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10 Questions with ... Scott Thrower
October 17, 2006
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NAME:Scott ThrowerLAST WITH:KURB/Little RockPHONE:(501) 223-8144EMAIL:scottb98@sbcglobal.net
Please begin by giving us a brief career history ...
I got into radio in 1975 at the age of 15. I've worked in Los Angeles; Philadelphia; Phoenix; Portland, OR; and a few other stops along the way. Who do I have to sleep with to get out of the business?
1) What do you do to maintain a positive mental attitude and stay motivated?
I've been out of work before. It always works out that I land a better job. I remind myself of that daily. Being out of work is part of the business, and I know from experience not to take it personally.
2) How are you occupying your time, besides looking for a job?
I'd like to say I'm staying physically active by hiking and walking, but having had knee surgery two days after I got cut loose by KURB, I still haven't figured out a way to go on a one-legged hike. I am doing some projects around the house, sending love notes to my wife while she's working, and keeping the radio off. The number of emails from former listeners is unbelievable, and I am trying diligently to answer each one.
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.
The business is too much about sales and not enough about product. I've always been a product guy; ultimately, what comes out of the speakers is the most important thing. I feel good about sticking to my guns and focusing my energies on the product. If the suits are as good at selling the product as I am at creating it, then it's a good marriage. But management and ownership has to cultivate a better balance between the two departments.
4) What's the longest stretch you've had on the beach?
Seven months, or, roughly 19 million quarter-hours.
5) What is your best way to get your foot in the door?
That's a secret, but I will say this much -- it involves duct tape, a chandelier, and a burro named Jose.
6) So far what has been your best resource for finding out about job openings?
Randy Lane, who was my PD years ago in Memphis, is very plugged in because these days he consults morning shows. Randy's given me some very good tips about jobs.
7) What's the craziest thing you've ever done to get a job?
I did tequila shots with Rick Rumble at a bar in downtown Memphis. He'd already been hired. We then went to the station at midnight, more than a little drunk, and auditioned together. I remember nothing about the two hours we did on the air -- but I was hired.
8) What is the next job you'd like to obtain?
I'm one hell of a quarterback. I need to be teamed up with one hell of a comic. Somebody who makes me laugh. I've had some great offers in recent months -- Norfolk, Denver, Minneapolis -- but they lacked the right person for me to work with. I absolutely adore Country radio. Maybe somebody will team me up with Larry the Cable Guy.
9) How are you finding the "courtesy level" at places you've applied? (Callbacks, emails, rejection letters, etc.)
Most are really good about shooting a quick email back or taking my call. I know others out of work who aren't getting that courtesy. I've done mornings for a long time and know a lot of people, so if somebody doesn't return my call, they won't be welcome in my guest room at Christmas.
10) Where do you see yourself in five years? Ten years?
In five years, doing a show in a top 25 market -- again -- and in 10 years, being called Mrs. Jonathon Brandmeier.
Bonus Questions
1) Uh oh ... now you're on your own for getting new music. If applicable, name your three most recent purchases since leaving the biz.
Blue Merle, Elton John's "Captain Fantastic," and "Frampton Comes Alive".
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