Every DJ Has This In Common With A Sports Car

Whether it’s a slick sports car to enjoy weekend road trips or an oversized SUV to fit everything you need for a drive to the beach, it doesn’t take long to realize that both have something very much in common.

A few years ago, I bought a 2010 Ford Mustang. I quickly learned to look in the rear-view mirror, side mirror, and out the side window in order to safely change lanes. That was never necessary in my Honda Civic, which came with a camera that turned on a dashboard screen when I put my turn signal on.

BLIND SPOTS

Just like a sports car, every on-air personality has blind spots too.

It doesn’t matter if you’re a seasoned veteran, just getting started, or somewhere in between. Blind spots have nothing to do with experience, talent, or expertise. Even the most prolific actors, athletes, and business people hire coaches and consultants.

Last month during a coaching session I pointed out a different way of introducing a caller to their show. They said that no one had ever shared that with them in their 30-year radio career. Just last week another DJ described how she’s had little direction in her radio career before her station invested in her by hiring me to come alongside and help. Both shows are flourishing.

I’m very fortunate to coach ten radio shows of varied experience and talent. No one has hired me to just point out flaws that make our sessions something they dread. Among other strategies and tactics, I help them see blind spots. From my point of view, every show has gained more confidence and a deeper connection with their audience.

HERE’S THE TAKEAWAY

If every DJ has blind spots maybe every DJ should have someone to help guide them.

Trust, encouragement, and honesty are foundational goals when working with a coach. Then, through that relationship, on-air talent can be empowered to achieve results of depth, fulfillment, and growth.

After spending 25+ years working in leadership, programming, and on the air at 95.5 The Fish in Cleveland, 104.9 the River in Columbus, and as Network PD at WayFM Todd launched a coaching and consulting business, Beyond615.com, on March 15, 2021. There he strives to help others build confidence so that they can connect with listeners on a deeper level. He also serves as the Contemporary Christian Format Editor at AllAccess.com. He and his family live in the (615) area code, aka the heart of the CCM industry.