About Us
AM950 is the only Progressive Talk Radio station in Minnesota. We strive to provide the best progressive programming available. We feature national talkers Thom Hartmann, Stephanie Miller, Norman Goldman, Amy Goodman, David Pakman and Brad Friedman. We are also dedicated to local programming that creates a community forum for important Minnesota Progressive issues.
As one of the few independently owned radio stations in the country, we are proud to cover news, issues, and stories that are not carried by the corporate media. The talk radio format allows us to air diverse voices and challenge conventional and establishment thinking, all with the goal of creating progressive change in our community.
History
Minnesota attorney Janet Robert and former Congressman Bill Luther founded J.R. Broadcasting in November 2003 because of their concern about the impact right wing talk radio had in the 2002 elections. They were inspired and supported by MIT professor Steve VanEvera who suggested reading Sydney Blumenthal's book "The Rise of the Counter-Establishment: The Conservative Ascent to Political Power." Air America Radio made its debut on March 31, 2004, and JR Broadcasting acquired its own radio station AM950, adding shows featuring Al Franken, Mike Malloy, Rachel Maddow, Steve Earl, Ring of Fire with Robert F. Kennedy, Jr., and Mike Papantonio, as well as Democracy Radio's Ed Schultz . Over the years, the progressive lineup has changed as hosts transitioned to television or were elected to the U.S. Senate! Talkers include Stephanie Miller, Thom Hartmann, Amy Goodman, David Pakman, Brad Friedman and Norman Goldman.
AM950’s ownership transitioned in October 2013 to long time employee Chad Larson, who has continued the vision and goal that Janet and Bill set out to achieve from the beginning. AM950 continues to strive to bring the best Progressive talk locally and nationally, while creating a forum for listeners to share their voices.
