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10 Questions with ... Josh Spiegel
August 16, 2005
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NAME:Josh SpiegelTITLE:News PersonalitySTATION:98 ROCKMARKET:BaltimoreCOMPANY:HearstBORN:July 25, 1975RAISED:Maryland
Please outline your radio career so far: (station/date, station/date, etc.)
WPGC/Washington, 1992-1997, WXYV/Baltimore, 1997-2000, KLIF/Dallas, 2000-2001, KYGO/Denver, 2001-2003, WHFS/Baltimore, 2005, WIYY/Baltimore, 2005.
1) What was your first job in radio? Early influences?
My first job was doing weather in English on a Spanish station. I was 12 and desperate to get my foot in the door. I worked at several small stations until I was 16. That's when I was hired as a street reporter for WPGC under the guidance of newsman David Haines. He had a tremendous influence on my life/career. He taught me important lessons on writing and delivering news in a unique way.
2) What led you to a career in radio? Was there a defining moment, which made you realize "this is it"?
There wasn't a defining moment. I always wanted to do news. I wanted my news to stand out and be different.
3) If you were just starting out in radio, knowing now, what you didn't then, would you still do it?
I would still do it. There are always challenges and ups and downs in any line of work. It's how you deal with it that determines your success.
4) What career path would you be following had it not been for this industry?
I would probably be in a circus. I could ride a unicycle and feed the elephants.
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5) Where do you see the industry and yourself five years from now? Five years?
I see about 3 feet in front of me, and that's it. But, I believe that the industry will face the same challenges it's facing now, like finding personalities who blaze their own trail and don't sound like everybody else. I believe that's very important. I don't know what effect satellite will have on terrestrial radio but I think the more technology evolves, the more challenges the industry faces.
6) Who is your favorite air personality not on your staff?
I'm a big Phil Hendrie fan.
7) What is your favorite radio station outside of the market and why?
At the risk of sounding like a dork, I love 1010 WINS in NY.
8) Besides your own, what is your favorite radio format?
Top 40.
9) Of all the skills you have gained through the years, is there an area you'd like to improve?
No, I'm quite brilliant. Just kidding. I'm always looking for ways to improve my work. I'm a bit of a perfectionist.
10) As you look back over your career ... any regrets?
No regrets or missed opportunities. I'm having a great time and looking forward to my future with 98 ROCK!!
Bonus Questions
Who would be your dream guest on the show?
The Pope
What is your favorite TV show?
The Sopranos
How often do you air-check your own shows? Is it mandatory that you run tape everyday? Also, can you honestly critique yourself?
I love listening to myself. After all, I'm very entertaining. They don't call me the News Genius for nothing. I listen to my stuff as often as possible so I can figure out what, if anything, needs to be tweaked.
What do you do in your spare time?
I read a lot. I also eat a lot, which is bad, and I like movies. I also love the beach.
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