About Bas van der Zwaan
I’m Bas van der Zwaan. I grew up in Velden, have worked in the media for more than thirty years and am a familiar face to many people in Limburg through the L1 programme Óngerwaeg. Through Zwaanzinnig!, I produce Óngerwaeg for L1.
Over the years, I’ve seen, created and experienced a great deal. I’ve presented radio and television programmes, reported on news and events, interviewed both well-known personalities and people outside the public eye, and worked on documentaries, live broadcasts and audiovisual productions
• about me
From Velden to radio, television and everything in between
My career in the media began in the 1990s. After completing my journalism degree, I spent some time at SBS Sport before joining Omroep Venlo, where I worked as a reporter, presenter and senior editor.
It was an environment where many different aspects of media came together. Finding news, selecting stories, preparing interviews, presenting programmes and taking responsibility for what ultimately went on air.
In 1998, under my editorial responsibility, the broadcaster was named the best local broadcaster in the Netherlands for the first time. It was a special recognition, but above all confirmation of what can be achieved when journalism, creativity and commitment come together.
Since 2000, I have worked as a programme maker and presenter at L1. Over the years, I have developed into a versatile media professional, equally comfortable in front of and behind the camera.
Presenting, interviewing, filming, editing, editorial work, directing on location and developing creative programme formats. I know the entire process, which means I understand not only what happens on stage or in front of the camera, but also what it takes to get there.
“My strength lies in connecting with people.”
Throughout my career, I have interviewed government ministers, actors, musicians, entrepreneurs, public officials and performers. At the same time, some of the encounters that have shaped me most have been with people who would not normally find themselves in the spotlight.
I don’t need to be the centre of attention myself. A good presenter or interviewer creates the space for others to come into their own and makes the audience feel part of the conversation.
• Core values
What you can expect from me
I like to think beyond the obvious. Not simply for the sake of doing things differently, but because the most obvious solution is not always the best one.
Genuine attention
I want to understand who someone is and what really needs to be told. Not just what is visible on the surface, but what lies beneath it.
Broad experience
I combine decades of experience in journalism, radio, television, presenting, editorial work, directing and audiovisual production.
Flexibility
I believe in being well prepared, while always remaining alert to what is happening in the room or during a conversation.
A personal approach
You work directly with me. From our first conversation and the preparation of the content right through to the moment the story is told.
• Zwaanzinnig!
Why Zwaanzinnig!?
The name Zwaanzinnig! is, of course, a playful reference to my surname and to the Dutch word waanzinnig, meaning something along the lines of extraordinary or amazing. Simply good isn’t good enough. Together, we aim for an extraordinary result.
But the name also reflects the way I think and work. Curious, versatile and not afraid to take an unexpected turn when it leads to a better story.
After many years of building experience in the media, I wanted to use my knowledge and skills more broadly. Zwaanzinnig! gives me the opportunity to bring presentation, production, content and storytelling together under one name.
Who is Bas van der Zwaan?
Bas van der Zwaan is an experienced Limburg-based presenter, programme maker, interviewer and audiovisual producer from Lomm. He is known to a wide audience as the presenter of the L1 programme Óngerwaeg.
What makes Bas’s approach unique?
Bas combines journalistic curiosity with empathy, improvisation skills and broad production experience. He quickly puts people at ease and always looks for the personal story behind a subject or occasion.
How much experience does Bas van der Zwaan have?
Bas has worked in the media since the 1990s. He gained experience at SBS Sport, Omroep Venlo and L1, among others, and has worked as a reporter, presenter, editor-in-chief, programme maker and media producer.
What can you book Bas for?
Bas can be booked as a presenter, event host, moderator and funeral celebrant, among other roles. He also develops concepts and creates audiovisual productions and copy.
• Let’s meet
Shall we talk?
Are you looking for a presenter who does more than simply introduce the next item on the programme? A moderator who takes the time to really understand the subject matter? A programme maker who understands the entire production process? Or someone who listens carefully and knows how to find exactly the right words?
Tell me what you’re organising, creating or hoping to communicate.
