10 Questions with ... Jana Sutter

BRIEF CAREER SYNOPSIS:

I started my radio career in Raleigh, NC in 1997. Since then I have worked in NC, SC, IN, MO, GA and FL.

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

Aren't we all? If you want something done, ask a busy person. The key to keeping sane is knowing when to say "No."

2) What are you doing social media-wise?

There are plenty of others who put a ton of their daily lives on their socials. I'm not that far in. I try and post each day to each platform. I give glimpses into my work, travel and home life. But I keep a large part of it to myself. There has to be a balance.

3) What are your favorite show prep sources?

Prep is all around us. I use my socials for 99% of my info. I'm constantly scanning for pop culture, mom-isms, and life hacks. I simply use the filter "What do I find interesting..." and go with that.

4) What is your favorite part of the job?

Still, to this day ... it's hearing a song for the first time and knowing it will be a hit. I love that feeling!

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

Knowing when to turn it off. As a single mom, I have a little human watching me to see where to set her boundaries. I'm making it a point to leave the work at the door. But this is radio. Things happen. I'm lucky enough to have a home studio and can jump in to help all my stations when needed. And when this happens, I make sure to explain it to my daughter and have her be a part of it. I'm driven, competitive, and love what I do. I want her to know that loving what you do is important, but to also balance that with real life.

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

I'm going to say Taylor Swift was my gateway drug. Over the past couple of years I have really become a Country fan. Old Dominion, Blake Shelton, Miranda ... Makes me want to kick back and just enjoy the music.

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

We are working with less and less staff. Our cluster is getting better at using our part-timers for all stations. Whether its promo, on-air, board op-ing, or training to be on-air ... it's all one team for all of our stations. I'd love to have one person set to train, delegate, and schedule this team. By giving the "next class" this training and one on one time, it can only help us down the road.

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

Travel! I love getting out of my bubble, and dropping off the radar to explore new countries, foods, customs, etc. ... I have a great crew that I travel with and we always make sure to have the "next" trip planned.

9) What advice would you give people new to the business?

Make sure you love it ... before you commit to it. It's more than just loving music and wanting lots of followers. It's years of putting in the work, earning your spot, and then performing to the highest levels each day.

10) What is the current state of the radio 'talent pool'?

Honestly ... I'm a bit worried. We've lost our training grounds. I started on weekends and overnights. These days, that is mostly tracked or automated. But every now and then ... someone will come through with the hunger and drive to find a way to stand out and be heard. And when that happens, it restores my faith a bit.

For someone vacationing in your market, what one thing would you say they "must see"?

When you hear Orlando, you think theme parks. Rightfully so. They are awesome! But Orlando also has an amazing food scene. Come hungry! Hit Little Vietnam, Restaurant Row, and I-drive. So many tasty places!