The Quarter Hour: the daily podcast for radio nerds

About the Guest(s):

Paul Thompson is a pivotal figure in the Australian radio industry, renowned for his pioneering contributions and leadership. He is the founder of SAFM, which was the homebase of what became the highly successful Austereo network. Thompson also led DMG Radio Australia, establishing 'Nova' which expanded into a comprehensive network of radio stations throughout Australia. His career is marked by visionary leadership, strategic foresight, and a commitment to nurturing talent, which has significantly shaped the landscape of Australian radio.

Episode Summary:

In this special episode of "The Quarter Hour," host Wade Kingsley dives into the transformative career of Paul Thompson. This episode marks the first in a compelling three-part series, where Wade explores Paul's remarkable journey through the lens of courage and innovation.

Throughout the episode, Wade discusses key moments that defined Thompson's illustrious career. From his first venture into metropolitan radio with 5KA in Adelaide to the groundbreaking launch of SAFM, Thompson consistently demonstrated a bold approach to programming and strategy. He embraced a forward-thinking mindset, leveraging innovative research methods and prioritising a belief-driven methodology. Whether navigating the nascent FM radio landscape or the complex acquisition of 5AA by DMG, Thompson’s leadership was characterised by an unwavering belief in possibilities and opportunities. This discussion offers valuable insights into the challenges and triumphs of reshaping the radio industry.

Key Takeaways:

• The strategic bravery of Thompson's initiatives included pioneering new research methods and seizing emerging market opportunities, particularly in FM broadcasting.
• Thompson's philosophy emphasises the importance of belief in driving brave and impactful work, focusing on future possibilities rather than past achievements.
• His leadership style fostered a culture of creativity and bold decision-making, inspiring his teams to strive for excellence in the rapidly evolving radio industry.
• Reflecting on his achievements, Thompson acknowledges that his past courageous actions were driven by an enthusiastic belief in the potential of radio.

Notable Quotes:

1. "I was probably braver then than I realised and braver then than I would ever be now." - Paul Thompson
2. "Belief is a really big part of bravery. But there is a point where too much knowledge creates too much doubt." - Paul Thompson
3. "Setting a bar so high that even if you failed, you were still going to be spectacularly successful." - Paul Thompson
4. "It was challenging (to start FM) because the entire AM industry…were utterly opposed and were working committedly to kill it at birth." - Paul Thompson

Part 2 will be published on Tuesday 28th April 2026.

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About the Guest(s):

Ben Latimer is the Director of Audio at the Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC).

Episode Summary:

In this commemorative episode, host Wade Kingsley engages in a heartfelt conversation with Ben, focusing on the legacy of the late James Valentine, a cherished figure in Australian radio. The episode delves into Valentine's impact not only as a broadcaster but also as a mentor and friend within the industry. The conversation is both a tribute and a reflection on the influence Valentine wielded throughout his impressive career.

Listeners will gain insight into James Valentine's journey, from his early days at ABC to his remarkable 25-year tenure as host of 702 Afternoons. Latimer shares touching anecdotes and describes Valentine's unique style of radio that invited audience participation, effectively making listeners his co-hosts. The discussion underscores Valentine's exceptional ability to connect with his audience, fostering an environment where genuine conversations thrived. As they recall his pioneering contributions to radio, Kingsley and Latimer emphasise the lasting impression Valentine has left on ABC and the broader radio landscape.

Key Takeaways:

• James Valentine was a beloved broadcaster whose career spanned over four decades in Australian radio, predominantly with ABC.
• Valentine was celebrated for making his audience feel like co-hosts, pioneering a unique style of talkback radio.
• Despite his illness, Valentine continued to engage with his audience, displaying remarkable dignity and openness.
• The episode highlights Valentine's posthumous recognition with a Member of the Order of Australia for his contributions to arts and public conversation.
• Ben Latimer shares how Valentine's legacy continues to inspire and teach broadcasters within the ABC and beyond.

