Welcome to the Civic Media Spotlight! We start with a standout conversation from Afternoons with John and Gordy, where John and Gordy talk with media historian Barry Orton. He breaks down the long pattern of media company takeovers and explains why the big new Netflix deal isn’t actually anything new. It’s a sharp, accessible look at how this industry has been repeating the same playbook for decades.

Next up, we revisit a truly emotional moment for the Matenaer on Air Show as the entire team gathers for Jane’s final goodbye. Friends, coworkers, and listeners celebrate her incredible impact on the station, sharing stories, laughs, and heartfelt thanks. It’s a warm tribute that captures just how much Jane has meant to so many people!

From the John and Gordy Morning Show, we highlight a timely discussion with guest Savanna Tomei-Olson about the Monona Terrace workers’ strike. She walks through what’s behind the labor action, how workers are organizing, and what the community should know as negotiations move forward. It’s grounded reporting on a major local workplace story.

We then feature a segment from the WXCO Morning Report, where Chad Holmes talks with Marathon County Democratic Party chair Nancy Stencil. They dig into the political issues shaping the region, what organizers are hearing on the ground, and how local conversations are influencing the broader political landscape.

To learn more about these shows and all of the programming across the Civic Media network, head over to https://civicmedia.us/shows to see the entire broadcast line up. Follow the network on Facebook, BlueSky, YouTube, X, and Instagram to keep up with Civic Media!