Explorez tous les épisodes du podcast Radio Moments - Conversations

Graduating from a school radio station – to emerge as a familiar face on ITV in the Channel Islands via a successful spell in commercial radio programming, this is story of Gary Burgess.

In this hour of Radio Moments Conversations, Gary tells of his childhood in South Africa and his early enthusiasm for radio, leading eventually to early work at Blackpool’s Radio Wave on moving with his family back to the UK.

Having risen through the ranks to the post of programme Controller, Gary seized the reins at Wire FM in Warrington, and helped to rescue Q96 in Renfrewshire from regulatory wrath.

A move then followed to the islands he was to grow to love, when he was invited to programme Island FM in Guernsey, progressing to the Managing Director role.  Then back to England to serve as senior programmer at UTV, responsible for UTV Radio's north of England radio stations, with particular focus on managing the output of Juice FM in Liverpool.

Gary opens up about his frustrations with that role, prompting him to return to the Channel Islands – and to on-air work with the BBC at Radio Guernsey.  A return to the commercial sector then beckoned as he began ten years as a key reporter for  ITV’s regional news programme for the Channel Islands. In an increasingly cross-platform world, he shares some of the secrets he's discovered about engaging video production.

He talks openly too about his health. From the tackling of testicular cancer, through an exhausting lengthy spell with ME, before a return of cancer. Then, at the end of 2020, facing the news that he could expect to live around six months. Still on-air with ITV and back on radio at Channel 103, he tells of how he is facing the diagnosis – and of the huge support he has received from those in his beloved Channel Islands and beyond.

In his own words, this is the inspiring story of Gary Burgess.

 Hear the whole ‘Radio Moments Conversations’ series here – and sign up for the regular podcast for this ongoing series 

 

The shy schoolboy whose commanding voice went on to dominate London’s news bulletins for a generation.

In this hour of ‘Radio Moments – Conversations’, Howard Hughes tells of his life – from his childhood love of TV continuity to success in a local radio contest landing him his first fifteen minutes of fame – and ultimately the start of a career - on Radio City. 

He opens up about his various spells at BBC local radio – and shares stories so typical of the age from a new Radio Wyvern in Worcester. Having graduated to IRN, he tells of the move to Capital where he assumed – tentatively at first – the key role as the voice of news on Chris Tarrant’s incomparable breakfast show.

Tempted to his dream job at LBC, he tells of his disappointment as things failed to work out as he’d hoped – and how the experience changed him. Howard reflects too on his more recent endeavours at Smooth, TV VOs – and the pride he has in his podcast - and how his booming trademark voice evolved.

In his own words – this is the Howard Hughes story

Hear the whole ‘Radio Moments Conversations’ series here – and sign up for the regular podcast for this ongoing series 

From music student - to delivering an environment for commercial radio fit for a digital age – and a fascinating life beyond.

In this hour of ‘Radio Moments Conversations’, Lisa Kerr tells of her life - moving from promising music student to eager helper at Radio Forth before graduating to Classic FM.

She opens up about the successes and challenges of her first management role at Channel Travel Radio as it grew into the small-scale radio group Radio Services Ltd.

Transferring to commercial radio’s trade body, later known as Radiocentre, she was promoted to a senior strategic role, committed to the thinking and the lobbying necessary to help deliver an environment in which UK commercial radio companies could continue to thrive in a fast-changing digital media world.

Lisa tells of leaving radio – and reflects honestly on an industry which, for so long, was uninviting to women in senior roles. She talks of embracing change and transferable skills - and shares her enthusiasm for her more recent endeavours - including her current role as principal of Gordonstoun School.

Hear the whole ‘Radio Moments Conversations’ series here – and sign up for the regular podcast for this ongoing series. Music by Larry Bryant. 

There is only one Steve Allen. This irreplaceable talent has entertained on LBC since the late seventies, and his distinctive act has become part of the UK’s rich radio tapestry. In this hour, hear Steve speak openly about his early days and emotionally about his time at the United Biscuits Network. He tells too of LBC’s early life and about listener response through the changing years. 

Fresh from being honoured with the Arqiva Gold Award for his services to commercial radio, this is Steve’s story – in his own words.

This is another episode of the Conversations series. Hear more from 'those who made a difference' at https://audioboom.com/playlists/1307245-conversations

In the eighties, he progressed from Ipswich’s Radio Orwell to become one of commercial radio’s youngest programme directors as Ocean Sound was born. Against the odds, he then won the Lincolnshire licence and, at some personal risk, established that stand-alone major station in the teeth of bitter recession. Lincs FM was to be the foundation for a growing network. When a competitive licence bid didn’t go his way, his became the only radio group to challenge the regulator in court, rather than just threaten to. 

After almost 25 years, he was now one of the industry’s longest serving CEOs. This is the story of a quietly determined man with huge conviction who admits he never minds being in a minority of one. This is the Michael Betton story, in his own words.

See the whole Conversations series here. Music by Larry Bryant.

Fascinated by the new local commercial station in his home town of Bradford in the ‘70s, Roger was eager to play his part in that young Pennine Radio. The BBC then swiftly called, taking him first to Lincolnshire and then to BBC Radio Northampton, where his voice delivered the station’s first news bulletin.

In this edition of ‘Conversations’, Roger Mosey tells of his rise through the BBC ranks, from Editorship of PM and Today through to heading BBC 5 Live, running the highly-regarded Olympics coverage and taking his place around the BBC top table in what turned out to be its most challenging spell.

Speaking from his new home, as the Master of Selwyn College, Cambridge, this is the Roger Mosey story - in his own words.

Roger’s book ‘Getting Out Alive’ is an insightful read - and available now, published by Biteback.

An hour of insight into the life of a man who’s been involved in creating radio for around half the medium’s popular life. 

Tim Blackmore joined the BBC as an eager tech-op in 1962, when he recalls recording on shellac disc rather than tape machine.

