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10 Questions with ... Ryan Gagne
May 28, 2007
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NAME:Ryan GagneTITLE:PDSTATION:WWWA (Worship 95.3)MARKET:Augusta, ME / Bangor, MECOMPANY:Worship Radio NetworkBORN:Waterville, MERAISED:Oakland, ME
Brief Career Synopsis:
I started my teen days working in shoe retail for three years. Then moved to the Mental Health field where I worked for two years and finally decided to pursue my dream of working in radio!
1) What was your first job in radio and who were your early influences?
My first job in radio started right here at WWWA. I've been here going on nine years and counting. I did some volunteer work for two other stations in my market as a late teen and young adult. I listened to Casey Kasem doing the countdown shows growing up and I said, "That job is cool! I want to do that!" Plus I was (and still am) into game shows and I thought any hosting job would be fun (radio or TV).
2) What do you think is the most important topic facing the music business and radio right now? Why?
Keeping the music relevant and protecting the artists. Piracy is huge and whatever we can do as radio stations to teach and inform our listening audience to support the artists as much as possible. There's so much music out there too and it's really tough sometimes to keep a small/tight playlist to play music that's appealing to our audiences.
3) What can Christian radio do in order to break through to a mass audience on a more consistent basis?
I think just being real and relevant, and being that friend to the listener. Most people (according to research) think Christian radio is too preachy, boring, etc. However, most of those people don't check out those stations because of the stereotypes. As on-air talent, we need to talk about things that are positive, uplifting and encouraging, but keep it balanced with everyday life experiences and mirror our own selves to the listener.
4) What do you like most about your job? And the least?
The most: I love knowing that lives are being changed and I'm a part of that work that God has set up. The least part is doing PAPERWORK! LOL!
5) Can you be a boss and also a friend to your employees?
Absolutely. Building the trust and the relationship is a must. Knowing that employees are there for a purpose and knowing how to do their jobs allows me to be confident in that. I don't have to worry the on-air staff. We meet once a week as a team to go over what needs to be addressed and the rest is a breeze (usually!). [Smile]
6) What is your favorite radio station outside of your own market? And/or who is your favorite on-air personality not on your staff?
I would have to say, I love WAY-FM. They know how to do relevant Christian radio. I also like K-LOVE. Jon Rivers has to be my favorite personality. His humble approach draws me in every time I listen!
7) If you could any full-time job to your budget, with no questions asked, what would it be?
Probably a promotions director. I wear both hats and it would be nice to have someone full-time for that!
8) Who has had the greatest impact on you personally, professionally and spiritually?
An old pastor friend named Pastor William Galloway. He helped me understand that God is a God of relationship and a God to be worshipped and that Jesus Christ is life-changing. Living a Christian life is about relationship and not about religion. He was so clear in his message and it totally rocked my world!
9) Any favorite or funny artist run-ins?
One time, my morning show co-host and I ran into David Crowder Band at an airport and we had a discussion over breakfast about cereal. He's a HUGE "Fruit Loops" fan. A year later, we had Kellogg's donate a case for a contest and we were going to present it to Dave Crowder at a music festival.
10) If you could have any job outside the music business, what would it be?
I'd like to work in talk radio! Haha!
Bonus Questions
1) What is the most precious memory of your life so far?
Going to "The Price is Right" in CA last year and seeing my friend win a NEW CARRRRRRR!
2) If you could ask God about anything, what would it be?
How do you put up with people doing the things they do in this world?
3) Do you have musical guilty pleasures?
I play the djembe and enjoy all percussion.
4) If you were stranded on a deserted island, what three things would you want with you, and why?
iPod with tons of batteries, Bible and an unlimited supply of banana peppers!
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