Working in sports radio comes with its own set of challenges and stories. Randy Merkin, hailing from Deerfield, has shared these tales through his latest book, Beyond the Glass: More Stories from a Sports Radio Producer. This sequel to his initial publication, Behind the Glass, invites readers on a 162-page exploration of Merkin’s career path, starting from his high school days at Homewood-Flossmoor.
Currently, Merkin serves as the executive producer for Audacy Corporation’s BetMGM and contributes to BetRivers, a sports betting information service. Despite his hectic schedule, he managed to pen a second collection of experiences, choosing a more personal storytelling style this time. “This one is a bit more personal,” Merkin mentioned, contrasting it with his first book’s focus.
Early Career Ventures
Merkin began his professional journey at a small radio station in Platteville, Wisconsin, earning $12,000 annually before advancing to larger platforms in Chicago. His career highlights include securing interviews with notable sports figures, showcasing his determination in the field.
A standout moment came in June 2010. Merkin interviewed Major League Baseball umpire Jim Joyce, following Joyce’s erroneous call that denied Detroit Tigers pitcher Armando Galarraga a perfect game. With little information on Joyce’s location, Merkin managed to conduct this high-profile interview, segments of which were broadcast on national television. “Getting that story on is what being a producer is all about,” he said.
Memorable Encounters
Another significant achievement occurred in 2014. Merkin orchestrated an on-air reunion between Mike Eruzione, the captain of the 1980 U.S. Olympic hockey team, and broadcaster Al Michaels. Despite time constraints, the two reminisced live, providing listeners with engaging storytelling. “That’s a producer’s dream,” Merkin expressed, emphasizing the joy of facilitating organic conversations.
Merkin’s book, while detailing interactions with figures like Dennis Rodman and Charles Barkley, also acts as a manual for success in sports radio production. He stresses the importance of relationship-building, a skill transferrable across industries. “It’s about relationships,” Merkin explained, noting that trust is key to success in any field.
Personal Reflections
Amid joyful recollections, Merkin reflects on pivotal individuals in his life, including his late parents, high school mentors, and Jeff Dickerson—a close friend who passed away from cancer in 2021. He acknowledges the highs and lows of his career amidst ongoing economic challenges in the radio industry.
Merkin does not dissuade aspiring sports radio professionals. Instead, he advises having a backup plan in case things don’t pan out. “Go for it and shoot your shot,” he advised, emphasizing versatility.
Balancing professional and personal life, Merkin lives with his wife, Beth, and their children, Brett and Dana. As he considers writing a third book, Merkin looks back at his beginnings, recognizing his passion for sports despite lacking athletic prowess. He aimed to excel as much in sports radio production as athletes do in their fields, aspiring to be, in his words, “the Michael Jordan of producing.”
Daniel I. Dorfman freelances for Pioneer Press.