A Vision Becomes Reality
A Vision Becomes Reality
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Leslie International
Founder & Executive Director
Leslie International Public Press Center
Every great station begins with a vision.
Every great station begins with a vision.
Every great community begins with a voice, and every great radio station begins with a vision.
Long before WPPB 101.5 FM signed on the air, Leslie International believed there should be a place where every voice mattered a station that welcomed creativity, celebrated diversity, and served the community before everything else.
Her experience in broadcasting inspired a vision for something different: a community radio station where local voices, independent artists, creatives , local leaders, and everyday residents could all find a place on the airwaves and equal opportunity for all.
Without knowing exactly how it would happen, she held firmly to one belief:
One day, there would be a station built for the community.
That belief became WPPB.
Why Petersburg?
Why Petersburg?
When the opportunity arose to choose a community to serve, the possibilities were many. In 2023, Petersburg was selected because of its rich history, resilient spirit, and the opportunity to build something meaningful that would inform, inspire, and unite the community.
Growing up in New York City, our founder, Leslie, experienced firsthand the power of community radio. It connected neighborhoods, promoted local events, amplified voices that often went unheard, and brought people together in a way few other community resources could. Those experiences left a lasting impression.
WPPB 101.5 FM – The LIP was founded to bring that same spirit of connection to Petersburg, the Tri-Cities, surrounding communities, and listeners around the world. Our mission is to provide a platform for local voices, celebrate diverse cultures, support independent artists, and strengthen the bonds that make communities thrive.
More Than a Radio Station
More Than a Radio Station
WPPB-LP is Petersburg's first FCC-licensed LPFM community radio station.
Our mission is to be a reliable and valuable community resource by providing unprecedented programming, trusted information, diverse music, educational opportunities, and a platform for voices that might otherwise go unheard.
Every broadcast reflects our commitment to serving the public with integrity, creativity, and purpose.
Building the Next Generation
Building the Next Generation
Community radio is also about creating opportunity.
WPPB is committed to providing hands-on training and real-world experience for aspiring broadcasters, producers, journalists, and media professionals.
By investing in future talent, we ensure that community voices continue to be heard for generations to come.
Looking Ahead
Looking Ahead
Today, WPPB continues to grow through the dedication of volunteers, listeners, community partners, nonprofit organizations, businesses, and independent artists who believe community radio can make a difference.
We are building more than a radio station.
We are building a trusted community resource, a place where information is shared, creativity is celebrated, and every voice has the opportunity to be heard.
This is WPPB.
This is WPPB.
Petersburg's first FCC-licensed LPFM community radio station.
Bringing the Pulse of the Streets Through the Airwaves.
"When WPPB was founded, it was built on a simple belief: every community deserves a voice. That belief continues to guide everything we do. Thank you for being part of our story as we write the next chapter together."
— Leslie International, Founder & Executive Director
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