KPOJ: Tauber Gone

Submitted by LynnS on Thu, 05/08/2008 - 3:25pm.

In one of the other threads, someone noted that Heidi Tauber has been scrubbed from the KPOJ website, and indeed it looks like it. The morning show's been rebranded "Mornings with Carl Wolfson and Friends. Wha' happa'?

Update: Yup, she's gone. We don't know what happened yet, but the ax apparently fell end of day Wednesday.

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Submitted by Jen (not verified) on Thu, 05/08/2008 - 3:50pm.

I called the station and all the person who answered the phone could say is that she is no longer working there. I have listened to the morning show for years and I really wish KPOJ would at least let the listeners know that she is gone. When you listen to these on-air personalities, they become part of our morning routines. Give us and Heidi the respect we deserve and don't act like nothing is different or missing.

Submitted by Mac (not verified) on Tue, 05/27/2008 - 2:30pm.

Heidi, best of luck! As another writer said, you were a prime reason why I listened to KPOJ. Perhaps you should have your own show! Give it thought - you have a golden voice. Steve Duin did ya right, too!
Clear Channel - I think you blew this one.

Submitted by JimL on Thu, 05/08/2008 - 3:55pm.

While this is probably dated info, Carl and Tom were still using her name during the 8:00-9:00 segment Thursday morning, but I did not hear her on the show.

Submitted by Anonymous Source (not verified) on Thu, 05/08/2008 - 5:03pm.

I don't know what happened to Heidi, but she is one of the best and one of the reasons I enjoyed listening to KPOJ Mornings... Anyone know what happened with her?

Submitted by Anonymous Source (not verified) on Thu, 05/08/2008 - 9:06pm.

I re-listened to the podcast of that 8-9 segment, and I didn't hear her name mentioned once. In fact, her name wasn't mentioned all morning.

Moreover, one of the last things she said on the air Wednesday was "I'll see you all tomorrow."

Submitted by Bill Cooper on Thu, 05/08/2008 - 9:25pm.

I spoke with Heidi this evening. She told me to tell everyone she is ok. I won't go into the details of what happened. Bottomline, this business can often be brutal. This is one of those times. Broadcasters know that the ax is always overhead and it can fall at any time for any reason, or no reason.

I have been told that no one has been hired to replace Ms Tauber at this point, although there are those who are speculating that the move was made to make room for the return of a well-known female morning show news anchor who recently faced a situation similar to Heidi's.

When the brain trust at Clear Channel escorted Heidi from the building they immediately scrubbed all trace of her from the company, including killing her email and voicemail. Heidi is setting up a gmail account and I will post it here soon so her friends can get in touch with her.

on a side note...there are reports that several KPOJ sponsors have pulled their accounts because Heidi was let go. Maybe Clear Channel will see the error of their ways if their wallet gets hit hard enough!

Submitted by Anonymous Source (not verified) on Thu, 05/08/2008 - 10:48pm.

Please tell me they are not going to replace Heidi with Rebecca Webb! Ms. Webb's voice and on-air demeanor has always rubbed me the wrong way. It was the reason I stopped listening to KINK in the mornings at home. Ms. Tauber is a professional and kept Carl W. on track in the mornings. I will miss her and hope she finds another radio home soon!

Submitted by Jon (not verified) on Fri, 05/09/2008 - 6:47am.

Stupid Clearchannel. I'll still listen because it's the only station representing the progressive movement but it's WAY not the same without Heidi. Carl's show is flat without her.

Submitted by Rebecca Webb (not verified) on Sat, 05/10/2008 - 5:23pm.

I come back into town after a college visit with my son, and I'm churning through the rumor mill!

First of all, I know nothing about the staff change at KPOJ-- and I am not a candidate for the opening left by Heidi's departure.

Secondly, Heidi, please email me rwebbontheweb@comcast.net. I know exactly how that feels--and it is the worst. It also takes some time and TLC to get over it, not to mention the support of fans and friends. Bill, please do put up her new email. (Even pals at KPOJ may be reluctant to forward mail to her, because they know it's monitored.) It means the world to hear people say you helped them start their day, that you somehow mattered.

The worst thing about our business is that managers can pull the plug with no notice in such a public and humiliating way.

No, I have no plans to resume rising at 4:00 AM. In fact, I think that last three years at KINK may have cured me of radio.

Submitted by c homan (not verified) on Mon, 05/12/2008 - 9:44am.

good to know a few details about Heidi. I emailed the station trying to find out, but got no reply, of course. It still amazes me that stations, newspapers, whatever can't at least give out the standard "pursuing new career options" to let people know. To pretend like someone who was on the air when the station first aired never existed is an insult to all.

Submitted by Anonymous Source (not verified) on Mon, 05/12/2008 - 9:56pm.

they could at least say that she left to spend more time with her family (like 3-9 am). Sweet dreams, dear Heidi, and hope you find a job with better hours. How about OPB?

Submitted by Anonymous Source (not verified) on Fri, 05/30/2008 - 12:52pm.

We miss you Heidi, if you get a chance send me a note so we can keep in touch. I want to be sure you get lots and lots of Shiitake's off your mushroom log.
Once again, Heidi I miss you.
Bobbie

Submitted by Anonymous Source (not verified) on Tue, 06/17/2008 - 8:03am.

It is now June 17, does anyone know a way to contact Heidi to find out how and what she is doing? I really miss her voice and I admit I have gone back to listening to NPR in the mornings because I am still upset about the whole thing. I did send an e-mail to Carl Wolfson but he really couldn't elaborate and seemed to spout the "party line" regarding ClearChannel.

Submitted by TALPDX on Thu, 05/08/2008 - 10:16pm.

I stopped listening to KPOJ in the morning because Carl Wolfson is a lousy host. I may agree with him politically, but that doesn't change the fact that he isn't very good on the radio. He should go back to comedy full-time.

When Heidi and Thom hosted the full three hours together, it was great program. But when Carl was hired to take over for Thom during the 6am and 7am hours, it lost is flavor -- and lost me.

This is just another example of manangement with a tin ear.