In the producer role, he helped to launch Tony Blackburn’s breakfast show, as the BBC reluctantly carved out Radio 1 and 2, going on to produce a generation of big names at Radio 1. He reflects on the crazy 60s days – and opens up about his later challenges in programme production and management. He offers his personal impressions of Everett; and tells of his fondness for the presenter he managed for decades – Alan Freeman.

Tim tells of life as one of Capital Radio’s earliest Heads of Programmes; and as a successful independent producer.

He’s a man who loves the music on which radio depends. He helped the radio and music industry forge a closer relationship; created the seminal series ‘The Story of Pop’; and launched the Radio Academy as its first Director.

In his own words, this is the Tim Blackmore story.

He was one of a small breed of football commentators who came to define the commercial radio approach to football coverage in the UK. Partisan, passionate – and hard-working. His commitment to the industry – and to the City of Birmingham – has now lasted thirty five years. 

Here, he speaks of his early days at a young BBC Birmingham through to learning his trade at BRMB - and arguing the toss with his incoming boss, Richard Park. He relates stories of the great times, tells of his personal struggles and shares the raw conviction of his radio philosophy.

This is more than just a tale of a sports broadcaster, it is the inspiring story of local boy done good. “People like us don’t have cars”.

In his own words, this is the Tom Ross story.

Tom's book is now out - and a compelling read. https://www.amazon.co.uk/Games-Gone-Autobiography-Tom-Ross/dp/1780915292

(This edition of Conversations draws largely on material originally produced by David 'Salty' Salt.)

To broadcast across the UK on BBC Radio 1 and 2 simultaneously on medium wave, long wave and FM - at a time when commercial radio was barely underway - generated huge audiences for the affable David Hamilton. In this hour-long edition of ‘Conversations’, David tells of his early break on Forces radio overseas and his days at the Light Programme through to the giddy days on Radio 1 and a reluctant move to Radio 2. There are stories galore too from into his time in commercial radio – and his current work on ‘The Wireless’ from Age UK. 

In his own words, the words of a hard-working true veteran, this is the David Hamilton story.

Enjoy the whole Conversations series here. Music by Larry Bryant.

He was the slim pirate who, after dramatic days at sea, ended up being voted one of the UK’s top disc jockeys, before returning, via Luxy, to be the first voice on Piccadilly and in the early days of many other stations the UK’s nascent commercial network. Here, Roger Day speaks of those pioneering days – his successes and his regrets. In his own words, from 1966 to the present day, this is the Roger Day story.

Enjoy the whole Conversations series here. Music by Larry Bryant.

John Myers was the no-nonsense Northerner from humble roots who rose to head some of the UK’s largest radio stations and emerge as a key figure in UK radio, respected by many across the whole sector.

In this hour-long ‘Conversations’ he spoke openly of his life: from his early roadshows and the days at BBC Radio Carlisle and a young Red Rose Radio; through to his role on the ground as he grew the Border TV and GMG radio empires. He told of what he might have done differently – and gave the inside story of his famous ‘Trouble at the Top’ TV appearance.

In his own words, this is John’s story. John died in June 2019.

Play or podcast the whole Conversations series here. Music by Larry Bryant.

Few individuals can lay claim to having been present at the birth of UK commercial radio, and also being there at the launch of Hallam, Mercia and in the early throes of Viking. Ian Rufus was.

In this edition of the Radiomoments ‘Conversations’ series, Ian reflects honestly on his decades in the business. He tells of LBC’s troubled first year, its industrial strife and its journalists going unpaid – and his time at the helm as the earliest commercial radio mergers were staged. He tells of insider share dealing, regulatory obstinacy – the birth of the network chart show - and his proudest moments.

In his own words, from his redundancy from press - to his spell at the helm of one of the UK’s biggest radio groups, this is the Ian Rufus story. Ian died in May 2016.

Enjoy the whole Conversations series here. Music by Larry Bryant.

He was the dog breeder who became Nottingham’s most famous radio presenter. Speak to anyone over 50 in the City and they’ll remember Dennis. When he died in 1996, the streets of Nottingham were lined for the procession to his funeral. Dennis McCarthy hosted ‘the Sunday Show’ and ‘Afternoon Special’ for a large proportion of his 28 years with Radio Nottingham – programmes still recalled fondly to this day, in surprising detail, by his audience. In this long-overdue tribute, 20 years on, colleagues and his family recall what made Dennis so special. What was it about his personality - and his approach - which resulted in this most memorable of broadcasters? 

This is not just the story of one broadcaster. It is the story of a time and place in BBC local radio, and the prime example of the sort of characters who dominated their markets in BBC local radio’s early days. It is also the story of the power of radio – the listener relationship - and of pure natural broadcasting skill, with the finest tricks used instinctively. 

This is the Dennis McCarthy story. With thanks to Owen McCarthy for the use of archive audio. 

More on Dennis on my blog at: http://davidlloyd-radio.blogspot.co.uk/2016/01/our-dennis.html

From a chef and hairdresser - to becoming one of Liverpool’s leading on-air characters.

In this hour of Radio Moments – Conversations, Pete Price tells of his early years on stage at a colourful time in Liverpool’s before making his debut on BBC Radio Merseyside. After more years as a comedian and singer, tempted back to Radio City, he was offered the late-night phone which he made his own. 

Shunted from Radio City across Magic, City Gold and the first and subsequent incarnation of City Talk, the programme developed a life of its own.

Pete opens up about how he helped his city through Hillsborough and the murder of Jamie Bulger. He talks too about the importance of sound management and gifted production, of the drama of great radio – and his fears about the future of the phone in genre itself – and about the future of radio talent.

In his own words, this is the Pete Price story.

Hear the whole ‘Radio Moments Conversations’ series here – and sign up for the regular podcast for this ongoing series. Music by Larry Bryant. 

He disappointed his parents with his determination to pursue a career in the nascent BBC local radio; created London’s GLR to critical acclaim albeit reduced audiences; and was part of the mid 90s dramatic moves to re-invigorate BBC Radio 1. Since, he headed the Radio Academy and, amongst his work as an indie, produced several acclaimed series for the BBC.

