Max with Jonesy & Amanda. Image: Max Munday
Whether it be job cuts, share price plummets or Kyle & Jackie O’s astronomical pay packets, ARN has certainly weathered its fair share of media storms this year.
But look behind the headlines and – when it comes to energy, teamwork and creating everlasting memories for others – ARN rocks.
Just ask Max Munday, who completed a week of work experience at Sydney’s KIIS 1065 during the first week of school holidays.
As host of the Biz by the Water and Biz Audio podcasts, Max – a finalist in the Radio Today Podcast Awards – has a passion for radio and media.
And he says ARN made sure every single day he spent at Sydney HQ was enjoyable.
Reflecting on the experience in his online blog, Max says “This has been one of the most incredible weeks of my life. I had the opportunity to meet so many inspiring people and experience things that, even a year ago, I could only have dreamed of.”
On his first day, Max watched the final hour of The Kyle and Jackie O Show.
“It was an amazing experience,” says Max. “Seeing how hard everyone works behind the scenes really highlighted why the show continues to perform so strongly in the ratings.”
“I also sat in on the final week of The PickUp, where I observed the show’s structure and took notes on how it all comes together on air.”
On Tuesday, Max spent time with sound designer Chris, who showed him the ins and outs of creating effective ads, openers, and other audio content.
“It was fascinating to see how much creativity and technical skill goes into producing high-quality sound.”
On Wednesday, Max sat in with KIIS Workday announcer Gordie Waters.
“He taught me how to use the panel and Zetta software, and explained what makes a strong radio break.”
“Gordie has so much energy and massive passion for radio, and I learnt a great deal from watching him work.”
On Thursday, Max sat in on the Love Island: Officially Unpacked podcast.
“I observed the production process and even witnessed a bit of real-time interview drama,” Max says.
“I also met Jonesy and Amanda on their second-last (Breakfast) show, which was a special moment.”
Max’s final day at ARN saw him sit in with Brooklyn Ross from the Kyle & Jackie O Show, to learn what goes into delivering a great news bulletin.
The day also coincided with the final Kyle and Jackie O show of 2025, which doubled as You Get a Santa Sack Day.
“It was incredibly busy, and I had the opportunity to assist the promotions team with handing over prizes to on-air winners,” says Max.
“One of the highlights of the week was meeting Jackie O, as well as briefly saying hello to the incoming CEO, Michael Stephenson.”
“One thing that stood out to me across ARN and KIIS was the incredible energy and teamwork. Everyone is passionate about creating the best possible content and works tirelessly to make it happen.”
“This experience has reinforced my interest in radio and media, and I’m extremely grateful for the opportunity to have been part of it.”
Images supplied.