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10 Questions with ... Trish Hennessey
July 11, 2017
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BRIEF CAREER SYNOPSIS:
A "seasoned veteran" (like that?), I was supposedly the first female afternoon drive in Philadelphia (hometown) and in Baltimore. Country was a primary focus -- and I was there at the birthing stages of Alt-Country and Americana. I've also done Rock, AC and News/Talk -- and also managed to find a home with Contemporary Jazz. All market sizes, multiple cities, fascinating stories -- The Book is coming :)
1) What do you do to maintain a positive mental attitude and stay motivated?
I have a son who is 25 and has been diagnosed with Asperger's Syndrome. It's mandatory for Ma to stay Suzy Sunshine for HIM.
2) How are you occupying your time, besides looking for a job?
I host an online Jazz show that requires research, contemplation and continual juggling in order to book properly and satisfy egos :) Guests every week, without fail.
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.
Does she dare say it? Ageism. Being an older woman, this is Stone Cold Reality. The proverbial Elephant in the Room. I take heart because the new President of France is married to a woman who is 25 years his senior. Think that won't make a difference? I'm hoping so. We all have to grow up regarding our attitudes. And everybody has something magical to contribute.
4) What's the craziest thing you've ever done to get a job?
The PD is deceased and he can't tell you :-O
5) What is the next job you'd like to obtain?
Truth: anywhere that can appreciate the history as well as the evolution of a quirky blonde. That includes re-visiting where I've been. I miss my old haunts!
6) What's the most unbelievable question you've ever been asked in an interview?
"You're not planning to get pregnant, are you?"
7) With consolidation there are definitely fewer jobs. How do you separate yourself from the pack?
I really do intend to complete a book on my radio adventures. If someone is smart/savvy enough to hire me, he or she will be immortal :)
8) What do you miss most about music/radio? The least?
I miss a building, the possible view from a window while I run the board. The segues! And making people feel good ... because I KNOW the power of voice. What I don't miss are the small and closed minds that are frequently "in charge."
9) If you were offered a similar position to what you were doing for considerably less money, would you consider taking the job just to stay in the business?
H**L yes! Jobs are tight/food is good. Those old notions about pride are gone. We do what we can now -- all of us -- to keep the lights on and the passion flowing. I will be thrilled to see an actual paycheck again!
10) How will this experience change you when you get back to work?
I will be Buddha-like in my serenity, but also fun as shiggetty (thank you, Huggy Lowdown) ;)
Bonus Questions
Any books you can recommend to people who need something inspirational to read?
"The Secret" (still) and a follow-up, "The Magic." You are forced to be and remain positive with both books. You have to physically write down your dreams and what makes you happy. And what makes you happy is everything -- especially if you're waiting for a job to pop :)
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