#United States #Philadelphia #CBS #Donna Drake Show #Media Expansion

The Donna Drake Show Expands its Horizons

In a significant move for independent television, "The Donna Drake Show: Live It Up!" recently announced its expansion into the Philadelphia market. As of February 2, it will be aired on WPSG-TV 57, a CBS-owned station, granting the show access to an impressive reach of nearly 90 million television households across the country. This development marks an important milestone in the show's journey, reflecting its growth since its inception.

A Monumental Achievement

The addition of Philadelphia is more than just another market for the show—it represents its 10th placement in the top 20 television markets in the United States. Philadelphia stands as one of the largest television markets, making this achievement particularly significant for a self-syndicated program. With the expansion, "The Donna Drake Show" will join the ranks of CBS owned-and-operated stations, solidifying its position as one of the few independently syndicated programs that can claim such a broad national presence.

This milestone is a testament not only to the show’s popularity but also to its resilience in the face of challenges. Since its launch in April 2009, Drake has sustained the program continuously for over 17 years, amassing a loyal audience through a diverse array of guests and topics.

A Diverse Array of Guests

Over the course of its run, "The Donna Drake Show" has featured more than 18,000 interviews with personalities from various fields, including entertainment, sports, journalism, and business. This lineup includes renowned figures like Jay Leno, Mel Brooks, Tony Bennett, and many others, each sharing their unique stories and experiences. Drake has cultivated an inclusive atmosphere that emphasizes themes of hope, resilience, and achievement, appealing to viewers who seek uplifting narratives.

Multi-Platform Presence

Beyond its television broadcast, the show maintains a robust multi-platform presence. Episodes stream 24/7 in 25 countries on platforms such as Binge, YouTube, and Footprint, ensuring that audiences can engage with the content anytime, anywhere. The show also taps into the podcasting realm, distributing audio versions of episodes through iHeart and Spotify, further enhancing its reach and impact.

Empowering Stories and Community Engagement

At its core, "The Donna Drake Show" is more than just entertainment; it is a platform for empowerment and community service. Regular features of nonprofit organizations underscore Drake's belief in the importance of community engagement. The show aims to highlight stories that resonate with the audience, often discussing contemporary issues such as the challenges faced by the "sandwich generation"—those balancing careers while caring for both children and aging parents.

Drake, who serves as the show's creator, host, and executive producer, embodies the spirit of resilience she promotes. As a single mother who faced personal and financial risks to launch the show, she has always been guided by a clear vision. Her journey was inspired by advice from television icons like Regis Philbin and Steve Buscemi, who encouraged her to pursue self-syndication to maintain creative control.

Conclusion

As "The Donna Drake Show" gears up for its Philadelphia launch, it remains committed to inspiring audiences through stories of perseverance and success. The show's growth illustrates the power of independent media and its ability to flourish on major platforms. With an increasing audience and substantial recognition—including two Telly Awards and a United Nations Global Citizenship honor—Drake's show stands as a beacon of hope and connection in contemporary broadcasting. Through ongoing expansion, it proves that mission-driven programming can find its place in the complex landscape of American television.