10 Questions with ... Ron Stevens "Keyes"

BRIEF CAREER SYNOPSIS:

DEMO:

Graduated from the famous Brown Institute (with honor) in Minneapolis. Have worked in MN, WI, MI and most recently out here in CO. I have shot rifles and handguns at Aaron Tippin's house, smoked cigars with Brad Paisley (twice) and hung out a couple of nights with the comedian Gallagher (legally can NOT tell you those stories). And that is just the tip of the iceberg. It's been a heck of a ride and I can't wait to see what's next.

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

I know I am pretty good at what I do, so to come out of my latest (confusing) situation with two Colorado Broadcast Awards -- one for Best Morning Show and for Best Station Personality, was a real boost for me and in some respects vindication and affirmation and probably some other words that end in "tion."

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

Fitness and running have been a big part of my routine. I need it to recharge and to refocus. Where I live right now has very nice weather and plenty of hills and trails and places to enjoy being outside.

3) Do you plan on sticking with radio?

Absolutely, it's what I know, my passion and what I love to do. How many other jobs do people get to do what we do? From waking the listeners up every morning to being on stage in front of 25,000 people introducing Blake Shelton or Florida Georgia Line ... what?

4) What's the craziest thing you've ever done to get a job?

For a Skype interview, since I was going to be on camera, I made colorful signs like you see at sporting events. I put the call letters 'XXXX' is #1 and I (heart) 'XXXX', used my on-air name for a 'KEYES 3:16' sign and of course a shout out to my mom with a sign that said 'Hi Mom, Send Money.' I slowly would move each into camera view and not say a word about them. Although the interviewer got a great laugh out of it, he never called or e-mailed me back!

5) What's the most unbelievable on-air bit you were allowed to do?

Hypnotizing chickens stands out. It worked, according to the instructions given. However, there were no instructions on what to do when the things wake up, because it all went bat-shit crazy. No chickens were harmed in any way, but they were not happy with their situation at that moment. The audio still cracks me up. Also, The Drunk Driving/On-Air Field Test bit never disappoints!

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

I actually am. It never hurts to listen to what the 'other guys' are doing. Whether it's imaging, a commercial idea, bits, segues, contest, promotions, whatever. You can always learn. Even if sometimes it's what NOT to do.

7) What has been your biggest career accomplishment?

Now that I have two Best Morning Show Awards from two different states; that's pretty cool. Hosting a St. Jude Radiothon and visiting there is life changing, and flying with the U.S.A.F. Thunderbirds was pretty intense. But, I have to mention this - I recently ran into a couple who were big listeners of mine. They asked what happened and I said that management made a change. Then the lady told me that "We always knew that you didn't do your job for management; you did the job for us." How about that? My heart melted.

8) What do you miss most about music/radio?

Being a part of people's lives every morning. Sharing my bizarre life with listeners. Having someone come up and tell me how much they enjoyed/felt/laughed/empathized with some story or bit I did on the air.

The least? The biggest thing is the attitude of some that listeners don't matter and that what we do on-air doesn't matter. Plus, I don't miss the song 'Marry Me' from Thomas Rhett. It kills me every single time. Just kidding Thomas! It is an unbelievable song. Better win a Grammy.

9) 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?

Good question. I never have done this for the money. But, there are other variables. Love to work and be a part of the three or four-day Country music festivals, hanging out with listeners, being in that atmosphere, seeing artist friends ... Those are like second homes to me. As far as the other stuff, it stems from the staff. What are their attitudes towards Sales, Promotions, Marketing and even Digital and how can we work together to maximize every opportunity? Plus, do not forget about the listeners.

10) Where do you see yourself in five years?

Hopefully, still at the next place I land at.

Ten years?

See previous answer. Hopefully, I will find that 'forever home.'

Care to contribute a recipe for our "On The Beach" cookbook?

I am a black belt in Crock Pot. From chili, meatloaf, pulled pork, chicken ...you name it I have a recipe for it. E-mail me.