WBAI 99.5 FM to Launch New Pet Show - Animal Matters - on March 2

WBAI 99.5 FM, New York’s premier progressive radio station, is thrilled to announce the launch of its newest program, Animal Matters, premiering Sunday, March 2, 2025, at 9 AM ET and streaming live at WBAI.org. The show, hosted by Carol Anne Riddell, Carlos Menchaca, and Jeff Simmons, will explore all things pets and animals, from expert advice on pet care to critical discussions on legislation affecting animal welfare.

The show’s debut episode will feature a conversation with Audrey Hendler, founder of A Fair Shake for Youth, a nonprofit that uses therapy dogs to help young people develop confidence and compassion. Future episodes will include expert interviews, deep dives into animal-related legislation, and opportunities for listeners to share their own pet stories.

“We want this show to be a hub for animal lovers,” added Carlos Menchaca. “Whether it’s discussing the latest policies affecting animal welfare or simply celebrating the unconditional love pets provide, Animal Matters will be a vital platform for our community.”

“Animals bring so much joy and meaning to our lives,” said Jeff Simmons. “Animal Matters is about more than just pets—it’s about how we as a society treat animals and what we can do to make their lives better.”

“As an animal lover, I’m excited to bring a show to WBAI that will inform, inspire, and connect people who share a passion for animals,” said Carol Anne Riddell. “From heartwarming rescue stories to important advocacy efforts, Animal Matters will be a place where listeners can learn and engage.”

Listeners are encouraged to call in during the show at (212) 209-2877 to share their own experiences, ask questions, and join the conversation.

Support WBAI’s Time is Now Winter Fund Drive

As Animal Matters launches, WBAI is also in the midst of its Winter Fund Drive, with a goal of raising $250,000 to sustain independent, listener-supported programming. WBAI relies on community contributions to continue providing diverse, progressive content that amplifies voices often marginalized by mainstream media. Support WBAI today by donating:

• Online: Become a WBAI Buddy at buddy.wbai.org
• Phone: Call 1-833-WBAI-NYC (1-833-922-4692) to donate by credit or debit card
• Mail: Send a check or money order to 388 Atlantic Avenue, Brooklyn, NY 11217

All programs air on WBAI 99.5 FM in New York City and are available for streaming worldwide at WBAI.org. WBAI is part of the Pacifica Foundation, a non-profit organization that pioneered listener-sponsored community radio and has been a beacon for non-commercial, free media since its founding in 1946.

Listeners are encouraged to participate in much of the programming by calling WBAI's listener call-in number at (212) 209-2877. To support the station, donations can be made by visiting www.give2wbai.org or by becoming a BAI Buddy at www.buddy.wbai.org.

About WBAI/Pacifica Foundation

WBAI 99.5 FM New York is a listener-supported, non-commercial radio station broadcasting out of New York City. With a commitment to providing diverse, independent, and progressive programming, WBAI serves as a vital platform for voices often marginalized by mainstream media. For more information, visit www.wbai.org.

WBAI is part of the Pacifica Foundation, a non-profit organization that pioneered listener-sponsored community radio, and continues to be a beacon for noncommercial, free media since our founding in 1946. The Pacifica Foundation is a network of five community-supported FM radio stations located throughout the United States: WBAI in New York City, WPFW in Washington DC, KPFT in Houston, KPFK in Los Angeles, and KPFA in Berkeley. The Pacifica Foundation also supports a global network of over 250 stations through the Pacifica Affiliate Network and is home to the Pacifica Radio Archives, one of the world’s most extensive historical sound archives. For more information, visit www.pacifica.org.

In 2024, WBAI took the leadership role in producing the Pacifica Radio Network's We Decide: America at the Crossroads 2024 which included nightly live coverage of the Republican National Convention in Milwaukee and the Democratic National Convention in Chicago.

That project, as well as Pacifica's ongoing public affairs coverage is supported by labor unions representing over two million workers including: the American Federation of Government Employees, the Transport Workers Union of America, 32 BJ SEIU, NYSNA, HPAE, CWA-NJ, 1199 SEIU, United Steelworkers Nurses Local 4-200, The Doctors Council SEIU, AFSCME DC 37 Local 3621 FDNY EMS Officers, the Uniform Firefighters Association, Teamsters Local 210, SEIU Local 246, the US Postal Police Association, The Environmental Police Benevolent Association.