It's often been called the world's first real radio station - and now it's looking at another first. KDKA, the 50,000 watt powerhouse from Pittsburgh, has turned its overnight show totally to broadcasting students, who cover the latest news. 

The station claims it's designed to make radio more attractive to a younger audience, while still meeting its commitment to covering the latest developments. “This show will bring a fresh look at local news from the perspective of the next generation, which is so crucial in 2024 and beyond," its V.P. claims. 

It sounds like a laudable goal, but my Spidey-sense is tingling. It also sounds like a good way to fill dead hours without having to pay the talent very much money. Also, while college broadcasters can be OK, most are still far away from sounding professional.

KDKA comes in here at night (it runs from 1-5 AM), but you don't have to wait until then to check out how this sounds. The latest episode of "The Next Take" is on its website. (It starts about five minutes in after the CBS top of the hour news.)

But good for the kids who get chosen. Having the oldest radio station on Earth on your resume while still in college is a giant leap in their career. Let's hope there's still an industry to go into by the time they hit their 30s!

KDKA’s NextGen Plan To Keep Radio Relevant