In his own words, this is the Trevor Dann story.

Enjoy  the whole Conversations series here. Music by Larry Bryant.

From his beginnings as a young press journalist, Ralph Bernard rose through the radio ranks as a programmer, and then senior executive, to lead what became the UK’s largest radio group. He played a key role at GWR in early consolidation, brokered the deals which brought Classic FM to air and headed GCap in challenging and conflicted times.

From his triumphs to his disappointments, this is the forty year story of Ralph Bernard’s life in radio - in his own words. (Recorded 2016)

Follow the 'RadioMoments Conversations' podcast series here. Music by Larry Bryant.

This is the story of the lad who grew up to pirate radio who went on to play a leading role in the sound of UK radio for a generation.

In this hour of RadioMoments Conversations, Steve England tells of how he ended up on-air in the complex second wave of offshore pirate before moving to Piccadilly where he started to further his interest in jingle production. He then opens up about the Alfasound journey, becoming the UK's leading jingle house - before its painful end.

In his own words, this is the Steve England story.

Hear the whole ‘RadioMoments Conversations’ series  here – and sign up for the regular podcast for this ongoing series. Music by Larry Bryant.

From  a lucky traineeship through to managing the purchase of that very station and its neighbours three decades later, via the creation of UK brand-led radio.

In this hour of 'Radio Moments - Conversations', Phil Riley opens up about his personal roots - and tells of his journey to BRMB. His business school spell in New York, prepared him for his first programme directorship as he created the new Xtra AM in the West Midlands. Poached to run struggling Radio Aire, he took that company to profitability and launched its successful Magic 828.

Joining Chrysalis Radio as it began its activities proper in radio, Phil launched Heart in Birmingham and London, the first mainstream competitor to the early tier of commercial radio, and the first to roll out that brand and its values in multiple regions - paving the way for brand-led radio we witness today.

Phil tells of the sale of Chrysalis Radio to become the foundation for Global Radio  and of his private equity-funded projects which, as Orion Media, were to result in the purchase of the stations in the Midlands shed by Global on their GCap acquisition. He opens up too about life since, including his role at Celador and in holding the reins at Bauer's newly acquired assets as they were instructed to hold-separate.

Research and evidence-led - and one of the most respected executives in UK commercial radio this is the Phil Riley story - in his own words.

Enjoy the whole Conversations series here. Music by Larry Bryant. (This edition is based on a fresh interview with Phil in May 2020)

Hear from the man who steered Signal in Stoke through its first couple of decades, rising quickly from breakfast show host to Programme Director. As industry consolidation advanced, John Evington also tells of his spell under Kelvin MacKenzie as Group PD of the Wireless Group. His early days are recalled too, from the magical moments in Manchester at the Piccadilly Radio of the 70s to the ill-fated Centre Radio in Leicester. 

This hour is the story of a programmer who was in for the early days of UK commercial radio and who was at the helm through its most fascinating and sometimes turbulent times. In his own words, illustrated along the way, this is the story of John Evington’s love for the closeness of radio.

Enjoy the whole Conversations series here. Music by Larry Bryant.

In this hour, Ron tells of his formative influences - his days at Broadcasting House  and of the early vulnerable days for BBC Local Radio in Sheffield and Nottingham.

He offers insight into the challenges of commercial radio in the early 80s, illustrated through his tales of the regulator, the trade body, the personalities at Trent, and the Company’s subsequent expansion. He tells too of the regional radio licences he won and launched – and the things he might have done differently. 

The voice of a man who grew up revelling in radio comedy and rock and roll; this is the story of Ron Coles. (Recorded 2016)

Hear the whole ‘RadioMoments Conversations’ series  here – and sign up for the regular podcast for this ongoing series. Music by Larry Bryant.

He rose from being a BBC administration assistant to holding the Capital breakfast show for around ten years in commercial radio’s formative years.

In this hour of ‘Radio Moments – Conversations’, Graham Dene tell of his childhood love of radio and his efforts to creep into the business via a post as an administrator with the BBC. A transfer to the BBC library followed, from which he met the key individuals who would lead to his first on-air job at a factory radio station. He tells of life inside UBN, then a training ground for the country’s first commercial radio stations.

Turned down by Capital, he reveals what life was like on Day One of Radio City in Liverpool – and then of the opportunity to return to London as Capital started to find its feet. Graham, opens up about life at Euston Tower and about the characters with whom he shared those years.

Appointed to the Capital breakfast show to his surprise, he had the honour of hosting it for two five year spells, succeeding Kenny Everett and preceding Chris Tarrant. One avid listener was famously Diana, Princess of Wales, and Graham tells of his encounters with her.

After a spell at Capital Gold, Graham moved to launch the original Virgin Radio 1215 before spending time at Magic and Smooth. He tells here too of his enthusiasm for his recent work at BBC local radio.

In his own words, this is the Graham Dene story.

Hear the whole ‘Radio Moments Conversations’ series here – and sign up for the regular podcast for this ongoing series. Music by Larry Bryant. 

He was the disgraced schoolboy who was to become the first presenter on Capital Radio in 1973 – and on-air in the first week of Radio 1.

In this hour of Radio Moments – Conversations, David Symonds talks about his life journey from the challenges of his youth  - and his acting ambition  - through his early days on air in New Zealand. He tells of his early days announcing programmes for the Home Service and Light Programme – and preparing to go on-air on early evening across the first week of Radio 1’s life. He also opens up about the crime which was the catalyst for his Radio1 departure.

Invited to join Capital Radio, David is second only to Richard Attenborough as the station made its debut in 1973 – and he shares what he thought about the station’s early strategy. Moving then into programme management himself, he relates his thinking as he launched Radio Victory.

Back to the BBC, it’s a return to continuity at Radio 4 before being invited to host a new late afternoon programme on Radio 2 as it ventures into a ‘beautiful music’ format – and David tells of his feelings when that too came to an abrupt end.

After some time on-air in LA, it was back to London for Radio 4 and then Capital Gold, before adjourning to Cyprus and then to France.

