WJPZ at 50

For five decades, WJPZ Radio in Syracuse has been the world's Greatest Media Classroom. It's always been run exclusively by students and has served as the foundation for post-college careers, whether its alumni have worked in radio or elsewhere. The relationships formed by alumni from six different decades have helped create a true family.As we celebrate 50 years of WJPZ, we present 50 interviews with the people who have made this institution so special.Hosted by Jon "JAG" Gay, WJPZ Class of 2002.

WJPZ at 50 is a history podcast hosted by WJPZ, with 131 episodes on record and a Required Pod Score of 80. PitchCentric scores this show on Booking Probability, Listen Score, and live audience signals refreshed every 24 hours.

WJPZ hosts WJPZ at 50, a history show with 131 episodes published.

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  Episode #119

  NBA 2K's Tim Swartz, Class of 2009

  Apr 29, 202639 minS0

  <p>In this episode of WJPZ at 50, Jag sits down with Tim Swartz, a member of the WJPZ Class of 2009, to talk about his path from the Bay Area to Syracuse University, his time helping lead the Z89 sports department, and the unique sports media career he has built since graduation.</p> <p>Tim grew up in San Mateo, California, just south of San Francisco. He loved radio and sports from a young age, and that combination eventually led him to Syracuse. Once he arrived on campus, he found WJPZ through a general interest meeting and quickly connected with the...

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  Episode #118

  Mike Lacett '05, A Sportscasting Career with WJPZ Roots

  Apr 22, 202637 minS0

  <p>We look back on Mike Lacett’s path through WJPZ and Syracuse, and the conversation quickly shows how deeply those years shaped him. Mike explains that he first heard about Z89 from a Radio Disney DJ (you probably know who) before arriving on campus, and once he got to Syracuse, he threw himself into everything he could. He took early morning DJ shifts, worked on basketball shows, contributed news, and balanced that with time at AER. He describes himself at that stage as completely consumed by broadcasting, to the point where he gave up much of a normal college so...

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  Episode #117

  Lizzie Gottlieb and Bella Galan, Current WJPZ PD and GM

  Apr 8, 202654 minS0

  <p>In this episode of WJPZ at 50, we sit down with Bella Galan and Lizzie Gottlieb, the current GM and PD of WJPZ, to talk about how they found Syracuse, how they found the station, and how they are helping shape its culture right now. Both of them came to Syracuse with strong interests in performance, media, and storytelling. Both found, in Z89, a place that brings all of those interests together. What stands out most in this conversation is how clearly they see the station as more than a radio outlet. They describe it as a place to build...

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  Episode #116

  Savannah Bananas' Chris Sacchi, WJPZ Class of 2021

  Mar 25, 202639 minS0

  <p>Today we explore Chris Sacchi’s journey from a sports-obsessed kid in Connecticut to becoming a “video legend” with the Savannah Bananas. We start by tracing how early exposure to Syracuse athletics (the 2000's were a good time for this) and a small sportswriting opportunity in high school helped shape his path. Chris got to Syracuse knowing he loved sports but still figuring out how to channel that passion. Through friendships and encouragement, he found WJPZ, which became his first real home and creative outlet. That welcoming environment and early responsibility gave him confidence and direction.</p> <p>WJPZ helped...

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  Episode #115

  Inside Sports Rights With Dan Girard, Class of 2012

  Mar 11, 202647 minS0

  <p>Note: The WJPZ at 50 Podcast has returned! If you or someone you know would like to be a guest, email JAG:  jag@jagpodcastproductions.com</p> <p>Our first guest back is Dan Girard, Class of 20120. on how WJPZ helps us find our footing, sharpen our voice, and build friendships that last long after graduation. </p> <p>We start with Dan’s path to Syracuse, which begins as a sports fan in New York watching the 2003 Orange title run and dreaming about the Carrier Dome. He arrives on campus with a chip on his shoulder after not getting into Newhouse, but...

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