Notable Quotes:

• "He's a broadcaster that didn't only just touch people here at the abc, but he mentored people and he taught people that really great radio craft right across Australian radio." — Ben Latimer
• "His co-host was the audience, they were in with him, no matter what the show content was." — Wade Kingsley
• "I think he really felt that with his afternoon show, it was always a really lovely escape from the heaviness of the news." — Ben Latimer
• "James was this guy who had… lots of ideas, but one he was particularly passionate about was making everyone just a bit kinder." — Ben Latimer
• "He pioneered this type of talkback radio where you really allowed the audience to be in the driver's seat with you." — Ben Latimer

Resources:

While the transcript does not mention explicit resources like social media handles or websites, the episode pays tribute to James Valentine, emphasising his career and his influence in the field of radio broadcasting in Australia.

Listeners are encouraged to tune into the full episode for an intimate look at James Valentine's lasting legacy in radio and to appreciate the profound impact he made through his genuine connection with audiences over the years. Stay tuned for more engaging content from our podcast series.

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Wade announces the Survey 2 2026 GfK results live.

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About the Guest(s):

Robin Bailey is a legendary radio broadcaster from Brisbane. With a career spanning decades, she has become a beloved figure in radio, noted for her ability to connect authentically with audiences through storytelling. Robin recently added "author" to her list of achievements with the publication of her memoir, "Flamingos Aren't Born Pink," a reflective exploration of her personal and professional journey.

Episode Summary:

In this episode of the podcast, Robin shares candid experiences from her long-standing radio career, providing insights into the differences and challenges of connecting with an audience through writing versus broadcasting. Listeners are treated to stories from her extensive career and personal life, including heartfelt memories of influential colleagues and personal relationships that have shaped her journey.

As the episode progresses, Robin reflects on the role of grief in her life, a significant theme in her book, offering a poignant perspective on how these experiences can shape a person. The episode also highlights her return to radio after a brief hiatus, the dynamics of working with her co-hosts, and her thoughts on female representation in the media industry. The discussion is rich in storytelling, much like Robin’s approach to radio, painting a vivid picture of a life lived in the public eye and the lessons learned along the way.

Key Takeaways:

• Her book is described as a "warts and all" look into her life, highlighting themes of personal growth and resilience.
• Robin opens up about professional relationships with key figures in the radio industry and the impact of these on her career.
• The episode dives into personal themes such as grief and how it shaped Robin’s outlook and motivation in life.
• Robin’s candid thoughts on her return to radio, and the dynamics and experiences of working in a male-dominated industry.

Notable Quotes:

• On her platform: "A book gives you a bit of gravitas that something else doesn't."
• On ARN's decision to end her contract then re-hire her: "I was really angry… It felt like an abusive relationship. You know, it's like, I love you, I don't love you."
• "Jamie Dunn was the greatest storyteller. You'd follow him, and he was someone you wanted to listen to."

Resources:

• Buy Robin Bailey’s memoir: https://www.harpercollins.com.au/9781460768839/flamingos-arent-born-pink-a-moving-and-uplifting-memoir-on-heartbreak-grief-and-finding-joy-by-brisbane-radio-personality-and-podcaster/

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About the Guest(s):

Amanda Lee is the Head of Metro Content for the Hit Network.

Episode Summary:

In this episode of "The Quarter Hour," host Wade Kingsley delves deep into the changes happening at Sydney's 2DAY FM, focusing on its evolving music strategy. The episode features a lively conversation with Amanda, as she explains the shifts in 2DAY FM’s music programming, the rationale behind these changes, and how audience insights guide their radio format decisions.

Listeners will gain insight into the strategic rebranding of 2DAY FM's music content, where Amanda shares the iprocess of transitioning from a "hits before they hit" format to the current "Better Music and More of It". With a focus on appealing to the under-40 demographic, Amanda reveals how audience feedback, market analysis, and changes in breakfast shows have created new opportunities for positioning in the network.

Key Takeaways:

• Evolving Music Strategy: 2DAY FM has shifted from a newer music focus to a varied music playlist resonating with the under-40 demographic, fuelled by audience research and market analysis.
• Integration with Breakfast Shows: The strategic changes align with the evolving landscape of breakfast programming, ensuring content supports and enhances the overall radio experience.
• Nostalgia and Variety: The current music programming includes a mix of 90s and 2000s hits, alongside popular artists like Rihanna and Justin Bieber, aimed at creating an energising and familiar atmosphere.
• Support for New Artists: While mainstream hits dominate the playlist, Amanda says 2DAY FM continues to support new and Australian music in suitable dayparts and through specialty shows.
• Collaboration with Seven Network: The partnership with the Seven Network presents new promotional opportunities, broadening the reach of both entertainment and sports content.

