I’ve worked for more than fifteen years in radio and television public broadcasting and on-air fundraising hosting. I have been producing for talent, hosting myself, directing on-air breaks from the control room, floor producing, etc.
Here’s a sample of my on-air work, including scripted promos, live broadcast interviews, and unscripted live and live-to-tape fundraising breaks.
In fall of 2012, I had an idea to produce and host a live post-Downton Abbey call-in talk show to draw viewers into a conversation with University faculty and prolong the discussion we knew was happening in everyone’s living room on social media, etc. Thus, “After Abbey” was born. It’s become a great way to connect WPSU to the viewers on television and through social media. We’ve developed a loyal audience and are thrilled with the response.
More of the 2014 season of “After Abbey” found here:
With my co-hosts Lindsey Whissell & Jessica Peters
From the Set!
The “Our Town” project brings a community together to help boost morale, preserve heritage, and celebrate the stories its residents cherish most about their hometown as its residents partner with the local PBS station. It’s a project that allows community members to help create and shape content as they become storytellers and videographers. As the lead producer on the project, I’ve been fortunate enough to work with more than 30 towns to help spotlight their stories and to help their townspeople become visual storytellers. It’s a commitment to help bring stories to life that would otherwise go untold and to empower those voices that would be silenced anywhere but on public broadcasting.
“Our Town: Williamsburg” LIVE broadcast!
Hosting “Our Town: Brookville” LIVE
I’m sure you’ve flipped past a public television “telethon” or fundraiser. I’ve been on-air raising funds for public television since 2003. I believe so strongly in the mission that it’s something that I honestly love to do…and it’s not just because I enjoy being on camera. Well, that too. At WPSU, our on-air fundraising breaks are completely unscripted. The majority of PBS stations use a teleprompter. Our breaks are all from the heart—and I know it sounds cheesy, but as the on-air fundraising producer and a host myself, it feels more natural, and I think the audience appreciates the sincerity. At least, I hope they do when it comes time to contribute.
Pledge hosting clips coming soon…
Me & Kevin Conway hosting Saturday night fundraising
From the perspective of the technical director—LIVE fundraising!
“Our Town: Punxsutawney” pledge!
Whitney Chirdon 