Behind The Mic with MAB

behndthemicpod

Behind the Mic with MAB

  1. Oct 28

    Episode #45: Beyond the Forecast with WAPT Chief Meteorologist Christana Kay

    Amanda Fontaine sits down with Christana Kay, chief meteorologist at 16 WAPT, for this episode of Behind the Mic with MAB. A two-time Emmy Award winner and the 2026 MAB Weather Anchor of the Year, Christana has helped lead her team to six consecutive years of recognition for forecast accuracy. Her commitment to Mississippi extends beyond the broadcast, connecting with communities and teaching students how to prepare for severe weather. Get to know the woman behind the forecast and the dedication she brings to keeping Mississippi informed. Produced by Daniel Anderson at Audio Alchemy Productions.

  2. Sep 29

    Episode #44: Why Local Journalism Still Matters | Kevin Benz

    In Episode 44 of Behind the Mic with MAB, Amanda Fontaine sits down with veteran journalist, newsroom leader, and media consultant Kevin Benz. Kevin reflects on a career spent covering major stories and leading award-winning newsrooms while exploring the challenges facing journalism today. They discuss artificial intelligence, rebuilding trust with audiences, investigative reporting, developing young journalists, and why local broadcasters remain such an important part of their communities. Kevin also shares his outlook on the future of broadcasting and a simple challenge for every newsroom: put serving your community at the very top of the list. Produced by Daniel Anderson at Audio Alchemy Productions.

  3. Sep 22

    Episode #43: Swagger, Sales & Leadership | Derron Steenbergen

    In Episode 43 of Behind the Mic with MAB, Amanda Fontaine sits down with Derron Steenbergen, founder of the Swagger Institute, longtime broadcast sales leader, and creator of the Ten Minute Trainer Network. Derron shares what more than 30 years in broadcasting taught him about sales, leadership, relationships, and staying energized in a demanding industry. They talk about why great leaders get in the boat with their people, why sales should be about solving problems instead of simply selling products, and how small wins can keep teams moving forward. It’s a practical, funny, and encouraging conversation about building trust, leading well, taking care of yourself, and finding a little more swagger along the way. Produced by Daniel Anderson at Audio Alchemy Productions.

    Episode #43: Swagger, Sales & Leadership | Derron Steenbergen

  4. Aug 18

    Episode #42: Media, Ethics and the Stories We Tell, with Dr. Philip Poe

    What role does media play in shaping the way we see the world? On this episode of Behind the Mic with MAB, Amanda Fontaine sits down with Dr. Philip Poe, associate professor in Mississippi State University’s Department of Communication, Media and Theatre, to discuss the power and responsibility of storytelling. Dr. Poe shares his journey from Henderson, Texas, to a career in higher education, journalism and media production. The conversation explores his research on stereotypes in popular media, particularly how illness and disability are portrayed, along with the importance of ethical journalism and thoughtful communication. They also discuss his work mentoring students as graduate coordinator, faculty advisor for the MAB Young Professionals Organization and coordinator of MAB Day. Whether you’re a student, media professional or simply interested in how stories influence society, this episode offers valuable insight into the impact of responsible communication and the next generation of media leaders. Produced by Daniel Anderson at Audio Alchemy Productions.

    Episode #42: Media, Ethics and the Stories We Tell, with Dr. Philip Poe

  5. Aug 11

    Episode #41: Inside the Life of Congressman Michael Guest, From Forensic Files to Capitol Hill

    What does a typical week look like for a United States Congressman? In this episode of Behind the Mic with MAB, Amanda Fontaine goes beyond politics to get to know the person behind the title. Congressman Michael Guest shares what life is really like balancing the demands of serving Mississippi in Washington while staying connected to home and family. He reflects on his path from prosecutor to Congress, what a typical week in his life actually looks like, and how he manages the constant travel, committee work, and responsibilities that come with representing Mississippi’s Third Congressional District. Amanda also dives into one of the more unexpected chapters of his career, his work as a district attorney that was featured on Forensic Files. Congressman Guest discusses the case, the experience of seeing it portrayed on national television, and how his years in the courtroom continue to influence the way he approaches public service today. This conversation isn’t about political talking points. It’s about the experiences, stories, and moments that have shaped one of Mississippi’s most recognizable public servants, giving listeners a rare behind the scenes look at the man behind the office.   Produced by Daniel Anderson at Audio Alchemy Productions.

