TWiRT 784 - Engineering from Experience with Aaron Read

On this episode of This Week in Radio Tech, Kirk Harnack is joined by broadcast engineer Aaron Read of L and R Broadcast Services, formerly with Rhode Island Public Radio. Aaron shares thoughtful, experience-based insights on how broadcast engineers play a direct role in establishing—and sometimes unintentionally eroding—listener trust, and why that trust remains one of radio’s greatest strengths. The conversation also dives into Aaron’s practical “Tip of the Week,” focusing on securing Barix codecs and other IP audio devices, including why built-in security features and proper password discipline matter. Aaron strongly advocates for using site-to-site VPNs to protect studio-to-transmitter IP links, explaining how this approach improves both security and reliability. Throughout the episode, Aaron emphasizes the importance of remaining open-minded and committed to continuous learning as technology and workflows evolve. This is a valuable listen for engineers who care about protecting the craft, the signal, and the audience relationship.

Show Notes:
Aaron mentioned SAF Techinca as a manufacturer of microwave IP radio links
Aaron like MaxxKonnect Wireless for prioritized IP connections over 4G & 5G networks

Guest:
Aaron Read - Engineer Extraordinaire at L and R Broadcast Services

Host:
Kirk Harnack, The Telos Alliance, Delta Radio, Star94.3, South Seas, & Akamai Broadcasting

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TWiRT is brought to you by:
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Broadcast Bionics - making radio smarter with Bionic Studio, visual radio, and social media tools at Bionic.radio.
Aiir, providing PlayoutONE radio automation, and other advanced solutions for audience engagement.
Angry Audio and the new USB Phone Gizmo - Put VoIP callers on-the-air
The new MaxxKonnect RMT416 Multi Tuner - 4 to 16 AM/FM/WB/HD web-connected tuners in 1 RU

 
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TWiRT 784 - Engineering from Experience with Aaron Read

TWiRT 783 - An Attitude of Gratitude with Chris Tarr

Episode 783 of This Week in Radio Tech features Chris Tarr, now a Field Engineer for K-LOVE, responsible for dozens of transmitters carrying the K-LOVE and Air1 networks. Chris shares how K-LOVE uses smart technologies, standardized procedures, and thoughtful system design to maximize engineering efficiency while reliably serving a nationwide audience. He also offers insight into the workflows and best practices he’s learned from the experienced K-LOVE engineering team, with particular appreciation for the support of the Network Operations Center (NOC). Throughout the conversation, Chris reflects on working with an “attitude of gratitude” and how the culture within K-LOVE engineering and programming makes that mindset possible. It’s an informative and encouraging episode for broadcast engineers at any scale.

Guest:
Chris Tarr - Field Engineer at K-LOVE

Host:
Kirk Harnack, The Telos Alliance, Delta Radio, Star94.3, South Seas, & Akamai Broadcasting

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TWiRT is brought to you by:
Broadcasters General Store, with outstanding service, saving, and support. Online at BGS.cc. 

Broadcast Bionics - making radio smarter with Bionic Studio, visual radio, and social media tools at Bionic.radio.
Aiir, providing PlayoutONE radio automation, and other advanced solutions for audience engagement.
Angry Audio and the new Rave analog audio mixing console.
The new MaxxKonnect RMT416 Multi Tuner - 4 to 16 AM/FM/WB/HD web-connected tuners in 1 RU

 
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TWiRT 783 - An Attitude of Gratitude with Chris Tarr

TWiRT 782 - Rapid Response Radio with Mike Adams

This Week in Radio Tech episode 782 features Michael Adams joining Kirk Harnack to discuss Rapid Response Radio, a new organization focused on fast, resilient communications when they are needed most. Building on the proven success of First Response Radio, Mike explains how today’s audio and transmission technology has enabled a dramatically smaller, lighter, airline-carry-on-sized broadcast kit. These compact systems make it possible to deploy pop-up FM radio stations quickly in disaster zones and areas where infrastructure has been damaged or destroyed. From natural disasters to war-torn regions, Rapid Response Radio provides a practical way to restore vital information flow to affected communities. This episode highlights how thoughtful engineering and modern broadcast tools can make a real difference when conventional systems fail.

Show Notes:
Rapid Response Radio (on LinkedIn)
Mike is giving away his “Build It Yourself” list to create your own Rapid Response Radio broadcasting kit. Send Mike a Direct Message (DM) via his LinkedIn page.

Guest:
Michael Adams - Disaster Radio Capacity Builder

Host:
Kirk Harnack, The Telos Alliance, Delta Radio, Star94.3, South Seas, & Akamai Broadcasting

Follow TWiRT on Twitter and on Facebook - and see all the videos on YouTube.

