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10 Questions with ... Catie Wilber
March 18, 2013
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BRIEF CAREER SYNOPSIS:
Nine years kicking around WFNX programming department starting at age 16; from there, I had a brief hiatus in broadcast production at Mullen (Advertising), 10 years at WXRV (The River) -- PD/MD until 2012.
1. How did you become interested in radio?
As a maniacal fan of WFNX. I was raised in a house never without music playing throughout. Vinyl spinning from The Beatles, Jimmy Cliff, Paul Simon, etc. etc., blues, new wave and even classical.
2. How did your gig at WUMB come about?
Fate and the good will of fellow humans.
3. How would you describe the music on the station?
Authentic roots/folk music ... the many genres that inspired and have been inspired by that music from both the past and present. The chance to hear thoughtfully-presented sets of decades-spanning music from the likes of Alison Krauss, Wilco or Hank Williams and Leonard Cohen back-to-back with Bright Eyes and Iron and Wine, or Bob Dylan back-to-back with the new Billy Brag, all presented by hosts with genuine passion and extensive knowledge. Wonderfully difficult to narrow down!
4. What type of features and special programming do you run on the station?
All that celebrates live and local: We showcase WUMB's extensive library of live, in-studio visits/performances from everyone from Frank Turner to Chris Smither to Greg Brown to Bruce Cockburn to David Wax Museum to Antje Duvekot to Shawn Mullins. This is in addition to the live music celebrated on "Mountain Stage." "Highway 61 Revisted" is an homage to the classic folk and folk rock of the '60s and '70s, while "Dark Was the Night" is an ever-varied look at blues, roots and songwriters. WUMB on its own is so special Monday-Friday, the specialty highlights are just icing on the cake!
5. Does the station use volunteers, paid employees or a combination of both?
Both -- all equally passionate about the music and WUMB listeners.
6. What is the best advice you would give to the young people at the station?
Do what you love ... and keep doing it. Doors will open. Maintain genuine contact with those you connect with along the way.
7. WUMB has a long history in the market - tell us about that.
WUMB is that rare breed that has for three decades (and going strong) maintained the core of its programming values while consistently adapting to the desires of supporters as they themselves evolve. It's a thrill to join the team behind such a legacy -- broadcasting to those who caught Dylan at Club 47 and are now bringing the family to see Jim James at the Newport Folk Festival.
8. Of all the skills you have gained through the years, is there an area you'd like to improve?
Time management.
9. What is the one truth that has held constant throughout your career?
Do unto others as you'd have done to you.
10. Complete this sentence: I can't make through the day without ...
... Laughing!
Bonus Questions
Last non-industry job:
Nanny
First record ever purchased:
Huey Lewis & The News, Picture This ... or was it Meaty, Beaty, Big and Bouncy at Lechmere?
First concert:
Sleepy Labeef
Favorite band of all-time:
The Beatles
What do you enjoy doing in your spare time away from work?
Seeing movies, drawing, cooking, spending time with nephews etc.
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