Radio relationships: Perceptions on listenership and well-being

Objective

As Australia boasts large radio listening audiences with high engagement among older adults, we examined Australian radio personnel's perceptions of their role in delivering radio and how it facilitates listener well-being.

Method

Semi-structured individual interviews were conducted with 16 radio personnel affiliated with music- and talk-based community and public stations broadcasting in Melbourne, Victoria.

Results

Thematic analysis indicated two main themes: communication style (e.g. making listeners a part of the conversation, speaking to one'person and strong listening skills) and authenticity. Presenters focused on both creating and maintaining relationships as well as promoting community through their on-air actions and programming. This inherently fostered connection and facilitated listener well-being.

Conclusions

The findings have implications for considering how the radio can be used as a tool for enhancing quality of life and for how radio stations manage presenter training and programming changes to support listener connection.