10 Questions with ... Jessica Hart

BRIEF CAREER SYNOPSIS:

Spirit 92.9 is my first experience working in radio. Prior to this, I worked in healthcare as a PCA.

1) What was your first job in the industry? Did you have any mentors?

Even though I somewhat enjoyed working in healthcare, I found it was not my calling, and pursued other options, and to be honest I never thought I'd land in radio. But God knew. I started out at KKJM as the Promotions Director part time and slowly began learning production through our PD Diana Madsen. After a couple years, I took on the Production Director role as well as weekends on air. Diana continues to work with me and "mold" me, and I moved to the afternoon drive last September.

2) If you were just starting in radio today, and you knew what you know now, would you continue forward?

I'd like to think so. This whole career move has been totally God's direction. I literally fell into the Promotions position after winning an on-air wellness competition four years ago. After getting to know the staff, they felt I was an outgoing and dedicated gal and they knew I was looking to change directions in my professional life, so they offered me the position here. It was a pay cut and I came in with little-to-no knowledge of this business. It was a huge risk but I felt God was opening the door so I walked through it!

3) What is your favorite part of your job?

I really enjoy the production side of it where I can really be creative. I also enjoy my on-air role.

4) And your least favorite part?

Yikes. This is hard. I guess there is still a lot of "grunt work" from day to day which can get annoying, but it keeps things interesting. [smile]

5) What is one of your favorite promotions that your station has done in recent days?

We recently completed our 4th annual "Opening Act" competition, a contest for local Christian artists to have the opportunity to be the opening act for a national recording artist (this year it was Phillips, Craig & Dean). It's so fun to see all the talented people we have right here in Central Minnesota come out and share their gift with the community!

6) What does Christian radio need to do to break through to a mass audience on a more consistent basis?

I think the key is being involved and connected to their communities, being real and not overly preachy. Listeners are looking for something real and solid that they can hold onto in a turbulent culture. When I tune in as a listener, I want to be encouraged. I want to hear the air talent has the same struggles and insecurities as I do as a mom, wife and friend. And then I want to hear through the music how God knows these struggles and will walk through them with me.

7) Who are some of your favorite on-air personalities?

Diana Madsen has a real, down-to earth-way of looking at things that I respect.

8) If you could have any other job outside radio or the music industry, what would it be?

Growing up I really wanted to be an investigative reporter for a magazine or newspaper. I write ad copy instead. [smile]

9) If you could have any guest from any time past or present join you for the afternoon, who would you have and why?

Well, other than the one and only Jesus Christ (that would be a LONG interview), I would love to talk in person with Joyce Meyer.

10) Fill in the blank: I can't start the day without:

Coffee!

1) Do you have any favorite magazines, books, or newspapers?

LOVE Christian author Karen Kingsbury. All of the series she writes are amazing!

2) Cat or dog person?

Both. But only have a cat.

3) Describe your favorite meal.

Thanksgiving Dinner, hands down.

4) If you were stranded on a desert island, what three things would you want to have with you and why?

Hmm, a canoe, a set of oars and coffee for energy to row my way home [smile]