If you’re anything like me, talk radio is one of your favorite things in the world – and the more localized it is, the better. Thankfully, the good folks over at Illinois Public Media just announced the debut of their hour-long Illinois-based news program, The 21st, dubbed “21st-century radio for the 21st state,” the program will be a collaboration between WILL and WUIS in Springfield, and will focus on news from across the state.
The show launces on March 14th, and will be anchored and executive produced by public radio host Niala Boodhoo.
From the press release:
URBANA, IL. (Jan. 7, 2016) — Illinois Public Media (WILL-AM-FM-TV) is launching The 21st, a new hour-long talk show, airing weekdays at 11 a.m. Veteran journalist and public radio host Niala Boodhoo will host and executive produce The 21st. The show will launch March 14, 2016 and will be made available to other public radio stations throughout Illinois for simulcast for their broadcast audiences. WUIS in Springfield joins WILL as a launch partner.
The 21st — 21st-century radio for the 21st state — will combine relevant news and conversation with audience engagement through phone calls, social media and other digital channels. The 21st will not only facilitate discussions but help listeners connect with each other and with the information vital to their lives.
“The 21st will set a new standard in talk radio in Illinois by bringing people together and sparking conversations on air and online around the issues and ideas that affect people’s everyday lives across the state,” said Moss Bresnahan, President and CEO of Illinois Public Media. “The public media audience is evolving and looking to interact with our content in new ways and on all platforms. There’s a real need in Illinois for a program that is relevant, smart and fun and connects people from all walks of life and from all corners of Illinois.”
Listeners will hear a mix of interviews and conversations—everyone from farmers, businesspeople, artists, politicians, and most importantly, residents across Illinois—on everything from news to politics to arts, culture and everyday life.
“We want to establish this hour as one where you will get a chance to connect with people throughout the state, and hopefully learn something about life here in Illinois,” said Boodhoo, who joins the Illinois Public Media team after two years of hosting The Afternoon Shift at WBEZ/Chicago Public Media. “I’d love for people to not just tune in, but also talk to each other, about what’s happening in Illinois and across the Midwest, the country and the world.”