As part of a strategic decision to focus on local content and programming, Wisconsin Public Radio will later this year sunset four of its programs.
WPR will end production of the nationally distributed programs, To The Best Of Our Knowledge, BETA, and Zorba Paster On Your Health and the statewide program, University of the Air.
The programming decisions stem from a broader repositioning of WPR resources that includes a number of layoffs across departments. WPR’s budget has experienced a deficit in recent years, and public radio nationally is facing pressures around state and federal funding.
“We’re saddened to say goodbye to these valued colleagues and shows that have been an important part of our recent history,” says Sarah Ashworth, WPR director. “This is a difficult decision and WPR must prioritize its capacity to provide what no other media outlet can: unique Wisconsin content from a decidedly Wisconsin point of view. A focus on creating Wisconsin content for Wisconsin audiences is our obligation to – and our richest opportunity for – public service.”
Audience data and digital metrics collected by WPR clearly show an appetite for programs focused on Wisconsin. Research this year also shows that WPR has an opportunity to serve unmet information needs across the state.
Programs that will end later this year include:
- To The Best Of Our Knowledge: TTBOOK has explored big ideas and beautiful questions as they looked to help listeners find new sources of meaning, purpose, and wonder in daily life.
- Zorba Paster On Your Health: Dr. Zorba Paster and colleagues have provided listeners with health and fitness tips to live a full and healthy life.
- BETA: This program has taken an immersive, innovative, playful and provocative approach to exploring arts, culture and technology.
- University of the Air: This program has traditionally invited faculty guests from UW-Madison to discuss topics in music, art, writing, theater, science, education and history.
WPR has relayed its plans to PRX, the distributor of the three national programs, who will communicate with stations across its network.
WPR will work with staff to determine how to celebrate the legacy of these shows. More information will be provided later this year about its schedule and replacement programming.
Wisconsin Public Radio is a service of the University of Wisconsin-Madison and the Wisconsin Educational Communications Board. For media inquiries, contact contact.strategiccommunication@wisc.edu.