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10 Questions with ... Darrin Arriens
November 21, 2006
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NAME:Darrin ArriensTITLE:PDSTATION:WHTSMARKET:Grand RapidsOWNER:Citadel
1 How did WHTS come into existence?
At Citadel, we were studying the hole that existed for a CHR/POP-HOT AC in the market. There are three AC stations and a low end CHR in the market, but no one to service that large chunk of audience in between those stations. In May, we got a hold of a new stick and put our plan into action.
2 Could you give us a little insight into your on air staff?
We have a veteran morning show (over 20 years in the market), Dave & Geri, which we brought over from WLHT. They took a lot of heritage away from the competition and brought a lot of cume to WHTS. Our afternoon drive talent was a great find as well. Josh Strickland is a guy that came out of Evansville, IN and hit the ground running the day he got here. He does a great job on the air and is my MD as well.
3 What's one thing that would surprise many people to learn about you?
I have had a steel plate in my head for years and at on-site remotes, I can serve as an antenna.
4 Looking back, which years hold the best musical memories for you and who were your favorite acts at that time?
Definitely the '80s. The music created a lifestyle that we haven't seen the likes of in a long time. It was definitely the "party decade."
5 Do you have a favorite hobby outside of radio?
Golf, Golf, Golf, Golf. I thought I would say it FORE times.
6 What music do you listen to when you're not working?
I listen to the current music offered for both WHTS and WKLQ. I program both and I want to stay in touch with the product. In my spare time, I get a bit more diverse.
7 What is it about our industry that keeps you wanting to do it for a living?
Through all of the ups and downs that the industry has had, to me it's still boils down to the love of the music.
8 What is the one truth that has held constant throughout your career?
You can't have a great book with two bad trends.
9 What is the current state of the radio 'talent pool'?
At the moment, it's very thin. With some of the bigger companies selling off properties now, I would hope that talent development becomes a priority.
10 What advice you would give people new to the business?
From the day you start your new job until the day you retire from the business, the thing that will ALWAYS be noticed is work ethic. Don't just do the described job. Ask what else can be done to help out different departments - even if it means staying late or coming in early. By doing this you achieve two things. You make yourself more valuable because you are learning new things on the job and will be able to use the knowledge down the road. Additionally, you will show your employer that you consider your employment more than "just a job." Learn as much as you can, as soon as you can, and always make sure to listen. Ask for a variety of opinions, think about them, and sort them out for yourself later.
Bonus Questions
What did you want to be when you were growing up?
I'm not sure I'm fully grown up yet, but I've had a blast doing the "radio thing" for the past 21 years!
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