“TV gives everyone an image, but radio gives birth to a million images in a million brains” Peggy Noonan. In Rochester, NY the non-profit Rochester Free Radio (RFR) is giving birth to “ a million images in a million brains” in a community driven radio station. Jeff Moulton, one of the founders of Rochester Free Radio shared some of his time with me to talk about the amazing Rochester Free Radio.
“With radio, the listener absorbs everything.” Bob Edwards
In 2006 Jeff was working in radio along with Chuck McCoy. While their backgrounds and philosophies were different, they both had a love for radio. Notice had been put out by the FCC (Federal Communications Commission) that they were opening up low-power frequencies for community radio stations. Jeff and Chuck were joined with David Atias, a community activist and another radio lover, and decided to go for it. Working together they applied and were approved for a permit for a community radio station. Part of the process was that the community radio station needed to be a non-profit, so they also completed that process. One year later they were approved for a permit. According to the FCC the difference between local and larger radio stations is that while their frequency size is similar, there are differences by signal type (AM vs. FM), transmitter power and coverage area, which directly dictates how far their frequencies travel. Once they were approved next steps included finding a location, transmitter, and audio board. Before they knew it they were on the air, filled with DJs and hosts broadcasting a variety of content.
“Rochester Free Radio embraces the diversity of our community.” RFR
The name Rochester Free Radio reflects what this community radio station stands for. This communitycentric station began primarily with talk shows and then quickly added music shows. Jeff shared no one is in it for the money, as all involved in this completely volunteer run organization want to give a voice to the people and the community who have been closed out of radio. There is enthusiasm for what they do, and they do this as a way to give back to the community. Once the details of getting space, buying a transmitter, and obtaining their specific radio frequency which is WRFZ 106.3FM, things began to line up. They found volunteers for the Board of Directors, and people began to apply to have their own radio show whether it be talk or music. All shows produced on Rochester Free Radio are produced independently. Also, what is said on the individual shows “do not reflect the opinion of the Board of WRFZ 106.3FM, other show hosts, volunteers, or underwriters.” One of the many things that makes Rochester Free Radio special is the variety of talk and music shows. These shows reflect the diversity of this community, and give people the option to share their voice, knowledge, and passion with those who want to listen.
“Rochester Free Radio is a community-driven, listener-supported non-commercial radio station run by volunteers to provide locally-focused, locally-created information, conversation and entertainment.” RFR
To get a talk or music show on RFR there is a process. A person needs to apply through the website for consideration. Anyone applying has to have their own underwriting (funding) to pay for their time on air. The RFR board of directors reviews all requests to determine if they will be approved for a show. For those approved one of the RFR volunteers will teach them how to “run the board” as that is part of having a show. Some shows are pre-recorded, and when people are not broadcasting live due to being automated, there are shows that will be on the air. Because RFR is a “non-commercial, FCC-licensed low-power FM radio station “all shows must follow FCC guidelines in terms of content (no swearing, slander, references to bodily fluids or functions, ect).” Jeff’s hope is that the FCC will expand the power given to radio stations like RFR so they can reach more people. Currently there are about 20-30 people hosting talk and music shows at RFR. They are fundraising for a new audioboard and transmitter as both are many years old and have been well loved. New equipment will help to expand the quality of each show on RFR. While the number of volunteers is small, they are mighty and fierce in their determination and dedication to do more with RFR. Anyone interested in volunteering with RFR is welcome to apply!
“Thank you for making Rochester Free Radio our community’s go-to source for information and entertainment. We are so proud to bring you such amazing local and nationally syndicated shows.” RFR
It is with joy and honor we shine the Kindness Champion spotlight on Rochester Free Radio in Rochester, NY. Where a dedicated group of people have banded together to provide “locally-focused, locally-created information, conversation and entertainment” as a way to “help solidify the Rochester community by enjoying and celebrating our similarities and differences; our strengths and weaknesses, our ideas and curiosities.” We thank you for being you and bringing your awesomeness to the world.
For more information or to support Rochester Free Radio here is their information:
Website: https://www.rochesterfreeradio.com/
Facebook: @RochesterFreeRadio https://www.facebook.com/WRFZradio/
Instagram: @rocfreeradio https://www.instagram.com/rocfreeradio/
X (Formerly Twitter): @RocFreeRadio https://x.com/rocfreeradio
