Remote Broadcasting, the Past, and Future Solutions

Media Release by Shawn Bitsui

Radio and television are the primary sources of critical information to the public in disasters and emergencies. Broadcasting became essential in the battle against COVID-19 and forced broadcasters to adjust their calendars and adapt operations and programming. Given the pandemic, remote radio became the norm across many Tribal communities.

In September, Native Public Media provided the Past, Present, and Future webinar about remote broadcasting hosted by KPYT Program Coordinator Gabriel Otero and Brian Brashier, Director of the Broadcast Productions Department for the Chickasaw Nation and KCNP radio.

"The fun thing is we can do remote broadcasting from anywhere," Stated Otero on the benefits of utilizing remote broadcasting equipment and procedures.

The webinar provided an insightful look at what radio stations are doing since remote broadcasting has become even more active during the pandemic. With the virus still affecting many tribal communities, remote broadcasting is one solution to staying safe and social distancing while still providing media content to the listeners.

Today, Radio Corporation of America (RCA) cables make it possible to broadcast from cellphone to radio transmitters providing opportunities to transmit from alternate locations. Back in the day, broadcasters used landlines to get the news out to communities.

Sandra Munoz from KPYT-LP states, "[Overall, it is] pretty awesome to have native radio stations come together and be able to speak on behalf of their experiences and share new ideas."

As social distancing and mask mandates stay in effect for many Tribal communities, these new technological advancements provide safety for broadcasters to continue critical services in being the voices and news outlets for Indian Country.