The Star-Ledger’s Josh Margolin has an article in yesterday’s paper describing how some radio stations in New Jersey have altered their approach to talk shows and on-air banter in order to stay within the limits the FCC has vaguely set for them.
The main example is that of Mary Walter, who is the host for the evening “Passion Phones” show on New Jersey 101.5 FM (ding!). Walter has significantly changed what she talks about on the air, as well as the levels of tolerance for people calling into her show. Margolin reports that there is “a nearly two-page list of topics [Walter] could not go near on the air — even though she’s used some of them before.” While some of the content might be risque, the show isn’t exactly the locker room. This just goes to show that it’s not just Howard Stern, Bubba the Love Sponge, and others that are taking a hit with the recent crackdown by the FCC - it’s much tamer shows with audiences who aren’t necessarily complaining about the content.
