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10 Questions with ... Rob Stevens
March 5, 2019
Have an opinion? Add your comment below. From over here, I hear some stations challenging radio's status quo with absolutely incredible talent that continues to inspire me. Then I also hear stations stuck in their ways, which can be wicked disheartening. We need more innovators and risk-takers in radio. More people willing to take a chance, searching to find that diamond in the rough [cough ... me ... cough] or not go the easy route and syndicate a show (even if that show is solid, radio is best served local)
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BRIEF CAREER SYNOPSIS:
- Worked my way up the ranks, from screener/stunt guy to cohost then producer for a Top-10 major market, heritage morning show, helping them break their slump and hit #1 in the ratings Utility guy - KDDB & KPOI Hawaii
- Cohost - KIOZ San Diego (The Mikey Show & The Show)
- On-Air Producer / AM Imaging Director - WAAF Boston (The Hill Man Morning Show)
1) What do you do to maintain a positive mental attitude and to stay motivated?
Podcasting is my fix. I podcast almost every day, I stay on the pulse and crack jokes regularly; it's invigorating. Give a listen - The Boston Robb Show. You can find it on iTunes, Anchor, Spotify, and most other podcast distributors. I also create, film, and edit my YouTube shows.
2) How are you occupying your time, besides looking for a job?
I have kids; need I say more? I'm wicked involved with my children, so much so that their teachers are hoping I find work soon. And I'm becoming a Vlogger. I created two shows on YouTube, which is rad. As a YouTuber, you get complete creative control.
3) Some people get discouraged or enlightened with the business when they actually step out of it for a while. Tell us your observations from the outside.
From over here, I hear some stations challenging radio's status quo with absolutely incredible talent that continues to inspire me. Then I also hear stations stuck in their ways, which can be wicked disheartening. We need more innovators and risk-takers in radio. More people willing to take a chance, searching to find that diamond in the rough [cough ... me ... cough] or not go the easy route and syndicate a show (even if that show is solid, radio is best served local).
Side note: Certain facets of social media can be severely underused in radio. It's a bummer when I don't see morning shows or stations utilizing YouTube more. YouTube is free, can reach a bigger audience, go viral, and help create a different, lasting effect on the audience (especially for big in-studio interviews).
4) Do you plan on sticking with radio?
Yes, but if my podcast continues to grow ...anything is possible.
5) What is the longest stretch that you've had on the beach?
Two years.
6) What is the best way to get your foot in the door?
Have an audience. If what you do has an audience ... that gets attention.
7) What has been your best resource for finding out about job openings?
All Access is the go-to. But the best method is keeping your ear to the grindstone -- networking, keeping up with the industry, listening to shows and podcasts. Consuming the radio trade like Joey Chestnut guzzling hot dogs.
8) What is the craziest thing you've ever done to get a job?
Filled out this form twice? Joking... I've done some wild stuff, like ate dog food. But that's a story for on the air ... or maybe I should tell that one on my podcast. Tune in...
9) What is the next job you'd like to obtain?
I want to bring my show to a station ready for success. Find like-minded people seeking potential, who understand what makes radio good. My show is like Good Will Hunting; you'll laugh, you'll learn, you may even shed a tear (it's not your fault), but most importantly it's beloved.
10) Are you finding salaries/benefits lower than you ever thought, about the same, or have you seen some pleasant surprises?
The economics of radio will always surprise you. There are so many avenues for non-traditional revenue streams now, I say creativity can create income.
Bonus Questions
Care to contribute a recipe for our On The Beach cookbook?
No recipe. I'd like to take this moment to remind people the importance of sauces. Yes, side sauces. Like honey ... simple yet forgotten. Honey is perfect to dip chicken in or add to your coffee. It's the ketchup of the bees. Or Creamy Cesar dressing, try dipping french fries or garlic bread in it. It's the new Ranch.
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