10 Questions with ... Jay Michaels

BRIEF CAREER SYNOPSIS:

I grew up in the Louisville area -- and from the age of 13 or 14, begged to be inside a radio station. Finally someone let me in and I got my first gig when I was 15. From there I've worked mostly in the region (Louisville, Evansville, Terre Haute, Paducah, KY and Indianapolis), but did spend time in Seattle where I got to witness the birth of "MOViN 92.5" in 2005. That's when I knew I wanted to not only be on-air, but become a PD!

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

I took a few days to disconnect and breathe! I've spent some much needed time with family and friends - and recently discovered "GLOW" on Netflix! How did I not know this show was there?

2) Do you plan on sticking with radio?

Yes! I love what I do; I love being able to communicate with listeners everyday, on-air and on social media. I love the feeling when someone tells you that your station is their favorite. I got some great messages from friends, colleagues and competitors in the business when I was let go, but the e-mails, tweets and messages from the listeners are super-special.

3) What's the longest stretch you've had on the beach?

Believe it or not -- in 15 years or so - this is my first time! I just wish I lived near an actual beach.

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

I am! I'll be honest; I didn't think I would at first, but in a lot of ways, I've been trying to listen as a casual listener, instead of judging a music segue or sweeper like I use to!

5) Are you able to slow down and enjoy free time doing things with your family and friends that you probably did not have time to do while you were working?

I have been; I feel like the last year especially I've been in a non-stop routine, so this mini-vacation has already allowed me the opportunity to clear my head, and reconnect with my family and friends that I've been neglecting.

6) What has been your biggest career accomplishment?

Worst to first in Indy! The station debute at #1, and we had a nice ride on the top for a while. Yes, '93.9 The Beat' was short-lived in Indy, for numerous reasons, but we still created something special that will be talked about in Indy radio for a long time. I mean who else had a reporter from the New York Times follow them around for two days asking them questions about their radio station?

7) 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?

Look. I have an expensive shopping habit and I love to eat - but I've learned the quality of life is much more important than quantity of life.

8) How will this experience change you when you get back to work?

I worked with some amazing people at my last gig and experienced some amazing opportunities, but I was in a routine ... and it was time for a change. I'm blessed I was forced to make a change, and I'm really excited about what's next!

9) What is the next job you'd like to obtain?

One that comes with a paycheck! :) - Seriously, though, my next "dream job" is one that will allow me to not only utilize my programming skills and knowledge, but also my social media skills -- and one that I can use my personality to shine with on-air!

10) What has been your best resource for finding out about job openings?

Besides All Access :-)... Networking! Networking! Networking! I've also had a few e-mail introductions happen, and I've also reached out to those that I've long respected, and reconnected with a few!

Seen any great movies?

Without sounding like a total nerd ... The Mister Rogers documentary "Won't You Be My Neighbor?" was amazing ... inspiring and uplifting -- and so many messages we could all use!