On Point | Podcast Can public media survive?
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Aug 13, 2025 Josh Shepard, an Associate Professor of Media Studies at the University of Colorado Boulder and Sound Fellow at the Library of Congress, discusses the precarious future of public media following federal funding cuts. The conversation highlights local media's crucial role during emergencies, especially in rural areas. Shepard examines the historical significance of public broadcasting and the implications of these budget cuts on community services. The challenges of operating in remote regions and potential solutions to ensure continued access to information are also key topics.
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Tsunami Response From A Remote Station
- Lauren Adams describes running KUCB's emergency broadcast during a tsunami warning and remotely managing all-clear messaging.
- She ran to high ground, logged in remotely, and left a recorded loop while the community evacuated.
Federal Cuts Hit Small Stations Hard
- The rescission removed $1.1 billion earmarked for the Corporation for Public Broadcasting, forcing stations to react mid-fiscal year.
- Small stations like KUCB relied on CPB for roughly half their operating budgets and now face drastic cuts.
Life Of A Tiny Island Station
- Lauren Adams explains KUCB's small-community logistics, staffing, and budget gaps after the cut.
- She says they can run a signal but not afford personnel or replacement of local reporting roles.