During the pandemic, we moved to 100% pre-recorded on-air drives. The staff and our audience, as a whole, really like this new model. The spots are shorter and more concise, we don’t interrupt programming and the only staff live-pitching are our on-air hosts (for radio only). As a result, due to staff turnover, retirements, etc. over the last couple of years, we now have very few staff members comfortable with live pitching.
I’d like to resume some live pitching, especially during drive times and PBS NewsHour. I think there is an authenticity that can’t be replicated with pre-recorded spots. Our staff, including leadership, much prefers pre-recorded, scripted spots because there is more control over the messaging. I think with dedicated training, we could educate enough staff to be effective live pitchers to make the change worth a try.