10 Questions with ... Binky

BRIEF CAREER SYNOPSIS:

I've worked for iHeartMedia in some capacity since 2006. From intern, to board-op, to weekend talent, to morning show co-host, afternoon drive, middays, Production Director, and everything in between. Once upon a time you may have heard me on KKXL (XL93) and KSNR (100.3 Cat Country) in Grand Forks, ND or WRNW (97.3 NOW) in Milwaukee. Today you can catch me middays on KYYY (Y93) in Bismarck, ND and back on weekends at XL93.

1) What led you to a career in radio?

Growing up, I always had a crazy obsession with music and pop culture, and wanted to be an MTV VJ ... so I guess radio was the perfect fit.

2) What are your favorite show prep sources?

Social media is king when it comes to celebrity gossip. Prep services are nice, but you've gotta be all over Instagram and Twitter to get the breaking, juicy, and on-trend news. Real life is always a great source for show topics as well. Sometimes you just can't beat the craziness of your own reality.

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

For me, the most challenging part of the job is always being "on." Everyone has bad days, but when you work in radio, you're the listeners' escape from their own bad days. No matter what you're going through, you've still gotta crack that mic and give them what they came for.

4) Who is your favorite air personality not on your staff and why do you like them?

Angie Martinez is a given, because she's just freakin' iconic. I also love Dominique Da Diva on WKYS in DC, Kirby Gwen from WJLB in Detroit, and Alex on KIIS in LA. Not only are their shows entertaining, but they also kill it on social media, and make you feel like you're listening to one of your girlfriends. I also admire all of the hard work they've put in to get where they are today.

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

Does shopping count? I have a serious shoe addiction ... I mean collection.

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

I love, love, love Hip-Hop and R&B. Cardi B is one of my current faves, but you can never go wrong with some Tupac or Beyoncé in your life.

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

My current situation is only part-time, and after working full-time in radio for seven years, it was a big reality check having to work an office job on the side. I've definitely been reminded that the cubicle life is not for me. At the end of the day, I love radio, and it's afforded me some really amazing experiences. Working a "regular" job again has put that even more into perspective for me.

8) What is the one truth that has held constant throughout your career?

Hard work will always pay off. It may not feel like it in the moment, but it will be worth it in the end.

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

Find a rich significant other ... Just kidding! (Well, kind of.) I would tell anyone new to the business that success doesn't happen overnight. I know we all live in this social media "highlight reel" world, but there's a lot of hard work that goes on behind the scenes. Let others in the industry inspire you, but don't beat yourself up by comparing where they are, and where you aren't. Everyone's timeline is different. When the road gets rough, DON'T GIVE UP. There could be a million doors slammed in your face along the way, but the next one might be wide open for you.

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

I would say the talent pool is filled with a lot of really good jocks, vying for a very small amount of jobs. It's even rougher waters for people just trying to get into the industry. The overnight and weekend shifts that were around when I was coming up aren't nearly as common, so there aren't as many avenues to get your foot in the door anymore.

Which character on a current TV series most reflects your personality?

1000% Carrie Bradshaw! (I know it's not necessarily current, but E! plays Sex and the City reruns like every day, so it counts.)