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10 Questions with ... Edward Combs
March 3, 2015
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BRIEF CAREER SYNOPSIS:
I have worked in radio since 2002, starting in Detroit as an audio editor for AM 1130 The Fan Sports/Talk and Newsradio 950. I spent time in a very small market doing Country and Classic Rock for WLEW, and from there to B-95 (Country) in Saginaw, WILZ (Classic Rock) in Flint and WKCQ (Country) in Saginaw before heading to the Fox. Spending time doing Country and Classic Rock has really shown me two cultures of music. I've learned to appreciate both, and enjoy both the artists and fans on both sides. I love the music, and what it brings to the listeners. I love bringing it to them, entertaining them with stories about their artists and also giveaway contests. I really enjoy doing imaging, copywriting and commercials. My passion is second to none ... along with my work ethic and ratings.
1) What's the longest stretch you've had on the beach?
This has been my longest stretch on the beach. I left the Fox in August of 2011.
2) What's the craziest thing you have ever done to get a job?
When I was interviewed for the B-95 job, I told the PD I wanted his afternoon-drive guy's job and his job. He looked at me perplexed ... and offered me the job.
3) What do you miss the least about radio?
The lack of communication in the business. It was awful at the stations I have been at. Being in the communications business, you would think it would be better.
4) How are you occupying your time besides looking for a job?
I stay updated through music stations, All Access and friends in the biz, and websites. I also have time to follow my favorite sport of hockey more closely.
5) Are you finding salaries/benefits lower than you ever thought, about the same, or have you seen some pleasant surprises?
Some have actually been very good, while others have been slave wages. For the most part I have been happy with what I have been paid.
6) Do you plan on sticking with radio?
I absolutely do plan on it. The passion I have for radio is too strong to leave. Dad always said, "Find something you like to do and find something you're good at, and if God is smiling on you they're both the same thing."
7) What is the next job you'd like to obtain?
Middays, or afternoon drive in either Country or Classic Rock, somewhere here in South Florida.
8) What has been your biggest career accomplishment?
I actually have two. The first was at 98fm KCQ. The owner told me I brought him the highest ratings the station had ever seen for the 7p-midnight shift, and I had the highest ratings in mid- Michigan at The Fox during my afternoon-drive shift. I was really proud of that. I had the highest share of any jock during that book.
9) Where do you see yourself in five years and 10 years?
In five years, programming my own station, in 10 years being able to take an Ops position.
10) How will this experience change you when you get back to work?
I will really appreciate being back a lot more than I did when I was working. I will really try to work smarter and do more. I will really not work for less than I am worth.
Bonus Questions
Your favorite new diversion is...
Actually going to the beach. I love the ocean and living here in Florida.
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