Good luck to Heidi, you're an excellent broadcaster.

Submitted by the knower (not verified) on Sat, 05/10/2008 - 12:16am.

All I know is that you have it all wrong "sir"... the morning show is better than ever with carl W. Heidi always sounded like she was just getting over a stroke! (if you know what I mean) If you had any brains at all I'm sure you'd know that the actual hosts have very little to do with who stays and who goes its more complicated than that, just like politics. And as for Carl he does an amazing job, he's witty, and to the point unlike that tom fellow.

Submitted by steve (not verified) on Sun, 05/11/2008 - 7:36am.

Carl Wolfson is the worst talk show host on radio. He is not in any way funny and he is grossly mis-informed. All he does is whine and cry about right wing politics like the big pussy he is ....

Submitted by rick (not verified) on Sun, 05/11/2008 - 1:41pm.

Carl is terrific and the main reason I listen to the show. He's well-prepared, quick, smart and funny.
I had stopped listening until friends told me about Carl and that I should give it another chance because of him. Glad I did.

Submitted by PDX-Dave (not verified) on Sun, 05/11/2008 - 5:52pm.

Wow there Stevie, boy. Is Carl must be making you think too hard? You sound a little Rush'd.

Submitted by steve (not verified) on Sun, 05/11/2008 - 7:36am.
"Carl Wolfson is the worst talk show host on radio. He is not in any way funny and he is grossly mis-informed. All he does is whine and cry about right wing politics like the big pussy he is ...."

Submitted by Christina (not verified) on Fri, 05/09/2008 - 6:55am.

I've been a guest on KPOJ mornings a few times. From my perspective, Carl is a good interviewer and a nice person but Heidi was the gem.

Submitted by Satchel Pooch on Fri, 05/09/2008 - 7:16am.

I agree with TALPDX, Carl Wolfson is a rotten radio host. Overbearing, constantly interrupting, thinks he knows more than everyone else. Heidi Tauber is better off wherever she goes -- but we'll miss her!

Submitted by East Bank Thom on Fri, 05/09/2008 - 7:35am.

I loved the banter between Heidi and Carl. It's a crying shame to dump Heidi, and the crime is in the cover up. Doesn't KPOJ have any respect for its listeners? I go (went) to their web site every day. Did they think we simply wouldn't notice?

Sweet Jeebus, this was like a bad Cecil B. DeMille film. You know, like in the "Ten Commandments" when Moses' name got scrubbed. Well, I say a plague upon the house of ClearChannel (Oh, yes... our local Air America affiliate is owned by the beast.)

I'm glad that some sponsors will show their support for Heidi (and progressives in general) with their feet and go elsewhere. Please let us know who, so we can follow with our support. I've got a pickup that needs servicing, a back yard in need of just about everything and in '09, we're looking to support the Obama economy with a garage addition.

I was at a weekly Impeachment protest yesterday. It's not an even split, but we all start our day with either KPOJ, KBOO or OPB. For the fans of the KPOJ morning show, we could only ask WTF? Thanks to Heidi, we felt we had a community radio program. Often, our actions were announced on air and friends of the peace and justice community have been guests on the show. This isn't a change for the better.

Submitted by jaybo (not verified) on Fri, 05/09/2008 - 10:19am.

As a daily listener I am very disappointed that no explanation has been given for Heidi's disappearance without a word. And Carl and Paul behaving as if she never existed. It's shameful. At least on Air America when Randi left, people like Sam Seder were able to mention the subject. Not so in this case. Silence only. What's the point of a liberal radio show if this behavior is allowed to persist?

Submitted by Regular KPOJ listener (not verified) on Fri, 05/09/2008 - 1:27pm.

She was a real professional and very likeable. She also did not let her personality interfere with the story. Carl has to learn to ask the question as simply as Thom and Heidi do. When he asks a question to the guest he often precedes it with several minutes of set-up.

Also, I do not care a fig about sports or movie trivia. I doubt that many KPOJ-ers care for such things either.

I sure hope Heidi lands well wherever she goes. The stories she tells about herself and Ron were very inspiring, very unpretentious, very impressive.

Yours,

a Regular Listener

Submitted by Anonymous Source (not verified) on Mon, 05/12/2008 - 2:23pm.

I think you've got Carl and Thom confused. Thom is the one who interrupts his own lectures to interject or expand on something before he's even finished the original thought. He'll do this several times in one sentence, adding gutteral noises and "aaah....aaah" with maddening frequency as he goes. It's like listening to Hank Kimball from the old sitcom Green Acres.

Carl's -slightly- more listenable. That show needs a hands-on producer with a good, trained radio ear.

Submitted by Anonymous Source (not verified) on Tue, 05/13/2008 - 11:58pm.

Amen! What an awesome post and poster! When I read this it made me feel like we good guys have a fighting chance against the Dark Empire. Thanks for the encouragement and heartfelt shot in the arm, at least there's a little slice of the world where things are right! Keep Up the Great Work!

Submitted by PrankishOwl (not verified) on Fri, 05/09/2008 - 9:18am.

I knew the radio business was a buzz saw, but the way KPOJ has handled the dismissal of Heidi is outrageous!! Why the heck couldn't they have the decency to give a short statement that she was gone? It was like something out of a bad sci-fi movie when all the traces of your existence are erased. I thought Carl and Thom acted like the wimps they are by disrespecting us [the listening audience], and Heidi. Never could warm up to Carl.
I can barley stand the 4 hours of the "professor" Thom [coming on at 8, and then his national show from 9-12]..........I am many years out of college, and don't need the lectures. I keep wondering if he thinks he is entertaining?? I won't bother turning KPOJ now until noon for the afternoon shows.
Can't help but wonder who is the "brains" behind the goofy programming???
GOOD LUCK TO HEIDI!!!!!!!!!!!

Submitted by Anonymous Source (not verified) on Fri, 05/09/2008 - 9:48am.

