Baltimore Public Media confirmed that acclaimed journalist and University of Baltimore professor D. Watkins will debut a new public‑affairs program on WYPR 88.1 FM. Titled “The Engagement,” the show will air Monday‑through‑Thursday at 11 a.m., with the first episode slated for Oct. 19.
Local focus and mission
President and CEO Craig Swagler said the series reflects the outlet’s commitment to “providing an essential public service that amplifies the voices of Baltimore and strengthens connections across our community.” Swagler added that Watkins brings an “authentic voice” rooted in the city, promising a trusted space where truth is not only required but celebrated.
Program format and content
“The Engagement” will be a news‑driven, multi‑platform conversation covering daily headlines, politics, arts, culture, and community issues. Beyond the on‑air broadcast, the program will offer ongoing opportunities for listeners to engage with the topics and the people behind them, moving between the studio, newsroom, and neighborhoods.
Wypr’s chief of content, Danyell Irby, highlighted that the show will “invite people from across Baltimore City, Baltimore County and the broader region into conversations that reflect the full mosaic of Maryland.” The format is designed to tackle tough questions, explore future possibilities, and keep the dialogue alive after the broadcast ends.
Watkins’ background
D. Watkins is a Baltimore native whose work has appeared in The New York Times, Esquire, The Guardian, and Rolling Stone. He co‑wrote Carmelo Anthony’s memoir “Where Tomorrows Aren’t Promised,” contributed to HBO’s series “We Own This City,” and served as executive producer of the Hulu film “Hoops, Hopes and Dreams.” His experience spans journalism, literature, television, film, and education.
Watkins said, “As we are fighting to survive this era of misinformation, I believe we’re going to make an honest attempt to continue the legacy of public radio by creating a space where the truth isn’t only required but celebrated.”
Schedule and additional programming
“The Engagement” will occupy the 11 a.m. slot Monday‑through‑Thursday. On Fridays, WYPR’s News Roundup, hosted by News Director Matt Bush, will move into the same time slot, ensuring a full week of local news and analysis for listeners.
The launch adds to WYPR’s growing slate of community‑focused programming and underscores the station’s role as Maryland’s NPR news outlet. Listeners can tune in on 88.1 FM or stream the show via WYPR’s website and mobile apps.
Original reporting: Baltimore Fishbowl — read the source article.
