“I've listened and listened, and decided to give it a try”

Recently, an ISUE External Relations Specialist shared information from Michele Payn-Knoper, of Cause Matters Corporation. Among the “quick tips and ideas” shared, Payn-Knoper talks about “considering your opportunity to plant seeds for the future,” and “developing a long-lasting relationship.”

These thoughts came to me as I considered mass media work. Do we ever make a difference with our regular radio programs?

The answer came to me when I met with one radio station personality to record a regular Extension program. I have worked with this person for several years, and we talk about nutrition and healthy eating habits, and healthy physical activity habits on and off the air.

During our last program, this particular radio personality stated that “I've been trying whole grain breads – and I like them.” At another point in our program she interjected comments about recently beginning a regular physical activity routine. When we finished the program we talked “off air” a little more. She said that after talking about these issues with me so many times, she decided it was time to “try” – and was glad that she did. I'll be anxious to see how she's doing the next time we meet. And I hope listeners have taken the same steps that this radio personality has.

“Moral of the story”: Yes – we need to take our media work seriously. It's a time to “plant seeds for the future,” and “develop long-lasting relationships.” As Payn-Knoper stated: “People generally don't ‘buy' an idea from someone they don't trust.” And trust is built over time.

Contact:
Denise Wyland
Nutrition and Health Field Specialist
ISU Extension
710 North 2nd Ave. East, Suite 103
PO Box 348
Rock Rapids, IA  51246-0348
Phone 712-472-2576; Fax 712-472-2578  
E-mail dwyland@iastate.edu

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