I was telling friends how much I liked Heidi Tauber, and why she was one of the main reasons I listened to KPOJ in the morning. She has a smiling voice, a great wit, and real talent. How shocked I was to tune in today and find her utterly absent from the show. It reminds me of when Leonid Breshnev was airbrushed from Soviet history. Also, when Al Franken dumped his original female side-kick (I forget her name) - his show went rapidly downhill after that. While I think Carl has improved during his time with KPOJ, he will not be able to carry the show on his own. He comes off as rather pendantic, and needs someone like Heidi to keep him on an even keel. Maybe Heidi will join Thom on his national show (we can only hope!).

How a station like KPOJ can dump one of the best local talents on Portland radio is beyond me.

Submitted by Anonymous Source (not verified) on Fri, 05/09/2008 - 10:21am.

Heidi is gone. BAH! I like Carl but really, if this Rebecca whoever comes on board, I will not be listening. Heidi is a gem. Maybe there is more than meets the eye here.

Submitted by Anonymous Source (not verified) on Fri, 05/09/2008 - 11:41am.

Thanks Bill for giving us the low-down. I'll look forward to your posting of Hiedi's e-mail, so I can send a note of support and keep tabs on her future endeavors.

If Thom was the brains and Carl was the laughs (even though he was never really that funny to me) Hiedi was the heart of the morning show. I will follow her whereever she lands on-air. I love her personality and she has the most beautiful speaking voice.

Submitted by OPB Fan (not verified) on Fri, 05/09/2008 - 12:22pm.

Fortunately, OPB will keep trouncing all news-talk competition. ;-)

They got a 7.0 12+ - that's 1.5 points more than "#1" place KEX-AM. (audience 12+, M-Sun 6 a-midnight of course)

Submitted by Anonymous Source (not verified) on Fri, 05/09/2008 - 12:28pm.

I rarely weigh in on stuff like this, but when I did not hear Heidi on the morning show yesterday, just "Carl and Friends" I got this pit in my stomach and started searching the KPOJ website, then Googling, and there was nothing. I am relieved to find at least some information today and a big thank you goes to Oregon Media Insiders for providing it.

I am extremely disgusted with the actions of KPOJ and Clear Channel. If the rumor about her being replaced with a well known personality who was booted from another station has any truth, what then does that say about KPOJ and Clear Channel? Are they hoping to increase profits from this? Gosh, look at what happened with CBS putting Katie Couric in as an anchor - did their ratings not drop?

Heidi is a class act - I felt like I knew her personally, and I considered her a friend that I could listen to in the morning. I look forward to getting her email address so I can write her. I know that she will not be unemployed very long, but I hope whereever she lands she will be doing the work that she loves.

Submitted by Colleen Holmes (not verified) on Fri, 05/09/2008 - 1:59pm.

I'm very disappointed in KPOJ lately and this takes the cake. I thought Heidi was really good. Especially with Thom. To lose her completely sucks. I told them so. I also told them they were being taken off as my homepage. They've really gone down hill. Even their POJ poll is lame now. Hardly ever seems to have relevant questions. I really DO want to know what people think about political happenings, I DON'T give a rat's patootie to hear what people think or to say how Britney is doing with this or that. Good grief. Maybe they'll figure it out. Maybe not. But I have better things to do than fill my mornings with less than excellent broadcasting.

Submitted by carol (not verified) on Fri, 05/09/2008 - 3:51pm.

To the suits at Clear Channel: You have no idea what this will be do your pocketbooks. Your listening audience shows loyalty for people they care for; that's why we are liberals

Do I have to hold my breath waiting for either Carl or Thom to tell the truth about Heidi's sudden departure?

Heidi: I was looking forward to doing the 5K Race for the Cure with you and the other Heidi Hoofers. Hope to be part of your group this year.

Submitted by Meg (not verified) on Fri, 05/09/2008 - 4:22pm.

It feels terrible to have Heidi disappear in thin air. It is very unprofessional for KPOJ to handle it like this. I kept wondering if Heidi was gone on vacation, but Carl didn't mention her which was strange. THen I checked the website and poof she had disappeared. I have listened to the show regularly in the mornings and liked starting the day with the banter between Carl and Heidi. I have nothing against Carl, but the show doesn't have the same zip without Heidi. I guess I go back to tuning into OPB more now. Heidi didn't deserve this treatment.

Submitted by Satchel Pooch on Fri, 05/09/2008 - 4:22pm.

I think someone tried to call out KPOJ's management for this little maneuver during this morning's "Weasel of the Week" segment (~8:35 am) but got bleeped and then dropped.

Submitted by Anonymous Source (not verified) on Fri, 05/09/2008 - 10:15pm.

All in all, I am very disappointed in KPOJ's treatment. Heidi's absence in the elephant in the room and its an insult to the hosts and listeners to pretend nothing has happened. Please earn some respect and acknowledge the obvious or risk losing a loyal following.

Submitted by East Bank Thom on Fri, 05/09/2008 - 10:17pm.

I plan to blog on this too. The guy first called out Merkley for is sleazy behavior. Then he said "and the management of KPO-" and he was dropped. That part of the broadcast has been erased. 1984 anyone?

I don't buy into the "Carl sucks" meme. (And i as a hot gay gay ought to know!) The KPOJ management on the other hand sucks the proverbial donkey.

http://thomsword.blogspot.com/

Submitted by Anonymous Source (not verified) on Sat, 05/10/2008 - 6:08pm.

This is very bizarre. KPOJ most certainly "scrubbed" that phone call from the podcast they've posted on their website.

This is really, really creepy.

There's some major league freakish behavior going on, and it only draws more attention to KPOJ's actions.

They couldn't be drawing more attention to this if they;d have taken out a billboard or bought a TV ad.

STUPID.

Submitted by Anonymous Source (not verified) on Fri, 05/09/2008 - 5:49pm.

I called and left an irate VM for the program director at KPOJ this morning. And yes, my friend tried to nominate KPOJ for Weasel of the Week for dumping Heidi and they dropped him faster than a hot potato.

I told the PD that I was disgusted that they had fired Heidi, that Carl was unlistenable and that without her, the morning show sucked. I won't be listening to KPOJ in that time slot again. Feh.

Submitted by Marguerite Cohen (not verified) on Fri, 05/09/2008 - 8:50pm.

