The Quarter Hour: the daily podcast for radio nerds

The Quarter Hour: the daily podcast for radio nerds

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Stagione 1

Intern Pete: Leaving Kyle & Jackie O for Christian O'Connell

About the Guest(s): 'Intern' Pete Deppeler is a seasoned radio producer and on-air personality, known for his engaging work on the Kyle and Jackie O Show. With a career that began in ACE Radio Warrnambool, Pete has navigated various roles across major radio networks in Australia. His experience spans producing, hosting, and being part of the ensemble cast of popular radio shows. He is now joining Christian O'Connell's team, stepping into a new role as a roving reporter and senior producer. Episode Summary: In this episode Wade delves into the latest developments for 'Intern' Pete Deppeler as he transitions from his iconic role on the Kyle and Jackie O Show to a new venture with Christian O'Connell's radio team. Known for his dynamic presence and creativity in the Australian radio landscape, Intern Pete discusses his journey, the exciting career change, and what lies ahead. This conversation gives listeners a behind-the-scenes look at the world of radio broadcasting, with a focus on Pete's professional evolution and personal insights. The conversation explores Pete's extensive background and his pivotal roles in shaping some of Australia's most popular radio shows. Key topics include the significance of loyalty in the industry, the importance of embracing new opportunities, and the intricate balance of on- and off-air responsibilities. Through engaging anecdotes and candid reflections, Pete shares his excitement about joining Christian's team, highlighting his eagerness to contribute his expertise as a roving reporter and senior producer. Pete's enthusiasm is infectious as he discusses creative freedom on the new show, offering listeners an insider's view of what it takes to produce compelling radio content. Key Takeaways: Career Transition: Intern Pete discusses his leap from the Kyle and Jackie O Show to a new role working with Christian O'Connell, emphasising the positive aspects of change and new beginnings. Radio Industry Insights: The episode provides a glimpse into the complexities and opportunities within Australia's radio show production, including challenges faced by producers. Prominent Experience: Pete draws on his vast experience in radio, including stories from his early days at Ace Radio to his significant contributions at KIIS FM. Creative Contributions: Pete highlights his passion for producing, including driving innovative content and the excitement of joining a team that values individual input. Personal Reflections: Pete shares personal reflections on his career journey, the emotional impact of leaving a long-standing role, and the support received from colleagues and listeners. Notable Quotes: "I'm completely overwhelmed, but I'm so, so excited to be here." "It's just solid radio. It's not trying to be the next anything else; it is its own identity." "I was exhausted, and I think this feels like the final piece of the puzzle for me right now in regards to starting the new journey." "You've got to be prepared to blow up every show for sure." "I wrote him a little text message that said, you know, honesty, transparency is what I'm absolutely, you know, just so nervous."

ARN's AGM: The cost of Kyle & Jackie O

About the Guest(s): Natasha Lee serves as the media editor at Mediaweek and co-hosts the podcast 'Media Tarts'. With a profound grounding in journalism and media analysis, Lee provides in-depth reporting on media trends and the business decisions shaping the industry. Her experience and keen eye for detail distinguish her as a respected figure in media critique and analysis. Episode Summary: In this compelling episode, Wade and Natasha unravel the outcomes from the recent Australian Radio Network (ARN) AGM. The podcast navigates through the financial repercussions following brand safety concerns linked to the Kyle and Jackie O show. Lee and Kingsley delve into the staggering economic impacts and internal strategic shifts at ARN, illuminating listener interest and awareness regarding the business side of media operations. The narrative weaves through discussions about the brand safety crisis at ARN, accentuated by the departure of high-profile hosts Kyle and Jackie O, which led to financial fallout amounting to $26.4 million in lost revenue. The session offers a rare glimpse into the corporate strategies employed to mitigate such crises and redefines thematic dialogue around media accountability. Kingsley assesses the optimistic outlook from ARN's leadership as they aim to rebuild advertiser confidence, stressing the entertainment company's strategic reorientation towards diversified revenue streams in digital and data. The podcast enriches understanding about the challenges facing media enterprises in today's unpredictable economic climate and enlightens stakeholders about navigating brand and financial recovery. Key Takeaways: ARN's brand safety issues related to the Kyle and Jackie O show resulted in a $26.4 million loss in revenue. The company is pivoting towards a broader entertainment focus to recover financial stability and regain advertiser trust. Anticipated cost savings and productivity initiatives suggest restructuring and potential job cuts as ARN aims for increased efficiency. Media diversification strategies aim to offset revenue declines by strengthening digital and data-driven advertising efforts. Shareholder perspectives reveal tension around management statements regarding the company's performance amidst financial setbacks. Notable Quotes: "That contributed to $26.4 million in lost metro and regional revenue during the financial year." - Natasha Lee "They are saying to the market, we expect to recoup that revenue." - Wade Kingsley "I think it was about $22 million metro and four and a half sort of regional rough numbers." - Wade Kingsley Resources: Mediaweek

