ABSTRACT
This chapter explains the practices and techniques appropriate to in-studio television talk shows, radio call-in shows that may or may not include studio guests, and interviews gathered and edited for insertion into news reports or documentaries. Television interview programs make almost exclusive use of studio guests while radio relies on both guests and telephone callers. Many guests' responses will be given at a trained level of abstraction, especially those who are accustomed to media exposure, such as Public Information Officers, company spokespeople, or public relations specialists. At a typical talk-radio station, one may expect to work a two- to four-hour air shift, five or six days a week. Many stations give talk show hosts detailed instructions on their legal and ethical responsibilities. Unlike radio talk shows, many of which are originated by local stations, television airs a plethora of nationally syndicated talk programs.
