Public-media funding has officially stopped. How are stations coping?
This fall marks a turning point for public-media outlets across the country. As of Oct. 1, federal funding for PBS, NPR and their local stations stopped. This $1.1 billion cut — a directive from the Trump administration — triggered widespread job cuts, restructurings and closures of hundreds of outlets across the country. Radio Milwaukee is a public-media station, and as we begin our fall membership drive, we’re feeling the impact — as are our sister stations across the state, like WXPR in northern Wisconsin. In this episode of Uniquely Milwaukee , host Kim Shine talks with WXPR CEO and general manager Jessie Dick about the impact of funding cuts, the value of public media – especially in rural communities – and how they’re staying proactive. Radio Milwaukee’s Fall Membership Drive goes through Oct. 10. You can donate now , and also reach out to us any time during the year to become a volunteer or to collaborate. -- Episode host: Kim Shine Uniquely Milwaukee is supported by our Radio Milwaukee members and sponsored by the Milwaukee Public Library .