10 Questions with ... Bill Phillips

BRIEF CAREER SYNOPSIS:

First full-time gig was in 1988 for WIBU (all Polka, all the time) in Poynette, WI. Moved to WOLX/Madison in 1990. PD of WOFM/Wausau in 1995. PD of Cumulus Fox Cities-Green Bay WVBO and WOGB in 1997, then OD for the GB cluster of WOGB, WJLW (The Eagle) and WEZR (The Planet). Oldies Field Researcher for Mediabase from 1999 to 2005. PD of WLJY and MD of WBCV (Big Cheese 107.9)/Wausau-Stevens Point until I went to WOFM/WIZD in August 2008.

1) What do you do to maintain a positive mental attitude and stay motivated?

I've been lucky enough to be able to do some voicetracking for a local cluster, so I'm able to have some fun and satisfy my radio "jones" a little. Plus, I'm staying current with the business as much as I can through hands-on practice, networking or reading. Every day's a new day, and a new opportunity for someone to give me a shot.

2) How are you occupying your time, besides looking for a job?

Working around the house, exercising, reading (for fun, rather than something work-related), webinars, and spending lots of time with my wife.

3) Do you plan on sticking with radio?

Absolutely! I've loved radio since I can remember. I was the kid who used to fall asleep with the radio every night ... can't imagine doing anything else.

4) What's the longest stretch you've had on the beach?

I've never been on the beach before. This is my long stretch.

5) What has been your best resource for finding out about job openings?

All Access, of course! Plus I keep an eye on a couple of other trade websites/newsletters, and get tips from friends/colleagues.

6) What is the next job you'd like to obtain?

Ideally, another programming or operations position. I just want the chance to get back into a situation where I can prove myself again.

7) Are you spending as much time listening to radio as you used to?

Time-wise, I'm listening as much as I always have; but I'm listening more to out-of-market stations and streams rather than local stations. I've got a radio on or a stream open pretty much all day long.

8) Are you able to slow down and enjoy free time doing things with your family and friends that you probably did not have time to do while you were working?

I certainly am. I've been able to spend more time than ever with my son; plus my wife and I are able to take weekend getaways or car trips that we'd never have been able to take if I were still working full-time.

9) Having been through all you have dealt with in this biz, what advice would you give people trying to break in?

Believe in yourself and at the same time, work hard to improve yourself. Don't expect things to just fall into your lap; take a shot. Not everyone can do what we do; understand that a radio gig is a privilege. When you do get a job, appreciate what you have and have fun doing it.

10) How will this experience change you when you get back to work?

I certainly will appreciate having full-time work again. And from all I've learned during my time off from life in general, listening to streams, attending webinars and reading, I think I'll be a better air talent, co-worker and manager.

My favorite new diversion is ...

Cycling. I try and ride every day. Much easier on my knees than the sport I've loved and tried to play for years, basketball...