Radio Split Ranch

I engage this month with Marissa, a Capital Region native whose 20+ year radio career spans local favorites and major markets. You'll hear how she overcame shyness, earned dream gigs at FLY92 and Boston stations, and adapted to modern voice-tracking across multiple stations daily. Our conversation covers her start in radio, career highs and sudden cuts, the pandemic pause, recovery after injury, and how Marissa turned relationships and resilience into a thriving remote-radio career while staying true to her hometown.

This month's conversation is with a veteran broadcaster who traces his radio career from early inspiration and college radio through stations like WIZN, WQBK, WHRL and WGY to his current role at WEQX. His story mixes personal anecdotes (including a surprise Howard Stern call and Don Weeks guesting), industry shifts like format flips and layoffs, and his personal reflections on reinvention — ending with his ongoing specialty shows and love for the craft. Here's a fun hour with Jason Keller.

Host Warren Garling interviews Jay Clark about his long radio career, starting as an overnight DJ in the Capital Region and rising to program director roles at major stations including WTRY, WPRO, WTIC, WABC, and KHits. The episode traces Clark’s experiences in the Top 40 wars, format changes (including WABC’s switch to talk), programming and promotion lessons, memorable on-air moments, and his later work with Sirius and consulting before retirement. You'll get behind-the-scenes stories about station strategy, promotions, mentoring talent, and how radio evolved from local personality-driven shows to today’s multimedia landscape.

Radio Split Ranch host Warren Garling catches up with Fred Sidoti, tracing his journey from a basement 100 mW pirate station to decades on Albany and Buffalo airwaves under many on‑air names. The episode highlights memorable moments (Apollo 13, moon landing, Beach Boys, concerts and local radiothons), Sidoti’s station moves and jingle aliases, and his later career as a corporate trainer and community volunteer—an affectionate, nostalgic look at a classic radio life.

Dive into a captivating conversation with Paul Vandenberg this month. Paul is a notable talk radio host and station owner in the Capital Region. As we kick off the fifth year of this podcast, we explore the evolution of local radio and TV broadcasting in the Northeast, highlighting recent challenges and changes within public broadcasting and commercial radio. Paul reflects on his journey from working various jobs to eventually owning a radio station. And he contemplates the future of local radio amidst a rapidly changing media landscape.

Welcome to another captivating episode of Radio Split Ranch, where we take a nostalgic journey with Brian and Chrissy, the renowned morning team from WGNA in Albany. They share their roots as local talents, their chemistry developed over years, and how their passion for radio brought them unexpected recognition in the Capital Region. Join us as we delve into their individual backstories, the challenges and triumphs of switching from a pop format to country music, and their unwavering connection with listeners and country artists alike. Experience firsthand how Brian and Chrissy's journey symbolizes the spirit of broadcasting and community engagement.

Welcome to another exciting episode of Radio Split Ranch! This month it's a conversation with the legendary Gary Locatelli, better known as Uncle Vito from PYX/106. Hear firsthand stories of backstage laughs, memorable on-air moments, and the serendipitous path that led Gary to a cherished career in radio. Discover the magic of radio broadcasting as Gary shares his love for music, creativity, and connecting with his audience. Whether you're a die-hard radio fan or new to the medium, this episode is packed with entertaining anecdotes and radio history that will keep you hooked from start to finish. Enjoy a delightful journey into the world of radio with Uncle Vito!

This episode features a captivating conversation with one of the more recent inspirational figures in regional radio, Terry O'Donnell. With a broadcasting career spanning 30 years, Terry shares his journey from starting as a passionate intern to becoming a prominent figure dedicated to keeping the spirit of local radio alive in today's corporate-driven environment. Discover how Terry navigated the evolving landscape of broadcasting while staying true to his roots. From small-town beginnings to creating impactful programming that resonates with audiences, this episode is a tribute to Terry O'Donnell's commitment to reviving the charm of local radio.

We take a look into the fascinating world of public broadcasting this month with Chris Wink. From his early aspirations sparked by Canadian radio stations to his significant contributions in establishing a new voice for non-commercial radio, Chris shares anecdotes from his storied career enlightening listeners about the unique challenges and triumphs of running a successful non-commercial music station.

