Larry Meiller, Wisconsin Public Radio Host, Honored as 2026 Wisconsin Academy Fellow
Larry Meiller, the longtime host of “The Larry Meiller Show” on Wisconsin Public Radio, has been named a 2026 Fellow of the Wisconsin Academy of Sciences, Arts, and Letters. The recognition comes as Meiller prepares for his retirement in June, marking a distinguished finish to a nearly sixty-year career in broadcasting and education.
A Lifetime of Bridging Knowledge and Community
The Wisconsin Academy Fellows program recognizes individuals who have demonstrated a lifelong commitment to intellectual discourse and public service. Since 1982, the award has honored educators, researchers, artists, and leaders who have significantly contributed to Wisconsin’s cultural life and welfare. Being named a Fellow is the Academy’s highest honor.
According to the Wisconsin Academy, Meiller is a “legendary broadcaster and life sciences communicator” who has spent decades as a trusted voice for Wisconsin Public Radio. He is credited with bridging the gap between expert knowledge and the daily lives of citizens.
Remarkable Career Highlights
Over the course of his career, Meiller has hosted approximately 14,000 shows featuring at least 28,000 guest experts. He is known for his meticulous preparation, reportedly reading 45 to 50 books annually for the show, with a particular focus on Wisconsin authors and stories. Wisconsin Public Radio reported on this achievement.
Beyond his broadcasting work, Meiller served as a professor in the UW-Madison Department of Life Sciences Communication for 104 semesters. UW-Madison Life Sciences Communication highlighted his dedication to education and mentorship.
Additional Achievements and Recognition
Meiller’s accolades include induction into the Wisconsin Broadcasters Hall of Fame in 2017, the UW Distinguished Service Award, the Joyce Kilmer Award from the UW Foundation, the Leadership in Nutrition Awareness Award from the Wisconsin Dietetics Association, and the Friends of Conservation Media Award. The Wisconsin Academy details these honors.
His influence extends beyond Wisconsin, with work building broadcasting capacity in the Caribbean and developing community radio in Nicaragua and Pakistan.
The Larry Meiller Show Legacy
“The Larry Meiller Show,” a 90-minute call-in talk show, airs each weekday from 11 a.m. To 12:30 p.m. On Wisconsin Public Radio and reaches audiences across 18 stations in the state. The program covers a wide range of topics, including the environment, health, consumer issues, finance, and gardening. UW-Madison Life Sciences Communication provides information about the show and Meiller’s role.
The formal induction ceremony for Meiller and the other 2026 Wisconsin Academy Fellows will capture place later this year.
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