10 Questions with ... Tres Wiggins “Twiggins”

BRIEF CAREER SYNOPSIS:

WABB-FM (2008-2010 Mobile, Al) Intern
WJLQ-FM (2010 to 2011 Pensacola, Fl) Street Team Leader before I left for college
Griffin Radio at Marymount Manhattan College (2010-2014 Manhattan, NY) DJ/Station Manager
WABD-FM (2014-2021 Mobile, Al) I did it all… Started with part time weekends. Moved to interim afternoons, became full time Production Director and finally, Traffic Continuity Director.
WHTF-FM (Current Tallahassee, Fl) Program Director

1. How would you describe your first radio gig?

A dream. I walked into the WABB building one day after school. I was 16, asked the receptionist for a job, she took my number and connected me with Stephanie Winans and Glenn Johnson (Qtip). I started shortly after. While still in High School, I would help produce the morning show, go to school, come back, and co-host nights. Again, it was a dream to work in the building that Bernie Dittman built. I learned from some of the best in the industry and saw some amazing careers launch. Lots of fun and valuable lessons were learned during that period for sure.

2. What led you to a career in radio?

I think it was something I’ve always been fascinated by. I always stop and thank two amazing individuals who gave a 10-year-old a chance. I would call into WKSJ’s morning show (Dan Brennan and Shelby Mitchell) quite often. I had a “neighborhood radio station” that was on a 10w iPod transmitter, they loved that and started having me on their show. I immediately fell in love with the process and 6 years later landed my internship.

3. What was it like for you to be able to be on the air in your hometown?

Mobile is such a unique place, it’s a smaller version of New Orleans. A small city with a drinking problem as we say. I was able to meet so many great connections that have become close friends and mentors. I would have to say the best part was the listener’s love for the heritage that is WABB/WABD. They have been listening for their entire lives and now, so have their kids. It was a privilege to have been on at ABB and ABD and to be able to carry on traditions and contests that people know and love.

4. How/where did the name ‘Twiggins” come from?

Its not the most interesting story. Basically, my first few weeks at WABB, people didn’t know who I was or what I was doing there. My email was my first initial and last name. The word around the office was “WHO THE HELL IS THIS TWIGGINS?” The name stuck after that.

5. You’re a couple of months in at your first programming job. Any zany surprises, or are things going the way that you thought/hoped they would?

Coming into this job at this point in radio is full of surprises. Programmers are relying on golds and recurrents more than ever as people yearn for a “normal/nostalgic feel” whatever that may be. We are finally starting to see new music come out that isn’t depressing. Other than that, I’m settling in well. It’s everything I’ve wanted it to be and more. I have a great support system in Jason Taylor, Robbie Mack, and Ron Stone our CEO. They are letting me do my thing and I couldn’t ask for a better situation.

6. You’re in the studio every afternoon doing your show. What is it about still being on the air that you continue to love?

There’s no better way to learn a new town than this job. It forces you to get out, engage and learn the city you work in. I was talking with our consultant about this topic the other day. Being on the air on the station you program can only make you better at programming. You know exactly what is working and what’s not every single day.

7. Who would be a “dream guest” to come visit in the studio and plug in across from you on your show?

I’m a huge Stern fan. But I’d rather him interview me. Right now though it would be Britney Spears because we have to get to the bottom of this mess.

8. “Local local local” has always been radio’s mantra. How’s it been connecting with your listeners? Have you been getting back out there yet?

Although the college scene makes this 30-year-old feel ancient sometimes, I love Tallahassee and being able to connect with listeners and bring them back to radio. I am so fortunate to have live talent on HOT. It’s even better that they live the format and are involved in the community. I get out as much as I possibly can. Which honestly is every day around happy hour.

9. What were your favorite stations growing up as a kid? Jock(s)?

Starting local, WKSJ/Mobile. Bill Black is a genius when it comes to programming. That’s where I first heard Jason Taylor who is now my OM. WABB was incredible, especially during the radio wars with HOT104. WZEW/Mobile is a staple and truly is the sound of Mobile. Nationally, WEZB/New Orleans. I’ve had the chance to get to know and learn from Jammer and Tpot. How can you not mention the legendary Z100? So many great talents have been in that building and Elvis Duran is the king of morning radio and evolving over time.

10. Who were your mentors? Who would you say has influenced your career the most?

So, here’s the question I’ve been dreading. I’ve been so lucky to meet so many great people I’m scared I will forget someone. So, I apologize in advance if I do. My best friend John Marty has been by my side since day one and I’m forever grateful. John’s fiancé of a billion years Stacey Brady is always there to listen and tell me exactly what to do. Programming wise, Tom ‘Jammer’ Naylor, my ladies Johnna Farmer, Shelby Mitchell and Rachel Ryan. Radio is a family, y’all.

With an unlimited budget, which 3-5 artists would you pull together for a Hot 104.9 show?

Justin Bieber, Drake, Madonna, Cher and Nickleback. Then at the end they all perform together.