BREAKING NEWS: WAMC goes “On The Road”, announces sale of the Linda

“Great storytelling doesn’t only happen in the studio — it happens wherever people chose to gather – on campus, at the diner, in libraries, theaters and green spaces. On the Road is our way of honoring that.” — Sarah Gilbert, President and CEO of WAMC

WAMC announced today the launch of a new program called “On The Road”, an initiative that brings live public radio events—featuring interviews, conversations, musical performances, and cultural programming—directly to communities across our listening region.

Building on the success of recently held pilot events in the Hudson Valley, which included sold-out editions of The Roundtable and Vox Pop, "On the Road" aims to extend WAMC’s reach far beyond its Albany studio. These live recordings will celebrate local stories, voices, and talent, showcasing the vibrant culture of our communities.

“Great storytelling doesn’t only happen in the studio — it happens wherever people chose to gather – on campus, at the diner, in libraries, theaters and green spaces. On the Road is our way of honoring that,” said Sarah Gilbert, President and CEO of WAMC. “It reflects our belief that public radio should be a presence in the communities we serve — not just a voice on the dial. By bringing our microphones out into the world, we’re deepening trust, building new relationships, and fulfilling our mission to inform, inspire, and connect.”

The initiative is already underway, with plans for a summer partnership with Mona Golub and the Music Haven Concert Series, where WAMC will record and broadcast one of their beloved live concerts.

“The response to our pilot events made it clear — our audience is excited to engage with WAMC in person, in their own communities,” said Peter Hughes, Producer and Director of On the Road. “The sold-out crowds and powerful conversations we saw in the Hudson Valley confirmed what we’ve always believed: public radio thrives when it’s rooted in place. On the Road lets us show up, listen more closely, and deliver the kind of meaningful, local programming that makes WAMC special.”

As "On the Road" becomes integral to WAMC’s programming strategy, the organization is adapting its approach to emphasize community engagement. This includes plans to sell The Linda, WAMC’s performance space in Albany, as the station transitions toward producing more live content in collaboration with venues across the region. This shift aims to transform a fixed resource into a dynamic conduit for deeper engagement throughout the Northeast. WAMC is committed to supporting its talented venue staff, who will leverage their expertise in live production to enhance community experiences.

Gilbert took the position of President and CEO of WAMC midway through 2024, after the sudden retirement of longtime WAMC leader Alan Chartock in 2023. In 2002, Chartock had led the effort to open the performing arts space in the former 1926 bank building.

For updates on upcoming "On the Road" broadcasts and events, visit WAMC On the Road.