I was listening when the person got bleeped out, they were nominating KPOJ for weasel of the week for firing her. I hate it that they are pretending that Heidi never existed, like she was some sort of criminal. I think it is important to keep in mind that this is a very commercial corporate enterprise, and that the only way we may be able to impact such a decision is by not listening. We all know that Clear Channel is part of the media monopoly problem. So for mornings I'm moving over to KBOO or just use the iPod. I still like to listen to Thom Hartmann, but I'll skip the morning show. I've given up on Randi's rants because I hate it when she yells at callers, people who actually agree with her. And I don't think I can give up "Ring of Fire". But KPOJ mornings? Forget it. They need to give us more respect.

Submitted by Anonymous Source (not verified) on Sat, 05/10/2008 - 5:49pm.

remember, you can still listen to Hartmann's national show via livestream at the Air America website without supporting KPOJ and this rude behavior.

Submitted by ccgabriel (not verified) on Fri, 05/09/2008 - 9:03pm.

Heidi was 98% of the reason we have been loyal listeners to KPOJ the past couple years, and to dismiss her like she never existed is downright disgrace. Although I like Carl, I assure you my listening to KPOJ will be limited. The way it was handled was very shoddy to say the least under any circumstances.

Heidi was truly a class act... one of the very best.

Submitted by selucea (not verified) on Fri, 05/09/2008 - 9:51pm.

Rebecca'a appearance in the morning KPOJ distaff slot won't be too bad: she was the better half of the partnership in her previous employment. (That was with a CBS affiliate, not a Clearchannel station.) If Rebecca is expected to draw listeners from that source, I do believe Clearchannel's hopes are misplaced: the morning show on that other station are sprightlier than before, and i think fans of that kind of "alternative top 40" will stick with it, rather than listen to watered-down alternative news and ad blocks that are larger than commentator blocks.

I never felt that Heidi and Carl interlocked as seamlessly as H. did with Thom, but she is alert and charming and I will miss her very much. Though her departure was abrupt, I'm sure she knew somethung was up: her news reading the final few days was really off. I agree with all that while it might be Clearchannel's policy to be ruthless and thoughtless regarding their listener's sensibilities, it is unbecoming of Carl and Thom to participate in such rudeness. The least they could have done was say (even the following day) "Heidi's last day was yesterday, and we wish her luck."

I certainly do.

Submitted by Anonymous Source on Sat, 05/10/2008 - 4:43pm.

I agree that the worst part of this is the feeling that Thom and Carl are colluding in it, and are in implicit agreement with what happened. As an employer, I have had to fire people who were stealing from me, and unless you have them successfully prosecuted and convicted, you cannot reveal the reason for their firing (or forced resignation). But I think Clear Channel could have acknowledged her departure. And the two remaining talking heads wouldn't sound like idiots, chattering on, pretending to be blithely oblivious to her absence. Sleazy corporate bastards.

Submitted by Rebecca Webb (not verified) on Sat, 05/10/2008 - 6:26pm.

But thanks for the good words.

When I was recently "disappeared" from KINK, they wouldn't even let me have access to emails in which I had ongoing business--like commitments I had made to people to get their announcement on the air, appear at their event, etc. And I had done nothing wrong! Heidi probably hadn't either.

As long as five or six corporate giants own nearly all the airwaves, we are at their mercy. Next thing you know, they'll want to control the internet!

My friend Nikki just sent me the latest on that:

http://www.computerworld.com/action/article.do?command=viewArticleBasic&...

Submitted by Anonymous Source (not verified) on Sat, 05/10/2008 - 1:01pm.

I don't know why Heidi was let go. And neither do you. But here's a possibility to consider:

Sometimes people -- even very talented ones -- are fired for cause. When that happens, everyone enters a legal mine field, in which saying the wrong thing could cost an enormous amount of money in court.

If, in fact, Heidi was fired for performance reasons, KPOJ had several choices:

1. Annnounce that she'd been let go, and the reasons for her dismissal. Which would publicly damage her reputation as she looks for another job.

2. Lie (she left because she's decided to go to grad school?)

3. Announce that her last day was yesterday, wish her well, and refuse to say anything else.

4. Say nothing at all.

#1 and #2 are just bad ideas. #3 makes some sense, but once you've made the announcement everyone's going to ask why, and refusing to discuss the reasons would make the station AND Heidi look bad.

So KPOJ went with #4, which, all things considered, might be the best of an undesirable set of options.

Again, I have no idea what caused Heidi's firing. And I'm also sorry she's gone. But it's possible that KPOJ management aren't the bad guys here.

Submitted by pat malach (not verified) on Sat, 05/10/2008 - 8:01pm.

Quote:
3. Announce that her last day was yesterday, wish her well, and refuse to say anything else.

4. Say nothing at all.

#1 and #2 are just bad ideas. #3 makes some sense, but once you've made the announcement everyone's going to ask why, and refusing to discuss the reasons would make the station AND Heidi look bad.

So KPOJ went with #4,

If the goal of going with #4 was to avoid having people ask why, this thread, and the many that will no doubt follow when other media outlets pick up this story, kind of make that thinking look pretty bankrupt, eh?

Maybe it was just about weasels hiding behind their suits while good people have to go out and be the public face of the decisions the weasels enact. That sounds more like the real world many of us have personally experienced. Your version with the corporate heroes is nice, but it's probably more suited for bedtime fairy tales.

Submitted by Anonymous Source (not verified) on Sun, 05/11/2008 - 8:29am.

Maybe you're making excuses for people who don't regard basic human dignity and practice common courtesy. How about making an announcement that Heidi will be leaving the station and acknowledge legions of listeners will miss her. Offer them a spot on the web page to send Heidi their good wishes, and post her forwarding email info? Duh?

Submitted by LynnS on Sun, 05/11/2008 - 10:44am.

Anonymous Source wrote:
Maybe you're making excuses for people who don't regard basic human dignity and practice common courtesy.

Disregarding basic human dignity is pretty much top of the list for required qualities of management (of any kind, not just broadcast) these days. Common courtesy is rarely common, and I wonder whether it ever was.

