10 Questions with ... Adam Wilbur

BRIEF CAREER SYNOPSIS:

Started in affiliate relations with Fisher Entertainment in 1996. Worked up the ranks to become VP and successfully oversaw the sale to NBG (Now Crystal Radio Networks). In October 2001, launched Wilbur Entertainment and operated a leading independent syndication company for 7 years. Wilbur Entertainment was sold to Radio KG in 2008. After a brief stint with Sovereign City Communications, I was hired as one of the first employees for Compass Media Networks.

1. What got you into the radio business in the first place? Why radio?

I prefer to say that radio found me. Prior to joining Fisher Entertainment and working in affiliate relations, I had bounced around from one sales job to another. Sales is in my blood, as I come from a long line of salesmen. When I sat down at my desk, picked up the phone and started talking to radio people about radio, I was hooked. I realized quickly that this was the industry I wanted to be a part of. I saw syndication as an opportunity for me to bring radio to my generation, a generation that I felt was being largely ignored by mainstream radio.

2. About what are you most passionate these days?

It's the people. I am very excited to be working so closely with the greatest minds and talent in the business and helping to develop the next generation. When a group of us are able to outline a strategy and make a vision a reality it is the most rewarding feeling. It is truly creating something from nothing.

3. You joined Compass Media Networks last year after many years both with independent syndicators and on your own. What has your experience been like at Compass so far? How would you characterize the company's mission? How is it different from other syndicators?

I feel like all my experiences up to this point have prepared me for the role I am currently playing at Compass Media Networks. My experience at Compass Media Networks so far has been totally fulfilling. Peter Kosann is a smart, dynamic and skillful leader and the corporate structure gives me room to be creative and get involved in every aspect of the business. The mission of Compass Media Networks is to make local radio sound better and work closely with our affiliates to maximize the effects of our shows for them locally. Our entrepreneurial focus and ability to invest in our programming sets us apart.

4. How has the syndication business changed since you started? Is it harder or easier to clear shows these days?

The landscape of radio has changed. There are fewer owners and many more shows but, fundamentally, syndication hasn't changed. Local hosts, for the most part, still dream of being syndicated to hundreds of markets and realize that it doesn't happen without an enormous amount of work and a good team.

There is no question that it has gotten harder to clear shows over the years. This is because the number of excellent shows available has increased so much. However, it should be noted that syndication now plays a more instrumental role and radio than ever before. It used to be that syndication was mainly reserved for nights and weekends. In recent years the demand and competition exists in the prime day parts Mon-Fri.

5. Compass is launching a daily Ron Insana show, and has already gotten some large market clearances, but it's a crowded field for syndicated daily shows right now. What makes Ron's show stand out? How do you stand out among all the available shows and grab clearances in this marketplace?

Ron has been the headline reporter for every major financial event over the past twenty five years. He has received special commendations for his coverage of the 1987 Stock Market crash and his reporting of the events of September 11th. When Riverside, California was going bankrupt because of a confusing derivative trading fiasco Ron was the only one who was talking about it before it happened and was able to offer insight into what led to the downfall. He is not some guy with sirens and horns talking about stocks or complex financial issues that he doesn't understand. George Bush, Warren Buffett and Alan Greenspan are just some of the guests that will be heard on the "Insana Quotient". The show stands out because Ron loves radio and represents an identifiable brand. His business and financial background lends a unique perspective to the challenges facing the world today.

6. Compass' deal to handle Oakland Raiders football caught a lot of observers by surprise, because it's unusual for a national syndicator to handle a local sports franchise's network (although it's more common for college sports). What's the plan for growing the Raiders network? How far afield do you think the Raiders network will reach?

NFL football is the most recognized franchise in the United States. Who would not want to be a part of the single biggest driver to local radio (and on Sunday afternoons no less)? The Raiders are a great franchise and we are excited to expand our NFL portfolio. The Raiders Network will be national. We are continually finding pockets of loyal Raiders fans in both expected and unlikely markets.

7. What makes a good syndicatable talk show?

A good syndicator! That being said, I often look for talent that has achieved tangible ratings success in their local market or a Brand Name that is "bigger" than local radio. Then there is the X factor, it's more of a feeling than a formula. You sense something special in a show and commit to put your heart, sweat and tears behind it.

8. If you hadn't gone into radio, what do you think you'd be doing now?

This question makes my head spin. Out of all the possibilities I can't even imagine how my life could be any better. I love what I do and wouldn't change a thing.

9. Fill in the blank: I can't make it through the day without _______________.

...a kiss from my wife and kids.

10. What's the best advice you ever got? The worst?

Best: Nice doesn't mean weak. Live your life backward and don't do things that bring you farther away from your goals.

Worst: My parents suggested that I should be a funeral director. People are always dying and you'll never be out of work.