Welcome to Radio Split Ranch! In this engaging episode, Warren Garling sits down with John Cooper, a legendary figure in Capital Region broadcasting. With nearly 50 years of experience, John shares insights from his incredible journey in radio. From the early days of pretending to be a disc jockey as a child to becoming a staple on PYX/ 106, John reflects on the evolution of radio and its impact on listeners. Whether it's his time as a music director, program director, or his inspiring volunteer work with veterans, John Cooper's dedication to the craft is evident. Join us for a peek into the golden era of radio and discover the passion and dedication that has kept John on the airwaves for decades.

Join us for an engaging episode as we sit down with John Gray, a celebrated news anchor and beloved storyteller, known for his remarkable 40-year career in the Capital Region. We delve into John's early days in radio, his transition to television journalism, and the various roles he has embraced throughout his career as an author and columnist. Discover personal anecdotes about John's humble beginnings in South Troy, the influence of his family on his passion for news, and the lasting impact of tenacity in overcoming career hurdles.

From his early days as a teenage DJ to spot in the New York State Broadcasters Hall of Fame, Sean McMaster shares insights into the unforgettable moments and influential figures that have shaped his journey. Sean reflects on his enduring love for radio, the evolving industry landscape, and his deep community connections. Discover how radio magic happens behind the scenes and gain inspiration from his dedication to community service and his persistent drive to entertain.

Welcome to another episode of Radio Split Ranch, where the tables turn as Warren Garling, a seasoned broadcaster with over 50 years behind the microphone, becomes the subject of the interview. Veteran broadcast journalist Diane Donato takes the lead, guiding the conversation about Warren's wide-ranging career. With a mix of humor and nostalgia, they delve into Warren’s journey from his makeshift basement studio at age 11 to a fulfilling broadcasting career. Listeners will enjoy insights into the evolution of radio, from live shows and record spins to modern voice tracking. The episode also highlights Warren's passion for community service, his impactful volunteer work, and the unexpected career path in marketing post-radio. Join us for a fascinating look at a radio veteran's life, filled with stories of camaraderie, innovation, and dedication to the craft.

This month, Joe Reilly's storytelling prowess is on full display. Join us as he shares captivating stories from his early days in radio, his encounters with iconic personalities like Bobby Darin, Johnny Mathis, and Stephen Sondheim, and his humorous experiences at various radio stations. Learn about Joe's journey from humble beginnings in Schenectady to his significant role in shaping the broadcasting industry.

Join us for another engaging episode of Radio Split Ranch, where host Warren Garling takes us on a nostalgic journey through the captivating history of Capital Region broadcasting. This month, Warren sits down with veteran broadcaster Steve Chick, a familiar voice to many who recall his versatile career spanning multiple formats on a single signal. With anecdotes that include early inspirations, unexpected career twists, and encounters with broadcasting legends, Steve offers a unique perspective on the resilience and adaptability required in the world of radio.

This month we talk with the legendary Chuck Custer, a veteran radio newsman who recently retired from WGY after an illustrious 36-year career. Chuck reflects on memorable moments, including his years working with Don Weeks and the transition to co-hosting the morning show with Kelly Lynch. Join us for a heartfelt conversation filled with laughter, insights, and a deep appreciation for the ever-evolving world of radio.

Join us as Diane shares her journey from a local girl growing up in Albany County to becoming a prominent voice in the Capital Region. Her story is a fascinating look into the world of broadcasting, filled with anecdotes and insights that highlight her remarkable career.

On this month's episode of "Radio Split Ranch" we sit down with the ever-entertaining John Daniels. John shares his journey from being a radio enthusiast in the 1970s, to working at some of the top stations in the Northeast.

In this heartfelt extra episode of Radio Split Ranch, we pay tribute to our late friend and colleague, Mike Patrick, who brought so much joy and laughter to listeners in the Great Northeast.

With apologies to Roger Miller, "Saratoga County Star...that's what he are." This month on the Radio Split Ranch, I sit down down with veteran broadcaster John Meaney, because neither of us can stand up for a whole hour anymore. Enjoy!