Veteran Atlanta news anchor Sandra Parrish has joined 101.1 The Pulse, a Christian country station in Ellijay, Georgia, to host a new Saturday show. Starting this weekend, she will broadcast from 8 a.m. to noon, focusing on local stories, interviews, and community talks that highlight North Georgia life.
Who Is Sandra Parrish?
Sandra Parrish brings decades of experience to her new role. She spent over 20 years at WSB Radio in Atlanta, where she covered major events like state elections and natural disasters. Her work earned her a spot as a Georgia Radio Legend in 2022, an honor from the Friends of Georgia Radio that recognizes top broadcasters.
Parrish started her career in smaller markets before rising to prominence in Atlanta. She has interviewed governors, business leaders, and everyday people, always aiming to tell stories that matter to listeners. Her style mixes sharp reporting with a warm touch, making complex news easy to understand.
In recent years, Parrish stepped away from full-time radio but stayed active in media through guest spots and podcasts. Her return to the airwaves comes at a time when local radio faces challenges from streaming services, yet stations like The Pulse see value in trusted voices.
Details of Her New Show
The new program, called Saturday with Sandra, promises a mix of news and conversation. Parrish will spotlight North Georgia through interviews with local figures, updates on community events, and discussions on topics like education and health.
She will also contribute to the station’s digital side, appearing in online videos and social media posts. This expands her reach beyond traditional radio, appealing to younger audiences who follow news on their phones.
Listeners can expect segments on timely issues, such as the growing tourism in Ellijay or efforts to boost rural economies. Parrish said the show will feel like neighbors chatting, building connections in a divided world.
- Key features of the show include live caller interactions for real-time feedback.
- Regular segments on faith-based stories that tie into the station’s Christian country format.
- Spotlights on local heroes, like volunteers helping after recent storms in Georgia.
Changes at 101.1 The Pulse
The Pulse, owned by Carriage Radio, switched to a Christian country format in March 2025. This change brought in talent from Atlanta’s former Fish station, creating a fresh lineup that blends music and talk.
Based in Ellijay, the station covers North Georgia with signals reaching areas like Jasper and Dalton. Recent additions include live broadcasts from events such as the North Georgia Fair, which drew thousands last October.
This format shift reflects a trend in radio where stations mix faith, music, and news to keep listeners engaged. With Parrish on board, The Pulse aims to strengthen its local focus amid competition from national networks.
The station’s growth ties into broader Georgia media trends. For instance, radio groups have been buying and selling stations, like Educational Media Foundation’s recent deals in other parts of the state.
Impact on North Georgia Community
Parrish’s addition could boost community ties in North Georgia. Areas like Ellijay rely on local media for news on everything from school updates to weather alerts, especially after events like the 2025 floods that affected rural towns.
Her show might address practical issues, such as job growth in tourism or challenges in healthcare access. By featuring local voices, it encourages civic involvement, something experts say strengthens small communities.
Radio remains vital in regions with spotty internet, providing reliable info during emergencies. Parrish’s experience covering Georgia stories positions her well to inform and unite listeners.
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Show Time | Saturdays, 8 a.m. to noon |
| Focus Areas | Local news, interviews, community talks |
| Station Format | Christian country music |
| Additional Roles | Recurring digital contributor |
| Launch Date | January 2026 |
Looking Ahead for Parrish and The Pulse
As radio evolves, Parrish’s move shows how veterans adapt to new formats. She plans to explore stories on Georgia’s changing landscape, from urban growth in Atlanta to rural traditions in the north.
The station might expand her role if the show gains popularity, perhaps adding weekday segments. This aligns with industry shifts toward multimedia content, where broadcasters use apps and social platforms to grow audiences.
Fans of Parrish praise her return, noting her skill in making news relatable. With Georgia’s media scene buzzing from recent elections and economic news, her voice adds depth.
What do you think about Sandra Parrish’s new show? Share your thoughts in the comments and spread the word to fellow radio fans.
