Episode 3: Phil Elkins, Preston Powers, Steve O'Bryan, and Steve Scarborough Artwork

Mic Check: An Oral History Of KZFR

To celebrate 35 years of independent community radio, Mic Check: An Oral History of KZFR takes listeners behind the scenes of KZFR 90.1 FM’s earliest days. Through candid interviews with the volunteer programmers who helped build the station, each episode shares the stories, challenges, and memorable moments from the first 10 years of KZFR’s history.

These conversations highlight the spirit of experimentation, dedication, and community that continues to shape KZFR today. You'll hear from newsmakers, talk show hosts, and music DJs who helped forge the path of this listener-supported, volunteer-powered station.

KZFR 90.1FM has been serving the Sacramento Valley, the foothills, and beyond since our first broadcast on July 6, 1990. As a non-profit community radio station, KZFR has always been a hub for free expression, cultural connection, and independent media.

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Mic Check: An Oral History Of KZFR

Episode 3: Phil Elkins, Preston Powers, Steve O'Bryan, and Steve Scarborough

July 16, 2025 • KZFR 90.1FM

In this episode of Mic Check, four longtime programmers reflect on the early days of KZFR. Preston Powers (Blues Bayou) recalls reel-to-reel recording and vinyl-only shows. Steve Scarborough (It’s Just Jazz) shares how he went from listener to programmer. Phil Elkins (LA Sounds) talks about starting with a homemade demo tape. And Steve O’Bryan (Celt Radio) reflects on the grassroots effort to launch the station and build lasting community radio.

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