CapRadio workers worry amid turmoil at Sac State’s NPR station. What does the future hold?
The layoffs at Capital Public Radio were bad enough — then emerged a series of devastating blows detailing financial peril. And, at the center, remained employees battered by the turmoil.
An audit showing unpaid bills. More than half of CapRadio’s board later resigned. Potential conflicts of interest came to light. News from competitors — which was how staff members said they often first learned about each instance — painted a public broadcasting institution in dire straits.
Sadness, worry and exhaustion poured out from employees who recently spoke with The Sacramento Bee from their campus studios. They said they were maintaining their focus on the work and who it serves — a supportive Northern California listening community — to keep moving forward.
“These last 10 days were extraordinary,” said Aram Sarkissian, the managing editor of the broadcaster’s news and talk formats, which includes the four-day-a-week “Insight” program. “That’s really the word — extraordinary. And, exhausting.”
‘This is tough’
Sarkissian began texting “Insight” host Vicki Gonzalez after learning late Wednesday night that 13 of CapRadio’s board members resigned.
The journalists who produce the public affairs show talked about their approach now. It included reporters refraining from going to staff meetings and speaking with Sacramento State President Luke Wood and Tom Karlo, the stations’ interim general manager, he said.
Sacramento State holds the license for most of the stations CapRadio operates, including NPR affiliate KXJZ-FM (90.9) and classical music station KXPR-FM (88.9). The broadcaster is an auxiliary of the university.
No one reviewed their questions or dissuaded him from speaking with both leaders, he said.
“It’s uncomfortable,” Sarkissian said of CapRadio’s reporting on themselves. “But, very necessary.”
But the emotional toll of hearing about fiscal troubles — which could include to CapRadio’s insolvency by January — caused Sarkissian to worry about everyone’s future. He said he has compartmentalized every emotion while working.
“I thought the layoffs were the worst day,” he said. “This is as tough, if not (a) tougher week.”
For classical musical host Jennifer Reason, the constant news has taken a toll mentally and physically. But, the midday host said she is trying to move forward one day at a time.
The community’s reaction to their uninterrupted programming has instilled hope in her, she said.
“I had a woman come sit next to me and say that ‘CapRadio saved my life,’” Reason said.
The situation, which is expected to be further detailed in a forensic audit come January, has meant CapRadio is operating on bare bones, staff said. In addition to hosting, Reason produces her show on old equipment. Sarkissian said he’s had producers leave, but is looking forward to welcoming a new employee this week.
Moving forward for staff members comes in a variety of ways, including focusing on their programming and the journalism, as well as rallying around their colleagues.
For Andrew Garcia, an on-air host and program assistant, his love for public radio and creating his work has carried him through the devastating news. Some days are harder than others, he admitted.
Chris Campbell, the on-air local host of “Morning Edition,” noted his co-workers have stayed focused in part because of their leadership and executive teams.
“It’s the people who make this place what it is,” he said.
Looking ahead
Engagement member coordinator Rachael Cowan held up at least four yellow notepads filled with callers’ details while talking about the situation.
Numerous calls and emails started pouring after the announcement of layoffs last month. It started with listeners and supporters expressing their dismay at canceled programs which then morphed into “challenging” calls seeking answers about what happened, Cowan said.
“They were angry and frustrated,” Cowan said of listeners.
Despite each shocking revelation, staff members expressed hope that better times were ahead. Perhaps the audit’s release next year would be a turning point, bring the university and the station closer together, employees said.
“What will CapRadio look like 6 months from now?” Sarkissian wondered. “Or, a year from now?”
This story was originally published October 10, 2023 at 5:00 AM.
