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10 Questions with ... Ken Misch
February 11, 2013
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BRIEF CAREER SYNOPSIS:
- WFXW-A/Geneva, IL - Production Director - (1987 - 1992)
- WDKB/DeKalb, IL - Afternoon Drive/Production Director - (1992 - 1997)
- WFXW-A/Geneva, IL - Production Director, Chief Cook & Bottle Washer - (1997 - 1998)
- WDKB/DeKalb, IL - PD/Afternoon Drive - (1998 - Present)
1) What Got You Interested In Radio?
Larry Lujack...and WLS/Chicago in general. Also, WKRP in Cincinnati. Who knew I'd meet so many "Herb Tarlecks" in my career?
2) Who do you consider your radio mentors?
Everyone I've ever worked with. The good, the bad, and the ugly. There's something to learn from everybody and something to take from every situation. What to do...what not to do. Where not to leave your headphones...
3) What makes your station or market unique? How does this compare to other markets or stations you have worked at?
I work for an extraordinary company. 'Great employer. 'Great co-workers. I'm very lucky. I've worked in toxic environments and this isn't one of them. Coming to work and doing my job is a joy.
4) What do you view as the most important issue facing radio today?
The lack of uniqueness. Radio needs to let their PD's run around a little bit. The yard's already fenced! Your PD doesn't need a leash. (Can you tell I have dogs?) Let them create something. Instead of catering to share holders, cater to listeners.
5) How do you prep yourself for your radio shift?
Tabasco and water. 'Gotta keep your sinus cavity clear!
6) How do you feel about the new royalty rate increases for Internet radio and proposed royalties for terrestrial radio?
I think the recording industry needs to worry more about selling their product and worry less about shaking down the people that help promote their product.
7) How do you interact with your sales staff?
We actually talk to each other! When they understand the format they sell better, and smarter. One size does not fit all! Not every client needs a remote. Not every client should record their own spot. When programming and sales work together...it's F.M! (f*#kin' magic!)
8) Most of us have known or even worked for a "colorful" owner/GM/air talent. Care to share a story? (The names can be changed to protect the innocent).
I worked for a GM with narcolepsy. He'd come into the studio, sit down, start talking and fall asleep. I'd surge the monitor...he'd wake up and keep talking. He gave me my first radio job...he may have been asleep when he hired me!
9) What is the biggest change that you'd like to see happen in the business?
Can we reverse the Telecom Act of 1996? 'Anybody have one of those Delorean time machines?
10) What advice would you give people new to the business?
You're not too cool for certain formats. Work wherever you can and learn whatever you can. Don't turn down the opportunity to work.
Bonus Questions
What are your hobbies?
Playing guitar. Drooling over guitars I don't own. Breaking guitar strings.
What's one thing that would surprise many people to learn about you?
I'm related to Lyle Lovett (on my Mom's side of the family) and actor Robert Conrad (Dad's side of the family)
What did you want to be when you were growing up?
A Movie Director. But a radio PD is the same...sort of...kind of...
What was the biggest gaffe you've made on air? (dead air ... forget a mic was still on ... etc.)
I announced the grand prize winner at the end of a remote. His name was Mike Schmitt. I forgot to pronounce the "m." As it turns out, I was the winner 'cuz I got to keep my job!
Where do you see the industry and yourself five years from now?
Radio survives, gets the girl and saves the world!
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