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10 Questions with ... Julian Nieh
September 13, 2005
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NAME:Julian NiehPOSITION:NightsSTATION:WIHTMARKET:Washington DCCOMPANY:Clear Channel Communications
Please outline your radio career so far: (station/date, station/date, etc.)
WWZZ/Washington DC
WQPO/Harrisonburg
WVSR/Charleston
WNVZ/Norfolk1) How would you describe your first radio gig?
A definite learning experience in regard to what people consider "good radio." It was in a quiet conservative college town, where I made the most of every opportunity to hone my talent and develop my "personality."
2) It's our 10th anniversary this year. What were you doing 10 years ago?
Back then I was running a business, working in the import car industry. If I'd known then what I know now about that industry, I'd be on an island sipping drinks (with those cool umbrella thingys).
3) What would you like to be doing 10 years from now?
I'd love to be somehow involved with MTV. But, if I'm still doing radio in five years I would like to be doing PM drive, maybe as an MD, or APD. In 10 years, a manager
4) What is the radio vibe like in DC?
Ever know of a politician to just 'drop in' to chat? Very fragmented. We have plenty of radio stations fighting for that target demographic, and lifestyle. DC also has numerous heritage well established programs and radio stations. To say it is very competitive is an understatement!.
5) What was your favorite station to listen to when you were a kid?
WHFS.
6) What do you do to keep ahead of your listeners in terms of trends, likes and dislikes?
The friends and people I hang with are usually in the "now." It's also important to talk with your audience and ask questions. Like my PD always says, "Get in their world."
7) What music do you listen to when you're not working?
I love anything dance related, breakbeat/techno...that's my style. Hip Hop like Tribe Called Quest, Del the Funkee Homosapien, De La Soul, Souls of Mischief...from back in the day.
8) What is the one truth that has held constant throughout your career?
Always be honest, and respectful of everyone you interact with. Help others as much as you possibly can. Someday they might be your manager, or you may work with them or need their help! I treat everyone with the same respect that I'd expect back from them. Also work hard in your craft, have passion for entertaining.
9) What advice you would give to new programmers?
I have never been a programmer but if I ever became one I would definitely say they should ask questions! How else can you learn and move forward without asking, and learning? Be a sponge, and don't be afraid to ask others for assistance. You're only as strong as the people around you. Not to mention, your co-workers will respect you more if you show humility.
10) Please describe the best or worst promotion you've ever been part of?
The best would have to be our recent "Bangin' HOT Summer Sticker." Pick up your sticker at various locations, and our sticker stops, than listen for your tag # at pre-determined times. We also go out and look for cars in pre-determined areas with the HOT sticker and if we spot you we give you cash, tickets, an XBox, etc. When we are actually pursuing the vehicle we air it live, including the winner's reaction. It's great listener involvement, and creates a sense of urgency to get our sticker on their car.
Bonus Questions
Fill in the blank: I can't make it through the day without _____.
PHO! If you never had some PHO you're missing out! Its Vietnamese noodle soup. One bowl and I'm feeling way better! It's like food acupuncture. What did I just say?!
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