We’re getting a taste of the creativity and the careful ear of ²ÝÝ®´«Ã½’s listeners who have submitted early entries in ²ÝÝ®´«Ã½’s ongoing contest — “Neal’s Signature Sound: The Augenstein Impression Challenge.“
This video is no longer available.
Through the end of February, ²ÝÝ®´«Ã½ is inviting listeners to submit their best videotaped, 15-second impression of me doing my sign-off — “Neal Augenstein, ²ÝÝ®´«Ã½ ²ÝÝ®´«Ã½.” After a panel selects a winner, I’ll work with the winner to record a custom video or audio message, and ²ÝÝ®´«Ã½ will make a $1,000 donation to the American Lung Association.
Some of the early entries have been impressive.
Jeremy in Bethesda, Maryland, said he started listening to ²ÝÝ®´«Ã½ as a kid, which continued when he moved away for college and early jobs in his career:
“Nothing makes me feel like I’m back home in the DMV more than hearing the voices of Neal, Rob Woodfork, Reada Kessler, Brennan Haselton and the rest of the ²ÝÝ®´«Ã½ team!!”
Glad to have you back, Jeremy.
Bill in Germantown, Maryland, crafted a makeshift ²ÝÝ®´«Ã½ microphone flag to add authenticity. In his entry, submitted on the ²ÝÝ®´«Ã½ app, Bill wrote: “I absolutely love Neal Augenstein, and I am wishing him continued good health. Thanks for having such a great attitude and for a wonderful contest.”
Many thanks, Bill.
Andrew in Springfield, Virginia, said, “I have been a loyal listener since I was about 7 years old.”
The contest rules include the instruction to speak to the camera. “Please note that I did my best with this visually,” he wrote. “I am visually impaired, but hopefully this video will still be counted.”
Of course your video will be counted, Andrew — great inflection.
Isaac in Front Royal, Virginia, crafted a complete radio report for his entry — including a sound bite from his dog before his sign-off. Very fun and creative, Isaac.
We’ve got full contest details, and instructions on how to submit your impression, using the ²ÝÝ®´«Ã½ app, which is available on either or .
Get breaking news and daily headlines delivered to your email inbox by signing up here.
© 2025 ²ÝÝ®´«Ã½. All Rights Reserved. This website is not intended for users located within the European Economic Area.
