Episodes

  • TWiRT Ep. 785 - Winter Weather Wadio Webinar

    TWiRT Ep. 785 - Winter Weather Wadio Webinar
    Jan 30 2026
    Episode 785 of This Week in Radio Tech tackles the very real challenges broadcasters are facing as severe winter weather sweeps across the Southeast and pushes toward the Northeast. In this episode, a panel of seasoned engineers from MaxxKonnect share hard-won lessons on preparing transmitter sites—and recovering them—when ice, snow, and extreme cold take stations off the air. Drawing on firsthand, boots-on-the-ground experiences, they discuss what worked, what failed, and what they’d do differently next time. While the focus is largely on transmitter facilities, much of the guidance applies just as well to studios and supporting infrastructure. If you want practical, experience-based advice to help your station survive and recover from winter weather disasters, this is an episode you’ll want to hear.
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    1 hr and 14 mins
  • TWiRT Ep. 784 - Engineering from Experience with Aaron Read

    TWiRT Ep. 784 - Engineering from Experience with Aaron Read
    Jan 23 2026
    On this episode of This Week in Radio Tech, Kirk Harnack is joined by broadcast engineer Aaron Read of L and R Broadcast Services, formerly with Rhode Island Public Radio. Aaron shares thoughtful, experience-based insights on how broadcast engineers play a direct role in establishing—and sometimes unintentionally eroding—listener trust, and why that trust remains one of radio’s greatest strengths. The conversation also dives into Aaron’s practical “Tip of the Week,” focusing on securing Barix codecs and other IP audio devices, including why built-in security features and proper password discipline matter. Aaron strongly advocates for using site-to-site VPNs to protect studio-to-transmitter IP links, explaining how this approach improves both security and reliability. Throughout the episode, Aaron emphasizes the importance of remaining open-minded and committed to continuous learning as technology and workflows evolve. This is a valuable listen for engineers who care about protecting the craft, the signal, and the audience relationship.
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    1 hr and 10 mins
  • TWiRT Ep. 783 - An Attitude of Gratitude with Chris Tar

    TWiRT Ep. 783 - An Attitude of Gratitude with Chris Tar
    Jan 16 2026
    Episode 783 of This Week in Radio Tech features Chris Tarr, now a Field Engineer for K-LOVE, responsible for dozens of transmitters carrying the K-LOVE and Air1 networks. Chris shares how K-LOVE uses smart technologies, standardized procedures, and thoughtful system design to maximize engineering efficiency while reliably serving a nationwide audience. He also offers insight into the workflows and best practices he’s learned from the experienced K-LOVE engineering team, with particular appreciation for the support of the Network Operations Center (NOC). Throughout the conversation, Chris reflects on working with an “attitude of gratitude” and how the culture within K-LOVE engineering and programming makes that mindset possible. It’s an informative and encouraging episode for broadcast engineers at any scale.
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    1 hr and 11 mins
  • TWiRT Ep. 782 - Rapid Response Radio with Mike Adams

    TWiRT Ep. 782 - Rapid Response Radio with Mike Adams
    Jan 9 2026
    This Week in Radio Tech episode 782 features Michael Adams joining Kirk Harnack to discuss Rapid Response Radio, a new organization focused on fast, resilient communications when they are needed most. Building on the proven success of First Response Radio, Mike explains how today’s audio and transmission technology has enabled a dramatically smaller, lighter, airline-carry-on-sized broadcast kit. These compact systems make it possible to deploy pop-up FM radio stations quickly in disaster zones and areas where infrastructure has been damaged or destroyed. From natural disasters to war-torn regions, Rapid Response Radio provides a practical way to restore vital information flow to affected communities. This episode highlights how thoughtful engineering and modern broadcast tools can make a real difference when conventional systems fail.
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    1 hr and 22 mins
  • TWiRT Ep. 781 - Powering Local Radio into 2026 with Chris Marsalis

    TWiRT Ep. 781 - Powering Local Radio into 2026 with Chris Marsalis
    Jan 1 2026
    Listen to This Week in Radio Tech episode 781, “Powering Local Radio into 2026 with Chris Marsalis.” Chris and his wife own two successful FM stations in Ripley, Mississippi—The Shark 102.3 and Kudzu 104.9—and he shares how strong local programming, especially high school sports, continues to drive audience loyalty. He explains how creative sponsorships, including FM RDS messaging and integrated digital advertising across streaming and podcasts, have expanded revenue opportunities well beyond traditional spot sales. Chris also discusses his technical work with Mississippi Public Broadcasting, helping maintain two HDTV and FM+HD transmitter sites in northeast Mississippi. This episode is a practical and encouraging look at how committed local broadcasters can thrive well into the future.
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    1 hr and 22 mins
  • TWiRT Ep. 780 - I Wear Three Hats with Larry Wilkins

    TWiRT Ep. 780 - I Wear Three Hats with Larry Wilkins
    Dec 26 2025
    Watch or listen to This Week in Radio Tech episode 780, “I Wear Three Hats,” featuring Larry Wilkins—one of the most respected and beloved broadcast engineers in Alabama. Larry has played a pivotal role in advancing broadcast engineering across the state through his work with the Alabama Broadcasters Association, including the creation of the ABA Engineering Academy. He is also deeply involved in the ABIP program, helping stations meet critical infrastructure and compliance goals. As an active member of the State Emergency Communications Committee (SECC), Larry continues to strengthen emergency preparedness for broadcasters statewide. In this episode, Larry explains the value of these programs and why, even in semi-retirement, he remains passionate about working hard to support and mentor fellow broadcast engineers.
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    1 hr and 25 mins
  • TWiRT Ep. 779 - Next Generation Multichannel Audio with Larry Schindel

    TWiRT Ep. 779 - Next Generation Multichannel Audio with Larry Schindel
    Dec 19 2025
    Tune in to This Week in Radio Tech episode 779, “Next Generation Multichannel Audio with Larry Schindel.” Larry Schindel, Senior Product Manager for Linear Acoustic—part of Telos Alliance—brings decades of hands-on experience in multichannel television audio spanning live production, post, and transmission. In this episode, Larry clearly explains what Next Generation Audio (NGA) really means for broadcasters and content creators today. He breaks down the practical differences between traditional channel-based audio and modern object-based audio workflows. The conversation also dives into Serial ADM (S-ADM) and how it enables more flexible, immersive audio delivery. Larry wraps up with an entertaining and insightful story about “Take 5” that bridges audio engineering and the video production world.
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    1 hr and 11 mins
  • TWiRT Ep. 778 - Begin with the End in Mind - with Tony St. James

    TWiRT Ep. 778 - Begin with the End in Mind - with Tony St. James
    Dec 12 2025
    TWiRT 778 opens with a broadcaster whose reach spans far beyond the cotton fields and high plains of West Texas. Tony St. James, owner of KFLP AM-FM in Floydada, has built a multi-platform media operation that punches far above its market size. Alongside running his stations, Tony operates two prolific content networks: the West Texas Friday Night Scoreboard and the All Ag Network. His voice is also instantly recognizable to rural audiences nationwide through his frequent appearances on RFD-TV and SiriusXM’s Rural Radio channel. Tony joins Kirk Harnack to talk shop about the technical, workflow, and operational strategies that allow a small-market broadcaster to deliver big-market volume. From managing affiliate distribution, to producing consistent ag and sports content, to keeping costs and complexity under control, Tony shares the practical methods that let him serve multiple media platforms and dozens of stations every day. This episode is a masterclass in scalable, real-world radio operations from someone who lives it.
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    1 hr and 15 mins