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10 Questions with ... Tamo
August 6, 2013
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BRIEF CAREER SYNOPSIS:
Got my first official stripes at WROX/Norfolk. After four years in Norfolk, I hopped over to Austin to work on KROX & KGSR. (NOTE: Lynn Barstow thought I was kidding when I met him during R&R and asked if I could be on-air for him. Little did he know, I'd drive down four days later to work with him for over two years.
I wanted to get in the CHR world, so I went to the legendary KCLD. They were notorious for farming good talent, and gave me the opportunity to be MD/Night Goddess Extraordinaire.
Now, I have the opportunity to work in my home state and for the company I've always wanted! I'm also doing middays on WNOH/Norfolk. So cool to be on the air in my hometown. Having friends from grade school text me, "Is that you on the air right now?" is such an awesome feeling!
1. How did you first become interested in radio?
I was in college and needed a way to pay for my Plan B. You can decide if I'm kidding or not. My uncle at The NorVa will simply tell you he got me my start by helping me fulfill a need for internship credits by hooking me up with a gig at 96X.
2. What do you remember the most from working at 96X?
Working with amazing people, which have developed into lifelong friendships. Michele Diamond gave me a chance on the programming side, and I was able to discover what I love to do, for which I am forever grateful. I remember a distinct time at 96X, working alongside Jay Michaels, and feeling this magic energy like we were making mountains move. It was incredible to learn the ropes from someone with talent, vision and passion - the ultimate triple threat.
3. What led you to MD/afternoons at XL102?
Brown people don't fare well in -20 degree weather. LOL. Actually, I was thinking I'd stay in CHR until I saw the opening at WRXL. I thought, "NO F'N WAY! " I had always wanted to work for the station, and when I saw that Dustin Matthews from WFNX was the PD, I had to apply. Having the opportunity to work with one of the youngest, successful guys in the business was a no brainer. I've got a lot to learn from this guy.
4. How would you describe your afternoon show?
I talk about the RVA & tell a lot of fart jokes. My focus is to be LOCAL & entertaining. Oh, and I solicit for potential boyfriends when I can.
5. What part of your job do you love the most?
Talking with my listeners. I like to get into people's head - what makes them tick, why do they like/dislike certain music, what are their relationships with their families, etc.
On every level, radio's job is to serve the people, so I want to make sure I'm getting to know them. It's like a one night stand is rarely as good as getting in bed with your boyfriend. I want to be in a relationship with our audience.
6. What is one thing that may surprise people about XL102?
Pants are in fact required in the studio. Stupid, I know.
I was also surprised to find out we never played Silversun Pickups "Lazy Eye." That says a lot about the heritage of the station, and makes it that much more impressive when you look at how far Dustin has, and continues to take the station. As Dustin says, "We are a lot of things to a lot of people." It's so true, and it's incredible to watch the artful balance that keeps true to our rock heritage, while moving forward and introducing bands like Fitz & The Tantrums to the market.
7. How are you using Social Media?
We focus on staying informative, entertaining, and interactive on our social media platforms. We want our listeners to know we hear/see them, and engage accordingly. If you can't be at the Manson show, you can watch it with us on our Instagram.
8. What do you like best about living in Richmond?
Richmond is like the little Austin of the East. I love how everyone has RVA pride. It's a very active community that supports local events and establishments. The food and music scene are awesome. Plus, I'm only an hour and some change away from home. Beach=love.
9. Fill in the blank: I can't make it through the day without _________?
Spicy food and good music.
10. What would surprise people most about you?
I like to knit, and when I'm not chugging gin martinis, I'm worshipping Martha Stewart & Oprah. Does it get more well-rounded than that? SURPRISE!
Bonus Questions
What are your hobbies?
I love cooking, going to shows, trying new restaurants, crossfit, and gardening.
Last non-industry job?
I was a cocktail waitress at McCormick & Schmick's. I was in the middle of my shift when JJ Holiday at KCLD called and interviewed me. I had my fingers crossed he'd call, so I warned all of my co-workers that I may be walking out mid-"Would you like to hear our specials to..."
First record ever purchased?
Do cassette singles count? Miss those. Ummm, I think my first full album was Immature's, "On Our Worst Behavior."
First concert?
I actually didn't get to go to my first show until I was about 17. My parents were so strict and thought concerts were where all the kids smoked cigarettes and lost their virginity. They were right, which sucked for me. My first show was The Clipse & Snoop at The NorVa. They brought these nasty strippers on stage, and I didn't even get to see Snoop for more than 2 seconds because of curfew.
Favorite band of all-time?
RHCP. No matter how many times I hear "Soul to Squeeze" on the radio, it still gives me that feeling.
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