In his own word – this is the David Symonds story.

Hear the whole ‘Radio Moments Conversations’ series here – and sign up for the regular podcast for this ongoing series. Music by Larry Bryant. 

From working as a car park attendant and being turned down by the BBC - to hosting some of the biggest slots on the UK’s largest stations.

In this hour of ‘Radio Moments – Conversations’, Simon Mayo speaks candidly about his life and career, from his early experiences at hospital and student radio, through his days at BBC Radio Brighton and Radio Nottingham.  Then - spotted by the BBC - he climbs quickly to Radio 1, where he graduates to the breakfast show and then on to the mid-morning show where his Confessions feature thrives.

When BBC Radio 5 Live calls, Simon rises to the challenge, and he talks here about how it felt to be on air as the tragedy of 9/11 unfolded.  He discusses too Kermode and Mayo's Film Review and why it has captured a new audience.

Alongside his 5 Live work, he begins at Radio 2, eventually being asked to take on the drive show, which had been hosted previously by Chris Evans – and Simon’s early hero Johnnie Walker. That show, famously, ends in a way Simon would not have chosen and he reflects on what might have been done differently.

The new Scala Radio called – and Simon talks about his first commercial radio experiences. Plus - what does Simon make of radio’s role in the extraordinary conditions created by the COVID 19 virus?

In his own words – this is the Simon Mayo story.

Hear the whole ‘Radio Moments Conversations’ series here – and sign up for the regular podcast for this ongoing series. Music by Larry Bryant. 

From a place behind a newsagent's counter armed just with a single O’ level – emerging as a leading influence in getting the business of brand-based commercial radio into shape as Group Commercial Director at Chrysalis, then COO at Global Radio.

In this hour of ‘Radio Moments – Conversations’, Don Thomson tells of his days at the mighty Kelloggs, before alighting on a career in radio at a colourful Piccadilly in Manchester. He moved to LWT, before establishing a national radio airtime sales agency representing the UK’s newest stations – and then returning to Piccadilly as sales director.   

As Chrysalis won the first of its major radio licences, Don was appointed as sales director, helping to establish Heart in the West Midlands where he designed refreshing and more accountable customer-focused ad policies as the medium became more competitive for both clients and audiences. His role broadened as Chrysalis won the London licence and his clear vision and operational focus helped to position the brand approach to radio we recognise today.

On the acquisition of Chrysalis by the new Global Radio in 2007, Don became Chief Operating Officer, helping to integrate the GCap stations as Global rose to its dominant position. Since leaving the Company, he has been involved in a variety of projects, including a period as Chief Exec of Celador Radio.

He reflects on the lessons he learned from Kelloggs; the tricks of client relationships; and the programmers and presenters who have helped or hindered commercial efforts.

In his own words – this is the Don Thomson story.

Hear the whole ‘Radio Moments Conversations’ series here – and sign up for the regular podcast for this ongoing series. Music by Larry Bryant. 

Having helped to establish one of the leading in-store stations in London’s Top Shop, he rose to lay the foundations of the mighty Smooth brand.

In this hour of ‘Radio Moments – Conversations’, Steve Collins tells of growing up and the keen pirate radio influences which led him to answer a press ad leading to an enlightening journey to Tel Aviv - and then offers fascinating insight into life on-board the Voice of Peace. 

Back on land, he walked into Top Shop and established a radio station proper, before Red Rose Radio eventually beckoned - where he was surprised to end up promptly presenting the breakfast show. When Capital offered a role, he hurried back to London where he spent 6 years on-air before moving across to County Sound, where life was not all he’d wished for.

After Jazz and Chiltern, he arrived in a Manchester he instantly came to love, to play a part of the management team of Key and Gold and then crossed to start up Wish FM.

Assuming control of programming Jazz in the North West, he worked within a challenging format to deliver, with huge success, the beginnings of the new Smooth brand, which he was then to manage across the UK.

Steve speaks candidly about the influences he witnessed on how not to manage; the way it feels when the station you care for is taken over; how it feels to end up on the dole; and shares the things he feels he got right – and wrong in over 40 years in radio.

In his own words, this is the Steve Collins story.

Hear the whole ‘Radio Moments Conversations’ series here – and sign up for the regular podcast for this ongoing series. Music by Larry Bryant. 

Her warm Canadian tones graced UK radio stations for over twenty years.

In this hour of Radio Moments Conversations, Diana Luke tells of how she fell into radio whilst reviewing a book at Hallam, leading to a role as Viking’s first female broadcaster.  As her reputation grew across Yorkshire, Diana was summoned to be part of the new commercial radio late-night networked service ‘The Superstation’ where she worked alongside the greats like Johnnie Walker, Bob Harris – and was produced by a young Chris Evans.

Diana tells too of her memories of the women’s station Viva!; and how she was heard on County Sound, LBC, Peak FM and Real Radio. She speaks fondly of launch day at Jazz where she hosted its first breakfast show; GLR, her award-winning show in Ireland; and about her close listener relationship at BBC local radio.

She opens up about her personal challenges and those of a woman in radio – and draws parallels between her new world as a therapist and her former life on-air. She highlights too the interpersonal skills on and off-air relevant to both.

In her own words this is the Diana Luke story.

Hear the whole ‘Radio Moments Conversations’ series here – and sign up for the regular podcast for this ongoing series. Music by Larry Bryant. 

From football reporter - to becoming one of the leading figures in a generation of commercial radio, this is the story of Steve Orchard.

In this hour of ‘Radio Moments Conversations’, Steve tells of his schooling and education; and a first career in social work, honing skills he was take with him throughout his life.

An interest in hospital radio led to opportunities at Wiltshire Radio which flourished as the station evolved into the new GWR, where he hosted the breakfast show.  As GWR grew, so did Steve’s role and he relates experiences of rolling out the famous GWR format to the company’s acquisitions. He tells too of his involvement in LBC and Classic FM – and of the pain involved in the merger to create GCap. And – from more recent days - his proud involvement in Quidem and Prison Radio. 

