In 1949, a group of pacifists launched America’s first listener-supported radio station. Despite government repression, infighting, and countless financial crises, KPFA has managed to survive 75 years. This episode explores the stories of some of the people who helped the station achieve this remarkable milestone.
Featuring interviews with former and current staff members and volunteers: Larry Bensky*, Emiliano Echeveria, Adi Gevins, Bari Scott, Robynn Takayama, and Kris Welch.
To hear the episode, listen via Apple, SoundCloud, Spotify, or wherever you get podcasts. You can also listen to East Bay Yesterday on Wednesdays at 1PM on KPFA 94.1 FM. Don’t forget to follow the East Bay Yesterday Substack for updates on events, tours, exhibits, and other local history news.
*This was the last recorded interview with longtime KPFA broadcaster Larry Bensky, who passed away on May 19, 2024. Click here to learn more about Benksy’s legendary career and to hear a two-hour tribute.
Special thanks to the sponsor of this episode: UCSF Benioff Children’s Hospitals Oakland. I encourage you to read the story of how UCSF research and UCSF Benioff Oakland clinicians transformed treatment for children who are deaf or hard of hearing and became a model for other hospitals. Find the full story here.
East Bay Yesterday can’t survive without your donations. Please make a pledge to keep this show alive: www.patreon.com/eastbayyesterday. You can also support East Bay Yesterday by purchasing the official t-shirt or hat from Oaklandish. Don’t forget to follow East Bay Yesterday’s Substack newsletter to stay updated on upcoming tours, events, and other local history news.
