WJPZ at 50

In this episode of WJPZ at 50, Jag sits down with Tim Swartz, a member of the WJPZ Class of 2009, to talk about his path from the Bay Area to Syracuse University, his time helping lead the Z89 sports department, and the unique sports media career he has built since graduation. Tim grew up in San Mateo, California, just south of San Francisco. He loved radio and sports from a young age, and that combination eventually led him to Syracuse. Once he arrived on campus, he found WJPZ through a general interest meeting and quickly connected with the sports staff. The station became his home base, along with Citrus TV, and gave him the chance to learn by doing. Tim’s role at Z89 grew quickly. By the spring of his sophomore year, he became sports director (at just 19 years old). The sports department was thin at the time, so part of his job was recruiting new students and rebuilding the system. He helped create structure around pregame shows, postgame coverage, halftime reports, coach interviews, features, and broadcast archives. Some of those systems are still in place today. During Tim’s time at Syracuse, some of the major men’s sports programs struggled. Football had a rough stretch, men’s basketball missed the NCAA tournament, and lacrosse hit a rare low point. But women’s sports were rising. Tim talks about covering women’s lacrosse as it reached new milestones, including an NCAA tournament win and a Final Four appearance. He also covered women’s basketball as the program earned national attention. That experience helped shape how he viewed sports coverage and the importance of giving every program professional treatment. After graduation, Tim built a career that has taken him in several directions. He has called games for Stanford, worked in minor league baseball, done stats work for ESPN, taught broadcasting, and covered a wide range of sports. His current role is with NBA 2K, where he works in audio, writing, voiceover, talent support, and quality control. Tim explains how his broadcasting background helps him write lines that sound natural for announcers like Kevin Harlan, Brian Anderson, Greg Anthony, Doris Burke, and Stan Van Gundy. One of the best parts of the conversation is hearing how WJPZ prepared Tim for a career that does not fit into one simple box. He learned how to lead people, work with coaches, build relationships, try new things, and stay professional around athletes and teams. He also learned how to work alongside talented classmates who went on to major careers at ESPN, Fox Sports, The Athletic, and other national outlets. Tim also reflects on returning to Syracuse and seeing how much has changed on campus while still feeling the same spirit inside Z89. For him, WJPZ was more than a college radio station. It was a training ground, a community, and one of the places that still feels like home. (00:00) Intro (01:37) Growing up in San Mateo and choosing Syracuse (02:40) Finding Z89 as a freshman (05:38) Becoming sports director at 19 (08:30) Syracuse women’s sports rise during Tim’s years (09:47) Recruiting and keeping the station moving (10:26) Alex Silverman’s role in station leadership (12:03) Tim’s career after graduation (13:34) Teaching, ESPN stats, and NBA 2K (16:34) Stanford women’s basketball and cutting down the net (18:54) Writing and audio work for NBA 2K (23:16) Returning to Syracuse (27:00) Learning how to work around teams and coaches (29:37) The depth of Syracuse broadcasting talent (36:33) The Poker Face prank (37:42) College radio friendships and camaraderie Want to be on the show? Email JAG at [email protected] with the WJPZ Alumni Association: https://wjpzalumniassociation.org/ Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

We look back on Mike Lacett’s path through WJPZ and Syracuse, and the conversation quickly shows how deeply those years shaped him. Mike explains that he first heard about Z89 from a Radio Disney DJ (you probably know who) before arriving on campus, and once he got to Syracuse, he threw himself into everything he could. He took early morning DJ shifts, worked on basketball shows, contributed news, and balanced that with time at AER. He describes himself at that stage as completely consumed by broadcasting, to the point where he gave up much of a normal college social life because he was so focused on getting better. As he reflects on those years, Mike points to several people who influenced him, including Dave Peterman, Brett Bosse, Josh Wolff, Anish Shroff, Matt Lincoln, Brian Goldman, and others. What stands out is not only the talent level he remembers, but also the atmosphere. He says Z89 felt open, welcoming, and full of people who made him feel like he belonged. That sense of connection stayed with him long after graduation, and even when years go by without speaking to fellow alumni, the bond returns right away. The episode also follows Mike’s professional journey after Syracuse. He walks through stops in Palm Springs, Charleston, Syracuse again, Toledo, Louisville, Grand Rapids, and Charlotte. Along the way, he learned that different parts of the country have different rhythms, values, and sports cultures. He also faced setbacks, including job changes and the cutting of sports departments, but he kept pushing forward. His story is one of persistence and adaptation, built on the belief that if this is the work you are meant to do, you keep going until someone gives you the opportunity. A big part of the conversation centers on lessons. Mike says preparation became one of the most important habits he carried from WJPZ. He learned that talk radio and sports coverage only work when you