Building the Airwaves at Lynn: The Story of WLYN 96.1 FM
Before the digital studios and online reach, there was the exhilarating, often chaotic, and always memorable world of college radio. And for me, one of the most defining experiences was the creation of WLYN 96.1 FM at Lynn University in Boca Raton. It was a journey fueled by passion, powered by a dedicated team, and a truly formative chapter in my broadcasting career.
Starting a radio station from scratch is no small feat, especially on a college campus. We began with a vision: to give Lynn University its own unique voice, a platform for student creativity, and a genuine alternative to the mainstream. From navigating FCC regulations to building studios out of what felt like spare parts, every step was a learning experience. But the energy and excitement were palpable, and soon, WLYN 96.1 FM was live!
We quickly found ourselves in friendly, yet fierce, competition with our neighbors down the road – FAU's radio station. This rivalry pushed us to be better, more innovative, and more connected with our audience. It fueled our desire to carve out our own identity, focusing on a sound that truly resonated with the Lynn University student body.
One of the proudest aspects of WLYN was the sheer talent we cultivated. I had the privilege of training over 30 different voice talents, many of whom had never stepped foot in a radio studio before. We taught them everything from proper mic technique and show prep to developing their on-air personalities and understanding the flow of a broadcast. It was incredibly rewarding to watch these raw talents blossom into confident, engaging broadcasters.
Our sound was distinctly 90s alternative, a deliberate choice to set us apart and reflect the musical tastes of our generation. I vividly remember some of our opening songs: the raw energy of The Smashing Pumpkins, the industrial punch of Filter, and the independent spirit of bands like Pavement, Dinosaur Jr., and Liz Phair. We curated playlists that were a genuine reflection of the era's vibrant indie rock scene, giving listeners something they couldn't find anywhere else on the dial.
And, of course, no morning show would be complete without a fantastic co-host. I was incredibly fortunate to share the microphone with my good friend, Dave Matthews, on our morning drive. We bounced off each other with a natural chemistry, tackling everything from campus news and current events to ridiculous listener calls and, of course, spinning the best independent rock tracks to kickstart the day. Our goal was to be informative, entertaining, and just a little bit irreverent – a true reflection of college life.
WLYN 96.1 FM was more than just a radio station; it was a community. It was a place where students could express themselves, discover new music, and learn the ropes of broadcasting from the ground up. The lessons learned, the friendships forged, and the pure joy of being on air during those years at Lynn University remain some of my most cherished memories. It was a testament to what a group of dedicated individuals, armed with a passion for radio, can achieve.