Once again, for as many hours as I’ve put IN to this effort, I’ve gotten so much more OUT of it.  I’ve learned more about some of my favorite people in the world, and met so many others.   I hope you have too.I encourage you to listen to the episodes of our 2024 Hall of Fame Inductee Class – Kelly Sutton, Mina Llona, and Alex Silverman, if you haven’t yet.  I hope you’ll be there in Syracuse to see them get their hideously awesome orange jackets in March.  Not to mention, if you haven’t heard, it’s our last year to stay at the Sheraton before it’s converted to dorms.    You can buy your Banquet tickets at the link below in our show notes.  Radio, baby! Connect with the WJPZ Alumni Association: https://wjpzalumniassociation.org/

We can't think of a better guest for our 100th episode than Mr. Jim Gallagher.  He is believed to have spent more hours "in the chair" doing morning drive than anyone in WJPZ history. Today you'll learn how lessons learned in Syracuse served him well in a truly remarkable career.  And we open the episode with a classic station story - a live broadcast from the Denny's on Erie Boulevard when he tried to eat 89 pancakes.Following his time at WJPZ, Jim did radio in Maine and Georgia.  In Georgia, he made a mistake on the air that cost him his job and changed his perspective on doing a morning show.  Eventually he decided to pursue one of his other passions - movie trailers and marketing.Jim worked his way up the ladder, becoming President of Marketing for Disney and Pixar, reporting to Bob Iger.  He was the one deciding where to spend ad money to put "butts in seats" for movies like Up. Wall-E, and Ratatouille.Like in all media, regimes change, and people get "the zig." In fact, Jim says he was fired from 3 of the 6 top movie marketing jobs in the world, having also spent time at Dreamworks, Warner Brothers, and as a consultant.   We spend some time talking about movies he worked on, and how the marketing world changed with the advent of the Internet.At 50, Jim knew marketing was a younger man's game, and he had squirreled away every time he could during his career.  This allowed him to start a "retirement" hobby.  Given that he doesn't golf, he re-invented himself and took up stand-up comedy.  He's been performing all over the country, honing his craft.Comedy is a tricky thing - we close today's episode with a poignant conversation about "cancel culture" and comedians who claim they can't tell the jokes they want to tell.   From Jim's perspective, if you generate more negative feelings in your audience than positive, than you should probably be doing something else.For tour dates and more on Jim, visit his website: https://www.comedybyjimgallagher.com/The WJPZ at 50 Podcast Series is produced by Jon Gay, Class of 2002, and his podcast production agency, JAG in Detroit Podcasts.Sign up for email alerts whenever we release a new episode here: jagindetroit.com/WJPZat50Want to be a guest on the pod or know someone else who would? Email Jag:  jag@jagindetroit.com.Want to stay in the loop with WJPZ Alumni events?  Subscribe to our newsletter on the right hand side of the page at http://wjpzalumni.org/ Connect with the WJPZ Alumni Association: https://wjpzalumniassociation.org/