Behind The Mic with MAB

In this inspiring episode of Behind the Mic with MAB, Amanda Fontaine sits down with Daniella Oropeza, Assistant News Director and Morning Anchor at WTVA. From her early days as a reporter to becoming a trusted voice in Mississippi journalism, Daniella has built a career rooted in integrity, compassion, and community connection.
 
Daniella shares the stories behind her most impactful coverage, from reporting on the COVID-19 pandemic and Jackson’s water crisis to a moving feature in Spanish that helped reunite a Mexican family with the firefighter who saved their baby. A proud graduate of the University of Mississippi’s School of Journalism and New Media, Daniella brings her bilingual skills and deep Mississippi roots to every story she tells.
 
When she’s not on-air, you can find her enjoying life with her fiancé, son, and dogs, exploring northern Mississippi’s restaurants and parks, or reconnecting with family and friends. Tune in for a conversation filled with purpose, passion, and the power of journalism to change lives.
 
#BehindTheMicWithMAB #MississippiBroadcasters #MABPodcast #DaniellaOropeza #WTVANews #MorningAnchor #AssistantNewsDirector #BroadcastJournalism #UniversityOfMississippi #HottyToddy #MississippiPride #LocalNewsMatters #BilingualJournalist #VoicesForTheVoiceless #JacksonWaterCrisis #COVID19Coverage #SpanishNewsCoverage #CommunityStorytelling #MississippiNews #WTVA #NewsLeadership #WomenInMedia #MediaLeaders #NewsAnchors #JournalismMatters #InspiringJournalists #OleMissAlumni #ClintonMississippi #MississippiStrong #PublicServiceThroughMedia
 
This episode is produced by Daniel Anderson at Audio Alchemy Productions.

On this electrifying episode of Behind the Mic with MAB, Amanda Fontaine sits down with Cash Matlock, the award-winning news director who’s shaking up Mississippi media. At just 28, Cash oversees news content for ten radio stations under Digio Strategies, where he blends sharp journalism with cinematic storytelling to deliver news that actually connects.
From earning the 2024 MAB Radio Rookie of the Year title to dominating the 2025 awards circuit with first-place wins in Breaking News and Severe Weather Coverage, Cash isn’t just making headlines—he’s rewriting how they’re made. He’s also the mind behind the Queen City Newsfeed, a digital news platform that exploded to over 27,000 followers in its first year.
Amanda dives deep into his journey from small-town reporter to multimedia powerhouse, his bold approach to community storytelling, and the passion driving his mission to modernize local journalism for the next generation.
This episode is a must-listen for anyone who believes the future of news should be just as dynamic as the people it serves. 
#BehindTheMicWithMAB #AmandaFontaine #CashMatlock #MississippiMedia #RadioJournalism #NewsInnovation #MultimediaStorytelling #LocalJournalism #BreakingNews #SevereWeatherCoverage #DigitalNews #QueenCityNewsfeed #MediaAwards #JournalismRevolution #FutureOfNews #PodcastEpisode #MediaInfluencer #CommunityStorytelling #RadioAwards #ModernJournalism 
 
This episode is produced by Daniel Anderson at Audio Alchemy Productions.

Tune in to an inspiring episode of Behind the Mic with MAB as host Amanda Fontaine sits down with the dynamic Keaundria Milloy, a trailblazing multimedia journalist and weekend anchor at WDAM 7 News in Mississippi. From her humble beginnings in Mount Olive to becoming a recognized voice in Mississippi media, Keaundria shares her incredible journey, her passion for storytelling, and the challenges she’s overcome along the way. Discover how her dedication, education, and love for news are shaping the future of journalism in Mississippi—and beyond! Whether you're an aspiring journalist or a news enthusiast, this episode is packed with motivation, insights, and insider tips. Don’t miss it!
 
#BehindTheMic #MississippiJournalism #WomenInMedia #Trailblazer #InspiringStories #MediaMatters #JournalismJourney #MABPodcast #NewsInnovators #FutureJournalists
This episode is produced by Daniel Anderson at Audio Alchemy Productions.

