Chances are, you’ve read the colorful flyers in the hallways of Buntrock Commons. You’ve heard the chatter about “slot draw” and “new DJ training.” And you’ve definitely seen the iconic purple hoodies around campus — you know the ones. All of this buzz can only mean one thing: a brand-new semester of KSTO Radio — St. Olaf’s student-run radio station — is upon us. And that is much cause for celebration.
Since 1957, KSTO has given students the opportunity to host their very own radio show on campus, available for streaming online. Every week, student DJs volunteer one hour of their time to broadcast content of their choice, from music to talk shows to everything in between. They have the opportunity to personalize their show with a creative name, poster, and other merch. The KSTO studio is located on the lower level of Buntrock.
Having a radio show is a wonderful way to express yourself and get to know your friends better. Plus, you’ll have a newfound avenue to stay connected with loved ones back home, and you’ll get to participate in the vibrant student media scene at St. Olaf. Are you interested? Read on for some tips — based on my own experience — for designing and broadcasting your own show!
- If the idea of pulling together a setlist of music or deciding what to talk about on air feels daunting, try coming up with a niche for your show. Maybe you love Adele, classical piano, queer anthems, or 70’s soul. If you’re planning a talk show, maybe you’re a fan of reciting poetry, doing stand-up comedy, or chatting with friends just like you’re at the dinner table. In addition to helping you dive deeper into your own interests, choosing a topic or genre you enjoy and sticking to it will let your listeners know what to expect every week. Your show’s niche can also help you decide on a name and other creative branding!
- Consider structuring your show around a set of segments that stay the same in each episode. Maybe you’ll send your listeners a weekly poll to answer, debrief the highs and lows of your day, or share a new fun fact. Your segments can also be music-related — share a throwback song, something you’ve had stuck in your head, or introduce the work of a lesser-known artist. Just like choosing a niche, segments can make show planning easier and give your listeners specific things to look forward to.
- Create a way to connect with your audience. Social media platforms like Instagram are a great way to promote your show and encourage your circles to listen. They can also be helpful for implementing interactive segments. For those not on social media, never underestimate the dynamic duo of a Linktree and a Google Form! Consider asking your listeners for song suggestions, stories and anecdotes, or answers to silly questions to share on air.
- Treat your weekly studio time as “me time.” When the semester is in full swing, broadcasting on KSTO offers an hour away from the stresses of school. The studio itself — complete with salt lamps, an essential oil diffuser, and the comfiest pink chairs you’ve ever seen — is a space to relax and focus only on the music or your conversation. I often refer to the hour I spend on air as my favorite hour of the week, and I’m willing to bet that you will, too.
