10 Questions with ... Jon Watkins

BRIEF CAREER SYNOPSIS:

I started as an intern for "The Peter Tilden Morning Show with Buzz" at KZLA/Los Angeles. Then Co-Host/Producer for "Dan Tooker in the Morning" at KFDI, where we won a CMA for Broadcast Personalities of the Year. And finally here at The Eagle!

1) When did you decide you wanted to go for a career in radio and how did you get your start?

I was a film major at CSULB. One of the requirements was to do an internship every semester. I had already been a script reader, Writer's Assistant, Director's Assistant and file clerk at an agency and realized that film was not as fun as I hoped. So, my college girlfriend suggested that I intern for KZLA. I ended up with Peter, Buzz and Producer Mike and had a blast. I couldn't believe these guys were getting paid to hang out and have fun in the morning. That's when I got hooked.

2) What do you remember most from your first years in radio? What has changed the most in radio since then?

By the time I got into radio, the good radio stories were over. I will say, there used to be a lot more people in the halls! My favorite moment was jumping a car for the Dukes of Hazard with Dan Tooker. Insurance won't allow that anymore! It's amazing how small morning shows have gotten, how much tighter our playlists are and how a lot of jocks no longer connect with the listeners.

3) What's more fun for you, being on the air or programming?

On air! I joined radio to do mornings and that's still the highlight of my day.

4) You have worked at several Country markets, including KZLA and KFDI. Did you grow up listening to Country music and how did you end up in that format?

No, I grew up on Kevin and Bean with KROQ. Then, later Howard, Tom Leykis and the Triplets at KLSX. I only got into Country once the internship started. The reason I became a fan, is because Country is a format where you can get to know the artists. I really loved that aspect of it. That's when I got hooked.

5) If you could program another genre, which would it be and why?

Top 40 would be fun. Some would argue that we're pretty much programming Top 40 right now!

6) How do you like working in Salt Lake? What do you like best about living and working there?

I was afraid when I moved to Utah. I didn't know what to expect. But it's a great town. Country is huge here. At one time, there were five Country stations! This means our concerts are always packed and tickets are a huge deal. Plus it's beautiful here.

7) How do you feel is the best way to stay in tune with what your listeners really want to hear?

Concerts and remotes. I like to be out, talking to our listeners. I was not a fan of "America's Got Talent", but after the umpteenth listener talked to me about it, I knew we needed to get on it.

8) What are you the most proud of since joining KEGA?

This station is exciting. We've been climbing since PPM took over, and it's a lot of fun. I'm also proud of our annual comedy show "Stubbs' Night of Fools", which benefits the Utah Food Bank. This comedy show has really grown into an event after three years. Plus I'm a big supporter of the Heart Association and am proud to be involved in all of their luncheons, walks, galas, raffles, etc.

9) Who are 2-3 people inside or outside of the business that have been mentors in your life? Why have they have been so important to you?

Producer Michael from KZLA was huge for me. He helped me get from an intern to Producer and showed me how to take the next steps in radio. All of the guys I've worked with in mornings: Buzz Brainard, Peter Tilden, Dan Tooker, Colby Ericson and Keith Stubbs. When you're in a tiny room all morning long, you become family. Outside of radio, I'd say my Grandpa. It's like "WWJD", but mine is "WWGD."

10) You are the host of a special for the Sundance Channel each year. How did that opportunity come along?

I love this gig! In between radio jobs, I took a TV Hosting spot for Park City Television. When Sundance came along, they asked me to host for them. A highlight for me was interviewing the entire Broken Lizard crew (Super Troopers). I rambled. I just hope they call on me again this year.

1) What new music are you listening to right now that you love, either Country or non-Country?

Zac Brown is my favorite artist right now. I'm still listening to "The Foundation", even though it's been on my Ipod for over a year. I spent the weekend listening to Trace Adkins new CD. It's great as well.

2) What record surprised you the most in the last year?

Miranda Lambert. It took me awhile to get on board with her. But when it came out, I became a big fan. No wonder she's taking all of the awards!

3) Tell us about your passion for swimming. Do you currently do any races?

I did! I still try to compete in the State games every year. If I don't have a goal in front of me- I just let myself go!