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10 Questions with ... Becca James
July 9, 2019
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BRIEF CAREER SYNOPSIS:
I studied broadcasting at Stephen F. Austin in Nacogdoches, TX and was a DJ at their station, KSAU. After I graduated, I moved back to Houston and was hired for the KRBE street team. Within a year I became the full-time Promotions Coordinator, and after a couple more years of practicing my DJ skills in the production studio after hours, they let me on the air doing weekend overnights from 2-6a. I eventually got more normal weekend hours, and was the overnights fill-in DJ. I also created, hosted and produced KRBE's public affairs program 'Around H-Town.' Then in 2013, I got the opportunity to be the full-time midday host at Star 102.1 in Knoxville, TN, and I've been here since.
1) How would you describe your first radio gig?
A dream come true. I started on the street team of KRBE in Houston and worked my way on-air. I'm incredibly proud of that and eternally grateful for the opportunity.
2) What led you to a career in radio?
I loved listening to the radio growing up, and thought DJs had the coolest job, but never thought of it as a career path until I got to college. I discovered that I could actually major in Radio/TV, and haven't looked back since.
3) As you're prepping your midday show, what are the kinds of things that you look for that you know will click with your listeners?
I like to keep my show positive and upbeat. I mostly look for lifestyle stories focused on women and Mom's, local happenings, info about the artists/songs I'm playing, celebrity news/gossip, and inspiration from what's going on in my personal life.
4) What kinds of social media engagement works best for you?
Funny, weird, or nostalgic stories tend to get the best traction. I also get a lot of interaction when I post things about my personal life, or photos of the random things I do.
5) "Local, local, local" has always been radio's mantra. How do you make sure that you stay visible and involved in the community?
When in the Volunteer State ... I've been a member of the Domestic Violence Awareness Month committee for our local YWCA for five years and got all the stations in our cluster involved in promoting it every October. I also participate in local charity events as much as possible. My two favorites were Dancing With The Knoxville Stars to benefit East TN Children's Hospital (I won!) and went Over The Edge and repelled down a 13-story building for Restoration House (they help single-mom families get back on their feet).
6) Are you wearing more "hats" than you have in the past?
Yes and no. I have always worn multiple hats, but in the past year or so the hats have changed. I've taken a step back from promotions (though I'm still somewhat involved in brainstorming/ planning) and have focused on music. I am now scheduling music, importing audio, working with label reps, etc.
7) Who would be the ultimate "dream guest" to have plug in across from you on your show?
Jennifer Lopez. She's such a force. She's multi-talented, a smart business woman, and a role model, all while being a working mom.
8) What is the one truth that has held constant throughout your career?
'No' is just motivation to work harder to attain whatever goal I set for myself.
9) As a kid growing up, what was your favorite radio station? Jock?
KRBE in Houston. I idolized Maria Todd from the Sam Malone show. She was, and is, entertaining, funny, caring, and the realest person. I had the privilege of working with her when I was still a street team member at KRBE, and she's every bit the same person off the radio as she is on-air. I hope to someday be as beloved in my community as she is in Houston.
10) Who were your mentors? Who would you say has influenced your career the most?
I've been fortunate to work with some amazing people. I like to say I got my Master's in Marketing from Lesley Brotamonte who originally hired me for the KRBE street team. I learned so much about radio and promotions from her. And of course, Leslie Whittle, KRBE's PD. She made me work for my spot on the air, but her pushing me to be better is one of the reasons I've been successful. I still have the notes from our last aircheck session and refer to it occasionally. And she is still my go to person when I need career advice. I also have to say thanks to Rich Bailey who gave me my first full-time on-air job, and to Kevin 'Gravy' Canup for giving me new challenges to make me a better programmer.
Bonus Questions
What was the first concert that you ever attended? Best concert?
My first was The Judds at the Houston Livestock Show & Rodeo when I was a kid. Apparently, I cheered so loud the people in front of us kept plugging their ears and looking at my Dad, but he refused to make me quiet down.
And picking best concert is like asking me to pick my favorite kid. Here's a few of my faves: Mat Kearney at the Ryman, Jennifer Lopez (El Cantante & Dance Again Tours), NKOTBSB, Usher OMG Tour, Coldplay Mylo Xyloto Tour, & Adele.
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