A documentary film by Jason Feldman
THE STORY OF WKWZ
The incredible story of the Long Island high school radio station that grew from its unlikely home in a school basement into a professional-grade operation, leaving an indelible mark on its community and the careers it shaped.
Directed by second-generation DJ Jason Feldman, this documentary chronicles WKWZ’s founding, its rise to prominence, and the unforgettable moments that defined its prime.
THE
SUBTERRANEAN
PENTHOUSE
THE
SUBTERRANEAN
PENTHOUSE
The incredible story of the Long Island high school radio station that grew from its unlikely home in a school basement into a professional-grade operation, leaving an indelible mark on its community and the careers it shaped.
Directed by second-generation DJ Jason Feldman, this documentary chronicles WKWZ’s founding, its rise to prominence, and the unforgettable moments that defined its prime.
©2024 Steven Gardner, used with permision
“I mean, think about the mindset that allows faculty members and administrators at one of the basically top-ranked high schools in the country to say, yeah, let’s put a radio station in the basement.”
- Fred Zodda
“We all would go through that door and walk down those stairs and find where we belonged."
- Bob Goodman
“When we were working there, it became an obsession.
I would stay well into the evening every day working."
- Ernie Limperis
"WKWZ allowed me early on to know what I wanted to do. I mean how many people get to say in ninth grade that they know what they want to do already." - Jake Asman
“We used to sleep at the radio station. I literally slept in the record library, which I doubt you’d be able to do today. It was fun because, you know, it was like you were at summer camp."
- Josh Rosenthal
"I owe almost my entire career to WKWZ"
- Judd Apatow
"I owe almost my entire career to WKWZ" - Judd Apatow
With vivid personal stories, rare archival materials, and a behind-the-scenes look at legendary broadcasts, The Subterranean Penthouse captures the energy, challenges, and triumphs of WKWZ. It’s a celebration of the ingenuity and determination that turned a underground radio station into a cultural phenomenon and a stepping stone to success for countless aspiring creative minds.
At the core of WKWZ’s success were three pivotal figures: Fred Zodda, the steadfast guide who laid the groundwork for lasting excellence; Roy Dippel, the technical genius who infused the station with cutting-edge innovation; and Jack DeMasi, the visionary teacher whose passion and mentorship inspired students to exceed expectations. Together, they nurtured an environment where creativity, professionalism, and youthful enthusiasm thrived.
Everyone had to start somewhere.
In addition to the documentary The Subterranean Penthouse: The Story of WKWZ, a companion book will be released, offering an in-depth, written exploration of the station’s rich history. This compilation of oral histories will extend and enrich the interviews featured in the film, providing a broader perspective on the people, events, and cultural impact that defined WKWZ. With personal anecdotes, behind-the-scenes stories, and exclusive insights, the book will serve as a vital archive of the station's lasting legacy.
Soon to be available wherever fine books (like this) are found. More details to come.
