Talk Radio is a lively radio (see entry under 1920s—TV and Radio in volume 2) format that features a host who takes calls on the air from listeners. Usually, the shows are politically oriented. The shows may include news and commentary from the host. Many—although not all—talk radio hosts are politically conservative. Their influence has helped empower many of their listeners, who have traditionally felt left out of the political process and believe the national media are liberally slanted. Talk radio has made a substantial impact in national and local politics. Hosts such as Rush Limbaugh (c. 1951–) can urge his fifteen million listeners (per week) to vote for certain politicians and support (or condemn) various causes.

Talk radio also encompasses "shock jocks" such as Howard Stern (1954–), as well as relationship advice from people such as Dr. Joy Browne (1944–; over five million listeners) and Dr...