My Story

It all started when…

…I was a student at the University of Maine. On the campus alternative radio station, I played classical music early Saturday mornings. I started to listen to Maine Public Radio and soon learned there was a world of other programs I never knew existed.

Since then, I’ve spent my career in public radio across news and classical formats, in different sized markets and different roles. I’ve been a program director, music director, talent coach, and host. I’ve led major programming change, participated in numerous on-air fundraisers, produced and edited compelling audio, interviewed hundreds of artists, and held countless airchecks with hosts and reporters. I’m known for a keen ability to identify and develop talent, with former hosts now in major markets across the industry.

I firmly believe that public media makes a difference in people’s lives and am committed to keeping it relevant and helping it thrive. Most importantly, I lead with emotional intelligence in every aspect of my work—building trust, encouraging understanding, and communicating with clarity.

My experience includes positions with Cincinnati Public Radio, WAMU (Washington D.C.), WBHM (Birmingham, AL), WCBU (Peoria, IL), WKNO (Memphis), WSCL (Salisbury, MD) and Maine Public Radio.

Recent achievements:

  • 2024: Classical music playlists led to notable audience growth during the December and Holiday rating periods, highlighting a strategic approach to seasonal content and listener connection. (WGUC/Cincinnati Public Radio)

  • 2024: Oversaw Spring 2024 on-air fundraising campaign, exceeding revenue goal by 12 percent and a 33 percent increase in new members from the previous drive. (Radio IQ/WVTF - Roanoke, VA)

  • 2024: Maintained top overall rated station in the Washington, D.C. market (WAMU)

  • 2020 and 2021 Radio Station of the Year
    Alabama Broadcaster’s Association (WBHM)

  • 2021 Edward R. Murrow Award for Overall Excellence Radio Television Digital News Association (WBHM)

  • 2019 Second Place Interview: R.E.M.’s Mike Mills: Classical Music Isn’t Stodgy Public Media Journalists Association

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  • “The real value of working with Michael is that your team may not just improve, they may transform, thanks to his thoughtful advice and counsel. Michael’s easy-going demeanor made it easy for our entire staff to warm to him personally, but it quickly became clear that he knew exactly what it took to get results. While its been a short while since he has worked with us in fundraising, the benefits continue to resonate. We’re still applying his strategies and techniques in all our drives.”

    — Roger Duvall. General Manager, Radio IQ/WVTF, Roanoke, VA

  • "Michael really helped me to hone my style--he amplified my strengths and helped me feel more confident in areas I needed improvement. One of my biggest challenges was pronunciation and keeping my higher register low. Michael helped me to develop techniques to keep my voice grounded while dramatically cutting down on word stumbles and mispronunciation. What I learned from Michael was immeasurable. He was my biggest advocate while also remaining a guiding light for how to become a better host. "

    - Miranda Fulmore, former WBHM Morning Edition host

  • “Michael Krall is a programmer at heart. When I analyzed his station’s programming in my role at NPR, it was clear someone was paying close attention to the sound and going well beyond the basics. While he excels in the craft of radio, he understands content, how all the moving parts are connected, and has a knack for getting the best out of on-air talent. Any station would benefit from Michael’s knowledge and experience.”

    — Jeff Rowe, Vice President of Programming, LAist (KPCC) and former NPR Consultant

  • “I’ve known Michael for more than 15 years and I find him to be an excellent resource for programming knowledge. I value his thoughtful view of public radio and I am always happy when we can spend some time discussing our industry. He understands the big picture and how it relates to the small decisions and I’m glad he is someone I can call to brainstorm ideas with.”

    — Ele Ellis, CEO and General Manager, Blue Ridge Public Radio