10 Questions with ... Emily 'Makinzie'

BRIEF CAREER SYNOPSIS:

It was 10 beautiful years on Denver's heritage station, Mix 100. From nights and weekends, to mornings for 5five years ... two Colorado Broadcasters Association awards for Best Morning Show, and one for Best Radio Personality, and finally as the midday goddess on Mix, Emily is ready for her next big adventure.

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

My house is honestly covered in post-it notes with positive affirmations. Staying positive is truly a full-time mental job, and I am always on the clock. Changing out of my PJs and putting on real pants every morning helps in the motivation department, too.

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

I gotta tell ya, my dog Kramer loves that I am "on the beach." Long walks with podcasts, barre classes, voice work and production. I also made a lasagna for the first time, which was surprisingly delicious. (And resulted in more walks and barre classes...)

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.

This has been the most challenging time of my life, but challenges only lead to growth. And there have been some beautiful surprises during this time; for example, women have been incredibly supportive. Women I don't even know have reached out to offer help and support. This goes against the stereotype of women in the entertainment industry, and really makes my heart smile.

4) Do you plan on sticking with radio?

Of course! "I can't change, even if I tried, even if I wanted to."

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

This is it, three months and counting. But spring is almost here. ;-)

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

Being persistent and authentic helps to get your foot in the door. I also like to include adorable pictures of puppies in e-mails ... it's hard to say no to a cute woofer.

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

All Access has been a gold mine for job openings!

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

Well, my original radio demo was 100% fake; I had zero experience. But it was a killer demo. I sent it to every station in Denver -- and got one call back. I confessed that I had never ever cracked a mic, and the PD was so impressed he put me on-air that day. I still have that demo, too, if anyone wants to hear it. ;-)

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

Mornings in a top 20 ... Or taking over for Ellen. Whatever comes first.

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

(not applicable... yet.)

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

Yes!

Emi-tini

• 1.5 shots of watermelon vodka
• 1 shot Mighty Swell watermelon mint spritzer
• Shake gently with ice and top with soda water
• Mint garnish

(A cocktail recipe is much more useful in an "on the beach" situation.) ;-)