Notable Quotes:

1. "It's months in doing audience insights and research and getting their feedback."
2. "We want music they can sing along to…that energises them."
3. "The audience is telling us we want variety, we want familiarity."
4. "We've got to think about our listeners and go, what do you want?"

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About the Guest(s):

Ben and Liam: Ben Harvey and Liam Stapleton are a renowned radio duo hailing from Adelaide, famously recognised for their radio programs spanning multiple networks like Triple J & Nova. With a strong presence in the radio industry dating back to 2014, Ben and Liam have accumulated a wealth of experience and acclaim for their unique ability to connect with the audience through creative story arcs and humour.

Episode Summary:

Join Wade Kingsley in an in-studio chat with Ben and Liam, now on KIIS 102.3. In this episode, they dive into life back in their hometown, the intricacies of breakfast radio, and juggling personal commitments with professional endeavours. Ben and Liam open up about the challenges and joys of returning to Adelaide’s airwaves, sharing vivid anecdotes and highlighting their deep connection to the community.

Explore the methodology and creative prowess behind Ben and Liam’s approach to radio stunts, particularly their recent "Gather Round" stunt. They elaborate on the evolution of their radio journey, discussing how they’ve crafted a signature style that makes them stand out in the competitive industry. This episode is a must-listen for those interested in radio broadcasting or curious about what makes this duo one of Adelaide's favourite radio shows. With discussions ranging from balance in personal life to crafting perfect radio content, the dialogue is richly layered with insights and seasoned with Adelaide-specific themes.

Key Takeaways:

• Ben and Liam discuss the development of their popular radio stunt, "Gather Round," highlighting their commitment to originality and audience engagement.
• The duo shares experiences of transitioning between different radio networks and their return to Adelaide breakfast radio, balancing on-air creativity with off-air personal life.
• Emphasis is placed on the importance of creating content that resonates with local listeners.
• The discussion includes practical insights into radio show planning and execution, demonstrating Ben and Liam's commitment to their craft.

Notable Quotes:

1. "It's been so much fun each morning, honestly, so far." - Liam
2. "For better or worse. We're a show that really likes to prepare." - Ben
3. "Gather round is the one round of the year where every single AFL game is in one particular state." - Ben

Resources:

• KIIS FM Adelaide: KIISFM
• Ben and Liam’s socials: https://www.instagram.com/benandliam/

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About the Guest(s):

Luka Muller is an Australian stand-up comedian and radio host known for his work on Triple J's breakfast show. With a background in stand-up comedy, Muller has become a rising star in the radio industry, recognised as a finalist in the Best Newcomer (Large) category at the Australian Audio Awards. Raised in Echuca, regional Victoria, Muller brings his witty humour and engaging radio presence, alongside his co-host Concetta Caristo.

Episode Summary:

Wade Kingsley sits down with Luka to talk about his journey from stand-up comedy to co-hosting a national breakfast show. This episode delves into Muller’s initial experiences with radio, his love for running, and the transition from performing stand-up routines late at night to waking up early for breakfast shows.

In these engaging conversations, Kingsley and Muller explore how a new lifestyle emerged from his jump into the world of morning radio, leading to the adoption of running. This lifestyle shift came as Muller adjusted from a nocturnal routine filled with comedy gigs to the early rises required for his Triple J breakfast show. Throughout the episode, key topics such as teamwork in a broadcast setting, and the importance of mentors like Michael Hing in Muller's career, are explored.

Key Takeaways:

• Transitioning from a nightlife-focused comedy routine to morning radio demanded a significant lifestyle change for Luka, which included taking up running.
• Luka’s career in radio was heavily influenced by his childhood memories of listening to radio with his parents.
• Muller's role as a co-host on Triple J highlights the importance of teamwork, where understanding and balancing roles between hosts can significantly enhance the experience.
• His nomination for Best Newcomer in a major market emphasises his successful adaptation to radio and recognition within the industry.
• Underpinning Luka’s transition into radio was encouragement from industry professionals, demonstrating the power of mentorship and networking.

