by Nika Carlson
Jim Sandberg is almost always fast-paced. He has bright red hair, a large and ready smile and he has everyone call him Jimbo. The 22-year-old is one of the many DJs at KWVA who aren't students.
Jim Sandberg broadcasts "indie soul" live from KWVA on "The Jimbo Show."
Go to the KWVA homepage and listen to the station live
The FCC requires that radio stations act as a service to the community. At KWVA part of that is done through broadcasting public service announcements — the way many stations fulfill the requirement — but the station also opens its doors to any community member who is interested in learning about radio.
Sandberg started broadcasting his unique blend of indie rock and soul on "The Jimbo Show" on KWVA in winter 2002. He was a student at the time, living in the dorms and envying his friend the radio personality.
"My buddy D-Moe had a radio show, and I came in and had a blast and decided I needed a radio show," Sandberg said as he danced around the tiny broadcasting studio. He turned up the funk he was playing during his 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday show.
"His show was revolutionary," he said of his friend. It had skits and characters and regular guests. "There'll never be another show like that."
Sandberg is obviously trying, though. He's attempted gimmicks before, like giving himself and a friend for blind dates. He got a date. Mostly, however, he relies on himself.
He started broadcasting from a midnight spot on Saturdays.