Jeff Geiger and Leanne Murray support trusted news and inclusive children’s programming through structured giving that reflects their family’s values.
If you flip through the radio presets in Jeff Geiger’s truck, you’ll find one station: Nebraska Public Media. “I listen to the news most consistently,” he said, explaining that it helps him stay grounded.
Born and raised in Kearney, Jeff met his wife Leanne Murray in Maryland while he was serving in the National Guard and Leanne in the Navy. “I stole Leanne and brought her to Nebraska,” laughed Jeff.
Their four kids are growing up with public media. Eighteen-year-old Ian is ‘classic NPR,’ often texting about stories he’s heard. Fifteen-year-old Julian listens to Wait, Wait… Don’t Tell Me via podcast. “The programs go a long way toward helping build responsible citizens,” Jeff said. “I want to make sure they can do the same when they have kids.”
For years, Jeff says they were sporadic donors. “During the third or fourth member drive, I realized they were talking to me,” he said. When the tech start-up he worked for went public, Jeff chose to be a more reliable supporter.
Working with a financial planner, he began structured giving. “I donate shares directly to a donor-advised fund,” said Jeff . As Trailblazers for radio drives, their donation goes farther
and encourages others to give. “We’ll be doing that again. It’s been very fulfilling.”
The couple’s two younger children also engage with public media. Three-year-old Brad loves Dinosaur Train. Eighteen-month-old Miriam, who they affectionately call Mimi, loves Elmo and music. Miriam was born with cerebral palsy and has cortical visual impairment.
“I appreciate the effort of PBS KIDS programs to include children of all ability levels and those who use assistive devices,” Leanne said. “The content is wholesome and educational – and brings a sense of calm to our home.” She says PBS LearningMedia was one of the first resources they accessed to learn more about Miriam’s conditions.
Jeff and Leanne enjoy Backyard Farmer and streamed The American Revolution on the PBS app. In addition to news, The Moth and This American Life are longtime radio favorites. “There’s a tenderness to them,” Leanne said. “And more human connection than other entertainment.”
“NPR is a way to get the news with the temperature tuned down,” added Jeff.