10 Questions with ... Jon Manley

BRIEF CAREER SYNOPSIS:

Started in 2001 at Internet broadcasting company, then began work in promotions at KSLX in Phoenix in 2002. Moved to KEDJ (now KEXX) on-air weekends in 2003, quickly upped to overnights. Did overnights and fill-ins for literally every daypart between 2003-2010 and was also named Programming Assistant. Hired for nights in Vegas in 2010, transitioned to Production Mgr, Midday jock, and MD over the last 14 months.

1. How did you become interested in radio?

I've always loved music and radio, but I really decided to get into the industry on a dare. I was working as an auditor for US Customs, 9/11 happened, I realized I wasn't happy wearing khakis and living in a cubicle farm and was too young to feel so old. During a lunch break one day a co-worker made a joke about how I would make a good radio personality and double dog dared me to try to get on-air somewhere. Obviously I had no choice; it was a double dog dare. I moved to Phoenix to attend broadcasting school and the rest, as they say, is history. True story.

2. What has been your biggest challenge since adding MD duties?

Finding enough time to call everyone back.

3. What part of your job do you like best? Least?

Well I'm getting a sandwich named after me, and that's probably the biggest honor anyone could ever receive. But really the best part is everything. I'd be cracking jokes and listening to music whether I was in radio or not, so to be able to get paid for this is truly a blessing.

Least? Listening to a song, falling in love with it, and realizing that it's probably not going to work on the radio.

4. How would you describe the music and imaging on X107.5?

Focused. We spent a lot of time going through our library and developing a solid "base" sound that allows us to add a guitar song or banjo song without either sounding like it doesn't fit. I like to say that we still throw curveballs, but now they don't end up in the dirt. Imaging wise, Dustin is one of the best in the business, and his stuff is what really helps us stand out against our competitors.

5. What is most important to you when deciding what new music to pitch for airplay on the station?

Timing and story. I think people are exposed to so much new music via the internet that we need to give them a reason why our new song is the one they should pay attention to.

6. What may surprise people the most about the Las Vegas radio market?

It's the smallest market in the country with two full signal alternative stations.

7. What do you like best about living in Vegas?

Besides being able to get an 800 oz. vodka tonic at any time of day? I'd say the best part about living here is that we have all the attractions of a big city, but with the small town atmosphere.

8. Fill in the blank: I can't make it through the day without _________?

Mahoney's Mammaries. Check out our website, you'll understand.

9. What would surprise people most about you?

I'm a pretty good portrait artist.

10. What is the one truth that has held constant throughout your career?

The only constant is change, and if you aren't ready for it, you should find something else to do.

What are your hobbies?

Drawing, playing guitar, and long walks on the beach...according to my eHarmony profile.

Last non-industry job?

Graphic Designer for a sign company

First record ever purchased?

I got Achtung Baby by U2 and Arrested Development's first album on the same day, back when CDs came in those big cardboard packages.

First concert?

Pearl Jam, Bad Religion, and the Frogs at Summerfest in 95. Been hooked ever since.

Favorite band of all-time?

Considering I named my dog Mookie Blaylock, I'd probably have to say Pearl Jam.