Notable Quotes:

1. "I wasn't sure if I wanted to do it at first… but Hing and others were like, you're stupid not to do this." – Discussing the decision to join Triple J breakfast.
2. "Concetta is the art and I'm the frame." – Muller on the dynamic between him and his co-host Concetta Caristo.
3. "Radio was on my mind for sure." – Recalling his lifelong passion for radio and its impact on his career path.

Resources:

• Triple J Radio
• Luka Muller Instagram

Tune in to this enlightening episode to explore more about Luka Muller's fascinating transition into radio, and how his unique perspective enriches the breakfast show landscape. Stay connected for more exciting discussions on “The Quarter Hour” as they continue to bring forth inspiring journeys and conversations from leading figures in the media industry.

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Here's a special episode for all the radio nerds. Inside the world's oldest rock station, KSHE St Louis with Marty Linck, Brand & Content Director.

About the Guest(s):

Marty Linck is a seasoned radio professional currently serving as the Program Director at KSHE 95 a longstanding rock radio station in St. Louis, Missouri. Marty has been an integral part of the station since the 1990s, beginning as an intern before progressing to Assistant Program Director and eventually taking on the Program Director role in 2019. His deep-rooted connection to St. Louis and KSHE provides him with unique insights into the station's storied history and enduring legacy in the world of classic rock. Marty’s passion for radio is complemented by his keen sense of humour and dedication to maintaining the station's legacy while adapting to modern challenges.

Episode Summary:

This episode of "The Quarter Hour" explores the historical legacy and cultural impact of one of the longest-running rock radio stations, captivating listeners since 1967. With Marty Linck at the helm, KSHE 95 has managed to honour its storied past while staying relevant to contemporary audiences. Listeners will be taken on a nostalgic journey, reflecting on how KSHE evolved from its humble beginnings with a "female friendly" format to becoming an iconic rock institution.

Explore the intricacies of maintaining a classic rock format that spans from 1967 to 2000, with insights into KSHE's branding strategy, its distinct "real rock radio" identity, and the quirky, cherished mascot Sweet Meat. Marty Linck talks about the challenges and responsibilities of keeping a legacy station fresh while preserving the elements that listeners have cherished for decades. From engaging production techniques to a thriving merchandise business, this episode highlights how KSHE has remained a beloved haven for rock enthusiasts. Throughout the conversation, Marty underscores the passion of the KSHE community and explains how listener feedback informs programming decisions.

Key Takeaways:

• Historical Legacy: KSHE 95 began in 1961 and shifted to a rock format in 1967, becoming the longest-running rock station in the U.S.
• Dual Focus: Balance between honouring KSHE's rich history and meeting contemporary listener expectations through dynamic programming.
• Brand Identity: Emphasising "real rock radio" as KSHE's unique attribute, akin to being the "Coke" of rock radio.
• Community Engagement: Strong listener passion evident in feedback, impacting programming decisions and maintaining a robust relationship with the audience.
• Merchandising Success: KSHE's mascot "Sweet Meat" plays a pivotal role in merchandising, demonstrating a successful brand extension.

Notable Quotes:

• "Your job, basically, let's say it how it is, is to not f*** it up." - Wade Kingsley
• "Eventually, they started hiring younger DJs and people just kind of started… experimenting and throwing in a rock record here and there." - Marty Linck
• "But if you screw something up in their mind, like… there's a woman who called me and left voicemails 30, 30 plus times last year because we don't play enough Journey." - Marty Linck
• "Working here is a blessing and a curse." - Marty Linck

Resources:

• KSHE 95 Website: kshe95.com
• KSHE Merchandising: KSHE Store

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About the Guest(s):

Calum Jaspan is a prominent media writer for the Sydney Morning Herald (SMH) and The Age. With a sharp eye for breaking news and detailed reporting, Calum specialises in covering media industry dynamics and legal controversies. His work delivers in-depth analysis on high-profile media events and corporate dealings, aligning him as a crucial voice in the Australian media landscape. For readers eager to stay updated on the latest media industry narratives, Calum's columns are a go-to resource.

