Episodes
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The QVC bankruptcy saga rolls on...
The QVC bankruptcy saga rolls on — but this time, the end may finally be in sight. In this episode, we dive into the latest twists in the bankruptcy proceedings, uncover who's owed what, and follow the money as the retail empire tries to survive its biggest crisis yet. Then: the CEO got paid HOW...
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QVC files for bankruptcy, and rembering Paul Kelley
It's official, QVC has filed for bankruptcy. On this episode a full explanation of what bankruptcy means for now, and for the future of QVC and HSN. Plus, remembering Paul Kelley.
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QVC bankruptcy coming? and honoring one of the industry greats
QVC was expected to release its fiscal year 2025 numbers by now—but continued delays are raising serious questions, with some speculating that bankruptcy could be on the horizon. In this episode, we break down what these delays might mean for the company and the broader live shopping industry. We...
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Shopping goes from TV to online and apps
For decades, TV shopping networks ruled the airwaves—turning late-night channel surfing into billion-dollar sales. But today, many are asking: Is TV shopping dying? In this episode, we talk with JW Cudd, an expert in online, app-based, and influencer-driven marketing, about the seismic shift...
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Bankruptcy a real possibility for QVC
The headlines are buzzing — QVC may be facing bankruptcy, and the future of America's most iconic shopping networks hangs in the balance. What went wrong, and what comes next for QVC and HSN? In this episode, we dive deep with Marvin Segel, son of QVC founder Joe Segel, to uncover the story…
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The year 2025, a TV shopping industry year in review
As 2025 winds down, we're rolling back the clock on one of the wildest years the television shopping world has seen. From headline-making shakeups to unexpected triumphs, QVC, HSN, and the entire industry have served up a year packed with drama, reinvention, and a few eyebrow-raising moments. And...
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Deep dive into the history of CVN - Cable Value Network
On this edition of Are We On The Air?© We're taking a deep dive into one of television's great forgotten stories — the rise and fall of the Cable Value Network. For three short years in the late 1980s, CVN was the shopping channel to beat — bold, ambitious, and ahead of its time. But behind the...
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Isomers moves to HSN
On this episode, the always-inspiring Manuela Marcheggiani by to share the inside scoop on her next big adventure — taking her legendary Isomers brand to a brand-new home, HSN! After decades at another network, she's ready for a fresh chapter, and she's bringing her brilliant scientific mind (and…
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ShopHQ is back, and HSN changes
It's official — Season 5 of Are We On The Air?© is underway. In this episode, we dive into two fascinating developments shaking up the home shopping world. First: what's really happening at ShopHQ? The network vanished from the airwaves, but like a phoenix reborn, it's back — and the story behind...
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But Wait, there's more! with Joey Mazzant
Special Edition Alert! Buckle up for a wild ride on this episode of "Are We On The Air?©" as Shawn sits down with the one and only Joey Mazzant—social media wizard, Orlando tourism guru, and all-around powerhouse of personality! From skyrocketing his career through smart, savvy social media moves...
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Part II of A closer look at QVC with two of it's founders
In this can't-miss Part 2 of our deep dive into QVC history and its future, we're back with Marv Segel—son of QVC founder Joseph Segel—and the legendary original host Paul Kelley. We kick things off with a nostalgic (and slightly spicy) look at the early QVC days—before guests, before glitz. Was…
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A closer look at QVC with two of it's founders
In this episode, the drama behind the glittering screens of QVC takes center stage. Your host, the always insightful Shawn Wilsie, is joined by two heavyweights from the world of televised retail: Marvin Segel, son of QVC's legendary founder, and Paul Kelley, one of the network's original on-air...
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Why is Minnesota such a great home for talent?
From QVC icons to comedy greats, a surprising number of stars in the TV shopping world—and beyond—have roots in the Land of 10,000 Lakes. In this episode, host Shawn Wilsie dives into the mystery: What is it about Minnesota that produces so much on-air talent? Joining him is Tom Oszman, media...
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It's over for ShopHQ and Steve Sedahl from "Let's Bowl"
Buckle up for Part Two of our conversation with the always entertaining Steve Sedahl! This episode dives into the wild world of two lesser-known TV shopping networks Steve worked at — stories you definitely haven't heard before. Then, we get into what everyone's been waiting for: how Steve landed…
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Steve Sedahl from CVN, ShopNBC and "Let's Bowl" fame
Everyone knows QVC and HSN, but back in the late 1980s, the dominant name in the world of TV shopping was the Cable Value Network—better known as CVN. On this episode, we rewind to 1986 and sit down with original CVN host Steve Sedahl. Best known to some as "Chopper" from the cult comedy series...
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QVC/HSN layoffs announced
Breaking News: QVC/HSN has just announced that 900 employees are being let go as part of a major downsizing. So, how is ShopHQ still thriving and staying ahead in the game? Plus, we're honoring the legacy of an infomercial icon, who we recently lost.
