Wes “Scoop” Nisker (1942–2023) was an American author, radio commentator, comedian, and Buddhist meditation instructor, known for his satirical wit and spiritual teachings. A fixture on San Francisco’s free-form radio station KSAN in the late 1960s and 1970s, he later became a regular voice on KFOG.
Born in Norfolk, Nebraska, he gained prominence for his humorous yet insightful news reports, often ending with his famous catchphrase: “If you don’t like the news… go out and make some of your own.” His unconventional journalism blended social commentary, humor, and activism.
Beyond radio, Nisker was a dedicated Buddhist practitioner, co-founding the Theravāda Buddhist journal Inquiring Mind and teaching at Spirit Rock Meditation Center. His books explore mindfulness, spirituality, and human consciousness, including If You Don’t Like the News… Go Out and Make Some of Your Own (1994,) Crazy Wisdom (1998,) and Buddha’s Nature: A Practical Guide to Discovering Your Place in the Cosmos (2000.) His later works, The Big Bang, The Buddha, and the Baby Boom (2004) and Crazy Wisdom Saves the World Again! (2008,) reflect his blend of humor and Buddhist philosophy. His final book, You Are Not Your Fault and Other Revelations (2016,) compiles his wisdom and reflections on life.
More: Wikipedia • READ: Works by Wes Nisker
Poetry is the special medium of spiritual crazy wisdom, the form of expression that comes closest to creating a bridge between words and what is wordless.
—Wes Nisker
Topics: Poets, Poetry
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