10 Questions with ... Jacob 'Tight Pants' Bowling

BRIEF CAREER SYNOPSIS:

I began as a part-time promotions assistant before becoming the night host on CHR Channel 963. In May '16, I moved to St. Louis to host nights on Z1077. Now, I'm back in Wichita as the APD/MD/Afternoons for ALT 1073.

1. How did you first become interested in radio?

I've always had a passion for music; discovering new music, sharing music, and especially going to shows, and radio runs in my blood! My dad has always worked in radio and currently owns his own stations, so I grew up running around studios. My dad's worked with KKRD 107.3 (which is now KTHR...pretty crazy), Christian KTLI in Wichita, KSOK-AM/FM and KACY, and spent 13 years at Clear Channel. He currently owns Sterling Broadcasting, KQSN-FM and WBBZ-AM.

2. After moving to Z107.7 in St. Louis, what led you back to Wichita for APD/MD/afternoons on ALT 107.3?

I've always been the CHR guy on air, but alternative is more my passion, and what I generally listen to. I remember the day we launched ALT 1073, it felt like Christmas morning! I'm very excited to play a bigger role with the station, and I'm back home!

3. What stands out from when you first started working at iHeartMedia/Wichita as a Promotions Assistant?

I looked up to the on air personalities so much back then. Its weird being in the position now, but it's cool to have that perspective and know how I may be able to encourage others.

4. How in the world did you get the nickname Tight Pants?

My first Promotions Director gave me the nickname when I started working back in 2009, simply because I wore skinny jeans. It wasn't as common for guys in '09, but I was one of the few because I played in a metal band. The band fizzled out, but the name is here to stay...

5. What is your biggest challenge moving from Top 40 to Alternative?

I've been tracking Alternative for a couple years so there are no real challenges. I'm just excited to focus more on Alternative. The biggest challenge will be stepping into the MD role; even if I was staying in Top 40, because my focus has always been on-air and promotions. I'm looking forward to the new role, and excited to give more to the alternative fans in Wichita.

6. How would you describe yourself on-air?

Energetic, authentic, and awkward. The guy that makes terrible jokes, but you laugh because it was a good effort.

7. What is your favorite part of your job?

I get to sit behind a microphone and be myself; and I love working with music, because it's always been one of my passions.

8. What did you miss most about living in Wichita?

Being close to family and connected with the Wichita community. Also, Wichita has some of the best movie theater in the country...and I'm very particular about my movie experience!

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

Coffee. Maybe a basic answer, but I'll start getting a terrible headache if I don't have coffee by noon.

10. What would surprise people most about you?

I'm awkwardly quiet off air. I'd be that weird guy at a dinner party that didn't say anything all night.

What are weekends like for you?

My weekends used to be packed with DJ gigs, but when I moved to St. Louis I took a break to catch up on sleep...and never picked it back up! If my wife and I aren't traveling, we like to try new restaurants, coffee shops, and spend evenings watching movies and drinking wine (typically out of box).

What are your hobbies?

I started going to a Ninja Warrior gym in St. Louis, and I got really into that! I spent most my mornings at the gym before heading into work. I love watching soccer, college basketball, and going to the movies.

First record ever purchased?

Good Charlotte (Self-Titled)

First concert?

Newsboys

Favorite band of all-time?

Needtobreathe