Steve shares his frustrations about regulation and his views on research vs instinct, talent management, the importance of station mood - and today’s radio environment.

In his own words, this is the Steve Orchard story.

Hear the whole ‘Radio Moments Conversations’ series here – and sign up for the regular podcast for this ongoing series. Music by Larry Bryant. 

He was the local press journalist who went on to be one of BBC radio sport’s most familiar voices – and whose style was to define BBC Radio 5 live at launch.

In this hour of ‘Radio Moments Conversations’, John Inverdale tells of his early days in local press before a chance pub meeting led to an opportunity at the new BBC Radio Lincolnshire. An attachment to London saw him reporting and sports bulletin-reading on the Radio 4 Today programme and then across to BBC Radio 2 to host Sport on 2. As BBC Radio 5 launched, he was to host the evening Drive-In, a programme he regards fondly, before helping to define the sound of the new Radio 5 live.

John tells of life reporting at the Olympics around the World; bumping into Margaret Thatcher; and shares his thoughts on the importance of words, voice and listening around.

In his own words, this is the John Inverdale story.

Hear the whole ‘Radio Moments Conversations’ series here – and sign up for the regular podcast for this ongoing series. Music by Larry Bryant.

From helping out on a charity appeal to dominating late night music radio for generations.

In this hour of Radio Moments – Conversations, Graham Torrington tells how his early love for radio led to his arrival at BRMB to help with the annual Walkathon. Graduating quickly from occasional shows to daytime contemporary radio, he quickly made his mark before the potential of a late-night love songs programme was unleashed.

Pushed aside from the station he loved, he moved to the challenged Buzz FM and then onto help launch Kix 96 as Programme Controller.  Graham tells of the call which led then to his appointment at GWR and how his reputation grew as the company expanded to dominate numerous UK markets - to the annoyance of some.

Graham tells of the evolution of Late Night Love, the genuine value he feels it brought to listeners and the art of getting the stories from them.

As another takeover ended his spell with that group, he talks of life at the BBC and how he once again created late night magic of a more comforting flavour.

As Graham retires from UK radio – for now at least – he tells too the things he never mentioned on air about his own life. What are his stories?

This is Graham Torrington – in his own words – alone.

Hear the whole ‘Radio Moments Conversations’ series here – and sign up for the regular podcast for this ongoing series   

He rose from humble but determined roots in Wales to become one of the leading radio journalists of his generation.

In this hour of ‘Radio Moments – Conversations’, John Humphrys opens up about his life, resulting more in an encyclopaedia of World history rather than of media. He tells of his early days in press, where he not only wrote stories, he delivered the newspapers.  Spurning a job at the Times – he moved to television where he was to be the first reporter on the scene at the Aberfan disaster in 1966 – an experience which he confesses had a ‘profound effect’ on him.

His early days at the BBC took him to the US and to South Africa at momentous periods in the history of those countries, before returning home to be one of the first TV newsreaders to assemble his own bulletins on the BBC Nine O' Clock News.

Without hesitation, John accepted a role on the Today programme where he was to spend 33 years. He tells here of his approach to interviewing and of the Prime Minister he found most daunting – and opens up about his huge suspicion of authority - and his nervousness.

In his own words, this is the John Humphrys story.

Hear the whole ‘Radio Moments Conversations’ series here – and sign up for the regular podcast for this ongoing series. Music by Larry Bryant.

John’s ‘A Day Like Today’ is out now – published by Collins

Plucked with no experience to appear on a new Radio 210 in Reading, he was to become the fourth ever Radio 1 breakfast host.

In this hour of Radio Moments – Conversations, Mike Read tells of the surprise jump from a musical career to one where radio played lead. He relates how his commercial radio spell began and shares memories of the eccentric early days in that new industry.

Following an unexpected rise in profile with a TV’s ‘Pop Quest’, he recalls how he was then lured to join Radio Luxembourg. On being headhunted for Radio 1, Mike shares his he felt as he was offered the prestigious breakfast slot.

Driven by a passion and knowledge of music, he tells how his BBC bosses responded as his music policy drifted away from ‘70s disco; his frustration at commercial radio bosses who didn’t seem sufficiently familiar with music; and his enthusiasm for a world where the presenter decides which tracks to play.

The stories of his days at Capital Gold and Classic Gold are recalled – and illustrated colourfully. He tells too of his time at Jazz and his current involvement with the United DJs online station.  His other achievements are highlighted too - from co-authoring the Guinness Book of Hit Singles to playing a key role in the British Plaque Trust  which has honoured the music composers he holds in such high esteem.

In his own words – this is the Mike Read story.

Hear the whole ‘Radio Moments Conversations’ series here – and sign up for the regular podcast for this ongoing series. Music by Larry Bryant. 

His life in radio began, aged 16, in Canada – and his distinctive voice  was to be heard on the UK’s biggest stations. 

In this hour of ‘Radio Moments Conversations’, David Jensen tells of growing up in Canada and making his radio debut, before moving, aged just 18, to a new life at Radio Luxembourg in the days when it commanded UK evening listening.

Advised to get some UK experience, ‘Kid’ alighted at a brand-new Radio Trent in Nottingham in the challenging times so typical of those early days of UK commercial Radio.

David opens up about the Radio 1 days in its most colourful era, his friendship with John Peel, the stars he encountered, the roadshow days – and he shares a wealth of anecdotes, not least why he was playing midnight football with the Rolling Stones on an American runway. He also tells of his Capital spell and why he loved that 'big' sound of the City.

He tells too of his family life, his love of jazz and how he is facing his Parkinson’s diagnosis.

In his own words, this is the David Jensen story.

Hear the whole ‘Radio Moments Conversations’ series here – and sign up for the regular podcast for this ongoing series. Music by Larry Bryant. 

It was his love of radio which governed his choice of university – before a career which saw him emerge as one of the key UK radio programmers of his generation – leading the way on research and the psychology of radio.

