Live Wire: The Loud Life and Shocking Murder of Alan Berg
iHeartPodcasts
Alan Berg was starting over as a divorcee, disbarred lawyer and recovering alcoholic when he found his true calling on the radio. His brash and bold on-air persona made him one of the true renegades in a “shock jock” revolution that took over broadcast media in the 1980s. Despite the numerous enemies the brash Berg made through his radio show, the world was stunned when he was assassinated outside his Denver home. The case would languish for months before uncovering the shocking truth about the white-supremacist militia that marked Alan Berg for death.
Episodes
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9 snips
Aug 19, 2025 • 30min
Episode 10: Honoring Alan.
Decades after his tragic murder, Alan Berg's legacy resurfaces as he is honored in the Denver Press Club Hall of Fame. The podcast delves into the violence of the extremist group behind his assassination and the impact of his rebellious broadcasting style. Personal stories reveal the duality of Berg's personality, showcasing his kind nature beneath a loud on-air presence. Reflecting on the ongoing challenges in journalism, it emphasizes the importance of recognizing those who risked their lives for truth and justice.
9 snips
Aug 12, 2025 • 26min
Episode 9: The Trial of the Order.
Peter Robinson, a U.S. Attorney from Northern California, shares insights from the high-profile trial of the white supremacist group The Order. He recounts the intense courtroom atmosphere and the shocking revelations that emerged, including the connection between a member of the group and the KOA radio station in Denver. The conversation delves into the events leading up to the murder of talk radio host Alan Berg and the emotional impact on his friends and family as they finally learn the truth behind his tragic fate.
8 snips
Aug 5, 2025 • 33min
Episode 8: Standoff at Whidbey Island.
Join Wayne Manis, a former FBI agent who profiled Robert Matthews, and David Heckenbach from the Denver District Attorney's Office as they recount the intense standoff on Whidbey Island. They delve into the shocking details of the violent exchange between Matthews and law enforcement, showcasing the challenges of taking down a criminal organization. The discussion also touches on the moral complexities police faced post-confrontation and the controversial decisions made in the pursuit of justice surrounding Alan Berg's murder.
6 snips
Jul 29, 2025 • 38min
Episode 7: Cracking the Case.
David Heckenbach, Chief Deputy in the Denver District Attorney's Office, discusses the challenges of solving the murder of radio host Alan Berg. Wayne Maness, a former FBI agent, reveals how an armored car robbery in Ukiah led to uncovering the connection with a violent organization called The Order. They explore chilling evidence and the impact of extremism in 1980s America. Peter Robinson adds insights into the tactics used in complex prosecutions, highlighting the tension between law enforcement and rising public fear.
6 snips
Jul 22, 2025 • 32min
Episode 6: Mourning a Friend, Investigating a Murder.
Lori Cantillo, a former KOA producer and reporter who covered Alan Berg’s murder, and Steve Singular, Berg’s biographer, discuss the emotional turmoil faced by staff after the shocking assassination. They share how the investigation unfolded amidst grief, revealing police struggles and unexpected breakthroughs. The conversation also touches on the impact of new DNA technology in solving cold cases and the profound legacy left by Alan, illuminating the journey from mourning to the pursuit of justice.
13 snips
Jul 15, 2025 • 30min
Episode 5: The Danger Zone.
Explore the rise of talk radio through the lens of Alan Berg, a provocative figure who stirred conversations on race and religion. Delve into his controversial style and the dangers he faced, including engaging with white supremacists. The podcast also examines the chilling impact of his shocking murder in 1984 and the chaos that ensued in the community. With reflections on free expression and the ethics of media, it raises pressing questions about the blurred lines between opinion and safety.
7 snips
Jul 8, 2025 • 29min
Episode 4: Boiling Point.
Alan Berg, a bold radio talk show host known for his confrontational style, dives into the fiery discussions surrounding race and extremism. As his ratings soar, he faces escalating threats from the growing white nationalist movement that he challenges on air. Listeners are drawn into Berg's provocative world, where he confronts callers promoting hateful ideologies while grappling with the personal dangers that accompany his activism. The tension builds as the stakes rise, setting the stage for a gripping narrative of conflict and courage.
13 snips
Jul 1, 2025 • 35min
Episode 3: The Man You Love to Hate.
Alan Berg, a notorious Denver radio personality known for his provocative style, and Don Hartanov, a sales associate who collaborated with him, dive into Berg's unconventional approach to broadcasting and advertising. They discuss how Berg's bold political commentary and quirky charm made him both beloved and controversial. Hartanov shares vivid anecdotes about their quirky local advertising landscape, while also touching on the tensions that arose from Berg's outspoken nature, culminating in his becoming a target in a tumultuous era.
9 snips
Jun 24, 2025 • 30min
Episode 2: First Day at KOA.
Alan Berg, a dynamic radio personality from Denver, known for his provocative style, shares his journey overcoming personal struggles to find his voice at KOA. Joined by his longtime colleague and rival, Peter Boyles, they discuss Alan's rocky start at the station and his bold, confrontational approach to sensitive topics like religion. The duo captures the lively atmosphere of early '80s talk radio, revealing how Alan not only engaged listeners but also challenged societal norms through his unique and often controversial discussions.
8 snips
Jun 17, 2025 • 30min
Episode 1: Who was Alan Berg?
Judith Berg, the ex-wife of radio personality Alan Berg, shares intimate insights into his personal life and tumultuous career. The discussion delves into Alan's rise as a shock jock in the 1980s, blending humor with his struggles against addiction and personal demons. Listeners will discover the profound impact of his controversial style on the radio landscape and explore the vibrant Denver dining scene before his tragic murder. Archival audio snippets of Alan add depth, revealing the complexity of a man who was both loved and hated.
