-
10 Questions with ... Cliff Saunders
March 31, 2009
Have an opinion? Add your comment below. -
NAME:Cliff SaundersLAST WITH:WSSP/Milwaukee (co-host-PM Drive)PHONE:(H) (262) 794-0051; (C) (847) 460-8474
Please begin by giving us a brief career history ...
From 2005-2008 I co-hosted 'Gary & Cliff' on 1250 WSSP/Milwaukee. The show started in middays and moved to afternoon drive. Prior to my three years at WSSP, I spent time at The Score in Chicago as an update anchor/host. I also spent six years as producer/anchor/host at Sporting News Radio, worked on the production team of The Fabulous Sports Babe Show (ABC Radio), was a production assistant at ESPN Radio, and started my career in Buffalo at WGR as a Producer/Host.
1) What do you do to maintain a positive mental attitude and stay motivated?
I believe that there will always be a place for talented, hard working people in this industry. I think I'm talented, and know that no one will out-work me.
2) How are you occupying your time, besides looking for a job?
Looking for a job has become my job.
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 easy to get discouraged, given the state of the economy and how the economy has impacted our business. But I do believe that there is light at the end of the tunnel, because these things go in cycles.
4) What's the longest stretch you've had on the beach?
This would be it. I've been On The Beach for over 90 days now.
5) What's the best way to get your foot in the door?
Network. Meet as many people as you can. Stay in touch with them. If you do it's likely the relationship you build will prove beneficial.
6) Are you finding salaries/benefits lower than you ever thought, about the same, or have you seen some pleasant surprises?
The economy has changed the industry tremendously. Salaries aren't what they used to be. You have to be open and creative to come to an agreement with someone.
7) With consolidation there are definitely fewer jobs. How do you separate yourself from the pack?
I believe it's my experience, versatility, and all-around track record that sets me apart. Not a lot of people have worked where and with whom I did.
8) 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?
Yes. But I'm not sure my wife would say the same thing.
9) What do you miss most about radio? The least?
I miss doing a show on a daily basis. There is nothing like the feeling you get when you are doing a good show. Four hours can go by, and to you it seems like the day just started.
10) Having been through all you have dealt with in this biz, what advice would you give people trying to break in?
Be as versatile as you can. Learn as much as you can. Make yourself essential.
Bonus Questions
My favorite new diversion is ...
Working out. I'm up to six days a week now.
-
-