10 Questions with ... Mark Pennington

1) What led you to a career in radio? Was there a defining moment that made you realize "this is it"?

I was a part-time jock and research director for WLVQ/Columbus. I was fresh out of college, partying, going to shows and in my mind knowing it all. Greg Ausham came in as the new PD. In one of our first meetings he said to me, "Do you really want to do this?" It was then I realized how much I didn't know and how much work it was going to take to make it. I am grateful that he took time and had the patience to mentor me. I try to do as much of that as I can with the new people coming in. The industry depends on us to groom future talent; Greg understood that for sure.

2) What makes your station or market unique? How does this compare to other markets or stations you have worked at?

I've been very fortunate to work at three great heritage stations thus far: WLVQ, WMMS and the legendary WRIF. They call it "Detroit Rock City" for a reason; people here work hard and play harder. WRIF is part of the fabric of Detroit, which is a testament to all the great people who have programmed here over the years, such as Doug Podell, Fred Jacobs and Tom Bender, to name a few.

3) Where do you see the industry and yourself five years from now?

Hopefully right here at WRIF! As a Rock programmer, it doesn't get any better.

4) What's the best concert you've been to so far this year and why?

Eric Clapton and Jeff Beck at Madison Square Garden! I mean, come on!

5) How do you stay in touch with the latest music trends?

That is an easy one. I actually go to shows! The only trend that matters is the one that is happening right now in your market. Also having the right people who are in touch is important, I have the best in the business with my APD Suzy Cole.

6) Favorite artist you have met?

This may sound like a "homer" answer, but that would be Bob Seger. He sat down at my desk a few years back and we talked for a few minutes. It's the Midwesterner in me, but I like honest, grounded, down-to-earth people. Kid Rock is the same way. He will tell you what he thinks, but at least you know he is being honest. And he throws one hell of a party as well, which is a bonus.

7) What was the first song or full-length release you purchased?

"Twisted Sister" on cassette in 1984!

8) Who is the most amazing talent you've worked with?

Our current morning show "Drew and Mike" They can take a bad interview and make it great. They know the market and the audience. They have been on top in Detroit for over a decade and we still have to kick them out of the studio at 4p.

9) What did you want to be when you were growing up?

An architect! Then I realized I suck at math!

10) How do you feel terrestrial radio competes with the satellite radio and the Internet these days?

I have yet to see a "Pandora" or "XM" T-shirt at a rock show in Detroit, which is a good sign! With that being said, if we lose track of the audience or stop putting out a great product, then these new technologies could gain ground very quickly! Pandora is for real, but great, compelling, local radio will always win. If your station is a generic jukebox, you should be worried for sure!