Episode 138: Reporter Matt: Boston’s Buddy With a Mic
Zach Randles-Friedman sits down with Boston’s own Reporter Matt (Matt Shearer)—the WBZ personality known for hilarious, heartfelt street interviews that make strangers feel like friends. Matt shares how he went from studying radio (not journalism) to becoming one of Boston’s most recognizable storytellers, why the people are always the real story, and what it’s like being stopped for selfies around town. They also dive into his most unforgettable moments: Richard’s drag revival, a life-changing encounter with a singer experiencing homelessness, the viral conversation about Boston’s gay social scene, and the surprisingly scary adventure of Busta Rhymes Island.
Everything & Anything...and a bit gay Podcast · Zach Randes-Friedman
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Show Notes
Guest: Reporter Matt (Matt Shearer)
Host: Zach Randles-Friedman
- Reporter Matt’s path from rock radio and talk radio to WBZ News
- How not studying journalism helped him become a better storyteller
- Why everyday people—not landmarks—are the real story
- Finding viral moments in malls, small towns, and random encounters
- Richard’s drag revival and centering LGBTQ+ humanity through storytelling
- A powerful story that helped change a woman’s life through music
- The viral Boston gay scene conversation that sparked real debate
- Fame in Boston, imposter syndrome, and staying grounded
- Busta Rhymes Island, blimps, and other “only in Massachusetts” moments
- Why joy, curiosity, and kindness still matter in media
Follow Matt Shearer on Instagram and TikTok
https://www.instagram.com/reportermatt/
https://www.tiktok.com/@wbznewsradio
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Podcast song by SIXFOOT 5: https://www.sixfoot5prod.com
Apple: https://music.apple.com/us/artist/sixfoot-5/1551774977
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/5rHMzoU0G0fLhaBsrQiOOY?si=laSZ5hiKTYubJJyhrzf2JQ
Podcast song by SIXFOOT 5: https://www.sixfoot5prod.com
Apple: https://music.apple.com/us/artist/sixfoot-5/1551774977
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/5rHMzoU0G0fLhaBsrQiOOY?si=laSZ5hiKTYubJJyhrzf2JQ
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