Ah, May. A time for flowers blooming, birds chirping, and broadcasters pacing nervously like expectant parents waiting for the big reveal: Will your baby—the spot, campaign, breaking news story, or show you poured your heart into—get the big First Place nod? And will you make that winding walk through the mass of round tables to the front of the room, nodding and smiling as you receive the handshake and the coveted shadow box award? The Wisconsin Broadcasters Awards are just around the corner, and whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned pro, here’s what to expect when you’re expecting… awards.
The Ultrasound Stage: Early Signs of Greatness
Every broadcaster knows that familiar mix of pride and doubt when submitting work for the WBA Awards. You’ve nurtured this piece from its earliest stages—sketched-out ideas on a napkin, late-night edits, and countless tweaks—and you’re hoping it’s got “that glow.” Like an ultrasound, you can’t help but examine every detail. Is this the year your baby stands out? Will the judges see its potential?
It’s easy to speculate. Will this year’s awards lean toward clever humor? Or will heartfelt storytelling and that one perfect soundbite capture the spotlight? Regardless, your baby deserves a place in the nursery of greatness.
The Nesting Phase: Preparing for the Big Day
As May approaches, it’s time to get your broadcast baby ready for its public debut. Think of the awards night as your version of a family reunion photo—your baby in all its glory, shining for everyone to admire.
You’ll want to plan accordingly. This year’s theme is Masquerade Ball. Are you going all out, or just bringing a subtle mask you can easily hold or put down while networking? Who will join you at the table? Did your entire team accept the invite? Every baby has a village behind it, and there’s nothing like celebrating your collective effort together.
Labor of Love: The Journey to This Moment
Let’s be honest—some babies are easier than others. Some of your projects might have felt like a breeze, delivering results faster than expected. Others? Well, those were the marathon sessions—the ones where you doubted if it would ever come together. But you stayed up late, fueled by too much caffeine and sheer determination, until you saw the spark that made it all worthwhile.
Regardless of the process, every entry is a testament to your creativity, your persistence, and your refusal to settle for anything less than extraordinary.
Delivery Day: Bringing Your Baby into the Spotlight
When awards night finally arrives, emotions will run high. As the names are called, you’ll sit there with that familiar mix of nerves and excitement—like an expecting parent in the delivery room, waiting to hear that spectacular radio voice narrate the tidbits of trivia about your station, your team, and your category. What a voice this guy has!
If your baby’s name is announced, there will be cheers, hugs, and maybe even a few proud tears. You’ll march up, get the handshake from your peers in the industry, and then stroll confidently to the back for the photo with Jeff Wright or Judson Beck. You’ve earned the right to be that proud parent.
Proud Parent Moments: Sharing the Joy
Once the ceremony is over, don’t be shy about showing your baby off to the world. Post it on social media, send out a press release, or casually “forget” the award on your desk for everyone to see. Let your audience and peers celebrate with you, and remind them why local broadcasting is such a vital part of the community.
And if your baby doesn’t take home a trophy this year? Remember, every entry represents your hard work and passion for this industry. Sometimes, even the best ideas don’t come home with hardware, but they still leave a mark. Treat it as motivation to go back, dream bigger, and create something even better for next year’s awards.
After all, Charlie Chaplin never won an Oscar for his work during his lifetime, but his creations remain timeless. Eventually, yes, he did receive an honorary Oscar—but not winning never stopped him.
Baby Steps to Greatness
The Wisconsin Broadcasters Awards are more than just a competition—they’re a celebration of the incredible talent in our industry. They remind us that every great piece of work begins as an idea, nurtured with care and effort until it’s ready to shine.
So, as you prepare for May, remember: this is your baby’s moment. Whether it’s a groundbreaking campaign, a perfectly produced spot, or a show that resonates with listeners, it’s all about celebrating the joy of creation.
Come May, we’ll all be proud parents in that room—cheering for the work that makes this industry what it is.
Robert Jarzen
Creative Director, Audacy Midwest
WBA Awards Committee
Registration deadline is April 22. No refunds after this date.
The hotel reservation deadline is April 14.
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