December 23, 2003

 

Dear FOP:

I know many of you were shocked by the news yesterday that I am leaving WLAC. I must admit that it made me sad to have to say it. I tried to explain the reasons why yesterday but please allow me to give you a brief explanation here.

First, I have been approached by a large publishing company to write my second book. The scope and nature of this book is such that I feel it necessary to devote a great deal of my undivided attention to it. It's a very important subject and I want to do the project justice. I'll provide more details on that when I'm allowed to do so.

The second reason for my departure is my burning desire to see this radio show reach a much wider audience. We have worked very hard to make this show something unique and special and, thanks to all of you, you've made it the most listened to talk show of any kind in any daypart in Nashville - local or syndicated. I felt the time was right to begin moving the show toward syndication. WLAC did not share my enthusiasm for taking the show national. Others have expressed great interest, therefore, I had to make a tough decision.

I have a non-compete clause in my contract with WLAC which I intend to honor. That means I will have to sit out of the Nashville market for a few months. That will give me time to write the book and begin my plans for syndication. I'm not saying goodbye to Nashville. Quite the contrary. I've made a conscious decision to stay right here in Nashville. In fact, I think talk radio needs a voice from the heartland, the red areas from that famous 2000 election map in USA Today. Most radio shows originate from the blue areas. It's time the rest of the country is heard from.

We will keep you updated via the FOP list and http://PhilValentine.com. Look upon my departure as a vacation. I will be back soon and we'll take up where we left off. I can't thank you enough for your past support and I look forward to moving with you into the future.

Regards & Merry Christmas,

 

Phil Valentine