TWiRT is brought to you by:
Broadcasters General Store, with outstanding service, saving, and support. Online at BGS.cc. 

Broadcast Bionics - making radio smarter with Bionic Studio, visual radio, and social media tools at Bionic.radio.
Aiir, providing PlayoutONE radio automation, and other advanced solutions for audience engagement.
Angry Audio and the new Rave analog audio mixing console.
The new MaxxKonnect RMT416 Multi Tuner - 4 to 16 AM/FM/WB/HD web-connected tuners in 1 RU

 
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TWiRT 782 - Rapid Response Radio with Mike Adams

TWiRT 781 - Powering Local Radio into 2026 with Chris Marsalis

Listen to This Week in Radio Tech episode 781, “Powering Local Radio into 2026 with Chris Marsalis.” Chris and his wife own two successful FM stations in Ripley, Mississippi—The Shark 102.3 and Kudzu 104.9—and he shares how strong local programming, especially high school sports, continues to drive audience loyalty. He explains how creative sponsorships, including FM RDS messaging and integrated digital advertising across streaming and podcasts, have expanded revenue opportunities well beyond traditional spot sales. Chris also discusses his technical work with Mississippi Public Broadcasting, helping maintain two HDTV and FM+HD transmitter sites in northeast Mississippi. This episode is a practical and encouraging look at how committed local broadcasters can thrive well into the future.

Show Notes:
JC Media
The Shark 102.3
Kudzu 104.9
Sun Bear Studio

Guest:
Chris Marsalis - Owner at JC Media, LLC and Broadcast Technician at Mississippi Public Broadcasting

Host:
Kirk Harnack, The Telos Alliance, Delta Radio, Star94.3, South Seas, & Akamai Broadcasting

Follow TWiRT on Twitter and on Facebook - and see all the videos on YouTube.

TWiRT is brought to you by:
Broadcasters General Store, with outstanding service, saving, and support. Online at BGS.cc. 

Broadcast Bionics - making radio smarter with Bionic Studio, visual radio, and social media tools at Bionic.radio.
Aiir, providing PlayoutONE radio automation, and other advanced solutions for audience engagement.
Angry Audio and the new Rave analog audio mixing console.
The new MaxxKonnect RMT416 Multi Tuner - 4 to 16 AM/FM/WB/HD web-connected tuners in 1 RU

 
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TWiRT 781 - Powering Local Radio into 2026 with Chris Marsalis

TWiRT 780 - I Wear Three Hats with Larry Wilkins

Watch or listen to This Week in Radio Tech episode 780, “I Wear Three Hats,” featuring Larry Wilkins—one of the most respected and beloved broadcast engineers in Alabama. Larry has played a pivotal role in advancing broadcast engineering across the state through his work with the Alabama Broadcasters Association, including the creation of the ABA Engineering Academy. He is also deeply involved in the ABIP program, helping stations meet critical infrastructure and compliance goals. As an active member of the State Emergency Communications Committee (SECC), Larry continues to strengthen emergency preparedness for broadcasters statewide. In this episode, Larry explains the value of these programs and why, even in semi-retirement, he remains passionate about working hard to support and mentor fellow broadcast engineers.

Show Notes:
Online Registration for any of the upcoming ABA Engineering Academy sessions
For Alabama broadcasters, here’s the sign-up form for the Alternative Broadcast Inspection Program
Alabama EAS Monitor Assignments - perhaps a model for your own state to use
Alabama SECC Utilizes Monitor Server, Satellite Network to Improve EAS - Radio World article
FCC’s online list of State Emergency Communications Committee Resources

Guest:
Larry Wilkins - Director of Engineering Services at the Alabama Broadcasters Association

Host:
Kirk Harnack, The Telos Alliance, Delta Radio, Star94.3, South Seas, & Akamai Broadcasting

Follow TWiRT on Twitter and on Facebook - and see all the videos on YouTube.

TWiRT is brought to you by:
Broadcasters General Store, with outstanding service, saving, and support. Online at BGS.cc. 

Broadcast Bionics - making radio smarter with Bionic Studio, visual radio, and social media tools at Bionic.radio.
Aiir, providing PlayoutONE radio automation, and other advanced solutions for audience engagement.
Angry Audio and the new Rave analog audio mixing console.
The new MaxxKonnect RMT416 Multi Tuner - 4 to 16 AM/FM/WB/HD web-connected tuners in 1 RU

 
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TWiRT 780 - I Wear Three Hats with Larry Wilkins