-----
Lynn Siprelle * Fairy Blogmother

Submitted by pat malach (not verified) on Sun, 05/11/2008 - 11:08am.

Maybe common decency is so uncommon because too many decent people simply accept and dismiss poor behavior as business as usual.

The question is, how much are YOU willing to take? And if you've reached your limit, what are you willing to do about it?

Submitted by LynnS on Sun, 05/11/2008 - 11:07pm.

that I work for myself. I still have an asshole for a boss, but I can cuss her out without fear of losing my job.

-----
Lynn Siprelle * Fairy Blogmother

Submitted by Anonymous Source (not verified) on Sat, 05/10/2008 - 2:53pm.

It seems to me that KPOJ used Heidi to babysit Hartmann when he was new in town and didn't know how to pronounce Estacada or Macadam. She made him sound good and smoothed the way for him in PDX. I am amazed and sickened that he would allow himself to participate in such underhanded dealings and not even acknowledge her contribution to the show AND his success! This is not how true progressives behave. Good bye, KPOJ.

Submitted by Anonymous Source (not verified) on Sat, 05/10/2008 - 5:42pm.

I know nothing about the flap over Heidi and KPOJ since I very seldom tune in to listen to that station.
The hate filled national portions of their on air product turn me off.
Knowing nothing about Heidi I fear she may have trouble finding another job in "normal" radio. The stint at KPOJ may have ruined her reputation as an objective, qualified, on air talent.
There's a reason KPOJ is known as the entertainment division of the Oregon Democratic party. The reputations of the people on the air there will follow them through their careers in broadcasting and they may only be able to find employment at stations or businesses with a very left leaning philosophy.

Submitted by TALPDX on Sat, 05/10/2008 - 6:28pm.

By the response here on OMI, you're clearly in the minority. I do have half a brain, in fact I have a full brain, and I resent the implication otherwise. You may feel Carl W. is a fine host, I frankly do not. And you're comments regarding Heidi speaking as if she were having stroke paints you as petty and small minded. Hopefully, it doesn’t reflect on the totality of your character. With that said, I hope you enjoy listening to a program which speaks of progressive values but in personnel matters, doesn’t live it.

Submitted by Chad (not verified) on Sat, 05/10/2008 - 9:46pm.

I too find it unfortunate that Heidi was let go.

But, it's obvious that most of the folks commenting here are not familiar with the radio business. When a personality is fired it is rarely announced or talked about on the air or otherwise. Unless they are a national host is it disclosed why they were fired. One prior commenter did mention this as one of the choices they could have made, to say nothing. Just like in many other industries, they don't disclose why they fire someone.

With that said, I do understand why listeners want an explanation. Especially about Heidi in this case. She has a great voice and she was like a part of the family.

Although this may not make it any easier. I hope this might explain how this works.

Submitted by Anonymous Source (not verified) on Sun, 05/11/2008 - 12:09pm.

I have been listening to KPOJ since it's inception and feel I have a pretty good handle on what does and does not work on radio--and who do not work well together. I always felt that when Heidi teamed with Thom he carried the show. I also felt that he would be noticed, syndicated and leave Heidi to work with someone else. I also predicted that the next co-host would appear domineering compared to her if he (or she) was not as low key as Thom. Enter Carl.

I do not blame Carl for the firing of Heidi. I always felt she needed to bring more to the table than helping with the pronunciation of street names, a pleasant voice and having "a great personality." When I discovered the "gem" was finally, thankfully, fired I was dumbfounded by the support she has received. Gentle listeners, can any of you remember a paragraph containing more than four sentences that Heidi has uttered in her career that is informed or pithy? I consider myself a fair person and the way the firing occurred did suck but I think the complainers (which is most everyone on this page) would have griped about the process no matter how it went down. I suggest everyone look inside their selves and consider: don’t we deserve more than a pleasant personality as the next morning’s co-host?

Submitted by Greg Parker (not verified) on Mon, 05/12/2008 - 1:32pm.

This is nothing new for broadcasting.
It was 20 years ago that a new station manager at KEX woke up one day, turned on the radio, heard a hardworking broadcaster, decided he didn't "like his voice" and told the news director to fire him. He now works down the street from me in Salem and has never looked back.

I like Heidi as well but if there ever was a reason to use the term, "serving at the pleasure," it would be broadcasting.

We can be as outraged as we want but it is the nature of the beast. I am happy to see Rebecca having been cured of her broadcasting and think those ponytails on her rock.
Namaste

Submitted by pat malach (not verified) on Sun, 05/11/2008 - 10:55am.

What does the "how the business works" have to do with censoring the "podcast" versions of the show?

The segment where a caller tried to nominate the "KPOJ station mana..." for a Weasel of the Week before being cut-off in mid-sentence is gone. Scrubbed away like it never existed. Shameless!

This episode has revealed a complete lack of honesty, and respect for listeners, among "people" running that station.

I find it impossible to support that kind of behavior. My tuners in the car and at home (and on my pocket radio with headset) have already been changed to 91.5.

I don't expect my change to affect KPOJ, but I certainly feel better about it.

Submitted by Julie (not verified) on Thu, 05/15/2008 - 4:52pm.

I would have to agree. If we are asking for transparency in our government..... progressive politics.... We should at LEAST have it in our radio station. I will go back to the cafeteria plan of picking my talk show hosts from the Internet and supplement with OPB for local news. I am sorry to see that KPOJ doesn't practice what they preach. Very disappointing. Good luck Heidi.

Submitted by PDX-Dave (not verified) on Sun, 05/11/2008 - 3:05pm.

Sure it's sad when anyone gets fired, even if they brought it on themselves. But come on, are we talking about the same program? Carl is informed and down to earth. I can sense that he cares deeply in the interviewees and audience. Are you telling me you don't think he's easy to listen to? If you had a choice, would you rather have a coffee with him or Tom or Heidi? Based on their chit-chat, I'd be surprised if he didn't care for Heidi. He may in fact be protecting her for all we know. [redacted--dude, I'm sorry, but speculation like this is just not helpful. See your own next sentence. --L] Still, KPOJ should explain what is going on so we can stop pointing fingers and possibly hurting the innocent.

