Janet Michael, the tireless host of The Valley Today, has reached a milestone few in broadcasting can claim: 2,500 consecutive episodes. In a special celebratory podcast, Janet welcomes Andy Gail, CEO of United Way of Northern Shenandoah Valley—and a longtime listener turned frequent guest—to reflect on the journey, share laughs, and look ahead to new adventures.

From Listener to Guest: Andy's Unique Perspective

Right from the start, Andy brings a playful energy, joking about his habit of listening to Janet's show before bed and his record as the most consistent guest. Their banter sets the tone for an episode filled with warmth and camaraderie. Andy, now a community leader, recalls how the show has become a staple for many, including former colleagues who still tune in and text him after his appearances.

Fun Facts and Friendly Rivalries

To put 2,500 episodes in perspective, Andy rattles off a series of fun facts: Janet has outpaced The Simpsons, Law & Order, and even Law & Order: SVU in episode count, though she still has a way to go to catch up with soap operas like Guiding Light. The conversation is peppered with quirky trivia—did you know it takes 2,500 honeybees to make a pound of honey, or that the average person consumes 2,500 calories a day? These playful comparisons highlight the magnitude of Janet's achievement while keeping the mood light.

Behind the Scenes: The Real Work of Podcasting

Transitioning from celebration to reality, Janet and Andy pull back the curtain on the work that goes into each episode. Janet reveals that producing a single show can take three to four hours, from booking guests and recording to editing out hundreds of "ums" and "uhs." Andy marvels at the dedication, calculating that Janet has spent over 8,000 pots of coffee and nearly 9,000 hours keeping The Valley Today on the air. Their candid discussion underscores the unseen effort behind the microphone.

Debates, Dishes, and Community Spirit

No Valley Today episode would be complete without a spirited debate. Janet and Andy revisit classic arguments—Is cereal soup? Is a hot dog a sandwich or a taco?—and tease an upcoming podcast series focused on the best dishes in Winchester. Their friendly disagreements and shared laughter exemplify the show's unique blend of information and entertainment.

Giving Back: A Fundraiser for the Community

As the conversation draws to a close, Janet and Andy announce a special United Way fundraiser in honor of the 2,500th episode. Their goal: raise $2,500 by year's end to support local nonprofits. Listeners are invited to donate, participate in auctions, and even win a chance to appear on the show. The initiative reflects Janet's deep commitment to the community and her belief that even small contributions can make a big difference. Learn more here: https://givebutter.com/ValleyToday 

Looking Ahead: The Streak Continues

Finally, Janet shares her next goal—surpassing Cal Ripken's legendary streak of 2,632 consecutive baseball games. With her trademark humor and determination, she assures listeners that The Valley Today will be back tomorrow, ready to inform, entertain, and connect the community once again. Through laughter, reflection, and a shared sense of purpose, Janet and Andy celebrate not just a broadcasting milestone, but the enduring power of local storytelling. As The Valley Today enters its next chapter, one thing is clear: the conversation—and the coffee—will keep flowing.