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10 Questions with ... Jeff Sanders
October 17, 2006
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NAME:Jeff SandersTITLE:VP/ProgrammingSTATION:WXNRMARKET:Greenville, NC (#87)COMPANY:Beasley BroadcastingBORN:2/25RAISED:In Chicago
BRIEF CAREER SYNOPSIS:
April marked 20 years of doing radio! OUCH!!
LAST NON-INDUSTRY JOB:
Delivering Pizzas for Dominos in Jacksonville, FL.
FIRST RECORD EVER PURCHASED:
Styx, Cornerstone.
FIRST CONCERT:
Rush, Moving Pictures
FAVORITE BAND OF ALL-TIME:
It's a tie between Floyd and Rush.
1. How has WXNR changed over the past year?
In an effort to continuously evolve, create talk, and shake things up, WXNR went through an entire staff face-lift, removal of some of the wimpy Alternative music, addition of some of the harder edge Classic Rock artists. Same station, just a little freshening.
2. Why did the station change from New Rock 99X to 99.5 The X - It Just Rocks?
New Rock 99X worked for WXNR for years; however, in a world where Alternative stations are struggling, I decided the station should shed its New Rock/Alternative image and just concentrate on whatever an 18-34 year old male wants.
3. Why have you taken the station more Gold-based?
There are only a handful of current artists that are selling CD's, selling concert tickets, showing interest in My Space, downloads on I-Tunes, etc. I'm pulling back until the current product starts moving again. I'm not convinced of some of the crap that the record companies push, and obviously, with only a few of the rock artists selling through, the listeners aren't satisfied either.
4. What makes WXNR unique?
WXNR is definitely one of the more interesting stations to listen to in this market from our community involvement to over-the-top promotions that gain press and publicity.
5. How would you describe the radio landscape in your market?
The New Bern, Greenville, Jacksonville, NC market is a huge challenge. One corner of our market is home to one of the world's largest Marine Bases, while the other end of the market is the campus of Eastern Carolina University. Each corner is incredibly different in their musical tastes. In addition, there are a lot of small signals that cover little niches in this market, making them thorns in the side.
6. What are your goals for WXNR in 2007?
#1 baby!
7. Explain your duties with Beasley Broadcasting and how that transpired?
I was competing against Beasley at one point with Wilks Broadcasting. Beasley ended up moving me out of that market, hiring me to help their NC properties. Now, I'm involved with multiple Beasley properties across the country. In addition, because of my long relationship with Wilks Broadcasting, I work closely with Wilks stations in Fresno, Lubbock, and Reno.
8. What is the one truth that has held constant throughout your career?
Hard work pays off!
9. Of all the skills you have gained through the years, is there an area you'd like to improve?
I'm always looking to improve my skills. Interestingly enough, I pay close attention and learn from everyone -- interns to industry legends.
10. Biggest career highlight?
That's a tough one! I have so many great career highlights!! If I had to pick one, I guess it would be when companies started believing enough in my abilities to involve me with multiple properties and multiple formats. Of course, I couldn't do any of this without a great support staff! (Thank you, Wendy. She asked me to mention her.)
Bonus Questions
What are your hobbies?
I'm a huge golfer, although my game has really slipped since having kids!
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