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10 Questions with ... Kobe
November 7, 2006
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Please outline your radio career so far:
WNKI Elmira
WPXY Rochester
WBZZ Pittsburgh
WFBC Greenville
WIHB Charleston1 How would you describe your first radio gig?
It was a small market night gig, where I did all the things that you can't do in bigger markets, pissing off moms and dads all over Elmira in the process.
2 What led you to a career in radio?
I have always been the kid who will do anything for a laugh, and I am a huge fan of self deprecation. The radio bug really sunk its teeth into me back when I was an intern, hanging around JJ ... er, rather Jeremy Rice, Mike Danger, and NORM ON THE BARSTOOL back at PXY.
3 Welcome to West Palm Beach! How does it compare to Charleston?
It's a bit bigger, and the weather is a little warmer. As for radio goes, WiLD is mainstream, straight down the middle. Since we are the only CHR, we are not the aggressor like WIHB is in Charleston. The people of West Palm Beach love WiLD and its personalities, and the logo really means something to the people of WPB.
4 You have lots of signals coming into your area (Miami, Ft. Lauderdale, etc). What's the radio landscape like?
Sister station Y-100 (WHYI/Miami) comes in well, and the same can be said for Power96 (WPOW/Miami). In-market we have a Rhythmic competitor WBMX, plus a Hot AC, WRMF. You can be aware of what competition is doing, but my job is to make sure that WiLD 95.5 is the best station it can be, by having entertaining content on air, and online at wild955.com.
5 If there is one thing you're bringing away from your experience as first time PD, what would that be?
Treat people the way you'd want to be treated. Also, communication is key. It's funny how we get paid to be "communicators" with our audience but in the hallways communication is lacking.
6 What is your favorite part of the job?
As much as I love being on air, and listening to great music, I must say developing people is one of the greatest things about being a PD. A wise man once said "It's not what you do in your career, but what the people you taught do in their careers that build your legacy." I think that's very true. If I am not making my people better, I am failing as a leader.
7 What's one thing that would surprise many people to learn about you?
I am huge fan of video games ... but maybe that's not too much of a surprise. I was raised a Jehovah's Witness ... that's a surprise (by the way, I do celebrate Christmas now :)).
8 Could you give us a little insight into your on air staff?
I inherited a great staff from Chris Marino. Kevin and Virginia are the morning show and they have been here since the beginning. They are huge in this market. They have great numbers, and one of the most entertaining shows I have ever heard.
Our midday slot is currently open, and I am handling afternoons.
Valentine does doing nights, and he is awesome. He is plugged into what the demo does, watches, listens to and everything else WiLD. He also has a great passion for music, and is helping out in the programming department.
9 Do you have a favorite hobby outside of radio?
My wife and I love to cook, and spend time with our 4 month old baby girl Tia.
We're also exploring our new city on the weekends.
10 What advice you would give people new to the business?
Don't give up. There are times you will get frustrated and pissed about missing out on the night gig or what not, but don't give up. I was passed over for plenty of gigs in my day. You can either be pissed about it, or look at what you need to improve on and get better at it.
Bonus Questions
What ringtone do you have on your cel?
Ha ha! I actually have three. Usher and Alicia Keys "My Boo" for the wifey, then I switch up the other two between Outkast "B.O.B." and T.I. "Bring 'Em Out."
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