In this hour of ‘Radio Moments Conversations’, Francis Currie shares his early hospital and student radio days and his graduation to a young Mercia Sound. He tells of his spell at LBC and onto his dream station ‘The SuperStation’, albeit past its glory days. On-air work followed at Rock FM and Tfm as he began to identify the detail of radio programming – and that his talents might lie in other areas than on-air.

At Minster, his programming skills were honed, before being appointed programme manager at Invicta in Kent. That station’s acquisition by Capital generated a major opportunity to programme BRMB – where Francis started to establish how best to handle radio’s biggest personalities and managers.

Following a farewell to the Capital group, he tells of a quirky Melody Radio and how he engineered the brand change to Magic on its acquisition by EMAP – a group which was to offer him opportunities beyond radio.

Having transferred to Chrysalis, Francis opens up about the challenges of taking Heart to its Number One status in London for the first time – how he felt on the day of that victory - and how he felt as he was ejected when the company.

After a successful spell in consulting worldwide, he was part of the team which brought together Chris Evans and Virgin Radio before moving back into consultancy.

In his own words, this is the Francis Currie story.

Hear the whole ‘Radio Moments Conversations’ series here – and sign up for the regular podcast for this ongoing series. Music by Larry Bryant. 

This is the story of the man who grew up simply wanting to be on the radio and emerged as one of the most musically influential and respected presenters in UK radio.

In this hour of ‘Radio Moments Conversations’, Bob Harris tells of his time as an unlikely police cadet before his ambition to work in radio took him – alone – to London. He shares how he befriended John Peel and became his fill-in, and then moved to a more permanent BBC Radio 1 programme - and fronting the Old Grey Whistle Test. 

As his first spell of Radio 1 ended, spells at Radio Luxembourg, Radio 210, BBC Radio Oxford and BFBS followed, before the death of his idol Roger Scott created an opportunity back at Radio 1 – some 16 years after his earlier departure.

As Radio 1 implemented its famous ‘90s ‘rejuvenation’, Bob was moved on again – and he tells here of the meeting where the deed was done   - before he turned up on GLR in a programme which he was to regard as one of his favourites. Noticed by Radio 2, Bob returned to the BBC where has remained since, hosting a range of programmes including his renowned Country Show.

Speaking as he relished his return on-air after his illness, this is the Bob Harris story - in his own words.

Hear the whole ‘Radio Moments Conversations’ series  here – and sign up for the regular podcast for this ongoing series. Music by Larry Bryant.                                                                                                               

She was the reluctant shorthand typist who never sought a role in front of the camera or microphone – but was to be invited to play a role in some of the UK’s biggest stations.  

In this hour of ‘Radio Moments Conversations’, Lynn Parsons tells of her crazy childhood home and the early jobs which offered insight into a media world. She shares how her technical curiosity led to appointment as a camera operator, a job she loved – and a role in the launch of TV AM.

Her radio love started in hospital radio and some subsequent work at County Sound, but she tells of how the job at her beloved Capital was simply the result of a bet. Radio 1 beckoned and she shares tales of those she worked with and what life was really like on the famous Roadshow. She opens up too about life at Radio 2 and, back in commercial radio, she relates fond tales of life at Virgin, Jazz and Smooth - and now Magic.

Lynn tells of the people she has interviewed, her love of late-night radio, and of her gratitude for the life radio has given her.

In her own words, this is the Lynn Parsons story.


Hear the whole ‘Radio Moments Conversations’ series  here – and sign up for the regular podcast for this ongoing series. Music by Larry Bryant.

A man who never hankered after a job in radio, but was to be recognised as the driving force behind one of the most successful early small local radio stations – Moray Firth Radio based in Inverness.

In this hour of ‘Radio Moments Conversations’, Thomas Prag confesses to an easy upbringing and his laziness, before falling into the BBC. He recalls his early training days – in Bush House and pushing the buttons for Alan Freeman on the legendary Pick of the Pops before moving to BBC Radio Oxford at launch. He tells of helping to establish and then manage the BBC Radio Highland opt-out as the Corporation wrestled with quite how to deal with radio across Scotland.

When Moray Firth won the area’s commercial radio licence, Thomas tells he was tempted into joining the team to run what was judged a highly risky venture at a time when other even larger commercial stations were failing and stations of this scale were rare. Thus began his lengthy tenure which took the station into profitability; and its success recognised by regulators, awards judges – and its many listeners - as something quite special. Thomas opens-up about his proud legacy in ‘community radio’ - alongside the challenges of the job – and the impact of its personal pressures.

After leaving the station, he tells of how he how was appointed to both the Radio Authority and, later, Ofcom – and how he felt about the role of a regulator and about the demands of the licence application process. Then – his rich and busy life since and how his learnings from life in radio continue to be put to use in the community he loves.

In his own words, this is the Thomas Prag story.

Hear the whole ‘Radio Moments Conversations’ series  here – and sign up for the regular podcast for this ongoing series. Music by Larry Bryant.

 

The boy from near Bristol who went from working in theatre to becoming the longest-serving Controller of Radio 1, this is the life of Andy Parfitt.

In this hour of ‘Radio Moments – Conversations’, Andy tells of his first radio memories, his love of music, and how he landed a BBC studio manager role.

He shares stories from his early days at Broadcasting House, working with those whose backgrounds he detected as different from his own; and how he moved on to produce some legendary programmes alongside some of the broadcasting greats.

Andy gives insight into the birth of the old BBC Radio 5 and how his role positioned him for the move to Radio 1.  As Controller, in due course, he was to seize the reins of a network as it emerged from huge change and help steer it back over the 10m listeners mark.  He tells of how his BBC role grew; how he got on with Chris Moyles; and how he felt walking out of the BBC for the last time.  Andy reflects too on what his lengthy spell at the BBC taught him about life and leadership; and how he puts those learnings into practice now, in the latest chapter of his life.

In his own words, this is the Andy Parfitt story.


Hear the whole ‘Radio Moments Conversations’ series  here – and sign up for the regular podcast for this ongoing series. Music by Larry Bryant.

