Takoma Radio Celebrates 10 Years in Tune with Its Community

Takoma Radio, WOWD, is celebrating 10 years with programming rooted in community and built through partnerships. The station, named Best Radio Station in July by City Paper readers for the second straight year, hosted a Radio Corner broadcast at the 2026 Smithsonian Folklife Festival in late June. During its pop-up transmission, DJs prepared shows honoring communities that “make America,” with notable appearances including music connected to immigrant artists. Founder Marika Partridge shared smartphone interviewing tips with young creatives, while station manager Olivia Ellis Randolph coordinated operations. Takoma Radio launched with volunteer help in 2016 and marked its decade anniversary on July 16.