-
10 Questions with ... Laura St. James
July 25, 2006
Have an opinion? Add your comment below. -
NAME:Laura St. JamesTITLE:PDSTATION:WAEB-FM (B104)MARKET:Allentown, PAOWNER:Clear Channel
1 Please outline your radio career stops so far.
Other than a four-year stint doing weekends at WBEB (B101)/Philadelphia, this is where I've spent the last 11 years, starting in promotions, and working my way up to PD in 2002. Allentown is my hometown and I'm so fortunate to be programming the station I grew up with.
2 How would you describe the radio landscape in your market?
Unique. There are only five major FM signals in the market and we have no CHR competitor. We compete against a Classic Hits station (WODE) and a Mainstream AC (WLEV).
3 Could you give us a little insight into your on air staff?
We have the 2nd longest running morning show in the market, Ken Matthews, who's been here 15 years. Mike Kelly (afternoons & music director) has been here 11 years, and night guy and imaging director Scott Lowe also has a long history with the station. I voice track the mid-day shift.
4 Why do you suppose there are so few female PDs at Top 40 these days?
There are a lot of female music directors or mid-day personalities but it doesn't have to stop there. Don't become content with your position. If you have aspirations, make them known!
5 What was your favorite station to listen to as a kid?
Good GOD!!! The one jock that I wish I had on staff would have to be Kannon from Wired 96.5 in Philly. We worked together in Atlanta. If you haven't heard his show, you should go check it out. He is funny, edgy, and BEST OF ALL ... REAL!!
6 Looking back, which years hold the best musical memories for you and who were your favorite acts at the time?
It would be the period from 1985-1991 - I was into Madonna, Michael Jackson, Huey Lewis and the News.
7 Do you have a favorite hobby outside of radio?
Working out and cooking (both are great for relieving stress), travel, old home preservation and restoration.
8 What music do you listen to when you're not working?
Right now, I'm liking KT Tunstall and Gnarls Barkley. And I still love the 80's.
9 What is the one truth that has held consistent throughout your career?
I've always trusted my gut instincts and they've served me well.
10 What advice would you give people new to the business?
Learn as much as you can. The more well rounded you are, the better your chances for career advancement.
Bonus Questions
What's the one thing that would surprise many people to learn about you?
That I don't drink, and never have.
-
-