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10 Questions with ... Jenn Pooler
October 11, 2021
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1. Please tell us about your career journey?
I started at a country station as an intern in college in Salina, KS (KSKG). Then got hired on part-time. After graduating college I started full-time in Top 40 (Power Hits 97.5) in Manhattan, KS. I did a Top 40 Morning Show for 5 years while doing a midday show on our AC station (Q103.5). Switched to Christian radio after that and worked at KJIL/KJRL (105.7 KJIL) in Abilene, KS doing production and afternoons. God called me to Iowa 3 years later. I’ve been with Life 101.9 for the past 6 and a half years. Started on Mornings and Listener Engagement Director. Then switched to Middays. Last year I became our Assistant Program Director and just recently was promoted to Program Director. I also still do Middays for us at Life 101.9 plus evenings for Life 97.3 in Duluth and weekend shows for Life 88.5 in Kansas City.
2. Share a moment in your career that you’ll always remember.
So many great things. Lots of memories. Mostly the mistakes are what I remember. Once while covering severe weather in Kansas I said there was 60 mph hail. That would be serious hail! I also was sharing tornado safety instructions I told people “if you’re in your car, get out and lay in a flat ditch.” You’re supposed to say lay flat in a ditch. Our Engineer came running in saying he couldn’t find a flat ditch. I also once fell into TobyMac. He caught me. I tripped over our meet and greet backdrop stand and right into TobyMac.
3. The best advice you've ever received was…
Here are a few gems I’ve received. “There are things you need to know and things you need to know where to look up.” “Get the bad ideas out first.” Also “If my heart is empty, so is my content.”
4. How do you continue learning and growing?
I am someone who loves to learn new things. I’m always wanting to know more. I like to try to watch people I respect closely. I ask lots of questions. I try things. I am a hands on learner so often it’s just a matter of trying to figure things out by doing them and not being afraid to mess up. I read a little. Listen to music a lot to get a feel for what is out there and where things are going. Also I believe there is a lot to learn from the listener.
5. What’s one thing you wish you’d known about radio when you first started?
How much goes into making good radio. Over the years I’ve learned lots about the hard work, the strategic plans, the research and the intentions.
6. Tell us about someone who you really respect and why?
There are so many people I respect so greatly. Really anyone chasing their dreams. I highly respect all of those who have helped me learn along the way too. Someone I have great respect for is Lisa Williams. She encourages me and pushes me spiritually and professionally. I have an overwhelming respect for Melony McKaye who is the best and I totally look up to her. Big respect for many talented people in our amazing Northwestern Media Team. All of the amazing GRG’s out there. Ladies you know who you are! I respect so many men and women who have a passion for radio.
7. What’s something about you that would surprise people?
Everything I own is teal. Maybe not everything but just about everything. No seriously…. If its in the teal/turquoise family I probably own it.
8. What’s on your nightstand?
Apple watch/phone charger, teal poof pillow, fruit snacks, a 3 wick candle from BBW that smells like heaven and the book “You Are The Girl For The Job” by Jess Connolly.
9. Finish this sentence: My day doesn’t start properly before I ___________________________.
Hit snooze 3 times. Play with the dog. Realize I’m running late. Wonder where the time has gone. (Story of my life!)
10. What do you do to unwind and chill?
Target. Retail Therapy is real. I’m looking for new hobbies that don’t include shopping or eating. Open to suggestions. I love hanging with my dog, sticker books, crafting and watching movies. Really its music. Music is my passion and can completely shift my emotions.
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