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10 Questions with ... Ian McCain
November 6, 2012
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BRIEF CAREER SYNOPSIS:
I started at Alternative KRCK/Omaha. Worked at The Edge in both Omaha and Tulsa, an X in KC, a KISS in Lincoln, at Channel 1057 and KJQ in SLC, Q101 in Chicago, and was the Music Programming Manager for AOL Music Now.
1. Tell us about your role as Digital Program Director at FM 102/1?
As the Digital Program Director here at FM 102/1, I oversee all content that goes up on the social media sites as well as on fm1021milwaukee.com. On a daily basis, it's about using your brand filter to create compelling content our listeners/users expect from the station. Whether it is re-using on-air content, tossing up an expanded version of an interview with an artist, creating a Spotify playlist, posting concert pics or even just trolling for funny memes that fit into the lifestyle... it's all part of a day at the office.
2. What sort of things can we learn from you about Social Media?
It's not how often you post, it's what you post. Create conversations with the people who LIKE you. Follow your followers back. Be local.
3. How would you describe your evening air shift?
First off, it's a live show, so that a little different in itself. As far as content, I try to be local at every opportunity -- I really consider this terrestrial radio's trump card at this point.
4. What part of your job do you love the most?
Working with a really intelligent, passionate team of people. It's a small company but the people they hire are very driven to succeed.
5. What is the most challenging part of your job?
Reaching people on Google+
6. Fill in the blank: I can't make it through the day without _________?
Kissing my wife.
7. What are you most passionate about?
Creating great radio. Music. Kicking your ass in Jenga. Bacon.
8. What do you like best about living in Milwaukee?
It's secretly a hip city. Lot's of cool neighborhoods, restaurants, people and of course bars.
9. What stands out the most from when you started your career in Omaha?
Hmmm... good question. Maybe the how long it took the music and radio industries to fully embrace new technologies in order to deliver content to most people with a desktop or laptop.
10. What would surprise people most about you?
I was the National Promotion Director for American Gramophone Records when I was 20 and pimped John Denver and Mannheim Steamroller releases.
Bonus Questions
What are your hobbies?
I'm a huge Arsenal FC soccer fan. I also watch tons of sports... you name it. Also, I wouldn't consider myself a foodie, but I like eating.
Last non-industry job?
I worked with the Major League Soccer team Real Salt Lake in game day production.
First record ever purchased?
Blondie and Devo -- My first CD was the Cocteau Twins.
First concert?
I think it was when I was 8 or 9 -- Juice Newton -- but after years of counselling, I've repressed that never to be brought up again.
Favorite band of all-time?
Come on, Shawn, you know I don't have just one. Okay, here are a few I really love... The Clash, The Ramones, The Jam, The Smiths, Joy Division, New Order, Bauhaus, Love & Rockets, Bad Religion, Dead Kennedy's, Social D, Rocket From The Crypt, For Against, The Pixies, Revolting Cocks, Black Flag, Nirvana, Nick Cave & The Bad Seeds, Big Black, Flaming Lips, Foo Fighters, Ride, The Verve, Slowdive, Gus Gus, Portishead, The Killers, Nine Inch Nails, Chemical Brothers, Beastie Boys, Muse, Aphex Twin ... that's just scratching the surface. There's a lot more... just ask. LOL
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