10 Questions with ... Melissa-Leigh 'Mel' Sorrentino

BRIEF CAREER SYNOPSIS:

Mel began in radio in 2006 with 103.1 The Buzz in West Palm Beach, where she spent several years as promotion director and part-time on air. She later moved on to 104.3 The Shark in Miami where she co-developed the Riptide Music Festival. She recently made the move to FM 101.9 in Orlando but will still remained Co-Producer of Programming for the South Florida festival.

1. How did you become interested in radio?

I was working at a dead end job in the service industry and really wasn't feeling passionate about school or my degree. I heard an ad for the Buzz Bake Sale - a legendary concert in West Palm Beach - and decided to play hooky and go buy tickets. Best decision ever. The Promotions Director was there and offered me an internship; the rest is history.

2. What led to your move to WQMP (FM 101.9)/Orlando from sister Alternative WSFS (104.3 The Shark)/Miami?

My husband and I decided to make the move to North Florida and bought a house in St. Augustine. I was planning on looking for a job in another field because of the limited stations there when the opportunity in Orlando popped up. The chance to be a part of a new alternative brand was too tempting to resist.

3. You have been working with John O'Connell all the way back to the days of WPBZ (The Buzz)/West Palm Beach. What has been your biggest take away from all your years working with him?

Keep pushing yourself. John O has always taught me to avoid complacency and challenge myself. One of my favorite sayings from him is "If you're not the best, somebody else will be." That, plus the fact that he's a feisty little Bostonian, keeps me on my toes.

4. What does everyone need to know about FM 101.9?

Alternative music is back in Orlando. We have a solid mix of old and new music peppered with a healthy dose of sarcasm. Most of all - this station is fun.

5. What sorts of things make the station unique?

We're not all about ourselves - we really value the local listener and care about making an impact in their lives. Since we only have two jocks, our main focus is on the music...and making fun of ourselves.

6. What has been your biggest challenge as a new Music Director?

Only having room to play so many songs! I've always been exposed to new music but the amount that comes in to a new music director is insane.

7. What is your favorite part of your job?

Listening to people get excited about something new we're playing.

8. How would describe your on-air style?

Sarcastic, straightforward, and sometimes hungover.

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

Coffee, lots of coffee.

10. What would surprise people most about you?

I went to school to be a Deaf Education teacher.

Tell us about The Crazy Cat Lady.

I have a not-so-secret obsession with cats. I have a bunch of them that I feature on a secret cat Instagram page - no way am I sharing that link J

What are weekends like for you?

I live in St. Augustine so I kind of live like a tourist on the weekends. We ride scooters around and go to the beach and downtown a lot.

What are your hobbies?

Crafting and craft cocktails! Usually at the same time.

First record ever purchased?

Genesis - Invisible Touch

First concert?

Hanson. I was like every other 13 year old girl and obsessed.

Favorite band of all-time?

Alanis Morissette