In this special episode of Mic Check, we sit down with Erik Mathisen, the founder of KZFR 90.1 FM, to hear the story of how a dream became a station. Interviewed by Kevin Cook and Julian Mendoza, Erik shares his lifelong love of radio, the inspiration he drew from community stations like KPFA, and the grassroots effort that led to the creation of KZFR.

From filing for the construction permit to testing the transmitter and signing on the air for the very first time, Erik reflects on the challenges, the community support, and the magic of building something that still thrives more than 30 years later. His memories, insights, and hopes for the future reveal the heart of what makes KZFR truly community radio.

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