Local vs Networked Radio: Which works better? Or is that the wrong question?

About the Guest(s): Spencer Howson: Spencer Howson is a seasoned radio professional currently pursuing a Ph.D. focused on the dynamics between local and networked radio. He previously hosted the breakfast show at ABC and has extensive experience in the radio industry. James Cridland: James Cridland is the editor of Podnews and Radioland, renowned for his deep expertise in global radio trends and innovations. He is recognised for analysing and sharing insights surrounding the evolution of radio and podcasting platforms worldwide. Episode Summary: In this episode of "The Quarter Hour," host Wade Kingsley navigates the ongoing debate of local versus national radio broadcasting, a topic pertinent in Australia and other parts of the world. Joined by experts Spencer and James they explore the allure and effectiveness of local versus networked content. Both guests share their insights gained through practical experience and industry research. The discussion begins with Spencer Howson sharing results from his Ph.D. research on how local radio fares against networked shows in regional centers like Mount Isa. Through survey data, he uncovers surprising listener perceptions, noting that many are unaware of the geographical source of their preferred radio programs. Spencer discusses how local and non-local content is perceived and why the latter sometimes dominates the listener metrics despite prevalent assumptions favouring local broadcasting. James Cridland brings an international perspective, highlighting how similar trends are playing out across the UK and US radio landscapes. He discusses the regulatory environment in the UK, where national content often prevails over local radio due to strategic consolidation and adapting audience demands. James reinforces that content quality transcends location, underscoring its importance in maintaining listener engagement regardless of broadcasting origin. Both guests emphasise the nuanced nature of this debate, contradicting simplistic local versus national dichotomies with real-world insights. Key Takeaways: A significant portion of radio listeners may be unaware of or indifferent to the local origins of their preferred shows, illustrated by survey results from Mount Isa. The ongoing evolution of radio broadcasting often sees national content outperforming local counterparts, attributed to content quality and relevancy above geographic origin. UK and US markets reflect similar trends towards networked radio, driven by regulatory structures and technological advancements like AI-driven local broadcasting elements. Historical examples such as Hamish & Andy and Howard Stern highlight successful non-local radio shows, suggesting a larger trend towards prioritising content over location in listener preferences. The ongoing discourse is far from binary, with categories like relevance, realness, and audience connection playing pivotal roles in the radio broadcasting successes. Notable Quotes: "27% of people in Mount Isa that listen to Hit FM as their number one breakfast show think that it comes from Mount Isa." - Spencer Howson "What we've seen from the UK is that pretty much of local radio has gone, it's been replaced by national radio." - James Cridland "It's not a binary conversation of, you know, local works and, you know, and regional or national doesn't." - James Cridland Resources: Local Radio Study by Spencer Howson Pod News and Radio Land by James Cridland

