Radio Split Ranch
A monthly conversation with your favorite Capital Region broadcast personalities of the past and sometimes present. In 2024, the Schenectady Museum of Innovation and Science (MiSci) announced they would archive this podcast as a recorded history of regional broadcasting for future researchers. Many historians consider Schenectady, NY as an important center in the early development of modern radio and television broadcasting.

Why "Radio Split Ranch?"
A monthly visit with your favorite radio disk jockeys of the past and sometimes present. The podcast title is a tip of the cowboy hat to early radio pioneer Gene Autry who once broadcast from the Radio Ranch. I was in radio as Chris Warren for more than 50 years and now live the retired life in a split ranch home, so...
Episodes

Monday Mar 10, 2025
Behind the Mic with Radio Legend John Cooper
Monday Mar 10, 2025
Monday Mar 10, 2025
Welcome to Radio Split Ranch! In this engaging episode, Warren Garling sits down with John Cooper, a legendary figure in Capital Region broadcasting. With nearly 50 years of experience, John shares insights from his incredible journey in radio. From the early days of pretending to be a disc jockey as a child to becoming a staple on PYX/ 106, John reflects on the evolution of radio and its impact on listeners. Whether it's his time as a music director, program director, or his inspiring volunteer work with veterans, John Cooper's dedication to the craft is evident. Join us for a peek into the golden era of radio and discover the passion and dedication that has kept John on the airwaves for decades.

Monday Feb 10, 2025
A Storied Career: John Gray's Journey from Radio to TV
Monday Feb 10, 2025
Monday Feb 10, 2025
Join us for an engaging episode as we sit down with John Gray, a celebrated news anchor and beloved storyteller, known for his remarkable 40-year career in the Capital Region. We delve into John's early days in radio, his transition to television journalism, and the various roles he has embraced throughout his career as an author and columnist. Discover personal anecdotes about John's humble beginnings in South Troy, the influence of his family on his passion for news, and the lasting impact of tenacity in overcoming career hurdles.

Friday Jan 10, 2025
From Teen Dreams to the Hall of Fame: Sean McMaster's Radio Journey
Friday Jan 10, 2025
Friday Jan 10, 2025
From his early days as a teenage DJ to spot in the New York State Broadcasters Hall of Fame, Sean McMaster shares insights into the unforgettable moments and influential figures that have shaped his journey. Sean reflects on his enduring love for radio, the evolving industry landscape, and his deep community connections. Discover how radio magic happens behind the scenes and gain inspiration from his dedication to community service and his persistent drive to entertain.

Tuesday Dec 10, 2024
Turning the Tables: Radio Veteran Warren Garling Under the Spotlight
Tuesday Dec 10, 2024
Tuesday Dec 10, 2024
Welcome to another episode of Radio Split Ranch, where the tables turn as Warren Garling, a seasoned broadcaster with over 50 years behind the microphone, becomes the subject of the interview. Veteran broadcast journalist Diane Donato takes the lead, guiding the conversation about Warren's wide-ranging career. With a mix of humor and nostalgia, they delve into Warren’s journey from his makeshift basement studio at age 11 to a fulfilling broadcasting career.
Listeners will enjoy insights into the evolution of radio, from live shows and record spins to modern voice tracking. The episode also highlights Warren's passion for community service, his impactful volunteer work, and the unexpected career path in marketing post-radio. Join us for a fascinating look at a radio veteran's life, filled with stories of camaraderie, innovation, and dedication to the craft.

Sunday Nov 10, 2024
Broadcasting Legends: A Journey with Joe Riley
Sunday Nov 10, 2024
Sunday Nov 10, 2024
This month, Joe Reilly's storytelling prowess is on full display. Join us as he shares captivating stories from his early days in radio, his encounters with iconic personalities like Bobby Darin, Johnny Mathis, and Stephen Sondheim, and his humorous experiences at various radio stations. Learn about Joe's journey from humble beginnings in Schenectady to his significant role in shaping the broadcasting industry.

Thursday Oct 10, 2024
Rolling with the Waves: A Radio Journey with Steve Chick
Thursday Oct 10, 2024
Thursday Oct 10, 2024
Join us for another engaging episode of Radio Split Ranch, where host Warren Garling takes us on a nostalgic journey through the captivating history of Capital Region broadcasting. This month, Warren sits down with veteran broadcaster Steve Chick, a familiar voice to many who recall his versatile career spanning multiple formats on a single signal. With anecdotes that include early inspirations, unexpected career twists, and encounters with broadcasting legends, Steve offers a unique perspective on the resilience and adaptability required in the world of radio.

Tuesday Sep 10, 2024
A Journey Through 40+ Years of Broadcasting: Chuck Custer Reflects
Tuesday Sep 10, 2024
Tuesday Sep 10, 2024
This month we talk with the legendary Chuck Custer, a veteran radio newsman who recently retired from WGY after an illustrious 36-year career. Chuck reflects on memorable moments, including his years working with Don Weeks and the transition to co-hosting the morning show with Kelly Lynch. Join us for a heartfelt conversation filled with laughter, insights, and a deep appreciation for the ever-evolving world of radio.

Saturday Aug 10, 2024
Celebrating Three Years of Radio Split Ranch: A Conversation with Diane Donato
Saturday Aug 10, 2024
Saturday Aug 10, 2024
Join us as Diane shares her journey from a local girl growing up in Albany County to becoming a prominent voice in the Capital Region. Her story is a fascinating look into the world of broadcasting, filled with anecdotes and insights that highlight her remarkable career.

Wednesday Jul 10, 2024
From Top 40 to Tech: John Daniels' Radio Journey
Wednesday Jul 10, 2024
Wednesday Jul 10, 2024
On this month's episode of "Radio Split Ranch" we sit down with the ever-entertaining John Daniels. John shares his journey from being a radio enthusiast in the 1970s, to working at some of the top stations in the Northeast.

Sunday Jun 23, 2024
Remembering Mike Patrick: Laughter and Legacy on the Airwaves
Sunday Jun 23, 2024
Sunday Jun 23, 2024
In this heartfelt extra episode of Radio Split Ranch, we pay tribute to our late friend and colleague, Mike Patrick, who brought so much joy and laughter to listeners in the Great Northeast.