Have your say: Be heard on Radio & Television Talk Shows

Expressing and debating political opinions is a staple of radio and television shows. Today these shows can be dedicated to a number of themes including news, entertainment, and left and right wing politics. Most talk shows contain a component known as the call-in segment, in which individuals can call into the show to express their views on a variety of topics. These shows provide an excellent platform on which to raise the issue of the climate crisis.

Tips for calling in:

  • Write out a couple of clear (and brief!) talking points. Plan on making your point in no more than a few sentences.

  • Try calling early in the show, ideally about five minutes before the show starts.

  • You will speak to a screener who will ask what you would like to talk about. Keep your point short and avoid going into detail.

    • Avoid sounding flustered, obstinate, or argumentative. Instead, work to come across as calm and authoritative.

  • When you get on-air, stay focused and calm. State your point in a few clear and short sentences. Just don't read directly from your notes -- listeners can tell.

  • If the host challenges you or tries to re-direct the conversation, bring listeners back to your central point.

Have fun and let us know in the Contact Us section how it went.

2008-10-01