Coronavirus 411

This is definitely what the entire world is talking about. So it’s not a question of whether to talk about it, but how your show can do it, on brand. Below are a multitude of ideas from all different angles to get you thinking about what could work for you. (And please forward me your ideas as well so I can share with the group!)

Morning shows are an escape from the news, and we are also a companion, a hope-giver, a faith-provider, an entertainer. As live and local radio stations, we have an opportunity to help our communities. What is the best way for us to use our platform, our personalities and our listening family to get through this together? What is your role in all this?

Get a good read on how each player is responding to the news. Which player is obsessively reading everything? Who is stockpiling? Who is nonchalant? Who is panicking–“are we all gonna die?!” These are your natural POVs that can help when looking at how to approach content.

Consider asking on socials how freaked out your friends and your audience are. People run the gamut but you might notice a pattern locally. Even shows that target young people who (mostly) won’t be affected personally need to be cautious about making light of it. Focus on the audience’s ability to carry the virus to older relatives and people in bars/subways/etc.

Stay healthy and safe!