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10 Questions with ... Kayeshene Thompson "Shay Baby"
October 20, 2015
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BRIEF CAREER SYNOPSIS:
I began my career as a crew member and board operator on the popular Si-Man Morning Show (Classic Soul 102.5-Radio One of Atlanta). Due to having a great mentor (Si Man), I earned the reputation of one of Atlanta's most accomplished radio producers. My production opportunities later expanded to include Praise 97.5 (Connie Flint's Afternoon Praise Party), Hot 107.9 and Magic 107.5; stations exclusive to the Atlanta/Radio One network, the Jay Mohr Fox sports show and numerous television and entertainment productions. This opportunity transitioned me to Foxie 105 FM/Columbus, GA, to become the Morning Show Producer and co-host. At Foxie, I was dubbed, "The First Lady of Radio."
My media ventures included television, acting (stage plays and commercials) and hosting, often on local news and regional cable shows (What's Happening TV, American Music Makers and 106 and Park). I was blessed to attract the attention of numerous event sponsors which afforded me the opportunity to host numerous celebrity events, ranging from concerts, comedy, gospel, gay pride and Country music shows. I am dubbed the first lady of Xtreme entertainment (one of the most recognized entertainment companies in the LGBT community) and received the prestigious Humanitarian Award for Broadcasting by the NAACP
1) What do you do to maintain a positive mental attitude and stay motivated?
I just believe and trust in God that a door will reopen for me in this field. I really believe that good things come to those who wait and if it's meant to be, then so be it.
2) Some people get discouraged or enlightened with the business when they actually step out of it for a while. Tell us your observations from the outside.
I see that in this field, you have to know someone at the station that you are applying for. I found that this is a "who you know," not "what you know" industry.
3) Do you plan on sticking with radio?
Yes! I love radio. I love being able to connect with people in the community and hopefully say something over the airwaves that touches someone's heart and makes their day.
4) What's the best way to get your foot in the door?
I got my foot in the door by interning so I would highly recommend that. I also found that sometimes you have to take any position that is offered (on any station) and work your way up to the position that you want.
5) What has been your best resource for finding out about job openings?
Actually, only allaccess.com and word of mouth.
6) What is the next job you'd like to obtain?
Co-host on a morning show or afternoon drive.
7) How are you finding the "courtesy level" at places you've applied? (Callbacks, e-mails, rejection letters, etc.)
I have had some courtesy feedback that my information was received and reviewed. I found that the feedback or acknowledgement have only come from the family-owned or smaller companies. With the bigger companies, I feel like I am just a number of a million and my number will never get called.
8) Are you finding salaries/benefits lower than you ever thought, about the same, or have you seen some pleasant surprises?
I've found that the salary is lower than I remember before leaving the field.
9) What has been your biggest career accomplishment?
Receiving the Humanitarian Award from the NAACP.
10) If you were offered a similar position to what you were doing for considerably less money, would you seriously consider taking the job just to stay in the biz?
Yes I would. In a heartbeat!
Bonus Questions
Uh oh ... now you're on your own for getting new music. If applicable, name your three most recent purchases since leaving the biz.
- Tina Campbell - It's Personal
- Darius Rucker- Southern Style
- Blake Shelton - Based On A True Story
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