Are We On The Air?

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 for decades of Twin Cities television. Tom shares fascinating stories and rare insights into the rise of Minnesota-born personalities—from the polished presence of Nancy Nelson to the unforgettable Louie Anderson. Whether you're a fan of vintage broadcasts, Minnesota history, or just curious about where TV legends come from, this episode is packed with nostalgia, surprises, and answers. TC Media Now

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, and what it was really like behind the scenes. But before the laughs, we touch on a somber note — the recent and unfortunate closure of Minnesota's own ShopHQ (formerly Evine, Evine Live, ShopNBC and ValueVIsion), and what it means for the many employees affected. It's a rollercoaster of stories, surprises, and showbiz nostalgia you won't want to miss! Financial Pizza podcast on Spotify Financial Pizza Podcast on Apple Podcasts  

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 across multiple TV shopping networks. Today, he shares stories from the earliest days of the industry—what it was like behind the cameras, the wild west days of live selling, and how it all laid the groundwork for the shopping channels we know today. Join us for a nostalgic look back with one of the voices who helped define an era. Financial Pizza podcast on Spotify Financial Pizza Podcast on Apple Podcasts

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. 

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 Shopping Network. Tune in for an emotional and nostalgic ride as we celebrate the moments that made HSN a household name!

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 realized they needed a bigger space, how the first hosts were chosen, and what makes legendary talents like Bobbi Ray Carter stand out. Tune in for stories, laughs, and all the juicy details you won't want to miss!

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 sharing some insider secrets that will have you hungry for more!

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 and its dedicated team members? We dive into the impact and explore what's next. But that's not all! Joining us is the dynamic Aaron Kessler, the charismatic host of ShopHQ, which is also making waves with the announcement that its TV operations will cease in late February 2025. Aaron brings his signature energy to the conversation as he shares his journey into the world of TV shopping, and reflects on the unique culture that has made ShopHQ such an extraordinary place to work. Don't miss this inside look at the changing landscape of TV shopping!

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 like ShopHQ, ShopNBC, and other global networks, Manuela's insights into the process are unmatched. But wait, there's more! Manuela also dives into the game-changing role of social media in modern business and how she leverages it to boost her brand. Plus, she shares the exciting story behind her new skincare line—created with the help of none other than her son! Tune in as the conversation shifts to the joys (and challenges) of working with family, and the vision behind this innovative new venture. It's a conversation packed with insider tips, entrepreneurial wisdom, and a dash of family magic. Don't miss it!

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. 

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 QVC guest. From there, we shift gears to examine what's in store for the shopping industry as we head into 2025. Major changes are on the horizon: another host is set to depart, QVC is placing a big bet on streaming, and—on a brighter note—we celebrate the 30th anniversary of Rick Domeier at QVC. It's a mix of bittersweet moments and exciting developments as the industry evolves.

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 an entire shopping network. Don't miss this eye-opening episode that reveals the secrets behind one of the biggest industry shake-ups in recent history!

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. But wait, there's morel—stick around as we also dissect the latest quarterly results for Qurate, the powerhouse parent company of QVC and HSN. Buckle up for an inside look at how these changes could ripple across the retail and broadcasting landscapes!

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 episode marks the grand culmination of season three, promising an electrifying return with season four slated for fall. And with a finger on the pulse of breaking news, rest assured, if any major events unfold, the show will make a swift and dramatic comeback!

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 game is making a dramatic comeback. And stick around until the end, where Shawn reveals his list of today's top hosts! Trust me, it's more intriguing than you'd imagine!  

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

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 of ShopLC. But wait, there's more! Brace yourself as we unravel the mysterious downfall of two forgotten retail giants: TelShop and STN - Shop Television Network. What secrets lie behind their demise? Join us as we embark on an investigative journey to uncover the groundbreaking strategies and fatal missteps that sealed their fates. Don't miss out on this thrilling retail rollercoaster ride!   http://www.youtube.com/@ShawnWilsie

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 seat, eagerly anticipating what comes next. And what about ShopHQ? While they may have been flying under the radar lately, we're not letting them slip through the cracks. Join us for a lightning-fast peek into the world of ShopHQ, uncovering any hidden gems or surprises that might be lurking just beneath the surface. But wait, there's more! Prepare to have your mind blown as we unravel the enigmatic mysteries of communication and the law. Ever heard the phrase "what you say may not be what the viewer hears"? Buckle up as we embark on a whirlwind lesson, exploring the fascinating interplay between words and interpretation, leaving you questioning everything you thought you knew about language and perception. So grab your popcorn and get ready for a show like no other, where every twist and turn promises to keep you on your toes until the very last moment. Welcome to the world of retail analysis and legal intrigue – it's going to be one wild ride!

They were the networks which thought "We can do this", and tried.  Alas, in the end, they went off the air.  Some with a fanfare, some just vanished.  Today a look back at CDN (Consumer Discount Network), Sky Merchant, The Caravan of Values, and the National Shopping Club.  If you're saying "I haven't heard of those", you're not alone.  Video can be found on the Shawn Wilsie youtube channel.  Tom Oszman's TC Media Now website Shawn Wilsie's youtube containing the clips played today and many more

Using the term in a gender neutral sense, the show looks at the best "pitchmen" of all time.  Some started on the boardwalks of Atlantic City, most were unknown, until their ability to sell took them to another level.  

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?  

One of the oldest things Infomercial and TV Shopping networks do, is actually taking a page from the pitchmen on the boardwalks in Atlantic city in the 1940s.  When you hear "but wait, there's more!" or see a price drop, it's a classic sales technique, which is examined on  this episode.  JTV and ShopLC still use them, but QVC, HSN and ShopHQ have given them up.  But there's a good case that these tricks, still work.  

