10 Questions with ... Big Jim OBrien

1) What led you to a career in radio, and was there a defining moment that made you realize "this is what I want to do for a career"?

I was in the Navy playing for a local softball team in Charleston, SC; the pitcher was the GM of 98Rock. He said I had a good voice and would I ever consider radio? Next day I auditioned on got a weekend gig when I'd return from sea on my submarine (well, it wasn't mine; the Navy owned it). The "career" moment was the first time I aired a request and realized there were people listening and letting me be a small part of their life.

2) If you were just starting out in radio, knowing now, what you didn't then, would you still do it and why?

I'd still do it. It'd be much easier, but isn't it the journey that makes it rewarding?

3) How long have you been at WCSX and what makes this station so unique?

I've been at CSX for 15 years. Detroit loves Classic Rock; it's a blue collar, hard working type of music that we can relate to (and respect).

4) Let's talk about the morning show that you've been doing since 2014. Who else is on the show with you and what roles do they play?

Actually July 11th was our one-year anniversary of Big Jim's House! Erin V is my co-host, she's an open book that makes for real conversations on (and off) the air. Ryan Logan is our producer who's contributing more and more on-air (resident millennial). Hopefully, we're the neighbors you want to hang out with and have a beer or two while playing Euchre or watching the Lions. It's fun working with your friends each day. We're a family; great vibe with very cool people (that includes support from our PD Jerry Tarrants and GM Mac Edwards, plus our consultant Dom Theodore ... it's a team attitude).

Big Jim with Producer Ryan and Co-Host Erin V

5) Describe a typical morning show. What is the process and what are some of the key benchmarks of your show?

We try to map out an outline each day before leaving; it's not set in stone, but a good road map. Battle of The Burbs is a fun benchmark: east side, west side, and downriver play in a three question trivia game. Local and fun. Erin does a great feature on Friday called "Women Who Rock," where she features local women who are doing amazing things. Cool podcast, too!

6) Tell us some of the best and most memorable moments to date on your Morning Show.

Bob Seger in the studio last December for well over an hour ... it was so relaxed, talking about Glenn Frey and his music. Bob even brought his own music for us to play. Powerful stuff. And then there was local vet who lost everything in a fire. Our listeners got him enough furniture and clothes to help three people.

Bob Seger and Big Jim

7) Is your morning show active with social media like Facebook, Instagram and Twitter? If so, how has that benefitted your show?

We love social media! It's an easy way to stay connected with the listeners throughout the day.

8) Tell us about Big Jim's Garage?

It started as a comment about wanting to drive the Dodge Dart. Now it's evolved into video vehicle reviews, podcasts with folks like Roger Penske and Goldberg. Fun and totally Detroit.

9) All Access has run several Net News stories on all the amazing things you do for your community including your work to establish Glenn Frey Drive in Royal Oak (and soon Bob Seger Blvd.), as well as your tireless efforts on behalf of veterans. What has been some of the most rewarding experiences for you in getting involved with these projects?

When the Glenn Frey Drive sign showed up on the back of Bob Seger's album, that was pretty special. We still get notes from people who come to Detroit just to see the sign. I'll never stop working for vets; my eight years in the Navy is special to me. And if we can help one vet, it's worth it.

10) Finally, what do you like to do to relax when you're not fully in radio mode?

Love going to movies with family. Trying to find that work/life balance. Euchre with friends on Friday nights and watching anything race car (Formula One, IndyCar, NASCAR)