Episode Summary:

Wade Kingsley delves into a breaking legal saga involving radio personalities Jackie O and Kyle Sandilands. With guest Calum Jaspan from the Sydney Morning Herald, the discussion unpacks Jackie O's court claims against ARN, The episode explores how Jackie O raised concerns that she alleges were ignored by top management, leading to broader implications for the station and its leadership.

ARN intend to defend the allegations fully in court.

Key Takeaways:

• Jackie O has filed allegations against ARN claiming psychosocial harm due to what she alleges is an abusive professional relationship with fellow host Kyle Sandilands.
• Management at ARN, including senior figures, reportedly failed to address Jackie O's repeated complaints about the hostile working environment (according to Jackie's statement of claim, which ARN intends to defend).
• The timeline of complaints and incidents stretches back months before the publicly known fallout, challenging the narrative of an isolated incident (according to Jackie's statement of claim, which ARN intends to defend).
• The Federal Court is set to hear both Jackie O's and Kyle Sandiland's cases on April 24, indicating significant developments are expected.
• The episode underscores the complexities of distinguishing personal conduct from professional performance in media environments.

Notable Quotes:

• "These are just allegations that Jackie's making at the moment…they haven't been tested in court, but soon will be." - Wade Kingsley
• "Through these exchanges, you can, you can really see why they had such a strong following." - Calum Jaspan
• "The crossover between entertainment and real life continues. It is a form of reality show we're watching here and listening to." - Wade Kingsley.

Resources:

Calum's Article: https://www.theage.com.au/business/companies/jackie-o-demanded-kiis-bosses-stop-abusive-relationship-months-before-sandilands-blowup-20260408-p5zm42.html

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About the Guest(s):

Max Munday is an aspiring talent in the radio and podcasting industry. With a rich passion for audio content, Max hosts three podcasts focused on diverse themes: Biz Audio (covering the radio industry), Biz by the Water (a sports-centered podcast), and Biz Politics (discussing Australia's political scene). He also gained invaluable experience by shadowing Kyle and Jackie O at ARN. Eager to delve deeper into a full-time radio career, Max is actively seeking opportunities to contribute his fresh perspective and enthusiasm to the industry.

Episode Summary:

In this special live episode of "The Quarter Hour," host Wade Kingsley welcomes the show's first-ever co-host, Max Munday. Together, they dive into a significant topic in the radio industry: the future strategy of ARN's breakfast shows in Sydney and Melbourne following the departure of iconic duo Kyle and Jackie O from KIIS FM. As an ambitious young talent, Max brings his fresh insights and enthusiasm to the forefront, discussing his ideas on potential successors for the much-coveted breakfast slots.

Throughout the episode, Wade and Max explore strategic necessities for ARN, emphasising a defensive strategy in retaining listeners in Sydney and an aggressive approach to capturing the audience share in Melbourne. They delve into various names and personalities who could potentially take the breakfast baton, discussing the plausibility and impact of each choice. The conversation also mentions industry rumours and insights, notably including a speculative deal involving Karl Stefanovic. The discussion is enriched with audience interaction through comments from the P1 WhatsApp group, offering lively debates and opinions about potential future radio stars.

Key Takeaways:

• Wade Kingsley and Max Munday discuss what ARN should consider for Sydney and Melbourne's breakfast shows post-Kyle and Jackie O.
• A defensive strategy in Sydney aims to retain the existing audience, with names like Karl Stefanovic and Sophie Monk considered.
• An aggressive approach in Melbourne aims to capture a larger audience share, with suggestions like Jules Lund and comedic talents.
• Audience interaction highlights diverse perspectives, enriching the conversation with suggestions and industry insights.
• Max Munday's ambition serves as an inspiring narrative for aspiring media talents exploring industry entry points.

Notable Quotes:

1. "For KIIS 1011, it's been, not neglected, but there hasn't been a lot of attention focused on it for a while." – Max Munday
2. "I think they need to play more of a defensive play strategically." – Wade Kingsley
3. "It's a complicated one because KIIS has always, for the past few years, been really down there." – Max Munday
4. "Lowie is a great solo operator, and I think his strength is he runs the show." – Wade Kingsley
5. "I think the bigger team, the better." – Max Monday

Resources:

• Max Munday's Instagram: @MaxMunday13
• The Quarter Hour website: TheQuarterHour.com

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