Ken Bruce and Fleur East on how radio has changed — and stayed the same

The Media Leader Podcast

Radio production has changed a lot since Ken Bruce first began presenting in 1977. And yet, when it comes to the basics of good radio — a close, one-to-one relationship with the audience — things haven’t changed much at all.

“For years, people have been saying to me, ‘Radio’s dead, dying. It’s finished,'” said Bruce. “Even in the 70s they were saying that to me. And I thought, well, no — I don’t believe it is. Because there’s a person there. It’s a human interaction. And while that remains, radio will always have some kind of life.”

Alongside Hits Radio presenter Fleur East, the Greatest Hits Radio presenter chatted with Bauer Media director of audio Gary Stein at The Future of Media London in October about the day-to-day challenges and excitements of producing a contemporary radio show.

The pair reflected on the continued success of radio, even in an era marked by declines in audience for other traditional media channels. They also touched on career highlights and gave advice to audio industry professionals.

Listen now by hitting the play button or use the appropriate entry point into Spotify, Apple or Google Podcasts:

Highlights

2:06: What goes into the day-to-day production of live radio?

9:42: Technological advancement and how radio has changed since Bruce first started presenting

14:47: Lessons for leaders and interviewers

18:50: Favourite guests, fan interactions and career highlights

Or watch the full interview

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