    Episode #41: Inside the Life of Congressman Michael Guest, From Forensic Files to Capitol Hill

  6. Jul 7

    Episode #40: Jake Wimberly, The Voice Behind Mississippi Sports

    From calling championship football games to leading one of Mississippi’s top sports radio stations, Jake Wimberly has become one of the most recognizable voices in sports broadcasting across the state.   On Episode 40 of Behind The Mic by MAB, Amanda Fontaine sits down with Jake to discuss his journey from earning a Civil Engineering degree at Mississippi State University to becoming an award-winning broadcaster, program director for ESPN 105.9 The Zone and 106.3 The Fan, and one of Mississippi’s premier play-by-play announcers.   Jake shares the stories behind the microphone, the preparation that goes into calling live sporting events, the evolution of sports media, his innovative College Football Hourglass prediction model, and what it takes to build a lasting career in broadcasting.   Whether you’re a sports fan, aspiring broadcaster, or simply fascinated by the people who bring the biggest moments to life, this conversation offers an inside look at the passion, preparation, and professionalism behind one of Mississippi’s most respected sports voices.   🎙️ Hosted by Amanda Fontaine 📻 Guest: Jake Wimberly   Subscribe for more conversations with the broadcasters, journalists, and media professionals shaping Mississippi’s communications industry.   Produced by Daniel Anderson at Audio Alchemy Productions.

  7. Jun 30

    Episode #39 - The Voice of Mississippi: Maggie Wade’s Legacy of Journalism, Service, and Impact.

    For more than four decades, Maggie Wade has been a trusted voice in Mississippi homes, but her impact extends far beyond the anchor desk. On Episode 39 of Behind The Mic with MAB, Amanda Fontaine sits down with broadcasting icon Maggie Wade to explore the remarkable journey that transformed a young woman from Crystal Springs into one of the most respected journalists in the state. Maggie shares how an unexpected opportunity in college radio changed the course of her life, leading to an extraordinary career at WLBT as an Emmy-nominated news anchor, storyteller, and advocate for Mississippi’s children and families. The conversation dives into her groundbreaking work with Wednesday’s Child, her passion for education and community service, and the responsibility that comes with being a trusted voice during some of Mississippi’s most defining moments. As a member of the Mississippi Association of Public Broadcasters Hall of Fame, recipient of more than 500 awards, and a lifelong champion for children, foster care, and volunteerism, Maggie’s legacy is measured not only by the stories she’s covered, but by the countless lives she’s changed. In this episode, you’ll hear: How Maggie discovered her passion for broadcasting The story behind her decades-long career at WLBT Why Wednesday’s Child became one of her most meaningful missions The importance of using your platform to serve others Lessons in leadership, resilience, and purpose Her advice for the next generation of journalists and storytellers Whether you’ve grown up watching Maggie deliver the news or you’re hearing her story for the first time, this conversation is a masterclass in authenticity, compassion, and the power of making a difference. #BehindTheMicWithMAB #MaggieWade #AmandaFontaine #WLBT #MississippiMedia #Journalism #Mississippi #WednesdaysChild #Storytelling #CommunityLeadership #Podcast   Produced by Daniel Anderson at Audio Alchemy Productions.

  8. Jun 9

    Episode #38 - From Small-Town Dreams to Q101: Ryan Johnson’s Radio Journey

    What happens when a young man dreams of becoming an actor but discovers an entirely different calling behind a microphone? In Episode #38 of Behind the Mic with MAB, Amanda Fontaine sits down with Ryan Johnson, afternoon host on Q101, to discuss his unconventional path into broadcasting. Ryan shares how a high school dream of acting led him to crack the mic at just 19 years old as the morning host of WJDB 95.5 in Thomasville, Alabama, an opportunity most radio personalities spend years trying to earn. From hosting “Ryan in the Morning” to studying broadcasting at MCC, co-hosting on 106.9 The Eagle, and eventually landing at the legendary Q101, the station he grew up listening to, Ryan’s story is one of persistence, passion, and finding purpose where he least expected it. Amanda and Ryan dive into the realities of radio, the changing media landscape, memorable moments behind the mic, his love of college football, golf, binge-worthy television, and why he still feels grateful every day to do what he loves. If you’ve ever wondered what it takes to build a career in broadcasting, or how life’s detours can lead you exactly where you’re meant to be, this episode is for you. 🎙️ Listen now and meet the voice behind your afternoon drive on Q101. Produced by Daniel Anderson at Audio Alchemy Productions.

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About

Behind the Mic with MAB

Information

  • Creator
    behndthemicpod
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    43
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2025 All rights reserved.
  • Show Website
    Behind The Mic with MAB