KALW Public Media is not just a radio station — it’s a bold experiment in what public media can be. Based in the Bay Area, KALW serves as a catalyst for civic engagement, a home for groundbreaking storytelling, and a training ground for the next generation of media-makers.

We exist to ignite conversation, nurture new voices, challenge conventions, and empower communities to strive for and celebrate a better world. Through music, journalism, live events, and a deep commitment to inclusion and innovation, KALW amplifies stories that shape the future of democracy, justice, and belonging.

KALW 91.7 FM has an incredible, 80-year history and a promising future built on decades of contributions from dedicated volunteers, listeners, leaders, donors, programmers, and producers.

THE BIRTH OF FM (AND KALW)
We began broadcasting on September 1, 1941 — a full thirty years before the creation of NPR. Our broadcast license was obtained and continues to be held by the San Francisco Unified School District.

TRAINING IS IN OUR DNA
KALW created the first FM broadcast training program in the country and it trained women in radio broadcasting during World War II. KALW continues this tradition with the Audio Academy, a 10-month, tuition-free journalism training program, as well as its summer podcast academy for teens and its Uncuffed radio training program inside San Quentin and Solano State Prisons.

EARLY ADOPTERS FROM THE START
KALW has a track record of programming innovation: it was the first station in the Bay Area to air Fresh Air, This American Life, Snap Judgement and The Daily. It was also the first station to air the BBC in the Bay Area, and was for decades the BBC’s station of record in San Francisco. KALW is also the birthplace of 99 Percent Invisible and Radio Ambulante, andSnap Judgement’s Glynn Washington recorded his show’s demos at KALW’s studios. The origins of Ear Hustle can also be traced to KALW’s volunteer program at San Quentin State Prison.

BUILDING ON A LEGACY OF MUSIC DISCOVERY

The station has been at the forefront of high-quality, socially minded radio from its inception. It remains deeply rooted in the Bay Area and its culture. With the expansion of its music programming, it is a testament to its dedication to all nine Bay Area counties where it broadcasts. KALW believes in creating and broadcasting stories that are social-justice minded and solutions-oriented.

SHAPING THE FUTURE OF PUBLIC RADIO

With its diverse leadership and staff, and the voices of the communities we serve, KALW Public Media is on a mission to inspire audiences and tell the human story in all its breadth and richness. Justice, equity, and community creation are at the heart of everything KALW does.

The station is shaping public media’s future by building upon its legacy for innovation and what’s next, as well as by training, nurturing and amplifying local voices and makers. The station will continue to seek out and showcase the best from around the globe, and serve as an essential and trusted source for news, music, culture, podcasting and digital media.

Go to THE TIMELINE to learn more about the first 80 years of KALW