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10 Questions with ... Reed Petitpren
July 1, 2014
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BRIEF CAREER SYNOPSIS:
It all started when I decided to be the biggest radio star to ever come out of the tiny town of Richmond, MI. Being the only one, I figured I might have a chance. I quit web design in '05 and enrolled in Specs Howard. After interning with 89X for a few months, I was hired in promotions. After two years I moved on to pursue on-air opportunities. I worked in Flint for a few months and packed up my stuff and moved to Bismarck, ND where I had my first night show. Following that, I headed south to Biloxi, MS to host another night show. Finally, I came back home to Detroit Rock City, and rejoined my old crew at 89X!
1. How did you first become interested in radio?
I've always kind of had a desire to do radio growing up, it seemed like a really cool and fun job, but I never really thought I could actually have a career in it; it always seemed like a dream job. Which it is! But finally one day after realizing I didn't want to do web design anymore, I heard a Specs Howard commercial on my way home from work, and once they mentioned you can come to work in your pajamas, I was sold.
2. After starting your career in 2005 at 89X, what led you back to the station?
I left 89X in '07 to spread my little baby radio wings and get some experience in Bismarck, ND and then Biloxi, MS. I've always wanted to come home to 89X and be back with family and friends, and one day completely out of the blue, I received a random phone call from the PD at the time asking if I wanted a job...and I've been here since.
3. What do you love most about your job?
What DON'T I love most about my job would be a better question! The people I work with for starters, it's pretty rare when you literally enjoy everyone you work with. Other than that, the music, being able to see a lot of concerts, being able to meet listeners and, of course, come to work in my pajamas.
4. How would you describe your show?
I like to get a little nutty sometimes. I'm usually goofy-witted, happy-go-lucky, and a little out there. I tend to say a lot of things that really don't make sense, just because I'm weird like that. I try to dish a little dirt and info on what's going on in the music world, as well as having fun.
5. What is your show prep routine?
I drink about four raw eggs while listening to "Eye Of The Tiger," then usually check TMZ, Huffington Post, and various music news websites. Anything news or pop culture worthy I can talk about or make a wise crack about.
6. What's it like working for Jay Hudson?
Jay's great. He's young, knows a hell of a lot about music, and a real down to earth guy. He's a real personal guy that makes it a point to listen to what you have to say, and that's really appreciated.
7. Who is your favorite air personality not on your staff and why do you like them?
Well, since you basically eliminated my option of sucking up to my boss and saying Jay Hudson.... No but, I really don't spend much time listening to other jocks. I used to be a big fan of Sirius XM's Covino & Rich on the Maxim channel. I love their style and format.
8. Fill in the blank: I can't make it through the day without _________?
3-4 naps and about a gallon of milk. Seriously. I'm like a child.
9. What are you most passionate about?
Food for sure. But music is always the go-to. Great for any mood or situation. I especially love one of a kind performances you can find online, whether it be a special live or acoustic version.
10. What would surprise people most about you?
I would really, really like to start a good slow clap. One day...
Bonus Questions
What are your hobbies?
Going to Downtown Detroit for shows and sporting events and hitting up some of the great Detroit bars, stupid brain-numbing reality TV, DJing bars, Netflix, and sleeping. I'm really good at sleeping.
Last non-industry job?
Ahhh...Car Salesman. Or Professional Automobile Distributing Consultant. I sucked at that job so bad. I think the only cars I sold were pity-buys.
First record ever purchased?
Beastie Boys - Check Your Head...on cassette tape! I was so happy I saved up like 15 bucks to get it, and I listened to it nonstop. I was very proud of myself. I think it drove my parent's nuts, though.
First concert?
Bob Seger! I was about six, so this was back in like 1990. My parents gave me a little street cred for that one. I feel a little bad ass when I say Seger was my first concert. Thank God it wasn't New Kids On The Block or something.
Favorite band of all-time?
Well, I don't think William Hung is considered a band, he's so underrated. That's a tough question. I really like Clapton and Tom Petty, but to be a little more modern, I'd have to say it's a toss-up between Foo Fighters, Nirvana, Eminem, and I'm a huge fan of Aaron Lewis, but not so much his country stuff...
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