My career in public media began when it was called “public radio.” We heard about interesting people, recorded their words and actions, asked questions, and distilled the “tape” for our listeners — sometimes it was artful. Then came web publishing and video. Ironically, the reemergence of audio-only storytelling in the form of podcasts reaffirms the strength of the medium.
Selected Audio — click to listen
2018 “To institutional gatekeepers, Indigenous artists say, ‘share your power’”
2018 “Juneau shamanism retreat leader’s financial, cultural and spiritual legitimacy challenged”
2017 Hope explores Indigenous thought in new book of poetry ‘Rock Piles Along the Eddy’
2016 “Juneau artist completes yearlong portrait series focused on everyday locals”
2015 “Artist teaches formline in prison by day, Tsimshian by night”
2015 “‘Monumental art makes Juneau’s new Walter Soboleff Building shine”
2014 “Christy Namee Eriksen braids words and music to effect change”
Photo by Mike Miller, courtesy of Sean Janes.
Mike Nelson and Taan X’áat’i (Benjamin Island)
The piece that started it all. Until Mike’s passing in 2004, I’d only produced prose — mostly for myself or any friends or family who would listen. In this case, neighbor and public media producer Katie Bausler listened, and helped me voice and submit this to a statewide show called AK. Being able to add “Angel Band” at the end was the beginning of my realization of the power of adding sound to prose. At the time, I regretfully knew little about Lingít culture, including the name of the island, Taan X’áat’i, or Sea Lion Island.
Razzma-Zen
Meet Steven “Razz” Rasmussen, lifetime biker and longtime member of the Southeast Alaska Panhandlers Motorcycle Club. This piece won first place in 2008 from the Alaska Press Club in the radio category.
Two Moms and Two Boys Do Make Family
I think these “boys” are probably old enough to have their own families now. This piece won first place for single story reporting in 2008 from the Alaska Press Club.
The Road
Extending “The Road” further out of Juneau is as contentious as it’s ever been. I could almost play this piece today. There is a line or two about bear shit that may be the best thing I’ve ever written.