Listener Supported: The Culture and History of Public Radio

by Jack W. Mitchell

Public radio stands as a valued national institution, one whose fans and listeners actively support it with their time and their money. In this new history of this important aspect of American culture, author Jack W. Mitchell looks at the dreams that inspired those who created it, the all-too- human realities that grew out of those dreams, and the criticism they incurred from both sides of the political spectrum. As National Public Radio's very first employee, and the first producer of its legendary All Things Considered, Mitchell tells the story of public radio from the point of view of an insider, a participant, and a thoughtful observer. He traces its origins in the progressive movement of the 20th century, and analyzes the people, institutions, ideas, political forces, and economic realities that helped it evolve into what we know as public radio today. NPR and its local affiliates have earned their reputation for thoughtful commentary and excellent journalism, and their work is especially notable in light of the unique struggles they have faced over the decades. This comprehensive overview of their mission will fascinate listeners whose enjoyment and support of public radio has made it possible, and made it great.

232 pages, Hardcover

First published September 5, 2000

Reviews

[Brett Roberts · Rating 4 out of 5]

This books offers great background information and really remarkable stories in the birth and development of NPR. It also does a great job breaking down the audience and criticism NPR deals with. It was first published in 2005 and I would love to see an update that considers the era of the podcast and further political polarization in America. Worth the read for NPR devotees.

[Ally · Rating 4 out of 5]

A thoroughly-researched and well-written account of the history of public radio in the USA by someone who is qualified to be a primary source. As an avid listener, I especially enjoyed Part 2 - the background on and impetus for many popular public radio programs. I wished there could have been more in this section - maybe expanding the scope to include more shows. The tone of the book is quite academic, which may be unappealing to some readers, but I found it engaging and delightful.

[Michael · Rating 3 out of 5]

Not compelling, but this book does contain some interesting details (particularly about NPR) since the author was there throughout its history.

[D · Rating 5 out of 5]

Super biased read since I work in public radio, but it was a great read nonetheless. Reading this coincided with our spring member drive. ;)