By Shelley Murphy, South County Magazine
Laguna Beach is famous for its temperate air and legendary waves, but entrepreneur Tyler Russell hopes the seaside town will become equally well known for its airwaves.
Russell, a 23-year-old Chapman University graduate, launched Laguna’s only FM station KX 93.5 in October 2012 playing generational alternative rock and presenting informative progressive talk.
“The Friendship Show,” part of the station’s programming, is an hour-long broadcast showcasing thought-provoking individuals who impact the community. The entertaining and enlightening show is hosted by Friendship Shelter’s executive director, Dawn Price; director of programs, Mark Miller; and journalist and educator Scott Hays.
The Friendship Shelter remains one of Laguna Beach’s oldest and most respected human services organizations; it houses approximately 30 residents helping homeless locals achieve self-sufficiency.
“From time to time we will talk about things that are specifically going on in our organization, but really the Show is trying to address larger issues,” said Miller.
Saturday mornings from 9-10 a.m. the beachside station buzzes as the Friendship Show connects the community with conversation.
Hays, who co-produced Shelter Me, a benefit CD and documentary to help raise awareness about the homeless, says he was honored when Price and Miller invited him to be a co-host of the show. “I jumped at the opportunity to work again with Friendship Shelter, and to give back to the community,” said Hays.
Weekly, this trio of Laguna Beach residents showcase soulful music and inspirational individuals while examining important social issues shaping and changing the local landscape.
Some of the show’s more recent guests have included art forger Tony Tetro; famed jazz-blues musician Rabbi Blue; physician-author Dr. Jacques Souadjian, M.D.; and the iconic singer-songwriters of local band Honk.
“If somebody fascinates us we’ll figure out a way to bring them on the show,” said Price.
One of the many benefits of a local public radio station is that it gives a voice to those who often go unheard.
“I enjoy the conversations and the opportunity to shine a light on really interesting stuff that people don’t know about that’s in their own community,” said Price, “It’s always an interesting hour.”
KX 93.5 FM is a non-profit station supported solely by fundraising efforts, donations, and sponsorships. The non-commercial, low-power radio station’s signal stretches five square miles and can also be heard online covering community events, news, traffic, and surf conditions.
“Laguna Beach is a really unique community and the Friendship Show is so aptly named because friendships and community are so critical to this town and our organization,” said Price.
Together with Russell, these three friends continue breaking barriers in broadcasting and using the airwaves to connect the community.
