10 Questions with ... Kristy Knight

BRIEF CAREER SYNOPSIS:

I started in radio at 92MAD (WMAD) and Z104 (WZEE) while attending The University of Wisconsin - Madison.  Go Badgers!

After graduation, I moved to Florida with a job at Q105 (WRBQ) Tampa.  I spent 24 years at Clear Channel/iHeart Media and did shows on MIX 96/MIX 100.7 (WMTX) Tampa, was MD/Afternoons at STAR 95.7 (WSSR) Tampa, voice tracked at 93.9 LITE FM (WLIT) Chicago and was on their national platform Premium Choice.  

In 2018, I became APD/Middays at WWRM (Magic 94.9) for Cox Media Group.  I am grateful to so many people who believed in me and took chances on me.

I'll never take that for granted - and being able to work in Tampa all these years!  

How would you describe your first radio gig?

Late nights and early mornings!  I started out as an intern at 92MAD in Madison while I was going to college.  It soon turned into a part-time gig with early morning weekend shows.

I juggled classes, schedules, and a social life (ha) while getting up at 4am to get to the station on time.  Great introduction to radio and an enormous opportunity. 

What led you to a career in radio?

My major was Journalism.  Initially I was leaning towards broadcast journalism and worked in both television and radio.  Ultimately though, I think radio got into my blood as they say.  It was fun and such a creative field, I loved it from the start.

You’ve got over 25 years invested in the market, and just celebrated 4 with Magic. What is it about Tampa-St. Pete that you especially love?

Living in paradise and doing radio is amazing!  I'm from Wisconsin and love going back home, but my happy place is the beach and on the water.  I enjoy activities like jet skiing, parasailing, and kayaking.  Just being outside in the sunshine by the water is an incredible feeling.  

Not to mention, we have great listeners.  They are engaging and entertaining to talk with - on and off the air!

What are some of the features that you use to engage the listeners of your midday show?

I'm a Bachelor fan and have a Bachelor Podcast.  Getting reactions to the show, the leads, and the outcomes has always been successful.  I try to utilize listeners on the air whether it has to do with pop culture or local events going on in Tampa Bay.  Our listeners love to call in and interact.  We also do regular giveaways that tie into the lunch hour.  

Who would be a “dream guest” to have on your show?

Ohhhh--that's tough.  I've said for many years that I'd love to interview Tom Cruise.  Especially with Top Gun: Maverick coming out soon, Tom call me!  

You’ve covered some high-profile industry events like the Grammys and Academy Awards. What have those experiences been like for you?

For years, I was sent to The Grammy Awards to broadcast live.  I also attended the Academy Awards Nomination event and did cut ins for our local TV affiliate.  

They were amazing experiences.  Not only did I have the opportunity to interview many celebrities, but back then, we did live interviews. You never knew who would be coming to the broadcast table next.  I had to be ready to improvise and change things around at a moment's notice. It was exhilarating and it helped me build so many skills, and confidence.

No AC station seems to sound the same these days. What does it take for a “current” to make the cut on the station?

It's about timing and balance - we want to make sure our songs are familiar and relevant.  It's important for our listeners to count on us to be plugged in all ways - information, community, and music!

“Local local local” has always been radio’s mantra. How do you keep your station visible and involved in the community?

We make sure that Magic is everywhere it can be and should be.  We are constantly talking about local events on the air and places to check out in Tampa Bay. Plus, we're heavily involved with local charities and the needs of our community - like hurricane coverage and pandemic help.  We're very proud that our Feed The Bay virtual food drive raised over $1 million for Tampa Bay families in need.  Whether we're on-site, on-air, or on our social platforms, Tampa Bay is at the forefront of everything we do.

  What was your favorite station(s) to listen to when you were a kid? Jock(s)?

I grew up in Milwaukee so definitely WLUM and WKTI.  I remember when I got a signed autograph card from Reitman and Mueller.  I was so excited.  I still have it somewhere!

Who were your mentors? Who would you say has influenced your career the most?

My Dad, hands down.  There have been so many PDs that have taken chances on me and given me wonderful opportunities, and I appreciate them all.  But I wouldn't have a career if it wasn't for my Dad.  When I first started and was struggling to find my "personality and sound" on the air, he kept telling me to just be myself.  When I let go of what I thought I should be on the air, or what I thought others wanted me to be, that's when my career started to fall into place.  

Since you live in one of the greatest places in the country, if someone was vacationing in your market, what one thing would you say they “must see?”

Besides our amazing beaches - I'd say The St Pete Pier.  It's a cool destination spot and you can get the best pictures there!