To quote Irene Cara: What a feeling!

“Wonder is a heightened state of awareness that’s brought on by something unexpected that can delight us or disorient us or both.”
~ Jeffrey Davis

It’s no secret that I think most Radio today is far too predictable.

That includes the length of stop sets. We’ve trained two generations of listeners to hit their pre-set buttons once the first words of the first ad in a 7-minute long assault begins.

Predictability is the main complaint I have with bumpers and liners. They all sound the same, station to station regardless of format (mostly), city to city, state to state, country to country. A few seconds of drivel, thrusting our chests about how great we are.

No one is listening. You are not changing one mind.

“Wonder is a heightened state of awareness that’s brought on by something unexpected that can delight us or disorient us or both.“

I would love to hear what might jump out of the speaker if more between-the-song content aimed at the feeling of wonder!

Sure, I’m satisfied when you entertain me, make me laugh (though there is little I avoid more than those trying to make me laugh who are not funny), or even smile when I listen.

If you’re an air talent, attention is the greatest gift listeners give you. Why do so many waste it every time they speak?

When’s the last time you said anything so different and fresh it left listeners feeling disoriented?

When’s the last time you shared something that generated delight?

Can’t you at least use one break tomorrow actually designed to cause wonder?

Come on: Stun me!

Stun all those people expecting one thing and getting something totally beyond expectation.

Playing it safe, following formatics and rules, will never, ever lead to delight.