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10 Questions with ... Chris Centore
July 11, 2006
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NAME:Chris CentoreLAST WITH:WPST/Trenton-PhiladelphiaPHONE:215-629-6362EMAIL:c.centore@comcast.net
Please begin by giving us a brief career history ...
As a kid I loved to play radio using a tape recorder, and realized radio was for me when I joined my high school station. After being named PD of my college station and doing a few local internships, I knew I was on my way. I took a brief break until I entered and was named runner up of a contest in 1998 at WFNX in Boston to be a DJ. Then I landed three part time gigs at WHOB, WZID and WXLO. I was hired full time for afternoons and APD at WHOB at the end of 1999. In 2001 I became part of the team at Y101 (WDYL) in Richmond, VA where I hosted "The Nightly Fix" until early 2004. In the spring I was re-hired by Cox Radio at sister station Mix 103.7 (WMXB) handling afternoon drive for just under a year. In the spring of 2005 I accepted the morning co-host position at WPST in Trenton/Philadelphia.
1) What do you do to maintain a positive mental attitude and stay motivated?
You know that phrase "things happen for a reason?" Well, from the day I left WPST everyone has told me this over and over. At first I was a bit skeptical. Now I realize that I have the opportunity to find the perfect gig. The positive feedback I have received and the opportunities that have come so far have proven this. I am also lucky to have a supportive wife who believes in me, and a baby on the way.
2) How are you occupying your time, besides looking for a job?
My wife and I are expecting our first baby in August, a boy that will not be allowed near a radio station. Getting the house ready and preparing for the life change occupies a lot of time. My golf score should be getting better, but unfortunately it's not. I still enjoy playing about once a week.
3) Do you plan on sticking with the radio industry?
Without a doubt! Where else would I be able to use all of these crazy ideas and thoughts in my brain? I love the opportunity to share experiences with an audience and get their thoughts as well.
4) So far, what has been your best resource for finding out about job openings?
Obviously All Access. I am constantly hitting the refresh button to see what's new in the openings section. I also try to reach out to one new person each day and create a network of people who can tell me about opportunities before they hit AA.
5) What is the next job you'd like to obtain?
I think my best fit will be at a station that allows me to participate in the daily programming decisions. I have ideas that will work and know how to execute them, as well as be part of a successful morning team. I'd also love to have a PD and co-host who truly believe in me.
6) How are you finding the "courtesy level" at places you've applied? (Callbacks, emails, rejection letters, etc.)
For the most part people have been responsive. I think it all depends on the market, the PD, and the reality of each position. I think PDs are overwhelmed with so much that it's hard to get to everyone. I also think it's difficult for a lot of people to say no, and that keeps them from responding.
7) Are you finding salaries/benefits lower than you ever thought, about the same, or have you seen some pleasant surprises?
For the most part salaries are what I expect them to be. I think if you have the talent and dedication there is money to be made. You just have to work hard and prove you are worth it.
8) What's the most unbelievable question you've ever been asked in an interview?
How is your driving record?
9) What has been your biggest career accomplishment?
During the '05 Fall book we had a promotion at WPST to find a short term replacement for my co-host who went on maternity leave. As far as I know this type of "reality radio" had never been done before. It involved five people living at the station 24 hours a day for five weeks and listeners deciding who the fill in co-host was going to be. With the help of my PD we planned and executed a compelling promotion. It ended up being extremely successful and the ratings proved it.
10) Where do you see yourself in 5 years? 10 years?
Five years from now I'd like to have a strong run in a successful morning show with a co-host who gets me and a strong cast of characters. In ten years I'd love to have proven myself as a great programmer and be working with a team that strives to make great radio.
Bonus Questions
Any books you can recommend to people who need something inspirational to read?
FM: The Rise and Fall of Rock Radio by Richard Neer. Yes, I know I'm a radio geek but it's a good radio bio. It talks about some of the greats that made FM radio what it is today. It also reminds me of the battle going on now between satellite and terrestrial radio. I also like anything by Chuck Klosterman. (Great pop culture stuff!)
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