I never thought I would host a radio show. But as of this past Monday, I am doing just that. 

I am now a guest host of the radio show Vermont Viewpoint, a public affairs show on WDEV, an AM/FM station in Waterbury, Vermont. You can listen to my Monday show here: https://wdevradio.com/states-attorney-fraud-watch/

The show runs from 9 to 11AM. I host Mondays and Wednesdays and will focus on politics and government, while trying to give free and fair debate all the way. 

Our guest Monday was Sarah George, a reform prosecutor who does not shrink from calling out systemic racism in law enforcement, eliminating cash bail and demanding an end to building new prisons. On Wednesday, I will talk with the chairs of the state Democratic and Republican parties. The governor makes a monthly appearance. (He canceled last month, which bummed me out)

So here is my request. Please send suggested questions for these guests. I have my own ideas but let’s be incisive and have a little fun at the same time. 

For years Vermont Viewpoint was hosted by the gold standard of local journalism Mark Johnson. He earned that label because of his deep knowledge of Vermont and his dedication to fairness. I hope to, if not match then, at least aspire to his standard.

But don’t worry, I will not be abandoning this blog. Writing Conflict of Interest is mostly a reflection of my own opinions and thoughts about politics and culture. But on the radio, there is a broader responsibility to inform listeners by letting the guest do the talking. What’s exciting for me is that WDEV is giving me the chance to spread my wings.

WDEV has been a family owned, commercial radio station for generations. Bill McKibben of the New Yorker wrote that WDEV was the kind of radio station that binds the state together. 

https://www.newyorker.com/news/daily-comment/how-vermonts-media-helps-keep-the-state-together

WDEV acts as a kind of glue for the community. There is a constant focus on the weather, as much for farmers as for commuters. The Red Sox are a daily obsession. “Music to Go to the Dump By’’ is still a show, even though all the dumps in Vermont were closed many years ago. The Trading Post is a yard sale on the radio where people call in to sell used tires and all sorts of other useful things.

You can listen to my show on AM 555 or FM 96.1 or search Vermont Viewpoint wherever you get your podcasts. You can also tune in online at www.wdevradio.com. 

Please send in those questions through this blog. And better yet, call in during the show at 802-244--1777. Yes. We take calls. It is Live Radio!