By Michael Gonzales-Hesse
WKKL Studio (Michael Gonzales-Hesse)
WKKL, the official radio station of4Cs, allows students to amplify their voices through broadcasting and podcasting. Overseen by Professor Lisa Zinsius, also known as “Professor Z,” WKKL serves as a training ground for aspiring media professionals and a news source for the campus community.
Professor Z, who teaches communication and podcasting courses at 4Cs, brings years of experience from her 12-year career at iHeartRadio.
“I teach communication because my own communication class was so influential for me,” she said.
She first worked at WKKL as a 4Cs student from 1995 to 2004, returning as faculty after a decade away. Under her leadership, the Intercollegiate Broadcasting System ranked the station among the top five college radio stations.
The COVID-19 pandemic boosted podcasting’s popularity; a trend Professor Z leveraged in her courses.
“In my classes, every student gets on air, podcasts, and does radio,” she said.
Her students’ projects cover a range of topics, from Marvel character reenactments to murder mysteries and true crime. Completing these classes can earn students a podcasting certificate or a content creation certificate.
Student Freddy Towa, who had no prior podcasting experience, appreciates the practical skills he’s gained.
“I’ve wanted to podcast for a while, and the class gave me the tools to do that,” said Towa, whose podcast explores UFC martial arts.
He recently co-hosted a Veterans Day panel on campus and frequently collaborates with fellow students to produce episodes that discuss current trends in UFC. His podcast, along with those of his classmates, is archived on the WKKL website.
Professor Z offers advice for new students nervous about going on air: “Remember, you’re in a room by yourself. Focus on your message and relax.”