Submitted by PDX-Dave (not verified) on Sun, 05/11/2008 - 6:01pm.

Let's say you're walking your dog and you happen to glance down at your neighbor's recycling where you see several Bud Lite cans. Your first thoughts are, "Man, I didn't know they had such lousy taste in beer." What you didn't know is that when your neighbors go hiking they always pick up litter, which they then recycle.

Things aren't always what they seem.

How about it Heidi? We know you're out there flaming the good people making the stand. How about sharing the real story?

Submitted by Kelly from Montana (not verified) on Sun, 05/11/2008 - 7:44pm.

If the Radio Stations in Portland are smart business people
They will clamour to hire Heidi for their programing.
As it has been stated above, She has heart and a great voice!
(I know her personally she has been doing radio since HIgh School).
She may not be with KPOJ now, their loss.....come on you other stations
and ad agencies. better hire her while she is still available!

Submitted by Anonymous Source (not verified) on Sun, 05/11/2008 - 10:07pm.

Personally, I don't miss Heidi one bit. She could hardly vocalize the news though she was reading it. I think Carl is doing a great job considering the slamming he has been getting here. Give the guy a break, he most likely had nothing to do with Heidi's departure!

Submitted by Anonymous Source (not verified) on Sun, 05/11/2008 - 11:07pm.

KPOJ certainly does have an elephant in the room in their treatment and total non-acknowledgement of Heidi. One can now notice an emptiness the the morning show. I thought the THC team worked well together. The one caveat about Heidi was the lack of confidence (either from herself or the station) to run things when Thom and Carl were unavailable. It should be interesting if KPOJ makes Willamette Week's Rogue of the Week and if it talked about on Wednesday's show.

Submitted by Anonymous Source (not verified) on Mon, 05/12/2008 - 12:54am.

In all this froth, did anyone notice Les is gone @ KINK?

Submitted by LynnS on Mon, 05/12/2008 - 9:10am.

Apparently he's been moved to afternoon drive.

-----
Lynn Siprelle * Fairy Blogmother

Submitted by Anonymous Source (not verified) on Mon, 05/12/2008 - 9:00am.

I understand the radio business is a business and the importance of bottom lines, but this was not handled well or with any degree of grace or respect. In particular, whatever respect I've had for Hartman or Wolfson has been compromised by their willingness to participate in Tauber's "disappearing" from the show without comment or protest. Next weeks "weasels of the week" will be an easy choice.

Submitted by LynnS on Mon, 05/12/2008 - 9:05am.

This thread at pdxradio.com may be illuminating.

-----
Lynn Siprelle * Fairy Blogmother

Submitted by Michael Pearce (not verified) on Mon, 05/12/2008 - 9:12am.

Remember, this is Clear Channel we are talking about here. How could they NOT be evil? The only reason they carry Air America at all is that their marketing department decided they could make money with it. This is a GOOD thing and needs to be encouraged. I would rather have a sputtering, censoring, denying KPOJ in the mix than go back to where the only thing on the radio was right-wing noise generators, limply opposed by KBOO and weak-and-marginalized PBS.

Doesn't mean we shouldn't keep the pressure on. I found a link to Heidi's blog at KPOJ still active but it just led to a 404. I wish she would show up here and give us the full story.

Submitted by Anonymous Source (not verified) on Mon, 05/12/2008 - 9:49am.

Michael says "The only reason they carry Air America at all is"

From the Pedants corner, Clear Channel's KPOJ don't "carry" Air America.

During the week, they broadcast some "content" provided by Air America, that being Thom Hartmann and Rachel Maddow.....but Ed Schultz comes from the Jones Radio network, the Randi Rhodes and Mike Malloy programs are through the Nova M radio network.

Submitted by Anonymous Source (not verified) on Mon, 05/12/2008 - 10:00am.

It's funny that most of the comments on here are all about pointing fingers, saying who's to blame, speculation, and TONS of misinformation.

We all work in this country and we all know that employers do not say much when it comes to people being let go. If things do end on a positive note and the person does leave on their own accord, then employers may feel more open to talking about. Since they hadn’t talked about her leaving we can most likely assume that she was fired. As for being fired, we can speculate all day as to why...but that matter is between her and her employer only...not us.

To think Thom and Carl had any stake, power, or say in this is not true. Don’t forget that they too are employed for the same company as Heidi and are bound to the same parameters. From listening to them for years, it is apparent that they both had fond feelings for her and I’m sure they do and will miss her. But their silence has more to do with management’s rules then it does about them being snakes. And to note on today’s show they did acknowledge Heidi being gone and they had wished her well. I don’t think that they "owe" us more then that.

When part of a good team leaves of course there is concern and sadness. But things do happen if life as we all know and we don’t always know the full story, especially when it comes to a person's employment.

KPOJ is still one of the true liberal voices on a corporate radio and I will continue to support them and hope that they find a new replacement for Heidi that we can grow to like and enjoy as we did her.

I wish them and Heidi all the best.

Submitted by Anonymous Source (not verified) on Mon, 05/12/2008 - 1:51pm.

This morning, Thom gave a quick statement that (IMHO) did little to resolve the mystery. He started the comment off by saying that it was something that he and Carl both wanted to say, but Carl's only contribution of note was to say that whatever Heidi did, she'd still fight for progressive causes. Thom did say that Heidi was no longer employed by KPOJ, and specifically said that he didn't want to get into management issues in the statement. They said that Heidi "would be missed", but didn't offer any sort of further comment.

At the top of his comment, Thom did say that he has received lots of e-mail wondering what was going on. Based on his comments and the tone that he and Carl used (which was plainly neutral), I don't know if the comment was their attempt to offer opinion or whether it was intended to soothe listeners. In both cases, it seems to me that they failed.

Submitted by Anonymous Source (not verified) on Mon, 05/12/2008 - 2:15pm.