show up ready. He also learned that trying to do everything at once eventually leads to burnout. That realization helped him narrow his focus and better manage his energy. Looking back, he wishes he had allowed himself to enjoy college a little more, but he also sees how that intense drive laid the foundation for the career he built. The episode closes with advice for current students who want to work in sports media. Mike says they need conviction, originality, and the willingness to stand apart. For him, success comes from developing a distinct voice, taking creative chances, and constantly asking how a story or segment can be made better. He shares examples from his television career where he used animation, visual creativity, and unusual storytelling choices to make his work memorable. In the end, this episode is about ambition, growth, friendship, and the lasting identity that comes from being part of WJPZ. You'll also hear about what happened to this freshman when he was rooting for the Rams in Super Bowl 36 - in a house full of 30+ Patriots fans. That, too, was a learning experience. (00:00) Intro (02:12) How BB Good helped Mike discover Syracuse and Z89 (03:19) Early influences at the station (05:40) The famous 4:00 AM Saturday shift (07:06) Looking back on college intensity and some regret (08:00) Mike’s career path across the country (10:44) Super Bowl memory and Boston sports culture (14:47) Friendships built through WJPZ and AER (15:43) The Comrex road trip story (20:11) Memories of September 11 at Syracuse (22:34) Lessons from WJPZ: preparation and burnout (25:17) Advice for students pursuing sports media (35:37) Closing reflections and thanks (36:33) End credits Want to be on the show? Email JAG at [email protected] with the WJPZ Alumni Association: https://wjpzalumniassociation.org/ Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this episode of WJPZ at 50, we sit down with Bella Galan and Lizzie Gottlieb, the current GM and PD of WJPZ, to talk about how they found Syracuse, how they found the station, and how they are helping shape its culture right now. Both of them came to Syracuse with strong interests in performance, media, and storytelling. Both found, in Z89, a place that brings all of those interests together. What stands out most in this conversation is how clearly they see the station as more than a radio outlet. They describe it as a place to build communication skills, leadership skills, confidence, and real relationships that last far beyond college. A major focus of the episode is how the station continues to evolve while protecting what has always made it special. Lizzie talks about the programming side and how Z89 still leads with Top 40 music while also making room for specialty shows and new ideas. Bella explains how the team has worked to expand opportunities for students who do not necessarily want to be on air, including web, press, photography, and newly created associate producer roles. Together, they make the case that the station works best when more people feel they belong there and can see a path for themselves inside it. The conversation also highlights the current culture at WJPZ. Bella and Lizzie speak with real gratitude about the mentors who guided them, and they are intentional about passing that same support to younger members. They talk about wanting freshmen to feel welcomed, included, and confident enough to take up space. That emphasis on culture comes through again when they discuss women in leadership, representation, and the importance of amplifying more voices across the station. Bella in particular reflects on how meaningful it has been to see women and women of color in visible leadership roles, and how important it is to keep building on that progress. The episode closes with a look at what is happening at the station right now. They share updates on new shows, new technology, a digital station timeline, fresh social content, and even a full April Fool’s Day format flip built around Glee covers. More than anything, the episode shows that WJPZ is still doing what it has always done best: giving students room to experiment, lead, connect, and turn passion into real work. In 2026, it remains the World's Greatest Media Classroom. (00:00) Intro (01:19) Lizzie’s path to Syracuse and Z89 (04:02) Bella’s background and early station experience (08:25) Lizzie’s first DJ shift and The Morning After (10:54) New shows and taking creative risks (14:38) Why Z89 is bigger than an FM station (17:31) Mentors who shaped Bella and Lizzie (23:52) Bella on the GM role and off air opportunities (26:04) Building station culture and belonging (30:23) April Fool’s Day and Glee89 (33:57) How Lizzie chooses music for the station (35:47) Alumni who made an impact (39:24) Women in leadership at WJPZ (44:49) Representation and diverse voices (46:08) The women’s conference and mentorship (47:57) What is happening at the station right now (51:17) Syracuse Giving Day and WJPZ support (52:49) Closing thoughts Want to be on the show? Email JAG at [email protected] with the WJPZ Alumni Association: https://wjpzalumniassociation.org/ Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Today we explore Chris Sacchi’s journey from a sports-obsessed kid in Connecticut to becoming a “video legend” with the Savannah Bananas. We start by tracing how early exposure to Syracuse athletics (the 2000's were a good time for this) and a small sportswriting opportunity in high school helped shape his path. Chris got to Syracuse knowing he loved sports but still figuring out how to channel that passion. Through friendships and encouragement, he