10 Questions with ... LauRen

BRIEF CAREER SYNOPSIS:

Afternoon drive 940 WINZ/Miami, mornings WNKS/Charlotte.

1) How would you describe your first radio gig?

I worked for 940 WINZ/Miami as an original Finsider, and I was starstruck. I was so green to radio and surrounded by guys who had been in sports entertainment and radio longer than I'd been alive.

2) What led you to a career in radio?

I actually started out thinking I wanted to be in TV. I hosted sports entertainment shows in Pittsburgh and Miami, which led to my radio career. I crossed over and did my first radio show in 2010 and never looked back.

3) How would you describe the radio landscape in your market?

Extremely competitive. Charlotte is made up of radio giants who have been around forever! So it's humbling to work amongst greatness!

4) What makes your station unique? How would you compare it to other stations you've worked at?

Well, being that this is the first Top 40 station I've worked for, I don't have much to compare it to. However, what makes us unique is that we are the heritage station to Charlotte.

5) Are you wearing more "hats" than you have in the past?

Luckily, our show has three people to share the load, so we divide and conquer. Radio is changing so much on a daily basis with social media ... we have to evolve as the industry does. There will always be days that are longer than others but when you love what you do, it's worth it!

6) What are you doing social media-wise?

We're on everything, professionally and personally. Facebook, Snap, Twitter and Instagram! It's a great way for our listening family to connect with us, as it's an extension of our lives/brand. I can't tell you how many listeners recognize my family from our social media. My six-month-old son even has his own Instagram. @thedailycash

7) What are your favorite show prep sources?

Dr Dave's Ultimate Prep.

8) What's the coolest promotion you've EVER been involved with?

After the Panther's made it to the Super Bowl, we did a prep rally for Teachers going back to school and gave away a trip to Denver to see the rematch! Panther's fans are so passionate!

9) What's one thing that would surprise many people to learn about you?

I'm a has-been "beauty queen." I was Miss Pennsylvania USA in 2008 and placed in the Top 5 at the nationally televised Miss USA pageant ... And YES it was owned by Donald Trump at the time.

10) What's the most unbelievable on air bit you were allowed to do?

My husband and I had been trying to get pregnant for what felt like forever ... I mentioned one day I felt funny and the next thing I know I'm sharing the scariest/ most rewarded moment of my life with our listeners. Yes ... I took a pregnancy test LIVE on air!

What was your last non-industry job?

I was a host for VIP services with Atlantis/Kerzner. My job was to travel to the Bahamas for large events and concerts. I have also been a professional cheerleader for the NBA and NFL.