10 Questions with ... Dan Thomas

BRIEF CAREER SYNOPSIS:

• OM/PD - Results Radio (Z Rock )/Chico, CA
• OM - Townsquare Media/Grand Junction, CO
• PD - Lotus KKBZ/Fresno, CA
• OM/PD - AIM, KZND/Anchorage, AK
• AE- iHeart/Anchorage
• PD-KWHL/Anchorage

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

The gym, and being close to family. I haven't seen my folks for more than a few days at a time on over 20 years, so it's well due

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

I have managed to keep busy (50-60 hours/week) working as a production machinist. And of course, the gym. My therapist, personal trainer and priest (mind, body, soul)

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.

Neither really. It's a business, with politics, and it's not always the best person for the job. But it is what it is. Accept it or step aside, I like to say.

4. Do you plan on sticking with radio?

Most likely, if I find the right opportunity. I've done the oilfields of ND and AK, and am done with that. I've taken media jobs that in hindsight I probably shouldn't have, but I always try to see the silver lining on each unique opportunity.

5. What's the longest stretch you've had on the beach?

One year.

6. What's the best way to get your foot in the door?

Persistence and creativity. What can you do that makes a difference?

7. What has been your best resource for finding out about job openings?

Company websites, obviously All Access, and networking with your peers.

8. What's the craziest thing you've ever done to get a job?

Mainly persistence. When I moved to Houston I had already made a connection with the PD, and showed up with the wife and kid for one of his remotes to say thank you for the interview. Just a different version of a thank you note.

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

Operations or programming. And Batman -- it's time the world knew.

10. Are you finding salaries/benefits lower than you ever thought, about the same, or have you seen some pleasant surprises?

Much lower. I've turned down a couple gigs because I just couldn't make it work. I don't want to have to go somewhere and be looking in six months because I can no longer afford to be there. Not fair to both either me or my employer.

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

Haven't cooked a lot as of late. However, I've learned how to eat relatively healthy on the run. In addition, I've become close friends with protein powders and bars.