After much thought, I have decided to bring V4V Radio to a close. This decision didn’t come lightly, but it’s the result of ongoing issues that have made continuing the show both impractical and, frankly, unmotivating. I want to outline the reasons clearly, so there’s no ambiguity about why this chapter is ending.

1. The overflow of AI-generated “slop” music

When V4V Radio began (as the Mountain Music Half Hour), my goal was to spotlight music from independent creators—real artists who put time, effort, and originality into their craft. Over the past year, however, the music space has been flooded with low-effort, AI-generated tracks. This “slop” not only dilutes the quality of what’s available but also makes curation an exhausting process. Separating authentic, human-made music from automated noise has become increasingly difficult, and it’s eroded much of the joy I once found in putting the show together.

2. Payment issues with Keysend vs. LNURL

From the start, V4V Radio embraced the Value-for-Value model. Unfortunately, the lack of a unified approach to payments—particularly the ongoing divide between Keysend and LNURL—has been a constant source of friction. Instead of a streamlined, creator-friendly experience, the space has been bogged down by technical inconsistencies and competing standards. Without a clear direction forward, these issues have made it more complicated to maintain the financial and operational side of the show than it should be.

3. Lack of real support from the space and listeners

Producing a show like V4V Radio takes time, effort, and a certain amount of audience engagement to make it sustainable. Over time, it became clear that the level of support—both from within the broader Value-for-Value space and from listeners—was not enough to justify the continued investment of resources. While there were loyal supporters whose presence was appreciated, the overall lack of meaningful engagement made it increasingly difficult to keep going.

When I started V4V Radio, I believed it could be a place to showcase fresh, independent music and encourage a healthy, reciprocal relationship between artists and listeners. In some ways, it succeeded in that mission—but the challenges I’ve outlined above have ultimately outweighed the rewards.

To those who did support and listen: thank you. Your involvement and encouragement did not go unnoticed. While the show is ending, the conversations and connections it sparked were valuable, and I’m glad it had its run.

Although V4V Radio is now closed, I remain open to new opportunities and creative projects in the future. This particular chapter has ended, but the story isn’t necessarily over.