A look back at the highlights, lowlights, and movies created by (???, whatever...) QVC, HSN, and ShopHQ in 2023.  What worked, what didn't work, and how does 2024 look for the industry?

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...

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.  

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 quick stories Shawn has from ShopNBC.  First he addresses the famous incident where he tossed a watch box around, and then answers the question "what ever happened to Johnny?"

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.  

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

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

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? 

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 played publicly since it first aired, and a look at how the company came closer than anyone on TV in being the online leader.  Also, a conversation about the listener reaction to the past three shows.   Shawn Wilsie's Youtube Channel 

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 about what is going on with how Invicta is presenting its product.  The show closes with a quick discussion of TikTok.   King Of Shower Beers TikTok

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.  

Nothing but bad news for TV shopping networks QVC and HSN, as they close their fiscal year.  Special guest Marvin Segel, son of QVC founder Joseph Segel, joins the show to unpack the disappointing sales numbers, and discuss the sad layoffs of 400 employees.     Joan Rivers salutes Joseph Segel  The Wellness Kitchenista

In the 1980s, television experienced a renewed interest in "Bingo" because of the direct-response connections.  Once Home Shopping Club (later known as HSN) took off, it was almost inevitable that someone merged the two ideas together, in this pre-QVC world.  For three months in late 1986, "Money Mania" was broadcast into 40 million homes.  What went wrong with an idea which looked amazing on paper?  That's our focus on this episode.  

The planned show, what some shopping networks are doing right, will begin after a very deep dive into what's going on with Qurate stock, the owner of QVC and HSN.  Plus, what might be a contender for worst holiday commercial of all-time.  The show closes with a sad farewell to a small business who tried very hard to make a go of it on Facebook Live.  

QVC is getting into making movies, could this be a mistake?  Plus a listen to a QVC host selling an iPad after telling you not to buy one before.  The ShopHQ numbers are out and they finally tell us where Shaq is.  All wrapped around a theme of Christmas and Santa is waiting for you to call him.  

This show is an entertaining jumble of what hosts of tv shopping networks should and shouldn't do, hosts leaving the industry, where some of your favorite hosts are going, a look at a small network out of Georgia doing big things, all bookended by children's TV shows.   We On The Air Podcast facebook page  

In this latest edition, a look at a brilliant hire by Qurate, one of the successful infomercials of 2022 is analyzed to show why it's successful, and the reveal of the podcasts new facebook page. link to Are We On The Air Podcast facebook page

Season two kicks off with a look at how the sales are going at QVC, HSN, and ShopHQ in the second quarter of their fiscal years.  QVC is making some changes, many of which were suggested on this very podcast in season one.  There are new hosts at QVC, one fewer at ShopHQ, and where is Shaq?  Plus a quick tribute to an amazing pet, for whom the production company is named after.  

In the finale to season one, the Quarate numbers for Q1 are out, and it isn't pretty.  Plus, the president of HSN sent an email to the customers, what did it say?  Shawn will tell you.  Then a look back at a very famous commercial from 1980, before we wrap up season one with some thoughts, comments, and plugs.  Season 2 will debut September 1st (roughly).    Cameraman Reys Kickstarter  Luling Watermelon Thump  

TV shopping meets facebook, in this episode which could also be explained by the old adage "everything old is new again".  Today Shawn examines the small businesses who are taking to facebook in a way, almost identical to how the founders of the tv shopping industry were doing it forty years ago.  

First there was TV, then cable TV, then OTT (over the top) TV and now it's all about CTV.  In this episode, Shawn looks at how the future of all the cable shopping networks could be in something similar to an app., which QVC is already using on AppleTV.  

For many, their introduction to the world of shopping on TV wasn't QVC, CVN or the Home Shopping Club, but the syndicated "Telephone Auction Shopping Program".  Auctioneer Chuck Huggins guided the viewer through a frenzied hour, which couldn't epitomize the 1980s more if it tried.  

Good friend of the show Marvin Segel, son of the man who created QVC Joe Segel, returns to discuss the current state of affairs at QVC/HSN, in a very frank and honest discussion with host Shawn Wilsie.  

What can go wrong when you're doing a live show, from a remote location?  Only everything.  While some networks over-produce what they do, some under produce.  We'll listen to what happens when you don't plan enough; and when you send a guest to work with a celebrity guest on location, and leave your star host back in the studio, alone.  But first, more of the listener-voted annoying commercials.  (don't worry, this episode if free of Hy-Vee commercials) 

The parent company of QVC and HSN is going through some tough times.  Today the focus is on the hosts of the networks, and if their role needs to be updated.  Plus, a quick "distraction".  

The segment which was started on the last episode, concludes on this one and Shawn almost loses his mind.  Then an examination of the yearly numbers for QVC.  The show closes with another example of the annoying commercials, the listener voted on.  

Could a regional grocery store chain from the north, have some of the most annoying TV commercials running today?  It's a distinct possibility, as "Are We On The Air?" begins a look a the commercials that the listeners selected.  

Have you checked your zip code?  Well you might want to listen to this epiosde of "Are We On The Air?" first. 

If you listen to QVC/HSN, the TV shopping sales are imploding.  If your network name starts with "Shop", it's a very different world.  In this episode, Shawn evaluates the very different sales results in Q4 from the networks, and then offers his advice to QVC on how to easily improve it's numbers, with four basic things it's doing wrong.