-
10 Questions with ... Matthew Potter
March 2, 2015
Have an opinion? Add your comment below. -
BRIEF CAREER SYNOPSIS:
College Radio at The University of South Carolina for two years, then WARQ/Columbia weekend shifts for two years. I was running a restaurant here in Charleston in 2004, and liked the new 98X Active Rock station with PD Mike Allen. I walked in at the right time looking to do some sales. Mike needed someone that could do some fill in air shifts on the weekends, so I took the job. Moved to afternoons eventually, then APD, then PD, then OM and now I do everything including the toilets.
1. How did you become interested in radio?
Started in college at WUSC at University of South Carolina. Got on air in Columbia, SC to get my foot in the door to do sales. Not for me.
2. Triple A shares a lot of music with other formats these days - tell us how you plan to balance acts between The Bridge and WYBB (98 Rock).
We've been sharing some songs here and there for years now. Charleston rockers don't mind a little variety if it's good music, and Charleston Triple Aers can handle a little edge.
3. Any tweaks planned for the station?
Probably gonna put in some of Slipknot's lighter stuff. Joking, not really, but don't be surprised if you get a little more guitar here and there.
4. How do you feel about the current climate of music?
Triple A-wise, it's amazing! I love how it's allowed more Alternative into the format. Charleston still loves their singer/songwriters though, and we have so many awesome ones even right here in Charleston, so we have a lot to squeeze in.
5. Tell us about the two big spring events you have coming up.
Well, Charleston is such a hot spot for music right now, there's something going on every weekend. Our 3rd annual Spring Jam is happening April 18th and we're excited about this show for sure. It's everything from rock to bluegrass to jamband to alternative to reggae.
Our 9th annual First Flush Festival at the Charleston Tea Plantation has gotten bigger and bigger every year. This year Sheryl Crow headlines, so we're stocking up on parking attendants.
6. What are some of your biggest challenges as an independent station?
$$$$$$$$$$$$$$ When something breaks, there is no "corporate" to send down money to fix it. It's me wheelin' and dealin' to find people here in town to fix it.
7. What is your typical day like?
I've flipped my schedule a thousand times, but I've found kickin' the day off with listening to the music cranked up while I respond to e-mails works the best.
8. What's the best piece of advice anyone's ever given you? The worst?
My dad told me to "go for it." The worst? My dad told me to "go for it," but I used that advice while contemplating buying stock in Crystal Pepsi.
9. What is the one truth that has held constant throughout your career?
Never count out a certain song until you hear it on the radio in your car after you added it.
10. If you wanted to completely change careers today, what would you do?
I'd probably start Facebook. That, or teach.
Bonus Questions
Last non-industry job:
General Manager of a restaurant
First record ever purchased:
Beastie Boys "License to Ill"
First concert:
Van Halen "For Unlawful Carnal Knowledge" Tour
Favorite band of all-time:
Never been able to answer this. I like way too many genres.
What do you enjoy doing in your spare time away from work?
My kids and soccer.
-
-