Best DRTV Podcasts (2026)

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The year 2025, a TV shopping industry year in review 19:31

Play Pause

21d ago19:31

19:31

As 2025 winds down, we're rolling back the clock on one of the wildest years the television shopping world has seen. From headline-making shakeups to unexpected triumphs, QVC, HSN, and the entire industry have served up a year packed with drama, reinvention, and a few eyebrow-raising moments. And today, we've got a very special guest to help us unp…

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Deep dive into the history of CVN - Cable Value Network 19:49

1M ago19:49

19:49

On this edition of Are We On The Air?© We're taking a deep dive into one of television's great forgotten stories — the rise and fall of the Cable Value Network. For three short years in the late 1980s, CVN was the shopping channel to beat — bold, ambitious, and ahead of its time. But behind the flashing graphics and on-air deals lay a story of rapi…

1
Isomers moves to HSN 27:22

2M ago27:22

27:22

On this episode, the always-inspiring Manuela Marcheggiani by to share the inside scoop on her next big adventure — taking her legendary Isomers brand to a brand-new home, HSN! After decades at another network, she's ready for a fresh chapter, and she's bringing her brilliant scientific mind (and a few beauty secrets) along for the ride. Plus, our …

1
ShopHQ is back, and HSN changes 23:38

2M ago23:38

23:38

It's official — Season 5 of Are We On The Air?© is underway. In this episode, we dive into two fascinating developments shaking up the home shopping world. First: what's really happening at ShopHQ? The network vanished from the airwaves, but like a phoenix reborn, it's back — and the story behind its return is one you'll want to hear. Then, we turn…

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But Wait, there's more! with Joey Mazzant 36:07

6M ago36:07

36:07

Special Edition Alert! Buckle up for a wild ride on this episode of "Are We On The Air?©" as Shawn sits down with the one and only Joey Mazzant—social media wizard, Orlando tourism guru, and all-around powerhouse of personality! From skyrocketing his career through smart, savvy social media moves to becoming the go-to guy for everything travel and …

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Legacy Fundraising 13:19

7M ago13:19

13:19

In our latest podcast, WPNC Fundraising Strategy Director Hannah Wallis and sector legacy expert Gail Cookson discuss legacies – and what charities need to do now, to secure this vital income stream for the future.By WPNC and goDonate

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Part II of A closer look at QVC with two of it's founders 30:13

7M ago30:13

30:13

In this can't-miss Part 2 of our deep dive into QVC history and its future, we're back with Marv Segel—son of QVC founder Joseph Segel—and the legendary original host Paul Kelley. We kick things off with a nostalgic (and slightly spicy) look at the early QVC days—before guests, before glitz. Was it better back then? Paul shares behind-the-scenes st…

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A closer look at QVC with two of it's founders 37:23

7M ago37:23

37:23

In this episode, the drama behind the glittering screens of QVC takes center stage. Your host, the always insightful Shawn Wilsie, is joined by two heavyweights from the world of televised retail: Marvin Segel, son of QVC's legendary founder, and Paul Kelley, one of the network's original on-air personalities. Together, these industry insiders rewi…

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TV Upcycling 17:51

8M ago17:51

17:51

Hear Polly Jones, Creative Director WPNC and Maria Phillips, Director of TV and Film WPNC, talk about the huge advantages of TV Upcycling footage and 6 wonderful tips of how to do it.By WPNC and goDonate

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Why is Minnesota such a great home for talent? 38:52

8M ago38:52

38:52

From QVC icons to comedy greats, a surprising number of stars in the TV shopping world—and beyond—have roots in the Land of 10,000 Lakes. In this episode, host Shawn Wilsie dives into the mystery: What is it about Minnesota that produces so much on-air talent? Joining him is Tom Oszman, media historian and founder of TC Media Now, the go-to archive…

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It's over for ShopHQ and Steve Sedahl from "Let's Bowl" 39:25

8M ago39:25

39:25

Buckle up for Part Two of our conversation with the always entertaining Steve Sedahl! This episode dives into the wild world of two lesser-known TV shopping networks Steve worked at — stories you definitely haven't heard before. Then, we get into what everyone's been waiting for: how Steve landed a role on Comedy Central's cult classic Let's Bowl, …

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Steve Sedahl from CVN, ShopNBC and "Let's Bowl" fame 30:28

9M ago30:28

30:28

Everyone knows QVC and HSN, but back in the late 1980s, the dominant name in the world of TV shopping was the Cable Value Network—better known as CVN. On this episode, we rewind to 1986 and sit down with original CVN host Steve Sedahl. Best known to some as "Chopper" from the cult comedy series Let's Bowl, Steve has enjoyed a long, dynamic career a…

