10 Questions with ... John Flint and Tammy Lee

BRIEF CAREER SYNOPSIS:

John: Started in Mankato MN (KXLP) , Eau Claire, WI (WBIZ) and then to Madison.

Tammy: Started in Madison at WJJO, then KTZN and KKLD for the legendary Bobby Rich in Tucson, then back to Madison!

1) Congrats on having such a long running morning show in Madison. Tell us how this partnership of ten years began.

John: I had just started at a different radio station than the one we're on now. Our morning show was in double-digit place and I was about an hour away from being fired. Tam came into to be a fill-in news person and we clicked on the air IMMEDIATELY! Someone in charge noticed and about a month later and paired the two of us up. Within TWO books, we were a top 3 morning show and number one in a year!

Tammy: John said it all except I never wanted to do news! I grew up in a radio news family and I only said yes to my sister after much begging! I was going to stay part time but then I changed my mind.

2) How do you keep the show fresh each day and what do you think it is about the show that keeps listeners interested?

John: We live our lives on the air. That's really it. Great chemistry is an obvious answer, but it's so true. Whatever it is, Tammy always seems to bring out my best.

Tammy: John is the funniest man I know and also brings out my humor.

3) What drew you both to working in radio and how did you get your start?

John: I used to have countdown shows in my bedroom, using a tape recorder (ask your parents, kids) and my personal album (again, ask your parents) collection. I only had two albums, Michael Jackson's "Off The Wall" and AC/DC's "Back in Black" so it was a very lame countdown show. It was diverse but lame.

Tammy: I grew up in the radio business. I tried to stay away as long as I could. But I cannot shut up.

4) The morning show has won a good many awards and nominations over the years, including a CMA nomination, the Award of Excellence from the Wisconsin Broadcasters Association and being voted Best Morning Show by the Wisconsin State Journal. So why is this such an award winning show? Seriously, obviously it stands out to the judges. And congratulations, too!

John: Thanks. I'm much too shy and humble to answer that question.

Tammy: I think it's because they can tell we are genuine. We also have some pictures we keep for ammunition of those who vote.

5) Being involved in the community seems to be something that you both are very dedicated to. Can you tell us what your major causes are and if there are any charity projects you are currently working on?

John: We have a radiothon for Madison's American Family Children's Hospital. It's 6a to 7p for 3 days in May. It's exhausting but unbelievably awesome! In 2 years we've raised almost a MILLION dollars.

Tammy: We also do a Toy Tour and try to be at almost everything we are asked to be a part of, from being celebrity waiters for UCP, bartenders for Family Support Services, to a local family benefit to help out. We feel honored that someone would ask and if we can be there, we go.

6) Tammy- You now work with your Dad and your sister Robin at the station. How is it working with the family and would you be supportive of your children pursuing a career in radio?

I love seeing my sister and father every morning, especially when Dad is irritating Robin. She is his boss after all. I just want my kids to be happy.

7) John- You list your dad as a mentor. What is the best advice he ever gave you?

My dad is an old Italian and Italians as a rule pretty much have to have a job as soon as they are born. So my dad taught me the value of hard work. That said, his best advice? "Never waste an erection, never trust a fart."

8) Who are your favorite artists to have as guests on the show? Any funny moments you can tell us about?

John: Wow! Blake Shelton is everybody's favorite, but it's true. Darius too. James Otto is a friend so his time on the air is gold. I went to the same high school and college as CMT's Melissa Peterman so we have this very natural vibe. She' s awesome.

Tammy: Talking to Garth Brooks and my hands were shaking so bad that my bracelet was clanging on the counter.

9) What do your kids think about their Mom or Dad being on the air? And Tammy, how do you balance your job with raising five children?

John: I have two daughters who are still young enough to think I'm cool. That should last for another 2 minutes or so, so I'm enjoying every minute of that.

Tammy: My kids could care less UNLESS I can get them tickets to a show OR I am talking about them on air. My husband helps out tremendously. I don't get enough sleep. :)

10) You both mentioned that you love living in Wisconsin. If we came to the Madison area, what would be some "can't-miss" things to do?

John: Downtown on a Badger Football Saturday! Plus this gorgeous city is surrounded by lakes, so get on a boat and check out the sky-line from the water.

Tammy: Going to State Street!

1) Who is the most organized out of the two of you?

John: Uh -

Tammy: me!

2) What do you listen to when you are not working?

John: Sports Talk and my iPod on shuffle.

Tammy: Our station first, then I like to have SILENCE.

3) If you were not in radio, what would your dream job be?

John: "John Flint: Celebrity Chef."

Tammy: I would love to be a philanthropist.