When Bernie Ward was indicted on child porn charges, KGO in S.F. reported it, and mentioned him, but didn't discuss the case until it was resolved. Once it was resolved it was a topic for a day or two and the news team covered it fairly. They didn't try and act like something didn't happen.

And I'm in no way inferring anything about why Heidi isn't at POJ anymore. I have no clue, but it does seem that female radio and TV broadcasters get treated more shabbily than their male counterparts in this town. I give credit for Clear Channel for giving lefty radio a shot, but I do find it odd that some of the most successful shows on POJ aren't those produced by Air America, which seems to come out with a new schedule every week.

Submitted by Maggie (not verified) on Mon, 05/12/2008 - 7:57pm.

We need to give Carl and Thom a little slack. Their comments about Heidi today, especially Thom's, seemed compassionate. It likely was not their decision and they are in an uncomfortable position. Heidi's disappearance was handled very poorly, but I feel disillusioned on a deeper level. I think I naively listened to the morning show feeling like the trio were "progressive, caring colleagues." I even felt like KPOJ was our special "community-minded" progressive news outlet. This is a harsh reminder that the morning show is part the corporate culture that is the brunt of most its commentary. Very disappointing. On another subject -- lay off the trashing, it is getting very petty.

Submitted by Anonymous Source (not verified) on Tue, 05/13/2008 - 1:23pm.

There might be more to this story than meets the eye. As loathe as we all are to give the Evil Empire the benefit of the doubt, we may not have all of the facts of the case.

Submitted by Yamhill (not verified) on Tue, 05/13/2008 - 4:52pm.

She and Thom are what started me listening to KPOJ.

At least I can still listen to Thom...

Hopefully Heidi shows up some where I can Podcast...

I hate corporae radio...

Submitted by Glen HD28 (not verified) on Tue, 05/13/2008 - 10:26pm.

I too returned from a trip to find Heidi departed. I had listened to just a few minutes some days while away (on live webcast) and wondered if she were on break or sick leave. Very sad and curious. Listening to Monday morning's show, I thought Thom and Carl were guarded but sincere, they did say the love Heidi and miss her. You don't say it that way if you don't mean it. I have met both Thom & Carl several times, and they graciously allow me time to promote the Washington County Democrats every month (Glen from the Washco Dems.) I am certain that Thom & Carl are both very surprised, saddened and frustrated with the situation. No doubt they are being 'gagged' by managment for some reason - in media, the corporate lawyers always have the final word. As soon as they can speak freely, I am certain that they will shed light on this. In the meanwhile, I will support the station as they have kindly supported us, and wish Heidi the best and a speedy return to Portland radio.

Submitted by Glen HD28 (not verified) on Tue, 05/13/2008 - 10:41pm.

This transcript from Monday 8:10-ish, just posted on www.worldsmaddestdog.blogspot.com:

THOM: I've gotten an enormous amount of e-mail, there's been a lot of blog speculation and whatnot and all this kind of thing, that Heidi's not part of the show right now. And I just wanted to say that you and I both miss Heidi. We love her. We're friends of hers. She no longer works here at KPOJ, and it would be inappropriate to speak for her or management or anything beyond that, but just to say that we wish her the very best and we miss her.

CARL: Indeed. And I echo that. We had an incredible time, Certainly my 14 months on the air. And you worked with Heidi back to, what, 2004? Just great times on the air, and we certainly wish her all the best. And I know she's going to be out there for progressive causes whatever she does. She's got a great heart...

THOM: God bless her.

CARL: ... and we miss her.

Submitted by Anonymous Source (not verified) on Thu, 05/15/2008 - 10:44am.

I remember Heidi Tauber at KIMA-TV in Yakima in 1988-89, just prior to her leaving for radio in Portland. She was a fantastic talent with TJ Close anchoring the evening news, and once I met her at an appreciation lunch at PBS station KYVE, my appreciation for her personally was that much stronger. Every chance I had, when in Portland, I would tune Heidi in with the news. Sorry she is gone, but know she will bounce back.

Submitted by Anonymous Source (not verified) on Fri, 05/16/2008 - 11:18am.

I'm happy to see that Thom & Carl finally made a statement about Heidi. It was all too 1984 listening to their silence on the disappearance of a colleague and friend. And seemed hypocritical in the context of their frequent urging of listeners to speak out and get involved. Their statement may have required some intensive negotiations with management, and I applaud that. Maybe someday we'll hear the whole story? Maybe not.
But I won't let Clear Channel management off the hook. I think it was a dumb move, anyway, even if it hadn't been poorly handled. Heidi's was a more friendly, soothing presence and some of us need that in the morning as we face a world not exactly of our choosing. Many mornings I wake up with an exclamation of Noooo...!

Submitted by Anonymous Source (not verified) on Fri, 05/16/2008 - 12:26pm.

from all you folks who say "it must sound bad to everyone because I don't personally like it!".

Submitted by Quimby (not verified) on Sat, 05/17/2008 - 12:28pm.

I have to agree with those who don't like Carl. Personally I find his comedy (on the show, never seen him live) kind redundant. He always tries to two absurd ideas together to be funny. I also feel he will miss a good political point to instead go for a joke. Another problem I have with him is he is a little too self indulgent and self center. For example about a week ago he was interviewing an Arab-American comic, and by the end of the interview it turned into Carl doing an imitation of a famous LA comedy club owner. I would rather hear the comic being interviewed...I can hear Carl afterward.

Heidi on the other hand seemed confident, knowledgeable and had a smooth voice. Not sure how much I will listen now. She wasn't the show, but she did elevate it greatly.

Submitted by Anonymous Source (not verified) on Sun, 05/18/2008 - 2:32pm.

I agree.

Submitted by firewolf (not verified) on Tue, 05/20/2008 - 8:09am.

There was an interchange between Carl and Ellen Ratner (in town for the election and doing the morning show with Carl) that may provide some insight. I'll quote it as closely as I can remember.
Ellen: I wish I could be here with you guys every day.
Carl: Well, we're working on that.

If that is what's going down, it probably means that Tom was behind Heidi's firing to begin with, to make room for his friend Ellen. Which stinks. I know it's just how the biz works but that doesn't mean I have to like it. Also, if this is what's happening, I suspect Ellen will do the show from DC and they'll take it national, leaving KPOJ without a local show.

