10 Questions with ... "Phat" Matt Franklin

BRIEF CAREER SYNOPSIS:

Started interning at 89X in 1992; climbed up to club DJ/weekends/overnights and then evenings/Music Director until 2006, moved to afternoons/Program Director at 89X's Triple A sister station 93.9 The River. In 2015 added PD duties at 89X.

1. What stands out the most from when you first started working at 89X 25 years ago?

As much as the media landscape has evolved over the past couple decades with advancements in technology and the spread of on-line sources for new music discovery, there is still a strong passionate fanbase of music lovers who support live shows, come out to concerts & station events to see new bands, interact with each other and interact with us on the radio - the original form of "social media."

2. What has been the biggest change since ownership changed from Chum Limited to Bell Media?

We've become part of a larger family with a lot staff in radio, television and digital who are always communicating with each other. To be able to network with so many creative people across the chain and share ideas/strategies is a great thing.

3. What may surprise people about Bell Media?

For such a huge company, there's a true "family" feel.... and a lot of creative, caring individuals who reach beyond their own departments to help if needed.

4. What do you feel has been the key to your longevity with the company?

I love what I do, I have fun coming in to the station each day...and whether it is on-air or off-air work, I think my passion for 89X & 93.9 is appreciated.

5. How would you describe yourself as a programmer?

Open-minded and analytical. I've watched and learned under other PDs and consultants with different programming styles and I've tried to incorporate the best qualities from each. I've also learned the importance of building a great team around you.

6. What is your biggest challenge programming 89X and The River?

I think all PDs who work in "new music" formats face a challenge of not just maintaining a consistent level of engagement and entertainment with their brands, but of keeping their stations known to the audience as the absolute best destination for new music discovery. With so many choices out there for music fans - you have to think 2 steps ahead!

7. What is your favorite part of your job?

Interacting & being inspired by creative, passionate, music lovers (station staff, radio listeners, and radio promo/label business folks) and working with a great team to make the best radio possible each day.

8. Tell us about your typical workday.

When you love it - it's hard to call it a "work" day!

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

Listening to new music.

10. What would surprise people most about you?

"Hey....you're not really fat!" I definitely weigh more now than I did when I was branded "Phat Matt"....but I still get told that on occasion.

How did you get the nickname Phat Matt?

In the early days of 89X, I was 6-4' and very skinny. The jocks started calling me that on the air...and it just stuck.

What are your hobbies?

Playing music with my 2 daughters aged 7 + 11 (guitar, uke, piano, bongos)

First record ever purchased?

The Best of Blondie

First concert?

Alice Cooper

Favorite band of all-time?

The Smiths