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10 Questions with ... Rick "RJ" Jordan
February 14, 2006
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NAME:Rick "RJ" JordanLAST WITH:WSCP/Syracuse, NYPHONE:315-632-4118
Please begin by giving us a brief career history...
Before programming WSCP, I spent 4 years as PD at Saga's WPOR in Portland, ME. Prior to that, I enjoyed a 6 year stay at Clear Channel Syracuse, including a run as PD of WBBS. Other programming stints include WVNC/Canton and WNYP/Ithaca. I've also occupied the on-air chair in Rochester, Utica and Cape Cod.
1) What do you do to maintain a positive mental attitude and stay motivated?
I've only been on the beach for a short time, so luckily my phone hasn't stopped ringing yet. Whether it's a "best wishes and hang in there" call or an actual lead on potential employment, these chats have kept me sharp, connected, and feeling relevant. Thanks to all who have reached out!
2) How are you occupying your time, besides looking for a job?
I have a great new job- being Mr. Mom! My son Riley (20 months old) and I take lots of walks, go to story hour at the corner library, take "Music Together" classes, and basically cause all sorts of trouble while mommy is at work. Plus, my wife Melissa appreciates me performing assorted "house husband" duties (like emptying the cat box... yuck)!
I've also re-discovered my treadmill and my collection of vintage radio broadcasts.
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.
It's a bit lonely at times… right now, spring book promotions are being discussed and finalized, morning shows are crackin' the mic, and records are being added… all without the benefit of my input. It's like leading a thirsty man to a pool of cool water and not letting him take a drink.
On the bright side, this experience will insure I never take another job for granted. I'm blessed to be part of such an exciting industry and will be super-motivated to jump head first into my next challenge.
4) What's the longest stretch you've had on the beach?
I'm one of the lucky ones... after almost twenty-two years in the broadcast industry, this is my first time in the unemployment line. But as Joel Raab told me a couple days ago, you're not a real broadcaster until you get blown out at least once!
5) So far what has been your best resource for finding out about job openings?
At this point, I'd be lost without my cell phone and access to email. Industry pals, record folk and concerned consultants have all made sure I'm aware of a variety of opportunities. And of course, I log onto the ALLACCESS job postings every half hour!
6) What's the most unbelievable question you've ever been asked in an interview?
You'll love this one...it's priceless! One GM said "I can't afford to offer you the salary you require, so would it clinch the deal if I gave you a set of keys to the snack machine?"
7) With consolidation there are definitely fewer jobs, how do you separate yourself from the pack?
I have a pretty well rounded skill set. I'm a jack of all trades and master of a few. In addition to my programming background I've spent time as a promotions director, music director, production/creative services director, and even a short stint as GM. It allows me to view the radio station with more of a global perspective, and helps me to manage up, as well as delegate down. I can also roll up my sleeves and get dirty in the trenches, which many programmers seem unwilling to do these days.
8) Are you spending as much time listening to radio as you used to?
Believe it or not, I'm spending significantly more time monitoring the market now than when I was employed. Before, I was concerned with my radio station, the Country competition, and other assorted 25-54 year old targeted outlets. Now I listen to everything from Adult Standards to Radio Disney.
One of my favorite jocks growing up on Cape Cod was Ed McMann on WXKS-FM (Kiss 108) in Boston. He tracks midday on WWHT here in Syracuse, so I've been enjoying listening to him every day. He really sells the sizzle of the station, has great word economy, and is a master of appointment setting.
9) In your opinion, what has been your biggest career accomplishment?
I'm most proud of my work at WPOR. It was a Country outlet with a 60 year heritage and a monster cume to begin with, yet under my guidance we were still able to grow the audience significantly. The station really took off like a rocket!
10) What do you miss most about music/radio? The least?
A good radio station penetrates the soul, grazes the heart and strokes the thighs. It touches and improves the lives of those who utilize it. Therefore, it needs to be regarded with a certain degree of reverence. I miss having a station to treat with that kind of respect on a daily basis.
Bonus Questions
What have you learned about yourself, others, or life in general in your downtime?
"The measure of a man cannot be discerned by Arbitron," and, "My family is my fixed point in an ever changing world."
Having been through all you have dealt with in this biz, what advice would you give people trying to break in?
Don't ask what you can do, but rather identify tasks and take ownership of them. Be intuitive. Live at the radio station, even if it means sleeping on a cot in the corner. Work 12 hour shifts, eliminate the word "no" from your vocabulary, and remember that respect is earned, not gifted. Most of my contemporaries broke into this the business the same way I did: The dreaded weekend overnight shift. Or maybe board op for Sunday morning syndication. Since those jobs don't exist anymore, it's tougher than ever to catch a break. Now more than ever you must be persistent, consistent, and be willing to pay your dues.
Great movies I've recently seen ...
I'm addicted to old B&W movies. I recently watched a bunch of Flash Gordon serials from the 1930's. Cool Stuff!!
Care to contribute a low-cost recipe to our "ON THE BEACH" cookbook?
If you like pulled pork, you'll love my chicken variation. Throw boneless breasts in a crock pot, and add in a bottle of your favorite bar-b-que sauce. Turn the crock pot to "low." Then while you're at work… uh, well… while some of you are at work, let it slow cook all day. It's cheap and delicious.
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