"It was kind of exciting being on the radio. Not everybody was on the radio"

Sam Donaldson’s reflection on his early experience with radio captures a sense of uniqueness and excitement that characterized the early days of broadcast media. He describes the feeling of being part of something special, an elite circle that had direct access to the public in a way most people never would. During the mid-20th century, radio was among the most influential and accessible forms of mass communication. To be on the airwaves, speaking directly to an unseen audience, was both a privilege and a thrill.

His observation underscores how rare and prestigious being a radio broadcaster once was. The limited number of outlets and the technical barriers to entry made it so that not everyone could have their voice transmitted across the nation. Broadcasters like Donaldson occupied a kind of public stage that only a select few could access. This exclusivity fostered not only a sense of pride, but also a recognition of the responsibility that came with broadcasting to large audiences.

Donaldson’s excitement likely stemmed from more than just the novelty of hearing his own voice coming out of a radio. It was about having influence, shaping narratives, and connecting with listeners on a broad scale. For many journalists and broadcasters, the radio represented an opportunity to inform, educate, and sometimes entertain the public. His words suggest an appreciation for the role technology played in expanding an individual’s reach and the sense of wonder that came with participating in this new era.

Moreover, the quote reflects on a time before the democratization of mass communication. In today’s world, with podcasts and streaming, anyone can publish content for a global audience. The mystique surrounding being “on the radio” has changed, but Donaldson’s remark resonates as a reminder of an era when such a moment was indeed exceptional, a badge of honor and source of genuine excitement.