10 Questions with ... Josh Tielor

BRIEF CAREER SYNOPSIS:

Started my career at 19 years old on Active Rocker KCVI (KBEAR 101) in ‘01. PD at alternative KADQ (X94) ’03-’04. Moved to oldies at KPKY in ’04. Over the past 17 years I’ve been on every station in this cluster… Country, News Talk, CHR, Classic Rock and I was PD of Alternative KEGE (92.1 The Edge) for its 3-year run from ’06 to ’09 as well as the shortly lived 1-year adventure with KRXK (Radio Pandemic). Rich Broadcasting and Wood River Media are sister companies allowing me the opportunity to host a shift on KSKI from ’14 to ‘17 and I became the PD of KSKI in November 2019.

1.  It’s been almost 10 years since we last spoke and you were programming Radio Pandemic, an Alternative station in Idaho Falls. Your career has spanned a number of different formats, but passion and roots are in Alternative. What stands out the most from your early days in Alternative?

I will always adore alternative radio and the music it gets to feature. There’s a life and support system within the listeners, industry, radio personnel, and artists that is matched only by country radio. It amazes me how many pros that I met early on in my career that are still engaged in the format today. It’s very unique and special.

2. One year ago, the KSKI evolution from Triple A to Alternative began. What led to the transition from Triple A to Southern Idaho’s Alternative?

Analyzing the Wood River Valley and Twin Falls markets it was apparent that a more mainstream approach to the music on KSKI would broaden our reach and appeal to the available listening audience. The transition from “World Class Music” to “Southern Idaho’s Alternative” requires a more focused playlist with less wandering eclectic choices and opened the doors for increased attitude and “station-ality.” It was more of an awakening for the station and a bit of a return to some of the roots of the station.

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

The biggest change is the addition of personality. The station ran primarily all music and spots for the first year. As of last December, I am now on-air on the station, hopefully adding that extra flavor and content to the listeners’ daily routine.

4.  Give us the 411 on 94.5 KSKI. How is the station positioned musically and what is your stance on New Music Discovery?

KSKI is current heavy with around 60-70 weekly spins or our top records. I am all for sharing those new emerging records/artists. In the not-too-distant future, I would all but guarantee that there will be a new music spotlight beyond the “new music discovery” verbiage that will showcase brand new music and independent artists. There is plenty of room for us to provide a stage/proving ground for these artists.

5. How would you describe the music and imaging on the station?

I have been fortunate enough to lock in one of the greatest voiceover talents available. Trevor Shand is an absolute killer, and he has helped make KSKI sound incredible. Blaine County, Idaho is one of the very few blue spots in an otherwise red state and I try to exploit that as far as I’m comfortable. Positively, of course… I’m not trying to offend, and I’m also not afraid to take a risk with tongue in cheek commentary and sort of calling it like I see it. There’s a great amount of freedom within the format that we can take advantage of.

6.  You’re an Idaho native and have worked the last 20 years in Idaho radio. How would you describe yourself as a programmer?

I have seen a lot of what this area has to offer, and I think that’s a great benefit. I am incredibly familiar with the competing radio groups and their formats and what they do. While radio is an ever evolving medium, it’s still as important as ever to be able to connect with your audience on a special level. Being able to have conversations with listeners and clients and connect on the geography or big events that matter to the area makes a big impact. There’s generic and authentic relatability - show prep gets you so far. Eventually you have to be able to prove it. I grew up here... I live here… and I think that means something!

7. What would surprise people most about 94.5 KSKI?

It’s quite literally a one-man show. If you personify KSKI… you get Josh Tielor. I made the logo, build the playlist & imaging, host the show, create & execute the promotions, provide the digital content… That’s an insane amount of responsibility. And I still enjoy it every day!

8. Tell us about Wood River Media.

Wood River Media is located in Hailey, ID. We have three great radio stations. KSKI, obviously. KECH 95 is our Classic Rock headed by Doug Donoho. His lovely wife Dori is the PD of our newly launched Mountain Country 107.5 (KYZK).

9.  What is your favorite part of your job?

I really enjoy the imaging process. Creating compelling, attention grabbing, humorous, real life imaging is so much fun. Getting to see an idea come to life through audio still gets me!

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

That morning cup of coffee. It’s been said on here a billion times and it’s still tried and true.

What are weekends like for you?

I am an avid outdoorsman. Helps that I live in this amazing state. I flyfish, camp, hike & backpack as often as I can.

What are your favorite places to eat in the area?

Big Belly Deli never disappoints or grab a slice at Wise Guys or hit up Despos and get the good Mexican food!

Favorite food?

Tough to beat a fresh hot carne asada street taco

Favorite drink?

I’ll never turn down a good 7&7!

Rank your sports teams in order of passion.

I’ll watch Conor McGregor (attempt to) beat the snot out of anyone any day.

Favorite new band over the past year?

MGK’s “Downfall” feels like the Blink-182 record that we were missing. It’s a solid effort. I never paid any attention to him until this record and I’m not disappointed. Anything else you would like to add?

I want concerts back just as bad as everyone else… the last show I got to see was twenty one pilots in October 2019. It was a helluva show! If I never get to see another it will be worth it to have gone out on that one!