In this heartfelt episode of Behind The Mic with MAB, Amanda Fontaine sits down with journalist Ross McLeod to reflect on his impactful journey at WTOK in Meridian and the exciting new path ahead at WDAM in Hattiesburg. From long days at the Neshoba County Fair to breaking local stories that mattered, Ross opens up about the lessons he’s learned, the people who’ve shaped his career, and why community-driven storytelling remains at the heart of his work.
As he transitions into his new role as evening co-anchor at WDAM, Ross shares what he’s most excited about, how his background in crime, government, and real estate reporting will evolve, and what viewers can expect from his continued commitment to telling stories that make a difference in Mississippi.
Whether you’re a journalism junkie or just love hearing about career pivots with purpose, this episode is packed with gratitude, insight, and inspiration.
#BehindTheMicWithMAB #RossMcLeod #MississippiNews #WTOK #WDAM #HattiesburgNews #LocalJournalism #MeridianMS #NewsAnchorLife #AmandaFontaine #BroadcastJourney #CareerTransition #CommunityStorytelling
 
This episode is produced by Daniel Anderson at Audio Alchemy Productions. 

In this episode of Behind the Mic with MAB, Amanda Fontaine sits down with Yolanda Singleton — a woman who's done so much more than most of us could imagine. Yolanda shares her story, from being a proud mom and nurse to becoming a trailblazer in the music and entertainment scene here in Mississippi. She’s also a familiar voice on our airwaves, as she co-hosts Coffee and Conversations on WMPR 90.1 FM.
Yolanda talks about how she’s worked hard to bring big-name artists to Jackson, all while breaking down barriers as a woman in a mostly male industry. Her passion for her city, her culture, and her community really shines through as she shares her efforts to support local artists, promote Southern Soul music, and create opportunities for others. She also reflects on her historic moment as the first out-of-state Queen of the Mystic Krewe of Femme Fatale — a highlight she’s incredibly proud of.
Throughout the conversation, Yolanda discusses her vision for Jackson’s future — how she’s working to make the city a must-stop for national acts and how she’s inspiring other women to get involved in the industry. It’s a story of perseverance, passion, and making a real difference.
Tune in to hear her talk about overcoming challenges, building a network across states, and why she believes investing in culture and community is the key to growth. This episode is all about chasing your dreams and lifting others along the way.
 
Topics We Cover:
Yolanda’s journey from nursing to running a music and event company
The challenges she faced as a woman in a male-dominated space
The rise of Southern Soul and why it matters for Mississippi
How she’s building partnerships outside of Mississippi to bring bigger shows here
Her work in community service and advocacy
Her experience on air with Cocktails and Conversations
The importance of supporting local culture and economy
Making history with Mardi Gras and inspiring women in entertainment
 
 
#BehindTheMicWithMAB #YolandaSingleton #MississippiMusic #WomenInMusic #CommunityLeader #SouthernSoul #JacksonMS #MusicPromotion #WomenInBusiness #Inspiration #CulturalPride #Mentorship #MusicIndustry #EconomicGrowth
This episode is produced by Daniel Anderson at Audio Alchemy Productions. 

In this episode, Amanda Fontaine interviews Joey Barnes, a veteran journalist with nearly 20 years of experience reporting in North Mississippi and West Alabama. Explore Joey's journey from intern to news director at WCBI, and hear about his impactful stories—from covering natural disasters and political events to shaping state legislation. Additionally, Amanda and Joey discuss the recent tornado outbreak, inmate executions, flying with Thunderbirds, career experiences, and more. Discover how Joey's deep connections to the region enrich his storytelling and dedication to the community.
Click Here for all audio, video, and social media links!
https://linktr.ee/MABPodcast
 
#BehindTheMic #MABPodcast #JoeyBarnes #WCBI #LocalNews #JournalismJourney #PodcastInterview
 
 
This episode is produced by Daniel Anderson at Audio Alchemy Productions.