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QVC/HSN layoffs announced 20:14

9M ago20:14

20:14

Breaking News: QVC/HSN has just announced that 900 employees are being let go as part of a major downsizing. So, how is ShopHQ still thriving and staying ahead in the game? Plus, we're honoring the legacy of an infomercial icon, who we recently lost.By Shawn Wilsie

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Security update: PCI-DSS 4.0 18:41

10M ago18:41

18:41

If your charity uses Google Tag Manager (GTM) to manage scripts like Google Analytics or Facebook tracking on your donation pages, the upcoming PCI-DSS 4.0 requirements could significantly affect your compliance responsibilities. From April, new standards will require stricter monitoring and management of these scripts, and many organisations may b…

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QVC/HSN yearly results and more conversation with Bob Circosta 24:34

10M ago24:34

24:34

The latest annual results for QVC/HSN are in, and let's just say they're not looking pretty—that's the shocking first chapter of today's podcast. But don't worry, we've got something special in store after that! The legendary Bob Circosta returns to the show for an unforgettable walk down memory lane, reflecting on the golden days of HSN—the Home S…

1
DRTV Shooting for Authenticity 34:25

10M ago34:25

34:25

Maria Phillips and Bob Nash debate shooting DRTV ads and retaining the authenticity. WPNC is a well-established response agency based in the UK and working with many major charities. To find out more about WPNC, visit wpnc.agency Please contact us any time on [email protected] WPNC and goDonate

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Looking back at HSN with Bob Circosta 30:58

10M ago30:58

30:58

Get ready for a blast from the past as we welcome Bob Circosta, the original HSN host (Home Shopping Club), to the podcast! With the iconic home of HSN in Tampa/St. Petersburg closing its doors and relocating to West Chester, PA, Bob takes us on a fun, behind-the-scenes journey. He'll share the fascinating origins of the network, the moment they re…

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Rising star Aaron Kessler joins the podcast 15:18

10M ago15:18

15:18

In part two of our exclusive interview with Aaron Kessler—dubbed "the future of the TV shopping industry"—he opens up to Shawn about his childhood and the experiences that shaped him into the dynamic force he is today, so watch out QVC and HSN. But that's not all! Food lovers in Minneapolis and St. Paul, you'll definitely want to tune in—Aaron's sh…

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HSN operations moving and Aaron Kessler from ShopHQ joins the show 29:11

11M ago29:11

29:11

Qurate Retail Group, the powerhouse behind both QVC and HSN, has made a bold move: they're shutting down the iconic HSN campus, which has been the heart of home shopping for decades. In 2025, all operations will be consolidated at QVC's state-of-the-art "Studio Park" facility in Pennsylvania. What does this major shift mean for the future of HSN an…

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Manuela Marcheggiani of Isomers Skincare 30:55

11M ago30:55

30:55

Get ready for a behind-the-scenes look into the world of TV shopping and business innovation! In this episode, Manuela Marcheggiani, the co-founder and CEO of Isomers Skincare, sits down with host Shawn Wilsie to unravel the secrets of getting a product onto the screens of TV shopping channels. With over 30 years of experience working with giants l…

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ShopHQ lays off most of staff 14:33

1y ago14:33

14:33

On December 18th 2024, most of the staff of ShopHQ was notified they were going to be out of a job in 60 days. That's the focus of this special episode.By Shawn Wilsie

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Host and Guests who have passed away, hosts who are leaving, and a network which went away. 22:51

1y ago22:51

22:51

After a three-month hiatus, the podcast is back, ready to dive into the latest buzz from the world of shopping networks, with a special spotlight on QVC. In this episode, we reflect on the heartbreaking losses of two beloved figures: the legendary Larry Muzzy, former Home Shopping Club host, and the iconic Chuck Woolery, famed game show host and QV…

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Optimising donation landing pages 12:52

1y ago12:52

12:52

Optimising donation pages can make dramatic changes to the income that is generated – potentially worth tens of thousands of pounds. Vicky Reeves and Cheryl Albutt discuss how some simple steps can make a big difference. goDonate is a market-leading innovator of online donation platforms. To find out more about goDonate, visit godonate.digital Plea…

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From Traditional to Online Media 27:40

1y ago27:40

27:40

Looking to improve your social media fundraising? Hear from the CEO, Joanna Reynolds, how a major UK publisher transitioned from traditional recruitment channels to on-line with stunning results. WPNC is a well-established response agency based in the UK and working with many major charities. To find out more about WPNC, visit wpnc.agency Please co…

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Cryptocurrency Donations 8:50

