Finding A ‘Radio That Is Just A Radio’ In The Digital Age

VPM | By Barry Gordemer and Jessica Pupovac

Published February 13, 2015 at 8:32 AM EST

Updated November 30, 2023

The National Capital Radio and Television Museum in Bowie, Md., is home to radios dating back to the 1920s.

The United Nations has declared Friday World Radio Day in celebration of radio’s unique status as a “simple and inexpensive” technology with the power to reach even the most remote, marginalized communities.

But we wondered — in this digital age, how hard is it to find a simple, inexpensive radio?

Our journey took us to several stores in Washington, D.C., in search of a portable and affordable radio, as well as to the National Capital Radio and Television Museum in Bowie, Md.

You can hear about our hunt for old-school radio, at the audio link above.

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Barry Gordemer

Barry Gordemer is an award-winning producer, editor, and director for NPR's Morning Edition. He's helped produce and direct NPR coverage of two Persian Gulf wars, eight presidential elections, the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks, and hurricanes Katrina and Harvey. He's also produced numerous profiles of actors, musicians, and writers.

His career in radio spans more than 30 years, beginning at NPR member station WFAE in Charlotte, North Carolina, and includes stops at Minnesota Public Radio and A Prairie Home Companion.

In 2000, Gordemer received special recognition from the George Foster Peabody Awards for his long-time service to Morning Edition.

Gordemer is also the founder of Handemonium, a company that designs and creates puppets for television and film.

In 2000, Gordemer performed on the CD Dreamosauraus. It received a Grammy nomination for "Best Musical Album for Kids."

See stories by Barry Gordemer