He was the shoe salesman from Leicester who became the first presenter to graduate to Radio 1 – before falling out of the station in the 90s shake-up.

In his hour of 'Radio Moments - Conversations, Adrian Juste opens up about his love of the 60s pirate stations which prompted his early work at young BBC Radio Leicester – and then on to BRMB where he didn’t really get on with management - or his breakfast show. He talks about jobbing for Radio 1 producing trails from his home studio; and the call from Derek Chinnery which led to his regular programmes on the Network where he was to interpret the Jack Jackson comedy format for the modern age. Adrian talks about his distinctive voice work – and speaks candidly about his feelings about his own fate, and others’, as Radio 1 was being adjusted abruptly in the 90s – and life since.

In his own words – this is the Adrian Juste story.

Hear the whole ‘Radio Moments Conversations’ series  here – and sign up for the regular podcast for this ongoing series. Music by Larry Bryant.

He emerged from modest roots and being a jobbing musician to become the brains and inspiration behind some of the UK’s most familiar media anthems.

In this hour of ‘Radio Moments Conversations’ David Arnold tells of his childhood hopes and dreams when he began to appreciate and study music – and about the surprise and chance of his early opportunities. As a composer, conductor, arranger and producer, he shares the story of pitching for the first Essex Radio jingle package and how it opened the door to providing station jingle packages for many of the early commercial radio stations and, for a while, the majority of BBC local radio work. He gives insight too into US jingle production, with the singers whose voices became so familiar on stations around the world  He opens the lid on the thinking behind TV news themes, sig tunes such as Big Breakfast and Live and Kicking – and of his proud enduring  work for Classic FM. 

He tells too of intriguing jingle briefs - and about how the creative work of a composer can sometimes sit uneasily alongside the suited world of those who pay the bills.

In his own words, this is the David Arnold story.

Hear the whole ‘Radio Moments Conversations’ series  here – and sign up for the podcast for this ongoing series.

Theme music for this podcast by Larry Bryant, illustrative music within from David Arnold.

The teenage tape reclaimer - whose DNA now remains across UK radio and whose influence is felt around the World.

Clive Dickens opens up rarely – and looks back even more rarely. In this hour of Radio Moments Conversations he shares the journey from his roots at a new Chiltern Radio and how he speedily scaled the heights to group programme director.

As the industry began to consolidate, he tells of his move to the Capital Group, working with Richard Park – and the challenges and opportunities of its newly-acquired BRMB. He talks of the many crossroads in his life – and the encounter that helped him seize them – including the move from Capital to forge his own path.

Clive tells the frank story of the battle for the Absolute Radio name and the impact of the economic crash – and also of his proud legacy there.

He explains his passion for technology, tells the Shazam story, reflects on his work in markets around the world and talks of his move to Australia to Southern Cross Austereo. He shares fascinating insight into the Australian media world and offers his thoughts on the media and communications future – from his new role in Sydney as VP Product Development, TV and Content at the huge telecoms company Optus.

This is Clive Dickens – in his own words – alone.

Hear the whole ‘Radio Moments Conversations’ series here – and sign up for the regular podcast for this ongoing series 

 

He was the programmer, producer and radio executive who began peering through the studio window at Radio Top Shop - and ended up programming the first national pop/rock station in the UK and witnessing the rise and challenges of Chris Evans first-hand.

In this hour of Radio Moments Conversations, John Revell tells of his radio life.  He shares stories from the launch of the BBC’s pioneering days at GLR in London; and working on the Super Station which brought the UK its first major taste of daily networking. John opens up about being the first programmer proper wrestling with the launch of the original Virgin Radio; and his encounters with some of the UK’s biggest stars in the early days of their radio careers.

'Johnny Boy' shares the story of his transfer to a cautious Radio 1 to produce the new breakfast show with Chris Evans; and its untimely end; before helping to pull off the deal to snatch Virgin from Capital’s hands as it’s acquired by Ginger. Then - as Virgin changes hands again - John gives his perspective on Chris’s high-profile departure.

In his own words, this is the John Revell story.

Hear the whole ‘Radio Moments Conversations’ series  here – and sign up for the regular podcast for this ongoing series. Music by Larry Bryant.

He was the drama student who aspired to be a Radio 2 producer - but emerged as a key commercial radio innovator and business leader as the industry began to find its feet, make money and exploit new technology. 

In this hour of RadioMoments Conversations, Simon Cole tells of the opportunities and frustrations of BBC local radio - before moving to produce and manage programming at Piccadilly, where he pioneered commercial content and built PPM before leaving to found Unique Broadcasting; a move prompted by Owen Oyston’s acquisition of Piccadilly. He shares his role in the stories of commercial inventory bartering, DAB, Audioboom, One Word; and 7digital, where he was chief exec until Spring 2019.

Simon opens up about those who have inspired him; the pain of corporate deals; the lessons of entrepreneurship; and outlines his view of a wholly disrupted future for the business of radio. 

In his own words, this is the Simon Cole story.

Hear the whole ‘RadioMoments Conversations’ series  here – and sign up for the regular podcast for this ongoing series. Music by Larry Bryant.

Clutching a soldering iron, he arrived in commercial radio at the launch of Downtown Radio, in troubled times in Northern Ireland, rising to lead the station’s programming for an era.

In this hour of ‘Radiomoments Conversations’. John Rosborough tells of his childhood dreams, the early days at Downtown Radio, building the studios, hosting early shows - and the challenges of the station’s newsroom in unprecedented times. He tells the story of his graduating through the programming ranks, its first jingle package, the varied programme schedule, early regulation and, ultimately, becoming a station for the whole of Northern Ireland – and splitting frequencies. John talks too about Irish radio heritage, winning radio licences – and his subsequent management roles at Citybeat, U105, Belfast 89 and life since.

In his own words, this is the John Rosborough story.

Hear the whole ‘RadioMoments Conversations’ series here – and sign up for the regular podcast for this ongoing series. Music by Larry Bryant.