The Craft of Talk Radio: Jacinta Parsons on James Valentine

About the Guest(s): Jacinta Parsons is a well-known broadcaster with the Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC). She co-hosts the "Friday Revue" with Brian Nankervis and also anchors the Saturday morning show across ABC Victoria. Her career has traversed community radio, where she honed her skills at Triple R, before moving on to notable roles at the ABC, particularly as a music director. Known for her insightful, earnest, and joyful approach to radio, Jacinta brings engaging and human-centric communication to her audience. Episode Summary: In this episode of "The Quarter Hour," host Wade Kingsley pays tribute to the late James Valentine, a legendary figure in Australian radio. Highlighting Valentine's unique approach to radio and his final 'Australian Story' episode, Wade welcomes broadcaster and writer Jacinta Parsons to share her personal experiences and reflections on James's profound influence. Wade and Jacinta explore the nuances of Valentine's legacy, focusing on his mastery of talkback radio and his unique ability to engage in meaningful, joyful interactions with his audience. They discuss how Valentine's format was far from formulaic, emphasising collaboration with his listeners. Jacinta delves into the essence of what made Valentine's work special, particularly his love of live, unscripted moments which he shared with his audience as co-creators. Jacinta opens up about her own broadcasting journey, revealing how deeply she admired Valentine’s craft, learning from his fearlessness and authenticity. The episode is a commendation of not just Valentine’s professional achievements but also his personal philosophy toward life and death. As Jacinta articulates, what Valentine offered was more than entertainment; it was a meaningful communal experience reflecting our shared humanity. Key Takeaways: James Valentine influenced radio with his unique, collaborative approach, treating audiences as partners in creating each show. Jacinta Parsons drew inspiration from Valentine's fearless and joyful broadcasting style, which prioritised human connections over scripted performances. The episode highlights the importance of talkback radio and its role in reflecting societal identity, companionship, and humanity. Wade Kingsley and Jacinta emphasise the need for more authentic, unscripted moments in radio—qualities that algorithms can't replicate. Valentine's public handling of his life and death offered profound learning experiences about authenticity and human connection. Notable Quotes: “There was something special about that show, the special sauce that he had.” – Wade Kingsley “James was like, what can we do with each other here? How can we… have fun together?” – Jacinta Parsons “We just need humans being humans.” – Jacinta Parsons “We will not respect it the way we need to… We will not save it the way we need to.” – Jacinta Parsons on radio’s humanity “How wonderful to have an opportunity to see you deal with your death the way you have dealt with your life.” – Jacinta Parsons Resources: Jacinta Parsons' article on the ABC website Australian Story episode on James Valentine available on ABC iView

Australia's newest media company: Brian Gallagher & Tom Malone from Tapt Media

About the Guest(s): Tom Malone is the newly appointed CEO of TAPT Media. With an illustrious career spanning over 20 years at Nine, Tom has held numerous key positions, including roles at the "Today Show," "60 Minutes," and in the radio division. His expertise in both executive leadership and media operations is poised to drive TAPT Media to new heights as they enter a phase of independent management. Brian Gallagher, (widely known as 'BG'), is the Chief Commercial Officer at TAPT Media. Bringing extensive commercial strategy experience, His previous accomplishments include running sales at SCA where he spearheaded initiatives like Boomtown, underscoring his capability in delivering transforming media and broadcast strategies. Episode Summary: In this episode of "The Quarter Hour," host Wade Kingsley sits down with Tom Malone, the newly minted CEO of TAPT Media, and Brian Gallagher, the Chief Commercial Officer. This is TAPT Media’s official debut into the world of independent media business ownership. With Tom's vast experience from his two-decade tenure at Nine and Brian's commercial strategy prowess, TAPT Media is poised to innovate within the Australian media sector. Through Wade's engaging interview style, listeners are given an intricate look at TAPT Media's strategic plans, highlighting the untapped potential that lies ahead for the company. Tom Malone shares his vision for TAPT Media, emphasising the transition from its previous corporate ownership under Nine to a privately owned entity backed by the Laundy family. This presents new opportunities for growth, particularly in digital and independent sales channels. Brian Gallagher sheds light on the expansive potential of digital advancements, remarking on TAPT's significant share in the online listening audience and underscoring the benefits of a standalone focus on radio broadcasting. Key Takeaways: TAPT Media emerges as a newly independent radio broadcasting entity, originating from Nine's ownership and now backed by the Laundy family. The focus is on leveraging digital growth and independent sales channels, boosting TAPT's reach and engagement, both on and off platforms. TAPT Media holds one-third of the digital audience within Australian radio, highlighting significant growth potential with platforms such as programmatic ad revenues and podcasting. Ross Stephenson is highlighted as a unique radio presence, illustrating the communal and engaging character of TAPT's talent roster. Tom and Brian emphasise a commitment to maintaining a strong, modern digital brand approach as TAPT Media continues to evolve. Notable Quotes: "There's so many other things that are possible with this business now that we're privately owned." — Tom Malone "We've kind of vastly outperformed the market in that space at the moment and we expect that to continue for quite some time." — Brian Gallagher "Ross Stephenson's show is full of entertainment and whimsical. It's a safe space." — Tom Malone

