10 Questions with ... Rhino

NAME:Rhino LAST WITH:KOSO/Modesto PHONE:(559) 281-2283 cell EMAIL:ryan_reiswig@yahoo.com WEB:www.myspace.com/rhinodemo

Please begin by giving us a brief career history ...

I started out at KWIN/Stockton as an intern in Jan., 2001. While there, I was Double J's (night jock) biatch for six months before I got my own shot on the air. From there I moved to Fresno to get a college degree I've yet to put to use. I had a brief stop for weekends at KSEQ/Visalia, CA in 2002 before going to KFRR/Fresno to do nights 2002-2005. In 2006, I was back doing part-time work at KWIN before I went to KOSO/Modesto in 2007 to do mornings.

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

First off, with all the layoffs and all the quality people losing their jobs lately, you realize quickly that you aren't alone out there. When I drive around I'm constantly listening to the radio and critiquing what I hear, imagining what I would've done different, what was good or bad. It helps keep my eye on the prize.

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

I watch more movies than I ever have, which may explain the enormous roll of fat developing around my waist. Other than that and the occasional Guitar Hero game, a lot of NOTHING! Remember, you need money to do things in this great country!

3) Do you plan on sticking with the radio industry?

I want more than anything to have a lifelong career in radio. I want to be on the air forever. Is that going to happen? I don't know.

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

AllAccess.com! This is above and beyond my favorite website dedicated to radio. Also keeping in contact with friends in the business helps me stay briefed on job openings.

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

I'd love to do mornings at a Rock station, Active or Alternative. I'm a very diverse jock, though. I would be happy with any gig that gives me the bare essentials -- just pay my bills!

6) How are you finding the "courtesy level" at places you've applied? (Callbacks, emails, rejection letters, etc.)

It's seems to be around 50/50. Some e-mail back, some don't. One thing I've told myself during my time on the beach is that if I'm ever in a PD position I will always make an attempt to at least e-mail applicants to let them know where they stand. When someone applies to work at your station it should be looked at as a compliment that someone really wants to be where you are. A callback or quick e-mail doesn't take much time. If you don't want that jock, let him/her know so they can squash it and move on with their search.

7) 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've already slowed down. With all the body fat I've accumulated I can't run as fast. I've enjoyed the down time to a certain extent; I know it's cliché but I have been able to do some golfing, been to a few basketball games and I know it'll surprise those who know me, but I am now a brewer! I bought a beer making kit and I enjoy pulling up a chair every now and again to watch the exciting fermentation process. It's awesome, even more exciting than watching paint dry! Imagine that! While you're on the air, I'm watching beer ... so sad.

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

First off, what I miss least is hearing people who have full-time gigs complain about the littlest things about their jobs! Some people don't realize how lucky they are to have that full-time gig, and it makes me sick. Secondly, I miss being on the air! I miss doing a show everyday, being able to vent about stuff that happens in my life, entertaining people. I miss going out and broadcasting live at remotes and meetings listeners. I miss going to shows and getting up on stage. I miss RADIO! I'm now going to cry and feel sorry for myself.

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?

Absolutely. In this day and age in this business you have to do whatever it takes to stay in the game. There are so few full-time jobs out there that if you really love it, you take any full-time gig thrown your way.

10) Having been through all you have dealt with in this biz, what advice would you give people trying to break in?

Learn everything about radio. Don't just do your show ... learn production, imaging, programming ... it all helps, and will make you more valuable and more attractive to hire. Also, never get comfortable. You could be doing an awesome job, your ratings may be great, but it doesn't matter anymore.

Care to contribute a low-cost recipe to our "ON THE BEACH" cookbook?

Ham sandwhiches: Two slices of $1.99 wheat bread, as much light mayonnaise as you want and a whole bunch of ham. Warning: Too many of these will result in a fat ass.