Indiana Broadcast History Archive

Chad Carrothers is an award-winning journalist and veteran communications professional with extensive experience in public relations and citizen journalism. Born in Kittery, Maine, and raised in Wabash, Indiana, and later Nashville, Tennessee, Carrothers discovered his passion for journalism at an early age. Inspired by Esquire magazine and the Challenger Space Shuttle, he set out on a path to become one of the youngest editors in the industry. His career began at WFHB, a community radio station in Bloomington, Indiana, where he made a lasting impact as News Director. He later transitioned into nonprofit healthcare communications while continuing to contribute to independent radio and public broadcasting. 

Nam Hyun Kim interviewed Chad Carrothers for the IBHA in 2024. 

Early Life and Inspirations 

Carrothers' fascination with journalism began after he witnessed the Challenger Space Shuttle explosion when he was in fifth grade. He also felt inspired by journalists like Tom Brokaw who helped the public navigate the explosion and other national tragedies. 

 His early writing talent was recognized through contests such as The Daughters of the American Revolution and The Law Day Essay Contest. However, it was Esquire magazine that solidified his ambition to enter the field. By age 16, he was determined to become Esquire’s youngest editor, immersing himself in journalism research and writing. 

College and Commitment to Journalism 

Carrothers attended Indiana University’s School of Journalism (now The Media School) to pursue his passion for writing and reporting. His first paid journalism job was at Bloomington Voice, where he worked as a television columnist and wrote drinking games for TV shows.  

WFHB 

During his senior year, he joined WFHB Community Radio, where he quickly rose through the ranks, eventually becoming the station’s first News Director. 

As News Director at WFHB, Carrothers launched a public affairs initiative that amplified voices from underrepresented communities, such as discussions on LGBTQ+ issues. His leadership earned him numerous accolades, including a lifetime achievement award from the Society of Professional Journalists. Eventually, he became the station’s General Manager, expanding its reach from one to four frequencies, a testament to his commitment to local journalism. 

Advocacy Through Journalism 

Carrothers' journalism career was shaped by influences like Democracy Now! and BBC World Service, which inspired him to develop a news and public affairs initiative at WFHB in 2003. His programming innovations modernized community radio and reinforced its relevance in the digital age. 

Continuing to embrace new media, Carrothers transitioned into the podcasting industry with his project Activate, a series of five-minute clips designed to inform and educate listeners on contemporary issues. This shift demonstrated his ability to adapt to evolving media landscapes while maintaining a commitment to quality journalism. 

Reflections on a Career in Community Broadcasting 

In his final years at WFHB, he served as General Manager of the station. 

Throughout his career, Carrothers has championed the power of community radio. His leadership at WFHB emphasized inclusivity and grassroots engagement, ensuring that local voices remained a cornerstone of news programming. Despite financial challenges, he found fulfillment in creating and facilitating programming that resonated with diverse audiences. 

His journalism philosophy centers on fostering a new generation of reporters dedicated to social justice and meaningful storytelling. Today, while working in nonprofit healthcare communications at CareSource, Carrothers continues to volunteer at WFHB and freelance for WFYI, Indianapolis’ NPR affiliate, remaining an active figure in independent media. He also teaches journalism and podcasting courses at the IU Media School. 

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Written by Nam Hyun Kim, edited by Katherine Maners 

April 2025 

Bibliography 

Chad Carrothers Oral History. Indiana Broadcast History Archive. Aired 2024. Retrieved from https://ibha.indiana.edu/item/sj139s97t/ 

Indiana University Bloomington. (2024). Profile of Chad Carrothers. Retrieved from https://mediaschool.indiana.edu/people/profile.html?p=ccarroth 

WFHB Community Radio. (2024). History and Mission. Retrieved from https://wfhb.org/news-public-affairs/wfhb-local-news-february-26th-2024/ 

WACC. (2022, February 14). Impacts of digital transformation on communities and societies. Retrieved from https://waccglobal.org/impacts-of-digital-transformation-on-communities-and-societies/ 

Bloom Magazine. (2012, February 13). Chad Carrothers: WFHB General Manager. Retrieved from https://www.magbloom.com/2012/02/chad-carrothers-wfhb-general-manager/ 

PRX. (2012). PRX. Retrieved from https://beta.prx.org/stories/77635