10 Questions with ... Tom Shinn

BRIEF CAREER SYNOPSIS:

October 1999-present, started as a board-op for Nassau Broadcasting with 97.5 PST, ESPN 1680 and worked my way up in the company to PD in 2012 at WAFY (Key 103)/Frederick, MD with Nassau, then back to PST in 2013 as afternoons and Promotions/Marketing Director with Connoisseur Media. I started from the bottom before Drake.

1) How would you describe your first radio gig?

I'd say pretty good, since almost 18 years later I'm still here! They like me, they really like me!

2) What led you to a career in radio?

I'd have to blame that one on my Dad. He's been in the business for 40+ years and he still tells me to change my mind.

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

Yes, aren't we all? I don't mind it, though, keeps me on my toes.

4) What is the most challenging part of the job?

Getting people to understand that radio is not dead. When you have a very successful station promo or a topic that the phones blow up with, it still makes me smile and say, "Told you!"

5) What's the coolest promotion you've ever been involved with?

Myself and Tommy Jordan (mornings at Key 103) were doing nights together at PST and we moved into Quaker Bridge Mall for three weeks and raised $54,000 for a local charity. I had a blast. If you know Tommy, ask him how he liked it.

6) What artist would we be surprised to find on your personal playlist?

Metallica and Johnny Cash.

7) If you could add one full-time position to your budget right now, what would it be?

Video coordinator. With events, performances and how people love to watch videos, it's on my list.

8) Do you have a favorite hobby outside of radio?

Building stuff. I once built a deck with no plans. It's still standing!

9) What music do you listen to when you're not working?

Country.

10) What is it about our industry that keeps you wanting to do it for a living?

It's a crazy business. It's not your normal 9-5, and that's why I love it.

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

I wanted to be playing center field for the Philadelphia Phillies. As you can see, they need me.