Indiana Broadcast History Archive

Marthabel Geisler played an important role in Indiana broadcasting, dedicating over four decades to WFBM Radio and WFBM-TV (later WRTV). She served as WFBM’s traffic manager for 24 years, helping the company establish its television station and playing a key role in organizing programming and advertising logistics as the company transitioned into television. In recognition of her contributions, she was named Woman of the Year by the Hoosier Chapter of American Women in Radio and Television in 1961. 

Born in Louisville, Kentucky, Geisler moved to Indianapolis as a child and graduated from Arsenal Technical High School. She entered the broadcasting industry in 1930, starting as a secretary to WFBM’s program director, Frank Sharp. She quickly became an integral part of station operations as WFBM grew into a leading radio broadcaster. 

In 1942, Geisler was promoted to traffic manager, a position that required her to coordinate programming and advertising schedules. She was responsible for ensuring a smooth program flow and avoiding advertising conflicts. Her role became even more demanding when WFBM launched Indiana’s first television station in 1949, requiring her to adapt to the complexities of the emerging TV industry. 

In 1966, Geisler transitioned to a secretarial role under WFBM-TV’s station manager, Don Menke. She continued in this capacity under subsequent general managers, remaining with the station until her retirement in 1976. 

Outside of broadcasting, Geisler was deeply committed to community service. She volunteered with the American Red Cross Canteen Corps during World War II and later played a key role in organizing the Indianapolis 500 Festival Parade Network. 

In honor of her decades of service, Indianapolis Mayor Richard G. Lugar declared July 7, 1975, “Marthabel Geisler Day.”   

February 2025

Katherine Maners

Indiana Broadcast Pioneers