Miami

New Station Shakes Up Miami Radio

If you’re dialing through the radio in Miami, you may stumble across the region’s newest FM radio station, WMIV 107.9, also known as “Shake 108.” But, unlike most radio stations, this one is locally owned and operated by a computer and an antenna in Miami.

“In March of this year, I got a letter saying you’re approved for your station,” said Peter Stebbins, CEO of Shake 108.

Stebbins had been waiting to see those words for more than a decade. He had moved to Miami from Atlanta where he said the radio was less commercialized. He planned to launch his radio station, but ran into lots of red tape.

But then, a few years ago, Congress approved a bill that allowed the government to free up low-frequency airwaves to non-profits. Stebbins saw his opportunity and jumped in line.

“It was a five-day window where you could apply, that’s it,” Stebbins said.

And then about a month ago, Stebbins went on the air with Shake 108. He said he gets by from public donations, money from his own pockets, and support from family and friends. But, he also managed to line up one “voice” you may recognize.

“We’ve heard the same things over and over again, and it’s time for something new,” said singer Lina Gaudenzi.

Gaudenzi was a contestant on “The Voice” last season on NBC and is now lending her voice to Shake 108. There’s a host of other voices courtesy of Stebbins’ family members.

The station can be heard as far north as the Golden Glades and as far south as Coral Gables. When it comes to format, the best description may be anything goes. Stebbins said you can expect everything from bluegrass to Bob Dylan to 2 Live Crew and some other new names.

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