Local News

Chicago Intellectual Radio Founder Strives To Make A Difference

August 31, 2015 / 7:00 AM CDT / CBS Chicago

Earl Winfrey is the founder of IntellectualRadio.com. They host over 50 Intellectual Radio Shows out of the Chicago land area, and have been heard in over 125 Countries.

Winfrey started off as a videographer and has always wanted a job producing TV or radio. Winfrey did not think it was going to happen, although he had a lot of experience and personality. So he decided to return to higher education by attending broadcasting school, although Winfrey did not feel that broadcasting school was the best fit for him.

When Winfrey was doing videotaping, a friend asked Winfrey to tape his radio show. When Winfrey arrived at the radio show, it was very unpleasant and he heard a tremendous amount of profanity. At the time, Winfrey happened to be a National Public Radio lover. The desire to see more of an intellectual discussion on the radio led him to create Intellectual Radio that very night. It started off with just one show and now 3 years later, they have almost 60 shows.

Scope and responsibilities of current role?

"I produce over 50 radio shows a week. I recruit new shows and book talent. We also do lots of live remote broadcasts, which I handle all the tech stuff."

What is the favorite part of your daily duties?

"What I enjoy most is meeting so many people who are smarter than me. Being exposed to so many intellectuals, I learn something new everyday. I also enjoy giving opportunities for others to grow and have a platform."

Do you feel your education prepared you for your current role?

"It is my drive and ambition that makes a difference. I want to be remembered when I am gone as someone who made a difference. That is what drives me."

Do you have any advice for people who desire to pursue a similar career?

"Start where you are. Don't focus on what you don't have, focus on what you do have. Also remember, If you are not living your dream, you are not living to the fullest. I live by that. I also find it more rewarding to make $1 working for myself than making $2 working for someone else. My goal is to have 100 radio shows each, in 5 major cities within 10 years. We are on our way."

Michelle Guilbeau is a writer, reviewer, teacher and business owner. She also has experience in school administration, literacy coaching and is proud founder of CraftKitsForKids.com and MichelleGuilbeau.com Michelle enjoys sharing her knowledge of cities, food, travel, education and parenting issues with her readers. Her work can be found on Examiner.com.

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