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10 Questions with ... Marc "Mookie" Kaczor
September 15, 2014
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BRIEF CAREER SYNOPSIS:
Most of my career has been in San Diego at KSCF (SOPHIE), XTRA (91X) and KBZT. I was also at KXRN/Laguna Beach as MD/afternoon show host for two years before joining KPRI.
1. How did you become interested in radio?
Before the music bug got me, I wanted to take over for Vin Scully and become the next great baseball play-by-play guy. I took some classes in community college, got an internship, then became a traffic reporter and then a jock. There was NO looking back.
2. Most of your career has been in the San Diego -- what are some of the unique aspects to that market?
Even though there are millions of people who live in San Diego, there's definitely a small town vibe. It has been a wonderful (and saturated) radio market to work in for all these years. San Diego is home.
3. Do you intend to bring some of your non-comm sensibilities to the station?
I'd like to bring some non-comm ideas to KPRI. We'd like to build a radio station with a very grassroots vibe ... something that listeners want to be a part of. A radio station that isn't afraid to take a chance on a new record, with real jocks and a community-first attitude.
4. It looks like you and PD Matt Stone are adjusting the music on the station? Tell us about that.
We've already implemented new music since taking over the reins of the station. KPRI had been in transition for many moons. Things can get stale. We've already freshened things up with Alternative classics and new artists. More to come. Much more.
5. What is the music meeting like with you and Matt?
I've never had a PD as passionate and committed to putting together a good product on the air than Matt Stone. We've got a good relationship from working together in the past. Even when we are hanging out outside of the station, we're always talking about music.
6. How do you feel about the current climate of music?
I feel that programmers in the Triple A format sometimes miss certain songs. Most stations are corporately owned and are simply "playing it safe" with music. KPRI is independently owned and not afraid to blaze trials in the format.
7. Most surprising record this year?
Some well-known artists have come out with new records recently ... familiar artists, too. There are new albums from Bob Mould, J Mascis, Chrissie Hynde, Neil Finn. All good stuff.
8. Tell us about your syndicated show "Unsigned Sunday."
"Unsigned Sunday" is my baby. It's a show that highlights independent record labels, lesser-known artists and debuts new music before the songs impact terrestrial radio. The show has been with me since my stint at KSCF. I also brought it to KXRN and The Independent FM online.
9. What has been your biggest career highlight?
The fact that Southern California has been my radio home for over a decade is a blessing. Also ... I'm proud of the long list of artist interviews I've done over the years. I love hosting artists in-studio and creating content for bands.
10. If you wanted to completely change careers today, what would you do?
Eventually, I'd like to move to a simpler atmosphere. My girlfriend and I want to retire to Utah. I could drive a tour bus at Zion National Park and she could open up a coffee shop.
Bonus Questions
What do you enjoy doing in your spare time away from work?
I enjoy hanging at the beach, craft beer, seeing shows, shopping for vinyl and rooting for the Lakers.
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