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10 Questions with ... Michael Donnells
August 30, 2005
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NAME:Michael DonnellsLAST WITH:KWNR/Clear Channel, Las Vegas, NVPHONE:(708) 361-9302EMAIL:sbecompany@hotmail.com
Please begin by giving us a brief career history:
OVERNIGHTS & ASST. PROMOTIONS DIR.: KWNR/LAS VEGAS, NV
MORNINGS: WXKO/SHELBYVILLE, IL
AFTERNOONS: KVAY/LAMAR, CO
EVENING PRODUCER: WRCX/CHICAGO, IL1) How are you occupying your time, besides looking for a job?
When I left radio I had to find any job just to keep a roof over my head and food on the table. I found myself working in construction. I missed the world of broadcasting so much that I created my own non profit music video television show in Chicago's south region. I acquired the equipment, the studio space, the staff, the music videos and interviews from celebrities. It seemed to temporarily make me feel "at home" again but it just isn't the same. I need to return to radio.
2) 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.
There are a few words I can use to summarize it. Greed, ignorance and spiritless. There are so many talented people out there yet there are too many syndicated or automated shows. Radio has lost its touch with the "local" audience. Find someone who fits the bill, someone who can be a local face for your station. These Chicago or New York shock jocks won't be doing remotes in Boise, but there is probably someone there even more talented who can.
3) What is your best way to get your foot in the door?
Persistence, devotion, dedication and a genuine love for the music and broadcasting industry. I don't think being a good skateboarder or a potty mouth is a radio talent. Great if you want to half pipe against TONY HAWK or become an OTR truck driver, but not radio.
4) How are you finding the "courtesy level" at places you've applied? (Callbacks, emails, rejection letters, etc.)
You get used to rejection. It's like puberty all over again..
5) With consolidation there are definitely fewer jobs. How do you separate yourself from the pack?
Wow, Déjà vu! Didn't I sorta answer this in question 2? I grew up listening to the greats. Learning how to talk shop up to the post. Keeping up to date with the music news. Being fun and informative at the same time. Keeping the spirit alive within the community.
6) 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 was (and remain) single while I was working in radio. I didn't want to settle down at that time. While I was working in Las Vegas, I worked several other jobs at the same time. Why not in a city that doesn't sleep? I have become a professional insomniac. However, on a personal note, I am ready for that commitment but I couldn't be a productive spouse or father if I didn't have a commitment from an employer.
7) In your opinion, what has been your biggest career accomplishment in the industry?
Well, I haven't had any opportunities to apply for any awards, to be recognized. However, starting my own music video television program is an accomplishment. Establishing contacts with over 45 record labels, acquiring over 3000 music videos and scheduling interviews at events such as Ozzfest is a pretty damn good accomplishment for one man to do without monetary but with emotional compensation.
8) What do you miss most about radio? The least?
I miss being on the air. I miss being a part of someone's life. I don't always know who that someone is, but when I am checking out my groceries, the cashier notices my voice and tells me how I got her through her days... well, that's what I miss. What do I miss the least? The first day on the job. Cracking that mic for the first time. It's a new city. What do you do? What do you say? Do you script it and come off automated or do you do something weird at Hooters and read your very own police blotter on the air?
9) What have you learned about yourself, others, or life in general in your downtime?
I learned that if you don't stop to smell the roses once and a while, you may just miss something. Learn to live life one day at a time and enjoy the moments. Life is full of them.
10) Is there anything specific that you regret doing while you were still working?
OMG, yes. There are regrets but we can't dwell upon them. It'll just drag us down.
Bonus Questions
How will this experience change you when you get back to work?
I made the best out of my life outside of radio. When I return to radio, I will, as always, devote myself to the best broadcast I can perform.
Where do you see yourself in 5 years? 10 years?
Hopefully management in 5 years and business ownership in 10. I hope to find my "special someone," maybe even broadcast my wedding as a remote.
Any books you can recommend to people who need something inspirational to read?
"How To Satisfy A Woman Every Time (And Have Her Beg For More)" by Nora Hayden.
You didn't say it had to be industry related.
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