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10 Questions with ... Barbara "Roxie" De Laleu
October 18, 2016
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BRIEF CAREER SYNOPSIS:
DEMO:
I'm a proud St. John's University alum who loves to be behind the scenes, curating events, mentoring young men and women, sharing funny stories with everyday people, treating my hosting gigs like a big sleepover and challenging others in a healthy debate or two! I'm a commentator for, and cofounder of the #NoDisrespectCampaign, blogger and current part-time on air personality for New York's 95.5 PLJ! I've been heard across New York on Radio 103.9 where I started her NYC radio career under my new name "Roxie!" Previously, for almost nine years, I used the radio moniker "The Beautiful Stranger," rocking the mic overnights and weekends on Long Island's #1 Rock station 102.3 WBAB and 106.1 WBLI. I later added to my resume by working with the critically acclaimed Dr. Laura Schlessinger as an Affiliate Relations Rep and as a producer and board operator at 107.5 WBLS and 1190AM WLIB to name a few. My educational experiences and networking skills have provided me with the opportunity to do radio in both Holland and Buenos Aires Argentina!
1) What do you do to maintain a positive mental attitude and stay motivated?
I surround myself with like-minded radio professionals who are my support system! I have been lucky to have former co-workers who have turned into friends, who make it their business to stay connected! It's a blessing to have a great group of people who look out for each other and are willing to share a wealth of information during "hard times"
2) How are you occupying your time, besides looking for a job?
I am a new mother as of June 22nd, 2016, to my son Braxton! :) So trust me when I say my time, these days, is occupied!
3) 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.
Look, I get it! Everyone is 'Busy' and I respect everyone's time; however, I tailor my correspondence with station managers and directors by considering their schedules, the radio calendar and major events. Being around the NY radio market for so long makes you understand the meaning of "a New York minute"... as fast-paced as NYC is, you've got to be just as swift with your messages. It's like a Top 40 talk break -- get to the point with a dose of personality. I use my "Twitter fingers" for follow-up, in addition to looking out for obvious patterns (social media platform usage, e-mail response time, tone of response, etc.).
4) Do you plan on sticking with radio?
Yes, for the next 10 years!
5) What's the best way to get your foot in the door?
Being yourself consistently, travel in different networking circles, brag through your actions, and update your network on new projects, work information, and any relevant experience that will draw positive attention.
6) What has been your best resource for finding out about job openings?
Honestly, either AllAccess or of all the social media platforms I have ever joined. It was Facebook that got me my first on air gig in NYC!
7) What's the craziest thing you've ever done to get a job?
I guessed a PD's email! I figured it had to be his first name and last name @ the station.com. Luckily it worked and I asked him out to lunch. Two weeks later, I got a board op job and five years later I gained some pretty powerful connects and mentors :)
8) What is the next job you'd like to obtain?
I would like to obtain a full-time midday or night show gig in a major/medium market.
9) With consolidation there are definitely fewer jobs. How do you separate yourself from the pack?
My work and dedication to my team speaks for itself! The only thing I have changed throughout my radio career has been my name (which is now Roxie), but that does not change who I am on the inside! I am authentic, dedicated and have always given my 100% in all that I do, whether it's a staff of 10 or 100! I treat my work life as if it were a second family; I represent them with the utmost respect and integrity and don't bring shame to any name. I have worked across all radio formats and I'm not afraid to learn new things, adapt to new people and places!
10) What has been your biggest career accomplishment?
One of my biggest career accomplishments has been never leaving New York to do radio, and making it to NYC based on my leadership qualities, which let me know that people were watching my movements instead of hearing or reading about them via a resume, which proves that sometimes it's as easy as putting in the work and people will eventually notice! While making my rounds in NYC, I built incredible relationships with station managers and directors due to my work ethic. In addition, I have been able to use radio as a platform to influence and inspire young adults in underprivileged communities which empowers me and gives me the feeling of accomplishment.
Bonus Questions
Your favorite new diversion is....
Learning every day about my new role as a mother! It's amazing how I now have to cater to a whole new audience-- my son! I am learning different ways to educate, inform and entertain. It's an awesome challenge that continues to keep me motivated for the future!
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