As New Production Class Approaches, ONTV Stars Share Their Learning Experiences
(Crystal Proxmire, Aug. 3, 2025)
Lake Orion, MI – Orion’s ONTV is gearing up for another production class, giving members of the public the skills they need to create their own programing.
These hands-on, collaborative classes offer attendees the opportunity to learn the basics of video and audio production, from operating cameras and sound mixers to hosting and producing their own shows.
After finishing the class, new volunteer producers and crew members can reserve studio time and access field equipment at no additional cost.
The five-week class begins on Sept 8, and meets each Monday from 7pm to 9pm. The class is open to residents of Orion Township, as well as non-residents with a fee of $55. The class is limited to 12 participants, so to reserve a spot contact ONTV at 248-393-1060 ASAP. After the five week basic field production class, there is an optional three week course on non-linear editing which also costs $55.
More info can be found at https://orionontv.org/events/
Success Stories
Many of ONTV’s most popular programs and podcasts sprang from the creative minds of past participants in the class.
One notable success story is the podcast “Talking Nude,” hosted by Kathy and Jason Arthur. The couple started their show three years ago, inspired by their late-night conversations about horror movie reboots and high Ticketmaster prices.
With the help of ONTV’s production classes, they honed their skills and developed a unique chemistry that has captivated their audience.
“We just enjoy having people on there that are interesting,” says Jason. “We’ve had guests like comedian Jeff Horste, who’s been on Kevin Hart’s ‘Hart of the City’ on Comedy Central, and Tom Richmond, a Mad magazine artist who’s worked on iconic projects like ‘Claptrap’ and ‘The Blues Brothers’ spoof.”
The Arthurs’ podcast has gained recognition, including a recent award for Podcast of the Year. “It was a welcome surprise,” Jason says. “We’re just happy to be doing something we love, and it’s great to be recognized for it.”
Another popular ONTV favorite is The Andrew Walker Show, which is a comedy talk show that blends interviews, musical performances, and absurdity.
Host Andrew Walker was inspired by late-night comedy legends like Conan O’Brien and shows like Between Two Ferns and Comedy Bang Bang. With his own show he is proud to have a unique platform for local artists, small business owners, and interesting community members.
Walker’s journey with ONTV began with a Michigan travel-themed comedy podcast, where he would improvise scenarios with comedian friends. The Andrew Walker Show was the next logical step, allowing him to explore the visual medium and showcase his creativity.
Programming can even be divinely inspired.
Tina Jackson started U Beautiful Creation in March 2014 after completing the class.
Christian-based talk show discusses the Word of God, testimonies, and features guest speakers who are making a positive impact in their communities. Previously she’d been interviewed on a show called “Testimonies of God,” which inspired her to take the training courses.
“I asked the Lord for a confirmation if it was ‘really time’,” she recalls. “And then, in class, Joe Johnson announced we would be evaluating the Lake Orion’s Dragon on the Lake Parade. I knew at that moment, I was in the right place at the right time.”
A Successful Show With over 236 episodes, “U Beautiful Creation” airs three days a week on ONTV and is also available on two other public access stations in Michigan and YouTube.
Jackson credits the staff at ONTV for their support and guidance, particularly in the production process. “They equip you and give you the confidence you need in producing a show,” she says.
In 2019, Jackson won the “Spirit of Public Access” award at ONTV’s banquet dinner, which she described as a sweet recognition of her efforts. “It’s been a blessing to be able to share my passion for the Word of God with audiences,” Jackson said.
ONTV’s production staff, with over 100 years of combined industry experience, teach the classes.
Studio Manager Joe Johnson, the primary instructor, has been teaching production classes for over 30 years and has worked in community media for almost 40 years. Jason Aruthur praised Joe’s teaching style, saying, “He’s very hands-on and funny, and he showed us old interviews he did with bands, and a dream Cruise video that he put together.”
The five-week class begins on Sept 8, and meets each Monday from 7pm to 9pm. The class is open to residents of Orion Township, as well as non-residents with a fee of $55. The class is limited to 12 participants, so to reserve a spot contact ONTV at 248-393-1060 ASAP. After the five week basic field production class, there is an optional three week course on non-linear editing which also costs $55.
More info can be found at https://orionontv.org/events/