In this episode, Amanda Fontaine welcomes the legendary Hank Price, a media visionary with over four decades of leadership in television and digital media. Hank shares his remarkable journey from consulting and writing to serving as President & General Manager at major networks like WVTM 13 and WBBM-TV. Tune in as they explore Hank's insights on managing today's news media, leadership in the evolving media landscape, and his inspiring career tips. Don’t miss this deep dive into the world of media excellence!
 
Hank Price’s Books!
Managing Today's News Media; Audience First
https://a.co/d/hgKElTe 
Leadership in Post Christian America: Using the Bible To Navigate Modern Business
https://a.co/d/exbX3Jy
Leading Local Television
https://a.co/d/5DqONfs
 
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#BehindTheMic #MediaLeadership #HankPrice #PodcastEpisode #MediaInnovation #Television #Journalism #LeadershipJourney #MediaExperts
 
 
This episode is produced by Daniel Anderson at Audio Alchemy Productions. 

In this episode, Amanda Fontaine sits down with Howard Ballou, a revered figure in broadcast journalism with over 30 years of experience. Howard shares his journey through the industry, highlighting his numerous accolades, including prestigious awards for his impactful documentaries and reporting. From his induction into the Mississippi Associated Press Broadcasters Hall of Fame to his active role in community service, Howard's commitment to journalism and his community shines through. Join us as he discusses the evolution of news reporting, the importance of integrity in journalism, and his vision for the future of the field. Listen anytime wherever you get your podcasts!
 
#BehindTheMic #Podcast #BroadcastJournalism #HowardBallou #JournalismExcellence #CommunityService #NewsInnovation #WLBT #MississippiAssociationofBroadcasters
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This episode is produced by Daniel Anderson at Audio Alchemy Productions.

Welcome to Behind the Mic with MAB, where we dive deep into the stories behind the voices you hear on the airwaves. I’m Amanda Fontaine, Executive Director of the MAB and your host.  Today, I have a very special guest— Miss Hannah Lane! You’ve heard her on US96.3’s Nate & Traci Morning Show, and she’s also a powerhouse content creator shaping the sound and style of radio in Mississippi.  On top of that, she’s the host of her own amazing podcast, bringing fresh perspectives and great conversations to the mic.
But that’s not all—Hannah is also the very first mentee of the MAB’s Mentoring and Inspiring Women in Radio program, and I am so honored to be her mentor. Her journey in the industry is nothing short of inspiring, from interning at 100.7 The Tiger to earning a key role on a popular morning show and recently adding the distinction of being one of Radio Ink’s 30 and Under Superstars.
In this episode, we’ll explore Hannah’s journey—how she went from an eager intern to a dynamic voice in country radio, the challenges she’s faced, and what fuels her passion for connecting with audiences. Plus, we’ll talk about social media’s role in radio and her advice for aspiring broadcasters.
So, if you’ve ever dreamed of being on the air, or you just love a good behind-the-scenes story, you don’t want to miss this. Let’s jump in!
 
This episode is produced by Daniel Anderson at Audio Alchemy Productions.

In this premiere episode of Behind the Mic, we sit down with Wilson Stribling, a veteran journalist with over 20 years in Mississippi media. From anchoring at WLBT to covering historic events like Hurricane Katrina, Wilson has witnessed firsthand the evolution of journalism. We’ll discuss his journey from Ole Miss to the anchor desk, his most unforgettable reporting moments, and where he sees the future of broadcasting heading. Beyond the newsroom, Wilson shares insights on leadership, storytelling, and the power of communication. Tune in for an inside look at the world of journalism with one of Mississippi’s most trusted voices.
 
#Podcast #Broadcasting #Journalism #WilsonStribling #MississippiMedia #WLBT #NewsAnchor #BehindTheMic
This episode is produced by Daniel Anderson at Audio Alchemy Productions.