I called into coast once, like 11 years ago and successfully got on the air. It was during the Mike Siegel "era" so you can imagine how easy it was. Phone rang right away, (in fact hearing a ring, I hung up convinced that I had dialed a wrong number. I was really expecting a busy signal).
The screening process was very simple, just like any other talk show really. I talked to one person... related what I wanted to ask the guest about... put me on hold and I was on the air about 15 minutes later. Now that was 11 years ago so maybe things have changed.
I've screened thousands of calls at my station in the last 7 years. Here's what I would suggest. Don't say anything that gives the screener the impression that you are going to "stir up the pot". Some shows love that sort of thing but C2C has always been more relaxed. So saying "What did the guest mean when he said..." might mean that you don't get on. Rephrasing the statement "following up on the guest's earlier statement about..." might increase your chances.
Having personal experience with the subject matter or having something to add to the conversation is always good. However, acting as an authority figure could backfire. Nothing bugs me more than when someone calls in saying they are an expert on the subject being discussed. And when they get on the air, they want a huge chuck of airtime as if they WERE a guest.
My suggestions, follow the call screener's lead (Where are you from", what is your name?, what's your question?). Have one or two quick points, and demonstrate to the screener that you can get those points across in a timely manner. Hosts hate having to drag points out of people over a 3 minute period.
Of course you could always call Art, he doesn't use screeners.... Oh wait!
Hopefully this helps