Behind the Scenes of one of the best radio promotions

About the Guest(s): Leon Sjogren: Leon Sjogren is the Content Manager for Fifi, Fev & Nick on The Fox, one of Melbourne's top radio stations. His efforts, notably with the "Underdogs" promotion, have resonated well within the radio community, sparking discussions globally, particularly at events like Radio Days Europe. Episode Summary: In this episode, Wade Kingsley chats with Leon about a groundbreaking radio promotion called "Underdogs," which has been creating waves in the industry. The conversation unpacks the inspirational journey of turning a small, heartfelt radio moment into a celebrated community-centric brand. The episode is not just a behind-the-scenes look at the making of "Underdogs" but also a testament to the thoughtful art of radio production that bridges entertainment and community. This discussion delves into the inception of "Underdogs," led by the team at "Fifi, Fev & Nick" on The Fox. Originating from a simple listener DM about a child's challenges with bullying and exclusion, the campaign evolved into a large-scale initiative that brings visibility and excitement to marginalised kids. Wade and Leon highlight the organic growth of such ideas, stemming from genuine on-air moments. Through teamwork and creativity, what began as a simple on-air discussion turned into a full-fledged event at places like Marvel Stadium and MCG, capturing both hearts and media attention. The conversation further explores the strategy behind repeating successful promotions. Leon emphasises retaining the core spirit of good content while continually innovating to keep it fresh. Each "Underdogs" event introduces new stories, building an evolving narrative of inclusion and community engagement. The show's success is measured by the social engagement it receives, the emotional responses it evokes from listeners, and its seamless integration as a beloved brand segment. This episode is a reminder of the power of storytelling in radio and how attentiveness to genuine community needs can create lasting impact. Key Takeaways: "Underdogs" began from a listener's heartfelt message about school bullying, transforming into a major community event engaging marginalised children in sports. The campaign has been recognised internationally, showcasing how authentic on-air moments can be leveraged into influential radio promotions. The consistent repetition and evolution of a successful promotion, like "Underdogs," help build lasting brand recognition and community trust. Social media engagement and listener feedback are vital metrics for judging the success and impact of radio promotions. The deep emotional connections fostered by initiatives like "Underdogs" highlight radio's ability to make meaningful societal contributions. Notable Quotes: "It's genuinely great content, but also we are doing good for the community. It's really, really cool." - Leon Sjogren "We hit a vein of content… and it's sort of good for the community." - Leon Sjogren "It really goes well and… it reaches different people for different reasons." - Leon Sjogren