From hospital radio to a leading role in a fast-changing commercial sector and then back on-air with the BBC, Stuart Linnell’s fifty years of radio make a fascinating story of sport, music presentation and management in a colourful radio age. 

In this hour of ‘RadioMoments Conversations’, Stuart tells of his early days at BBC Radio Birmingham, before moving to commercial radio to help launch Radio Hallam. A transfer to the new Mercia Sound followed, where he rose to PD and then an ever- growing Managing Director role. He tells of the characters in commercial radio’s early days and the successes and frustrations of the earliest steps in industry consolidation.  Back on-air at the BBC, Stuart reflects on Auntie’s changes over the decades and on his final lengthy spell at BBC Radio Northampton. 

In his own words, this is the story of Stuart Linnell MBE. 

See all the episodes of RadioMoments Conversations here; and podcast the series here.

He graduated straight from uni to a huge career at Capital and Radio 2.

In this hour of #radiomoments Conversations, Richard Allinson tells of his nervous days in university radio before arriving at Capital where he sat alongside the greats of the day who shared their wisdom. He shares the battle for London supremacy and his recollections of the stars he bumped into during his 17 year spell. A transfer with Radio 2 followed, where he hosted lates - and many of the key dayparts. He tells too of his pride in his independent productions, his contribution to BFBS and the World Service, his time in BBC local radio - and those occasions in life where radio is suddenly no longer the most important thing. Now at Magic – he tells of the art and effort of daytime music radio.

In his own words, this is the Richard Allinson story

See the whole Conversations series here.  Music by Larry Bryant.

Few radio presenters enjoy a hugely successful career in broadcasting before going on to achieve even more in a second life. 

In this hour of #radiomoments ‘Conversations’, Paul McKenna shares his journey through radio’s most treasured posts – on to becoming an internationally renowned hypnotist, behavioural scientist TV broadcaster and best-selling author.

He tells how his curiosity of the pirates and his love of listening to Capital led to him entertaining shoppers with Radio Topshop before realising a dream onboard the offshore Radio Caroline. Then, during a spell at Chiltern, an interview was to change the course of his life.

Paul tells of his admiration for Richard Park for whom he worked at Capital in London, before being hired by Radio 1. He was to grow closer to his idols – here and in the US - and he opens up about his times with Kenny Everett.

Alongside his high-profile radio work, audiences to his theatre performances were growing too, prompting him eventually to resign from Radio 1 to pursue his second career. This has culminated in his becoming Britain's bestselling non-fiction author, having sold 3 million books in 3 years; and his TV shows and live appearances are witnessed by hundreds of millions of people in 42 countries. Nevertheless, as is clear in this hour, his shameless and humble anorak love for radio endures.

In his own words, this is the Paul McKenna story.

See the whole ‘Conversations’ series here. Theme music from Larry Bryant.

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The boy from Wales whose dad recommended a BBC career – and who was to emerge as the production brain behind some of the UK’s most historic programmes and broadcasts. 

In this hour of #radiomoments Conversations, Peter Griffiths tells of his 1970s days training as a BBC studio manager for network radio and the World Service before graduating to produce Woman’s Hour - and to the Radio 4 presentation and continuity production team.

His love of sport took him to the sport and outside broadcast department where he also began to use complementary skills in coverage of major ceremonial events. He shares the secrets of arranging and crafting commentary and of working with the leaders in the field.

Peter opens up about the challenges at the launch of the original BBC Radio 5 – and during a period of controversial Radio 4 change.

As Nelson Mandela was freed from prison, Peter helped teach radio production skills in South Africa – in a period he describes as the most significant in his life - and he created an award-winning powerful documentary on the Soweto uprising.

He talks too about working with John Peel on the creation of ‘Home Truths’; and gives the inside track on the coverage of the funeral of Princess Diana.

In his own words, this is the Peter Griffiths story.

See the whole ‘Conversations’ series here. Theme music from Larry Bryant.

From a spell at BBC local radio whilst at teacher training college, he was to become a household name on children’s TV and one of the UK’s most distinctive radio broadcasters. 

In this hour of #radiomoments ‘Conversations’, the inimitable Tommy Boyd tells of his early days in BBC local radio and LBC - and how he quickly realised a childhood ambition in landing a top job in kids TV at Thames with Magpie. He opens up about the complex times at the original Talk Radio UK – how his programme’s reputation grew - and how that spell there ended.

Tommy tells too about his time at Southern Sound and back in BBC local radio and Talksport. Hear also how he feels about radio management, regulators, callers, industry uncertainty – and about his good luck and those individuals who encouraged him along the way.

In his own words, this is the Tommy Boyd story.

See the whole Conversations series here. Theme music from Larry Bryant.

The man who started out doing the silly bits on regional TV and graduated to a 17 year stay on the UK’s then most influential commercial radio station – plus hosting one of the World’s most influential TV quiz shows. 

In this hour of #Radiomoments ‘Conversations’, Chris Tarrant opens up about how he fell into the world of commercial radio, and then how he was appointed to the helm of Capital breakfast in London. He tells of how the programme evolved – his relationship with his boss - his questions about the endless meetings which often surround breakfast shows – and how it felt being effectively responsible for the Capital share price as the programme started to own London. He talks too of how Who Wants to be a Millionaire was devised and delivered – and shares his fears about the stroke he suffered on a journey back from Bangkok.

In his own words, this is the Chris Tarrant story.

See the whole Conversations series here. Theme music from Larry Bryant.

From stumbling into the BBC simply with a wish to ‘be in London’, she rose to head its biggest network. 

In this hour of #radiomoments ‘Conversations’, Lesley Douglas opens up about her puzzled early days in radio; her learnings at the elbow of the greats; and her rise alongside Jim Moir to steer BBC Radio 2 to dizzy heights. She talks of her happiest times, and of the significant challenges she faced.

“What I would like to have been, and I may have failed in this sometimes, is somebody who allowed and protected people to do their best work.”

In her own words, this is the Lesley Douglas story.

The full Conversations series may be heard here. Theme music thanks toLarry Bryant.