Longtime Local Business Leader Launches Community Talk Show for Tuscaloosa

A longtime Tuscaloosa business leader is taking to local airwaves with a public affairs talk show highlighting some of the most interesting people and initiatives in West Alabama.

Johnnie Aycock is known throughout the region for his almost three-decade stint as President and CEO of the Chamber of Commerce of West Alabama. His co-host, Jann Simpson, is a manager for a local real estate firm with experience singing and entertaining.

Together, Aycock and Simpson are Johnnie and Jann, the hosts of the Noon Show on Townsquare Media Tuscaloosa's Catfish 100.1.

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For an hour every weekday, the duo interviews guest experts about local issues and features.

"The Noon Show’s purpose is to inform, inspire and influence the community, with a special emphasis on the nonprofit sector," Aycock told the Thread, which is also a Townsquare brand. "The goal is to build community one story at a time."

The show launched last month, and already Aycock and Simpson have interviewed a couple dozen leaders in local business, government, the nonprofit sector, law enforcement and other locals of note like author Russell Estes.

Right now, the show is available daily on the Catfish 100.1 signal on FM radios and also streamed digitally on the Catfish mobile app so listeners can tune in anywhere. A podcast for later listening is also in the works.

The show is also recorded daily in the studio, not voicetracked or recorded, with guests taking questions in real-time, and Aycock said he won't exclusively throw softballs - guests can expect tough questions if the interview calls for it.

"The Noon Show features live guests daily from all walks of life. We look for unique, important stories that create awareness of what’s happening in the community, bring attention to causes and the vital work of nonprofits, emphasize the vast menu of activities available to the citizens, and issues that need in depth conversation," Aycock said. "We interview decision-makers, opinion-makers, and individuals making a difference in the community."

Aycock said even with other live shows on Townsquare stations every weekday, his work with Simpson is unique in the area.

"The Noon Show is the only radio talk show in the market with our format, purpose and emphasis on community on a daily basis," Aycock said. "Audience engagement and participation is strongly encouraged."

Listeners and potential guests can reach out to learn more at thenoonshow101.1@gmail.com.