Paul Thompson on Bravery & Belief: Part 3

About the Guest(s): Paul Thompson is a legendary figure in the Australian radio industry, known for his transformative leadership as the Managing Director of DMG Radio Australia and the founder and CEO of Austereo. Thompson played a key role in launching the Nova Network, shaking up traditional radio formats with innovative concepts like "never more than two ads in a row." His career is marked by a commitment to creativity and risk-taking, making him a pivotal figure in modernising the radio landscape. Thompson's influence extends through his mentorship and the legacy he has left in the industry. Episode Summary: In this episode of "The Quarter Hour," Wade Kingsley delves into a candid conversation with Paul, a trailblazer in the Australian radio scene. This third and concluding part sees Paul reflect on the ups and downs of his illustrious career, focusing on the launch and eventual failure of Vega. Delving into stories from his time with the Nova Network, Paul shares insights on the challenges of implementing pioneering advertising concepts. In this instalment, Paul Thompson opens up about the behind-the-scenes chaos at Nova, such as the memorable situation with Merrick and Rosso's on-air antics. He also reflects on the lessons learned from Vega's unsuccessful attempt to merge music and talk radio, which taught him that even seasoned professionals could fall into the trap of feeling invincible. As Paul candidly states, "The invincible people weren't invincible," shedding light on the intricate balance of bravery and humility in the radio business. Key Takeaways: Challenging Traditions: Paul Thompson discusses the innovative "never more than two ads in a row" strategy at Nova, highlighting the difficulties and triumphs of challenging industry norms. Nova Network's Early Days: He shares amusing anecdotes about the rebellious nature of its early hosts, Merrick and Rosso, underlining the network’s fresh approach that disrupted the status quo. Vega's Lessons Learned: Thompson reflects on the ambitious yet flawed launch of Vega, acknowledging it as a pivotal lesson in overconfidence and the importance of timing and format alignment. Leadership and Bravery: He emphasises the role of strong leadership and a willingness to take calculated risks as essential for innovation and progress in radio. Personal Struggles and Insights: Paul opens up about his personal health challenges during Vega's debut, illustrating how personal and professional pressures interweave in high-stakes environments. Notable Quotes: "Never more than two ads in a row was bloody hard going." "Merrick and Rosso…were great rebels…the essence of Sounds different." "I think we started to think we were invincible…it didn't work." "The contractual situation…between ARN and Kyle and Jackie O was as brave a decision as there has ever been in radio."

Paul Thompson on Bravery & Belief: Part 2

About the Guest(s): Paul Thompson is a prominent figure in the Australian radio industry, known for his transformational leadership and strategic insights. With a distinguished career as the former CEO of Austereo and spearheading efforts at DMG Radio Australia, he has played a pivotal role in shaping modern radio broadcasting in the country. His visionary approach led to the creation of the successful Nova network, showcasing his ability to build competitive media platforms from the ground up. Episode Summary: In this episode Paul discusses the intricate merger of the Austereo and Triple M networks and the ensuing challenges that prompted his departure. His experiences during this transitional phase underscore the complexities and opportunities that can arise in the media industry. Paul recounts the bold establishment of the Nova network under the UK-based Daily Mail Group, during a time when obtaining broadcasting licenses seemed improbable. He reflects on the significant hurdles faced in persuading the government to release new licenses, the strategic acquisition of Adelaide's 5AA as a foundational step, and the subsequent public auction challenges. Throughout the episode, Paul's emphasis on bravery—both his own and that of his team—captures the conviction required to build a network from scratch, transforming it into a formidable challenger to Austereo's dominance. Key Takeaways: Merger Transition: Paul Thompson discusses the merger between Austereo and Triple M, highlighting its implications on the media landscape and prompting his decision to leave the enterprise. Building Nova: Despite having no available licenses or stations, Paul's determination and strategic lobbying led to the Nova network's eventual emergence and success. Bravery and Belief: Paul attributes much of Nova's successful inception to the bravery and unwavering belief of his team who committed to the venture despite uncertainties. Inside the Industry Challenges: The transcript delves into the external pressures from industry rivals during license acquisition and the competitive impetus this presented. Balancing Vision and Risk: Paul underscores the significance of calculated risk-taking and vision in establishing a fresh and competitive media presence. Notable Quotes: "I as an individual am capable of creating a network out of stations that don't exist, out of licenses that don't exist…" "Once I persuaded them… we had no more chance than anybody else." "One option was to recreate Austereo... and have it run against the original Austereo, and I think that's what everybody expected." "It was so busy at that time, so incredibly busy night and day…" "Forget work life balance. Nova wouldn't exist. Austereo wouldn't exist."

Paul Thompson on Bravery & Belief: Part 1

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: "I was probably braver then than I realised and braver then than I would ever be now." - Paul Thompson "Belief is a really big part of bravery. But there is a point where too much knowledge creates too much doubt." - Paul Thompson "Setting a bar so high that even if you failed, you were still going to be spectacularly successful." - Paul Thompson "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.

Vale James Valentine: Thoughts from ABC Director of Audio, Ben Latimer

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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