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QVC/HSN yearly results and more conversation with Bob Circosta
The latest annual results for QVC/HSN are in, and let's just say they're not looking pretty—that's the shocking first chapter of today's podcast. But don't worry, we've got something special in store after that! The legendary Bob Circosta returns to the show for an unforgettable walk down memory...
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Looking back at HSN with Bob Circosta
Get ready for a blast from the past as we welcome Bob Circosta, the original HSN host (Home Shopping Club), to the podcast! With the iconic home of HSN in Tampa/St. Petersburg closing its doors and relocating to West Chester, PA, Bob takes us on a fun, behind-the-scenes journey. He'll share the...
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Rising star Aaron Kessler joins the podcast
In part two of our exclusive interview with Aaron Kessler—dubbed "the future of the TV shopping industry"—he opens up to Shawn about his childhood and the experiences that shaped him into the dynamic force he is today, so watch out QVC and HSN. But that's not all! Food lovers in Minneapolis and…
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HSN operations moving and Aaron Kessler from ShopHQ joins the show
Qurate Retail Group, the powerhouse behind both QVC and HSN, has made a bold move: they're shutting down the iconic HSN campus, which has been the heart of home shopping for decades. In 2025, all operations will be consolidated at QVC's state-of-the-art "Studio Park" facility in Pennsylvania.…
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Manuela Marcheggiani of Isomers Skincare
Get ready for a behind-the-scenes look into the world of TV shopping and business innovation! In this episode, Manuela Marcheggiani, the co-founder and CEO of Isomers Skincare, sits down with host Shawn Wilsie to unravel the secrets of getting a product onto the screens of TV shopping channels....
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ShopHQ lays off most of staff
On December 18th 2024, most of the staff of ShopHQ was notified they were going to be out of a job in 60 days. That's the focus of this special episode.
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Host and Guests who have passed away, hosts who are leaving, and a network which went away.
After a three-month hiatus, the podcast is back, ready to dive into the latest buzz from the world of shopping networks, with a special spotlight on QVC. In this episode, we reflect on the heartbreaking losses of two beloved figures: the legendary Larry Muzzy, former Home Shopping Club host, and...
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The explosive rise of Invicta on ShopHQ (ShopNBC)
In the thrilling premiere of Season 4, we dive into a seismic shift shaking the TV shopping world: Invicta's dramatic departure from ShopHQ after 22 years to join forces with JTV. Join Shawn Wilsie as he unravels the captivating story behind Invicta's meteoric rise and explores how this…
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Invicta watches leaves ShopHQ for JTV
After nearly two decades of dazzling audiences on ShopHQ, ShopNBC, and ValueVision, Invicta Watches is shaking things up by shifting their shows and dazzling timepieces to JTV. In this episode of "Are We On the Air?©," we dive into the potential impact of this big move on both networks and…
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Listener questions and comments
On the thrilling season finale of "Are We On The Air?©," Shawn delves deep into the burning questions that have kept listeners on the edge of their seats. Amidst tackling these queries, the discussion evolves into a lively exploration of what truly defines a stellar QVC/HSN host, while shining a...
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So you want to be a show host
Being a show host on QVC or HSN might seem glamorous—just a few hours on-air, then off to relax, right? Not quite! On this podcast, we peel back the curtain to reveal everything viewers don't see. It's these behind-the-scenes moments that determine who thrives and who falters in the business....
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Where did my favorite show host go?
If you've ever watched a TV shopping network and suddenly your favorite host has vanished. It can leave you wondering what happened and no explanation is usually given. In this episode, we look at the hows and whys of show hosts disappearing from your favorite networks. Video of Mary Beth Roe...
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ShopHQ comings/goings and part II of the forgotten shopping networks
Step into the intriguing world of retail drama with our podcast as we kick off with the jaw-dropping antics of a QVC host, rumored to have uttered something utterly absurd. But that's just the tip of the iceberg! Next, we whisk you through the bustling corridors of ShopHQ, catching you up on all...
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QVC/HSN Q1 results, Shop HQ happenings, what the host says vs what the viewer hears
Step into the captivating world of retail dynamics as we dive headfirst into the latest buzz swirling around QVC/HSN, revealing the intriguing results stemming from its parent company, Qurate. But hold onto your seats, folks, because this isn't just your average rundown – it's a rollercoaster…
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The obscure TV shopping networks of the 80s
Once upon a time, there were daring networks that boldly proclaimed, "We've got this!" Armed with ambition and determination, they ventured into the ever-evolving landscape of television commerce. Yet, despite their valiant efforts, their journeys ultimately led them to fade into the abyss of...
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The best TV Pitchmen of all time
Step into the mesmerizing world of salesmanship as we embark on a thrilling exploration of the greatest pitchmasters to ever grace the stage. Breaking barriers and defying stereotypes, these titans of persuasion transcended gender norms, leaving an indelible mark on the fabric of advertising...
