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10 Questions with ... Gabbi Ray
July 1, 2019
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1. How would you describe your first radio gig?
Terrifying. Being a 19-year-old girl on an Active Rock station, I didn't really know what to do with myself -- from morning show shenanigans to concerts and sleeping on the couch in the studio after a gig. I started in promotions and worked my way up, but the early years were crazy. If I got called into the GM's office, it was actually a good day. Any press is good press, right?
2. What led you to a career in radio?
Totally accidental. My landlord was dating one of the local radio DJs, Alexis, and we met at a party and she thought I was funny and wanted me to come work at her station. I didn't even realize at the time that 'radio' was a real job ... here I am 10 years later.
3. As you're prepping your midday show, what are the kinds of things that you look for that you know will click with your listeners?
I am smack-dab in the middle of my station's demo, so I look for things I would like. I've always believed you should strive to make your station a 'one-stop-shop' for your listeners, where they get the news, weather, entertainment, gossip, everything. I focus on local events and stories going on in the community. I also like to look for things that might catch your ear in the car ... like the newest weirdest things you can buy on Amazon. Everyone loves that.
4. What kinds of social media engagement works best for you?
Facebook has evolved beautifully to give us jocks a very intimate experience with the listeners. It allows you to talk to them instantly and it is also great for sharing local content and news stories. I love to post news articles that make people talk and give their opinion -- good, bad or indifferent. It means they care. So posting a viral (especially local) story early and getting the hits, that gets the best response.
5. "Local, local, local" has always been radio's mantra. How do you make sure that you stay visible and involved in the community?
This is a main focus of my show. I've lived in the Fort Myers-Naples area almost all of my life. So it's easy for me to find things people care about. I try and give shout-outs to local businesses if they're doing something cool or get involved with the local animal shelters and charities to help them with their missions. We even sponsor an alligator at the local zoo. It takes constant research to stay on top of what's going on in the community but it's worth it. Not every event you participate in can generate dollars, but it is important to be out there in your community.
6. Are you wearing more "hats" than you have in the past?
HA. It seems I continue to take on more and more the longer I'm in this industry. I always say I can wear so many hats because I break things a lot and learn to fix them ... I started in the promotions department at Beasley Broadcasting at 19. Ten years later I am the Creative Marketing Director at Renda Broadcasting and under my umbrella I oversee Production, Promotions, Web and Social Media and NTR; I also voicetrack middays and schedule music. I like a challenge and coffee I suppose.
7. Who would be the ultimate "dream guest" to have plug in across from you on your show?
I feel like I've had so many of those throughout the years, but right now I'd have to say Steve Carell. He's my ride or die dude; I feel like we'd just get each other.
8. What is the one truth that has held constant throughout your career?
This industry changes a lot. And quickly. On a large and local scale, at my first radio gig they flipped my format and I was on three different stations all within a couple of years. That's why most of us wear multiple hats; we are always prepared for change.
9. As a kid growing up, what was your favorite radio station? Jock?
My dad was a die-hard Bob & Tom fan, so I woke up with those guys on the way to school for most of my childhood.
10. Who were your mentors? Who would you say has influenced your career the most?
I had a lot of people early on that saw something in me and took the time to teach me things that have made me who I am today. People that took real risks putting me in front of a microphone. But if I had to give credit to someone it would have to be Bob Garrett, who passed away several years ago. Just a sweet soul. Caring. Radio is hectic, crazy at times. If you can find time to also teach someone while keeping your head above water, you're incredible. Bob fought for me to be on his team and I think about him often when I am building my own team. RIP Bobby G. Thank you.
Bonus Questions
What was the first concert that you ever attended? Best concert?
First ever: Good Charlotte. Best: Taylor Swift at Hard Rock in Miami.
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