1y ago8:50

8:50

Are you ready to make the most of crypto? Vicky Reeves and Cheryl Albutt get to grips with this exciting new way to fundraise. goDonate is a market-leading innovator of online donation platforms. To find out more about goDonate, visit godonate.digital. Please contact us any time on [email protected].…

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DRTV: our clients' FAQ 21:56

1y ago21:56

21:56

Maria Phillips and Bob Nash debate the questions most commonly asked by our DRTV clients. Expect strongly-held opinions based on many years experience from our two creative leaders. WPNC is a well-established response agency based in the UK and working with many major charities. To find out more about WPNC, visit wpnc.agency Please contact us any t…

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Behavioural Science in Fundraising 21:56

1y ago21:56

21:56

Can we apply the principles of behavioural science to our fundraising to make a real, measurable difference? Vicky Reeves and Cheryl Allbutt from goDonate discuss some fascinating insights, simple, practical steps we can all take as well as some real-world case studies. goDonate is a market-leading innovator of online donation platforms. To find ou…

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Future of Direct Mail 21:56

1y ago21:56

21:56

John Watson and John Eversley discuss the role of Direct Mail in today's fundraising marketplace. Does it still have a meaningful role? And how can it best be used for outstanding results? WPNC is a well-established response agency based in the UK and working with many major charities. To find out more about WPNC, visit wpnc.agency Please contact u…

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The explosive rise of Invicta on ShopHQ (ShopNBC) 27:12

1+ y ago27:12

27:12

In the thrilling premiere of Season 4, we dive into a seismic shift shaking the TV shopping world: Invicta's dramatic departure from ShopHQ after 22 years to join forces with JTV. Join Shawn Wilsie as he unravels the captivating story behind Invicta's meteoric rise and explores how this high-stakes move could spell major changes for the future of a…

1
Invicta watches leaves ShopHQ for JTV 14:32

1+ y ago14:32

14:32

After nearly two decades of dazzling audiences on ShopHQ, ShopNBC, and ValueVision, Invicta Watches is shaking things up by shifting their shows and dazzling timepieces to JTV. In this episode of "Are We On the Air?©," we dive into the potential impact of this big move on both networks and explore the intriguing reasons behind Invicta's decision. B…

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Listener questions and comments 26:24

1+ y ago26:24

26:24

On the thrilling season finale of "Are We On The Air?©," Shawn delves deep into the burning questions that have kept listeners on the edge of their seats. Amidst tackling these queries, the discussion evolves into a lively exploration of what truly defines a stellar QVC/HSN host, while shining a spotlight on the pivotal role of the producer. This e…

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So you want to be a show host 29:30

1+ y ago29:30

29:30

Being a show host on QVC or HSN might seem glamorous—just a few hours on-air, then off to relax, right? Not quite! On this podcast, we peel back the curtain to reveal everything viewers don't see. It's these behind-the-scenes moments that determine who thrives and who falters in the business. Later, we'll play a clip from HSN showing how the price …

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Where did my favorite show host go? 23:05

1+ y ago23:05

23:05

If you've ever watched a TV shopping network and suddenly your favorite host has vanished. It can leave you wondering what happened and no explanation is usually given. In this episode, we look at the hows and whys of show hosts disappearing from your favorite networks. Video of Mary Beth Roe announcing her retirement from QVC…

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ShopHQ comings/goings and part II of the forgotten shopping networks 30:58

1+ y ago30:58

30:58

Step into the intriguing world of retail drama with our podcast as we kick off with the jaw-dropping antics of a QVC host, rumored to have uttered something utterly absurd. But that's just the tip of the iceberg! Next, we whisk you through the bustling corridors of ShopHQ, catching you up on all the latest buzz, before delving into the sales saga o…

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QVC/HSN Q1 results, Shop HQ happenings, what the host says vs what the viewer hears 24:04

1+ y ago24:04

24:04

Step into the captivating world of retail dynamics as we dive headfirst into the latest buzz swirling around QVC/HSN, revealing the intriguing results stemming from its parent company, Qurate. But hold onto your seats, folks, because this isn't just your average rundown – it's a rollercoaster ride of analysis that'll leave you on the edge of your s…

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The obscure TV shopping networks of the 80s 31:26

1+ y ago31:26

31:26

Once upon a time, there were daring networks that boldly proclaimed, "We've got this!" Armed with ambition and determination, they ventured into the ever-evolving landscape of television commerce. Yet, despite their valiant efforts, their journeys ultimately led them to fade into the abyss of oblivion. Some bid farewell with a resounding fanfare, w…

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The best TV Pitchmen of all time 30:19

