10 Questions with ... Theresa Ross

NAME:Theresa Ross TITLE:MD/Morning Co-host STATIONS:WCRJ/Jacksonville and WAYL/St. Augustine, FL MARKET:Jacksonville COMPANY:River Radio Educational Foundation BORN:Washington D.C. RAISED:Northern Virginia and Central Florida

Brief Career Synopsis:

WCDR (The Path)/Cedarville, OH, Former WXIR/Indianapolis, WAY-FM/West Palm Beach, FL, and WPOX/Orlando, FL

1) What was your first job in radio? Who were your early influences?

My first job was at Cedarville University in Cedarville, OH. A nursing major friend of mine said I should go audition for a job at WCDR, so I did and got it! I've always loved TV talk show hosts like Oprah and Kelly Ripa.

2) What do you think is the most important topic facing the music business and radio right now?

Keeping it relevant and entertaining. I believe that the focus must be on what our target wants and not our own agenda.

3) What do you like best about your job? And the least?

The most: when I get a sneak peek into listeners' lives and realize that God is using me to reach out and touch hearts. That's the coolest! And the least? Wish the morning show started later so we could get more sleep. LOL!

4) Who has/have had the biggest impact on these facets of your life: personally, professionally and spiritually? In what ways?

My parents have had a huge influence on my life because they brought me up to love God and respect and love others. My kids have taught me to be less selfish. A few very close friends of mine have helped me to stay sane and focused on God. And John Frost and Tommy Kramer have helped me to be a better air talent and constantly strive for excellence.

5) Who is your favorite air personality not on your staff?

Wow, tough question, Scott Smith (WPOZ/Orlando)

6) What is your favorite radio station outside of your own market?

WPOZ/Orlando because they continue to stay cutting edge, relevant and focused on what is most important.

7) If you could add any full-time position to your budget, with no questions asked, what would it be?

Imaging director

8) If you were just starting out in radio today, but you knew what you know now, would you continue forward?

DEFINITELY

9) What are the most important tools/resources you use to stay on top of the Christian format's growth and changes?

I'm constantly looking at research across the country and websites that indicate music trends.

10) If you could have any job outside the music business, what would it be?

Is there really any other job that is this fantabulous?

1) Do you read everything?

Always reading just about everything, entertainment mags and websites

2) What's in your CD player right now?

tobyMac, Storyside:B, Wavorly

3) Do you have musical guilty pleasures?

Ha! I love Daughtry and Nickelback.

4) Cat or dog person?

Both but we have a cat named Hershey

5) Describe your favorite meal?

Mexican and chocolate for dessert