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Covering news, let alone breaking news, comes with many twists and turns, and can be extremely tough at times. For iHeartRadio's Billy Costa, he has had experience in the breaking news department.
To celebrate National Radio Day (August 20), we’re spotlighting iHeartRadio hosts all week. Billy Costa, co-host of Boston’s KISS 108 morning show "Billy & Lisa in the Morning," reflected on the toughest on-air moment of his career.
"I happened to go back into my office. I always had the TVs on in the office and I saw the first plane hit the tower in New York, and couldn't make sense of it..."
Like many Americans on 9/11, Costa didn't realize what was happening until a few minutes later.
"I'm like, well that's odd because it's a beautiful day. The sun is out. Clear skies, perfect conditions, and a jetliner just crashed into a tower in New York City. And then minutes later came the second plane, and I knew something was up."
After witnessing the terrorist attacks on TV, he immediately went into the studio.
"I literally walked into the studio and I still get really emotional… And I said the words, uh, America is under attack."
To make sure that those listening in on the radio had a place to express how they were feeling and what they were going through, Costa said him and Matt Seagull stayed on air for callers to share their stories.
"Matty and I stayed on the air, I think for eight or nine hours that day, just taking calls and letting listeners express themselves and tell their stories, some of whom were local and had connections to passengers on board those planes."
Costa is just one example of great radio host who makes a difference in his listeners lives and leaves an everlasting impression on those going through difficult times.
"Just recently a woman came up to me on the street and said, "I'll never forget the morning you and Matt Seagull were on the air on 911."
To hear more of Costa's unforgettable radio moments, watch below.