10 Questions with ... Laura Duncan

BRIEF CAREER SYNOPSIS:

30 years in the industry. Hosted every daypart on a variety of formats and have worked as a PD/APD/MD for 27 years.

1. What's has this past year been like for you being promoted to PD at ALT 102.3/Ft. Wayne and sister Triple A WTTS/Indianapolis, where you have spent the last 18 years, and how do you manage your time between both markets?

I program 3 radio stations including Alt 102.3, WTTS and News/Sports/Talk WGCL/Bloomington. Programming WTTS is a continuation of my responsibilities as APD with an upgrade to a leather chair. Thankfully, I work with the most wonderful and talented broadcasters in the business. Although I am situated south of Fort Wayne, I am in touch regularly with promotions, sales, and management for Alt 102.3. I rely heavily on our afternoon host and Programming Assistant, Zack Skyler. He is a tremendous talent whose passion is unmatched.

2. Let's talk about ALT 102.3. How has the ALT brand growing in Ft. Wayne with the station switching from 99.5 to a full market signal as ALT 102.3 earlier this year?

It's been an exciting transition. Our team was prepared and focused for the switch and our listeners embraced the change. The melody and the message remain solid while being expressed to a much bigger audience.

3. How much has the station changed in the past year?

We added an afternoon host, Zack Skyler, who encapsulates the very essence of Fort Wayne. The frequency is new, the Program Director is new. I think that is enough change for one year.

4. Give us the 411 on the music and imaging on the station.

Pretty standard. Locally focused. We play the hits and don't brag about it, too much.

5. How important is music consumption when deciding what new music to play on ALT 102.3?

In 2019 this is a very big part of my decision when looking at new music. Consumption numbers help me decipher which songs are organically working nationally and which ones are being propped up.

6. How would you describe yourself as a programmer?

Tough, but fair and honest. I can be distracted with a good story about "last night."

7. What is your favorite part of your job?

Talking to record promoters. Is that the right answer?

8. What would surprise people most about ALT 102.3?

Alt 102.3 is part of an independent broadcast company, Sarkes Tarzian, Inc., founded in 1949. Every person on staff is treated as family. That is priceless. We are all very proud.

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

Breathing

10. What would surprise people most about you?

I wake up in the middle of the night and order things. Products show up at my door days later and I don't remember placing the order. It's like sleepwalking.

What are weekends like for you?

It usually involves music, libations, and conversation. It's like a Monday.

What are your favorite places to eat in Ft, Wayne?

Paula's and Sweetwater. Sweetwater because they have a café in this magical playland for music lovers/musicians. I get to play (dream) in the microphone room.

Favorite drink?

Water and Woodford Reserve (not to be infused together)

Favorite new band over the past year?

Friday Pilot's Club

Anything else you would like to add?

Thank you for the interview. Please let me know if I get the job.