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The Shawn Show, AKA shameless promotion of his YouTube page
This show is all about the "Are We On The Air?" YouTube page, and some new content which is now there. The page now features more clips from obscure shopping networks. Ever hear of STN Shop Television Network? How about USA Direct?
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Infomercial and Shopping Network's Sales Tricks They Use
Step into the captivating world where the time-honored traditions of Infomercial and TV Shopping networks echo the charismatic pitchmen of Atlantic City's bustling boardwalks in the glamorous 1940s. Unveil the secrets behind the enduring allure of phrases like "but wait, there's more!" and the...
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QVC/HSN/ShopHQ year in review
Embark on a journey through the riveting highs, heart-wrenching lows, and cinematic "creations" (????) birthed by the powerhouse trio of QVC, HSN, and ShopHQ in the exhilarating year of 2023. From dazzling successes to humbling setbacks, we dissect the strategies that soared and those that...
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When TV shopping meets Playboy magazine
It's the late 1980s and the attitude is "TV shopping is easy to do", so everyone does it. What happens when the "Playboy Channel" cable network decides to try a tv shopping show? I think you know the answer...
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Bankruptcy for iMedia/ShopHQ
The show begins with a tribute to the recent passing of one of the industry pioneers, then the conversation turns to a stream of consciousness chat about what happened to ValueVision/ShopNBC/ShopHQ/EvineLive/Evine/ShopHQ which caused the bankruptcy of its parent company, iMedia.
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Addressing QVC comments, and a look at Sune.
This show is dedicated to addressing the comments left, and questions asked about the TV shopping industry on social media, after episodes of this podcast. From drinking wine, to shipping costs, to the dress codes, many different topics are touched on. Then a look at the new shopping app Sune,...
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QVC Q1, TV Shopping and the Law, and much more
A busy show today as a series of podcasts about TV shopping and the law begins, QVC/HSN results, ShopHQ stock, and the death of the professional broadcaster in TV shopping and on television in general.
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iMedia/ShopHQ results for 2022
Could this really be it? The press release and CEO call regarding the iMedia results for fiscal year 2022?
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iMedia/ShopHQ year-end results, take 3
It's the big day, when iMedia FINALLY announces their 2022 sales. Are you a betting person?
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The Infomercial Star who is out of jail, and starting a cult?
Jailed infomercial star Kevin Trudeau is out of jail, but managing to stay in the news. On this episode of "Are We On The Air" the present and future plans of Mr. Trudeau are examined. Then a presently popular infomercial is in the spotlight, and on the radar of at lest one Attorney General. Did…
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Before it was ShopHQ, it was ValueVision
It's the second attempt at the numbers coming out for iMedia, the parent company of ShopHQ. Plus before it was ShopHQ/Evine/Evine Live/ShopHQ/ShopNBC it was ValueVision, and it's time for a look back at how it all started, on the TV station which launched "Mystery Science Theatre". Shawn will…
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Invicta and ShopHQ update part one
ShopHQ was scheduled to release their yearly numbers on March 22, so the show begins with a discussion of that. Following that is a look at why taking on-air phone calls can be a terrible idea, and when a show concept goes wrong. The remainder of the show looks at how marketing can affect a…
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Part 2 on the state of QVC/HSN with Marvin Segel
Continuing the conversation about the bad news at QVC/HSN and what can be done, if anything, to right the ship. Son of QVC founder Joseph Segel, Marvin Segel, joins the show.
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2022 closes for QVC/HSN with terrible sales and layoffs
Nothing but bad news for TV shopping networks QVC and HSN, as they close their fiscal year. Special guest Marvin Segel, son of QVC founder Joseph Segel, joins the show to unpack the disappointing sales numbers, and discuss the sad layoffs of 400 employees. Joan Rivers salutes Joseph Segel The...
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TV Shopping meets Bingo, after the success of Home Shopping Club
In the 1980s, television experienced a renewed interest in "Bingo" because of the direct-response connections. Once Home Shopping Club (later known as HSN) took off, it was almost inevitable that someone merged the two ideas together, in this pre-QVC world. For three months in late 1986, "Money...
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Qurate (QVC/HSN) stock his a new low, plus what some networks are doing right.
The planned show, what some shopping networks are doing right, will begin after a very deep dive into what's going on with Qurate stock, the owner of QVC and HSN. Plus, what might be a contender for worst holiday commercial of all-time. The show closes with a sad farewell to a small business who...
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QVC makes a Christmas movie, ShopHQ news, more host school
QVC is getting into making movies, could this be a mistake? Plus a listen to a QVC host selling an iPad after telling you not to buy one before. The ShopHQ numbers are out and they finally tell us where Shaq is. All wrapped around a theme of Christmas and Santa is waiting for you to call him.
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TV host school, QVC news, and so much more
This show is an entertaining jumble of what hosts of tv shopping networks should and shouldn't do, hosts leaving the industry, where some of your favorite hosts are going, a look at a small network out of Georgia doing big things, all bookended by children's TV shows. We On The Air Podcast…
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