Eric Mason, associate professor in the Department of Communication, Media, and the Arts, has launched a new radio segment on NSU’s student-run station, Mako Radio, titled “That’s News to Us.”
“Innovation is one of the core values of NSU. So I think I’m always looking for opportunities to do new things that we haven’t done before,” Mason said. “The idea that we could add to what our radio station is already doing seemed like a great opportunity, especially on College Radio Day when we had our first show.”
Participants in “That’s News to Us” will answer news-based quiz questions and play games such as the aptly named “fako news” where they listen to fake and outlandish news stories, and then have to determine which one of them is real.
PHOTO BY BRIELLE AGUAYO The Undergraduate Student Government Association joins host Eric Mason, associate professor in the Department of Communication, Media, and the Arts, for Mako Radio’s “That’s News to Us” show.
Mason drew inspiration from his long-time admiration for NPR’s news-related quiz shows, such as Wait Wait . . . Don’t Tell Me! and Ask Me Another. His interest in interactive radio programs began with the renowned “Car Talk,” featuring Tom and Ray Magliozzi, where listeners mostly sought advice for their automotive problems. But “Car Talk” also had a weekly puzzle segment that sparked Mason’s fascination with quizzes and puzzles.
Mason is also a faculty coordinator at the Writing and Communication Center (WCC). As faculty coordinator, he creates resources for faculty and graduate students to improve writing and writing instruction, as well as producing the center’s podcast, “The Writer’s Edge.”
“People might wonder what the WCC has to do with a radio quiz show,” Mason said “but preparing for the show actually requires a lot of research and writing.”
“That’s News to Us” was chosen as the show’s name, reflecting the show’s intention to present news in an interactive manner. He hopes the new show emphasizes the importance of staying informed about current events and world affairs. He believes that providing a platform to engage with news in a playful and interactive way could help draw in individuals who might not otherwise be inclined to follow current events closely.
“That’s News To Us” features one faculty and multiple students guest per show, drawing on groups from different backgrounds, ensuring a diverse range of perspectives and insights. Faculty guests this semester have included Dr. Kevin Dvorak, executive director of the Writing and Communication Center, and Kandy Lopez, faculty and program director within the Department of Communication, Media, and the Arts. The student groups featured have been Mako Media Network staff and representatives from NSU’s Undergraduate Student Government Association. Any NSU faculty/student/staff interested in being a guest on the show can email Mason directly at ericmaso@nova.edu.
“That’s News to Us” airs once a month on Thursdays from 12:30 p.m. to 1:30 p.m. on WKPX 88.5 FM Sunrise.
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