1+ y ago30:19

30:19

Step into the mesmerizing world of salesmanship as we embark on a thrilling exploration of the greatest pitchmasters to ever grace the stage. Breaking barriers and defying stereotypes, these titans of persuasion transcended gender norms, leaving an indelible mark on the fabric of advertising history. From the bustling boardwalks of Atlantic City to…

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The Shawn Show, AKA shameless promotion of his YouTube page 7:48

1+ y ago7:48

7:48

This show is all about the "Are We On The Air?" YouTube page, and some new content which is now there. The page now features more clips from obscure shopping networks. Ever hear of STN Shop Television Network? How about USA Direct?By Shawn Wilsie

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Infomercial and Shopping Network's Sales Tricks They Use 29:30

2y ago29:30

29:30

Step into the captivating world where the time-honored traditions of Infomercial and TV Shopping networks echo the charismatic pitchmen of Atlantic City's bustling boardwalks in the glamorous 1940s. Unveil the secrets behind the enduring allure of phrases like "but wait, there's more!" and the tantalizing dance of price drops, as we delve into the …

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QVC/HSN/ShopHQ year in review 25:06

2y ago25:06

25:06

Embark on a journey through the riveting highs, heart-wrenching lows, and cinematic "creations" (????) birthed by the powerhouse trio of QVC, HSN, and ShopHQ in the exhilarating year of 2023. From dazzling successes to humbling setbacks, we dissect the strategies that soared and those that stumbled. As the curtain rises on 2024, what lies on the ho…

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When TV shopping meets Playboy magazine 19:28

2y ago19:28

19:28

It's the late 1980s and the attitude is "TV shopping is easy to do", so everyone does it. What happens when the "Playboy Channel" cable network decides to try a tv shopping show? I think you know the answer...By Shawn Wilsie

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Bankruptcy for iMedia/ShopHQ 32:38

2+ y ago32:38

32:38

The show begins with a tribute to the recent passing of one of the industry pioneers, then the conversation turns to a stream of consciousness chat about what happened to ValueVision/ShopNBC/ShopHQ/EvineLive/Evine/ShopHQ which caused the bankruptcy of its parent company, iMedia.By Shawn Wilsie

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Addressing QVC comments, and a look at Sune. 29:59

2+ y ago29:59

29:59

This show is dedicated to addressing the comments left, and questions asked about the TV shopping industry on social media, after episodes of this podcast. From drinking wine, to shipping costs, to the dress codes, many different topics are touched on. Then a look at the new shopping app Sune, which might be doing it right, before closing with two …

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QVC Q1, TV Shopping and the Law, and much more 24:21

2+ y ago24:21

24:21

A busy show today as a series of podcasts about TV shopping and the law begins, QVC/HSN results, ShopHQ stock, and the death of the professional broadcaster in TV shopping and on television in general.By Shawn Wilsie

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iMedia/ShopHQ results for 2022 16:08

2+ y ago16:08

16:08

Could this really be it? The press release and CEO call regarding the iMedia results for fiscal year 2022?By Shawn Wilsie

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iMedia/ShopHQ year-end results, take 3 16:35

2+ y ago16:35

16:35

It's the big day, when iMedia FINALLY announces their 2022 sales. Are you a betting person?By Shawn Wilsie

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The Infomercial Star who is out of jail, and starting a cult? 28:33

3y ago28:33

28:33

Jailed infomercial star Kevin Trudeau is out of jail, but managing to stay in the news. On this episode of "Are We On The Air" the present and future plans of Mr. Trudeau are examined. Then a presently popular infomercial is in the spotlight, and on the radar of at lest one Attorney General. Did I mention I've fallen and I can't get up?…

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Before it was ShopHQ, it was ValueVision 39:24

3y ago39:24

39:24

It's the second attempt at the numbers coming out for iMedia, the parent company of ShopHQ. Plus before it was ShopHQ/Evine/Evine Live/ShopHQ/ShopNBC it was ValueVision, and it's time for a look back at how it all started, on the TV station which launched "Mystery Science Theatre". Shawn will play some audio from ValueVision which hasn't been playe…

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Invicta and ShopHQ update part one 36:57

3y ago36:57

36:57

ShopHQ was scheduled to release their yearly numbers on March 22, so the show begins with a discussion of that. Following that is a look at why taking on-air phone calls can be a terrible idea, and when a show concept goes wrong. The remainder of the show looks at how marketing can affect a brands image, as several podcast listeners have asked abou…

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Part 2 on the state of QVC/HSN with Marvin Segel 28:01

3y ago28:01

28:01

Continuing the conversation about the bad news at QVC/HSN and what can be done, if anything, to right the ship. Son of QVC founder Joseph Segel, Marvin Segel, joins the show.By Shawn Wilsie