Celebrate the Impact We Make
Meet Our Donors
Connecting Through Music
Meet Mike Olson, a devoted WXPN listener who joins us from North Dakota. As one of the fans who helped us reach listeners in all 50 states, Mike has a unique story to tell. His journey with WXPN began with our 50th anniversary Woodstock playback, a broadcast that brought him back to his teenage years when he and his friends dreamed of being at Woodstock. “I hardly slept for three days listening to the programming!” he remembers.
An outdoor enthusiast, Mike enjoys Nordic skiing, biking, and woodworking—although he jokes that he mostly specializes in “high-quality sawdust.” His Saturdays are dedicated to WXPN, from Ben Vaughn’s show through to the late-night rhythms of Sleepy Hollow.
For Mike, supporting WXPN is about championing a truly one-of-a-kind station that brings authentic music and stories to life, week after week.
Building a Legacy of Generosity
Meet Ron Cohen, a longtime WXPN fan and dedicated member of the Reverb Society, our planned giving community. Ron’s journey with WXPN began unexpectedly 32 years ago when he stumbled upon 88.5 while waiting outside a baby store in Bala Cynwyd. That moment sparked a connection that has only deepened over the years.
One of Ron’s favorite WXPN traditions is the XPoNential Music Festival. He describes it as a “chill, friendly, and great time” where he finds community, familiar faces, and exciting new music discoveries. From spontaneous moments like streaming WXPN from Istanbul—leading to a shoutout from mid-day host Mike V.—to bonding with the team at events, Ron’s stories capture his deep love for the station.
Reflecting on his decision to include WXPN in his estate plans, Ron shares, “WXPN has enriched my life. I feel immensely good about supporting its future.” His words are a testament to the station’s impact, and to the joy of joining the Reverb Society, ensuring WXPN’s mission will live on for years to come.
A Foundation’s Investment in Technology
Thanks to The Presser Foundation’s generous support, WXPN is reaching new heights in delivering high-quality broadcasts to our 300,000 weekly listeners. A $30,000 grant from this Philadelphia-based foundation helped launch the WXPN Technology Upgrade Initiative, which revitalized one of our most critical systems—the mixing boards and software in our on-air and production studios.
With new equipment in studios affectionately named John, Paul, George, Ringo, Dylan, Michaela, and Hal, our upgraded system now enables seamless communication between control boards and engines, ensuring smooth production and top-notch sound quality.
Teresa Araco Rodgers, Executive Director of The Presser Foundation, notes, “Our mission is to support music organizations like WXPN in making music more accessible and enjoyable. We’re proud to fund projects that enhance the listener experience and serve Philadelphia’s vibrant music community.”
WXPN is deeply grateful to The Presser Foundation for helping us continue to serve and connect with our audience, musicians, and members by modernizing our technology.
From Philly Cassettes to Florida Sunsets
Meet Virginia Agnew, a new member originally from Philadelphia but now streams WXPN daily from home in Orlando, Florida, alongside their husband, Brandon, and their ten-year-old son, Oliver.
Virgina would tape shows on a cassette player and pass them to friends in high school. Now, WXPN is the soundtrack to many of her family’s hobbies, with Sunday mornings reserved for reading and Sudoku puzzles during Sleepy Hollow (Oliver’s favorite!). When not listening to the radio, Virginia and her family are avid museum explorers and love hiking and snorkeling.
WXPN has been a constant companion for Virginia over the years, and no other radio station provides the variety her family is looking for.
30+ Years of XPN, Music, and Motorcycles
Meet Scott Seiber, an XPN member from Philadelphia, PA. Scott has been listening to XPN for at least 30 years, and some of his favorite shows include Land of the Lost and What’s the Frequency. Scott is not just a member: for twelve years, he’s been an avid volunteer with the station, and you may have seen him at Free at Noon shows, the NON-COMM, and the XPoNential Music Festival.
Beyond the music and volunteering, Scott’s passion is motorcycles. Scott has worked as a motorcycle mechanic for the past fifteen years and is an “avid motorcyclist” who has attended motorcycle rallies and events across the US, Canada, and Europe.
For Scott, supporting XPN is about supporting independent media. And he particularly appreciates the station’s commitment to local and independent artists.
Finding Inspiration, Community, and Family Fun with WXPN!
Meet Stephanie Deininger, a WXPN member listening from Lancaster, PA. Stephanie discovered WXPN about 20 years ago and has been a member for the last 10 years. When listening with her husband Jake and their son Leo, Stephanie particularly enjoys the weekend programming. They are proud to say that Leo already has excellent taste in music at age six!
Stephanie is an art educator and a recent master’s degree recipient, and when she and her family aren’t listening to WXPN they can be found enjoying the outdoors, creating art, or working on puzzles.
Stephanie says “XPN provides us with a constant stream of inspiration and positive vibes,” and that supporting the station means being part of a larger community, especially one dedicated to engaging with culture.