Shocking on-air moment: Popular ABC radio host dramatically quits, claiming he's 'too spicy' for the job
- Replies 13
The world of radio broadcasting can be difficult and turbulent, with changes and surprises often occurring at any given station.
But last Wednesday, November 15, a long-time ABC personality shocked listeners when he stepped down from his radio show—live on air.
In a surprising turn of events, ABC radio host Josh Szeps announced his resignation during his Afternoons show.
The charismatic host, known for his candid and often controversial discussions, hinted that he felt increasingly stifled by the broadcaster's guidelines.
'Having truly rational, free conversations about controversial issues is risky these days,' Szeps told his listeners. 'The penalties for speaking bluntly, the penalties for trying to coax people out of their thought silos and echo chambers are very high.'
In a statement that stunned many listeners, Szeps declared, 'The bottom line is, I'm a bit too spicy for this gig.'
Szeps' departure from ABC raises questions about the freedom of speech within the broadcasting industry. His comments suggest a growing tension between the need for open, honest dialogue and the fear of backlash or penalties for discussing controversial topics.
Interestingly, Szeps' frustration with the constraints of his ABC role led him to expand his own podcast, Uncomfortable Conversations.
The podcast, which has become one of Australia's most successful interview shows with over three million downloads, allowed Szeps to engage in the kind of frank, no-holds-barred discussions that he felt were increasingly difficult to have on his ABC show.
The success and financial viability of his podcast may have played a role in his decision to leave ABC.
'Journalism needs more contrarians, not fewer. More risk takers, not fewer,' Szeps stated, positioning himself as a 'misfit' within the industry.
Despite his resignation, Szeps praised the ABC and its management. 'The ABC is the greatest institution in Australian public life,' he said. 'I believe it is the jewel in this country’s crown. I have no beef with ABC or its management.'
Szeps will remain with the network until the end of 2023, after which he plans to focus on independent projects, including his podcast and a new YouTube program set to launch early next year.
'I've had a blast on Afternoons, and I'm looking forward to having even spicier conversations on my own turf,' he said.
Szeps' departure will undoubtedly be a significant loss for ABC, given his strong listener base. ABC Radio Sydney Manager Steve Ahern commended Szeps, saying, 'Josh has been an exemplary presenter, and we'll miss him greatly. His mixture of playfulness, intellect and fearlessness is one of a kind.'
What do you think about Szeps' decision to leave the show, members? Do you agree with his views on the need for more open and honest dialogue in the media? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
But last Wednesday, November 15, a long-time ABC personality shocked listeners when he stepped down from his radio show—live on air.
In a surprising turn of events, ABC radio host Josh Szeps announced his resignation during his Afternoons show.
The charismatic host, known for his candid and often controversial discussions, hinted that he felt increasingly stifled by the broadcaster's guidelines.
Josh Szeps announced his resignation on air last November 15. Credit: @joshszeps/Instagram
'Having truly rational, free conversations about controversial issues is risky these days,' Szeps told his listeners. 'The penalties for speaking bluntly, the penalties for trying to coax people out of their thought silos and echo chambers are very high.'
In a statement that stunned many listeners, Szeps declared, 'The bottom line is, I'm a bit too spicy for this gig.'
Szeps' departure from ABC raises questions about the freedom of speech within the broadcasting industry. His comments suggest a growing tension between the need for open, honest dialogue and the fear of backlash or penalties for discussing controversial topics.
Interestingly, Szeps' frustration with the constraints of his ABC role led him to expand his own podcast, Uncomfortable Conversations.
The podcast, which has become one of Australia's most successful interview shows with over three million downloads, allowed Szeps to engage in the kind of frank, no-holds-barred discussions that he felt were increasingly difficult to have on his ABC show.
The success and financial viability of his podcast may have played a role in his decision to leave ABC.
'Journalism needs more contrarians, not fewer. More risk takers, not fewer,' Szeps stated, positioning himself as a 'misfit' within the industry.
Despite his resignation, Szeps praised the ABC and its management. 'The ABC is the greatest institution in Australian public life,' he said. 'I believe it is the jewel in this country’s crown. I have no beef with ABC or its management.'
Szeps will remain with the network until the end of 2023, after which he plans to focus on independent projects, including his podcast and a new YouTube program set to launch early next year.
'I've had a blast on Afternoons, and I'm looking forward to having even spicier conversations on my own turf,' he said.
Szeps' departure will undoubtedly be a significant loss for ABC, given his strong listener base. ABC Radio Sydney Manager Steve Ahern commended Szeps, saying, 'Josh has been an exemplary presenter, and we'll miss him greatly. His mixture of playfulness, intellect and fearlessness is one of a kind.'
What do you think about Szeps' decision to leave the show, members? Do you agree with his views on the need for more open and honest dialogue in the media? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
.png){kind=icon}
