Larry Mantle

Larry Mantle is an American radio talk show host and journalist on the Southern California National Public Radio station, LAist (formerly KPCC). Mantle hosts AirTalk with Larry Mantle, which is the longest running daily talk show currently on Los Angeles radio. It has been on the air since April 1, 1985. Mantle began his professional broadcasting career in 1980.

AirTalk's interview/call-in format includes guests and topics focused on local news, politics, science, the arts, entertainment and more. Some segments are devoted to listeners calling in with their analysis or experiences related to a current issue.

Mantle is also the host of FilmWeek, which airs Fridays 10-11am and 10-11pm, and Saturdays 12-1pm which includes interviews with actors, directors, screenwriters, and others essential in making films.

Notable interviewees

Mantle has interviewed presidents Barack Obama, Joe Biden, and Jimmy Carter, along with governors, senators, cabinet members, and other high-ranking public officials. These guests include Hillary Clinton and Rosa Parks.

AirTalk also covers entertainment and culture, with guests including Aretha Franklin, Steve Martin, Quentin Tarantino, Christopher Nolan, Martin Scorsese, Herbie Hancock, Jennifer Lawrence, Quincy Jones, and Arturo Sandoval.

Early life and education

Mantle is a fourth-generation Angeleno, who grew up in Baldwin Hills, Inglewood, and Hollywood.

Mantle was born to teenage parents John Mantle and Carole Hubka (now Morse). They raised Mantle in close contact with his grandparents and great grandparents, who helped develop Mantle's appreciation for the dynamism of Los Angeles.

After graduating from high school, Mantle went to Southern California College in Costa Mesa, California.

Mantle studied briefly at Fuller Theological Seminary in Pasadena, before concluding the ministry was not a good fit. His first wife, Constance, encouraged him to pursue a career in radio, given his love of the medium.

Mantle is a devoted fan of the Los Angeles sports teams, most prominently the Dodgers, Lakers, and Rams.

Awards and other work Mantle has received recognition from the Los Angeles Press Club.

Mantle is also on the board of directors for the 8 Ball Emergency Fund for Journalists.