found WJPZ, which became his first real home and creative outlet. That welcoming environment and early responsibility gave him confidence and direction. WJPZ helped shaped Chris's growth. Experimenting with content, collaborating with peers, and stepping outside his comfort zone helped him develop both technical and creative skills. He mentions several mentors and alumni who provided guidance and opportunities, reinforcing the importance of relationships and community. Those experiences extended beyond college and directly influenced his professional path. We shift to his post-graduation journey, which took an unexpected route into video editing at MLB Network. While he wasnt' initially focused on editing, he embraced the opportunity, which became a turning point. We stress the importance of adaptability and staying open to roles outside of one’s original plan. That openness ultimately led him to the Savannah Bananas through a connection with a former colleague. As the Bananas' "video legend," he captures and edits high-energy moments in real time during games. He describes the fast-paced environment, the pressure to balance speed and quality, and the collaborative effort behind the scenes. We also explore the unique culture of Banana Ball, where entertainment and competition coexist. He explains that while the experience is fun and unpredictable, the players are still highly skilled and deeply competitive. We close with the lasting impact of WJPZ and the power of community. Returning to Banquet this year reignited Chris's appreciation for our network and reminded him of the value of mentorship and connection. Staying open, building relationships, and embracing unexpected opportunities can lead to outcomes far beyond what we initially imagine. (0:00) Introduction to Chris Sacchi (2:25) Discovering Syracuse and Early Sports Passion (4:10) Finding WJPZ and First Experiences (6:10) Mentorship and Station Culture (10:18) Building Confidence Through Responsibility (14:56) Post-Grad Journey and MLB Network (18:56) Path to the Savannah Bananas (21:13) What a “Video Legend” Does (27:33) What Makes Banana Ball Unique (31:09) Life on the Road with the Bananas (33:25) Reflections on WJPZ Banquet (36:34) Closing Thoughts Want to be on the show? Email JAG at [email protected] with the WJPZ Alumni Association: https://wjpzalumniassociation.org/ Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Note: The WJPZ at 50 Podcast has returned! If you or someone you know would like to be a guest, email JAG:  [email protected] Our first guest back is Dan Girard, Class of 20120. on how WJPZ helps us find our footing, sharpen our voice, and build friendships that last long after graduation.  We start with Dan’s path to Syracuse, which begins as a sports fan in New York watching the 2003 Orange title run and dreaming about the Carrier Dome. He arrives on campus with a chip on his shoulder after not getting into Newhouse, but he soon learns that student media matters more than any label. Z89, Citrus TV, and WAER gave him the space to grow. Over time, WJPZ became the place where he realized he can truly do this work. By junior year, Dan was fully immersed in Z89 Sports and helped lead a period when the department became deeper, sharper, and more respected. He describes a class full of talent that treats the station like a real destination for sports broadcasting. He also makes clear that the best part is not just the airchecks or the broadcasts. It is the bond formed during late nights in the station, hanging out next door at Citrus, and growing alongside friends who remain close to him today. We also hear some great station stories. Dan recalls the perfect save by a producer who killed a hot mic just before an F-bomb went out over the air. He remembers Friday Night Football, Big East tournament trips, and the thrill of hosting after Syracuse beat West Virginia. One of his favorite moments came when Professor Rick Wright calls into his show.  After Syracuse, Dan chased sports talk radio and becomes a finalist in WFAN’s Fantasy Phenom contest. That led to a chance to host overnight on WFAN at age 22, which remains a career highlight. But he soon realized that radio was not the right long term fit. A master’s program and a key connection lead him to Collegiate Sports Management Group, where he has built a career in media rights, strategy, and revenue generation for sports properties. His current work blends broadcasting knowledge, business sense, and a genuine love of sports media.  We wrap with a brief chat about Esports, SU, NIL, and what the Syracuse basketball team needs to do - to get back on the map. (00:00) Intro (00:57) Welcome Dan Girard (03:14) Growing up in New York and discovering Syracuse (05:25) Choosing Syracuse after being waitlisted (10:09) First steps at Z89 and CitrusTV (12:20) Building Z89 Sports into a destination (16:10) Friendship, late nights, and station culture (18:45) Funny on air moments and the hot mic save (22:28) Hosting after Syracuse beats West Virginia (24:50) Life after graduation and WFAN Fantasy Phenom (27:32) Why sports talk radio was not the long term fit (30:20) Graduate school and finding a new direction (34:10) Career at Collegiate Sports Management Group (37:33) What Dan’s job looks like today (39:33) Esports, community, and student opportunity (41:33) Advising students on brand and content creation (44:09) Syracuse athletics, NIL, and the road ahead (45:57) Closing thoughts Want to be on the show? Email JAG at [email protected] with the WJPZ Alumni Association: https://wjpzalumniassociation.org/ Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.