I really hope I'm wrong.

Submitted by Bagel (not verified) on Sat, 05/24/2008 - 10:52am.

firewolf wrote:
I really hope I'm wrong.

No need to fear, you are indeed wrong and what you posted was quite imaginitive conjecture. Ellen is very happy where she is and I'm certain that her involvement in the KPOJ Mornings show will remain the same as it has been in the past. She's a valuable contributor to both Carl's and Thom's shows, but she clearly loves what she does, providing unparalled independent insight into the ugly goings on in D.C. I suspect Carl's comment was meant humorously, but with a underlying conveyance of his and Thom's admiration for her, both professionally and prsonally.

That said, as a daily listener, I was very saddened about Heidi's sudden departure. She will be missed by many and I wish her all the very best from the bottom of my heart. A lot has been said here, but the fact is that nobody knows exactly what happened with Heidi and speculating about what happened behind the scenes won't do anybody any good. The fact is that despite being owned and run by ClearChannel, KPOJ is one of the most amazing beacons of progressive liberalism in our country, which is truly a blessing for the greater Portland area. I have learned so much about Portland and national politics by listening to KPOJ, they really do provide an unparallelled service to the community. If only every major city were lucky enough to have a such a wonderful station! As much as I miss hearing Heidi's radiant voice in the mornings, Carl, Thom and Paul do a teriffic job under sometimes difficult circumstances and I hope they keep up the amazing work they do.

Submitted by Spraguer (not verified) on Tue, 05/20/2008 - 8:40am.

Whereas Carl is detailed and knowledgable and Thom is Best in Class, Heidi provided the flavor of Oregon. One-of-a-kind and precious; the station just dropped a wedding ring to the bottom of the lake.

Submitted by Anonymous Source (not verified) on Tue, 05/20/2008 - 11:57am.

Well all I can say is last week I kicked the KPOJ morning habit and went back to OPB (and that was even during it's pledge drive). Lots of blah and "balanced" reportage.

I listened to KPOJ for a brief time this morning to see if they had anything interesting to say about the Obama rally or the election, and the interplay between Carl, Thom, and Ellen was really jarring. She was OK in small segments on Thom's program, but not good as a part of a threesome. Not worth putting up with the commercials. Oh well.

Submitted by Milo Wadlin (not verified) on Wed, 05/28/2008 - 8:54am.

I guess Heidi was with Clear Channel a long time. I first ran into her on KPAM, I think, and have had the hots for her ever since. Must have been hard, being a progressive. Carl is good, but I think they have him shackled on the funny. Thom needed some help on the humor side. They don't want him being like Marc Maron, or some morning zoo. She was always the best part of the show. Hope I run into you again some day.

Submitted by former kpoj listener (not verified) on Sun, 06/01/2008 - 4:22pm.

I thought it was pretty obvious. Heidi could not seem to get through a single news update without stuttering, stammering or otherwise mangling it. Half the time I couldn't understand what she just said. That's brutal, I know, but that's what people mean by it being a brutal business, perfection is expected. A mistake now and then maybe, but not on every broadcast. I feel bad because she has a lovely voice and her personality outshines Thom and Carl, or more accurately, it complimented them so well and I always was interested to hear her opinions. I wish her best of luck, there is a market for her skills, just not doing 30-second news updates.

Submitted by Anonymous Source (not verified) on Wed, 06/04/2008 - 7:14am.

I was gone out of the country for 9 days, I came back and tuned in KPOJ in the morning, as I have done since the microphones of KPOJ were first opened and....no Heidi. I was stunned. I searched the website. Gone. So it's good to at least get some sense of what happened and thanks to GlenHD28 for posting those brief comments from Thom and Carl.

I have to say, I find Carl a good host but without the balance of Heidi I agree...it's a little flat. I will still listen because it is the only show in town but I'm disappointed. Having worked in corporate America for awhile I'm not surprised by story. I've seen many good people renditioned from the corporate workplace over the years. Looks the same here.

Well, time to stream KPOJ and start my day. I miss you Heidi.

Submitted by JordanLund (not verified) on Thu, 06/05/2008 - 10:27pm.

I haven't been bothered enough by it to Google what happened until now, a month later.

Here's my take...

Tauber was probably the most incompetent radio personality I've ever heard. She couldn't read a simple news story without screwing it up, she stumbled all over herself when speaking and while I'm sure she was a very nice person, on air she came across as an idiot.

KPOJ has their former political correspondent reading the morning news now and they already sound more professional and more polished.

KPOJ probably could have handled things better, but more likely someone just got fed up with her screw-ups and dumped her.

Submitted by Anonymous Source (not verified) on Thu, 06/05/2008 - 11:27pm.

Felicia Heaton is a terrible street reporter. She stumbles all the time during live shots and EVERY story she writes starts off the same, "So and so with [insert agency] says..." No creativity there.

Submitted by Anonymous Source (not verified) on Wed, 06/11/2008 - 7:14am.

I have been listening to KPOJ for about 2 years now 6-7 am. Now that Heidi has been canned, I think I will protest and stop listening. In my opinion they canned the wrong person.

Submitted by Anonymous Source (not verified) on Wed, 07/02/2008 - 10:11am.

sorry, I don't agree that Heidi flubbed up too much. She was great, and she is really missed. Yes, on reflection toward the end she was making mistakes. It's probably because she knew what was coming. Things like that DO affect job performance. But Heidi gets an overall "A" for the entire body of her work. KPOJ knows this and so do Thom and Carl. Thom and Carl are great, but Heidi was needed for balance. And I don't care for Felicia's voice at all. I don't listen much anymore. It's all just too much - the unethical advertising (sadly necessary), the choppy format, etc. etc. Heidi's presence buffered a lot of that.

Submitted by Mt. Shasta (not verified) on Mon, 07/07/2008 - 7:29am.

In the 2 months since she has been gone, I miss her more and more. I think her termination was a sad loss to the program and to the listeners.

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