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10 Questions with ... JJ Ryan
January 8, 2008
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NAME:JJ RyanPOSITION:PD/AfternoonsSTATION:KMCK POWER 105.7MARKET:Fayetteville, AROWNER:Cumulus Broadcasting
1) What led you to a career in radio?
I was 12 years old, listening to a local radio station's morning show. I told my dad how fun it would be to do that every day, and he told me he knew the owner of the radio station, so he called him and set up a morning where I could be there to watch the show. I remember sitting in during the show and being on the air a few times, sounding like a total dork - and, not to mention, a girl, since I was 12. Somehow, after that really embarrassing experience, I decided I wanted to get into the business, so I bugged a lot of PDs and jocks and someone finally gave me a job!
2) What is your favorite part of the job?
Being on the streets! A successful radio station is one that hits the streets hard. When you show up for something as simple as a van hit and listeners come by and are excited to meet the staff, it's a nice pat on the back and a sign that the station is on the right track.
3) What artist would we be surprised to find on your iPod?
Stevie Wonder.
4) What was your favorite station to listen to when you were a kid?
WWHT (Hot 107-9)/ Syracuse. I grew up listening to Kane! Sorry to my friends over at WNTQ (93Q).
5) Looking back, which years hold the best musical memories for you and who were your favorite acts at that time?
Definitely the '90s. It could be that was when I was growing up and in high school, but it seems the music was very diverse then. Top 40 had soooo much variety. I hate to admit it, but I cranked some "Bye Bye Bye" in the day.
6) Do you have a favorite hobby outside of radio?
I don't know if I would call it a hobby, but I spend whatever free time I can as a local auxiliary police officer for a city in our market.
7) What is it about our industry that keeps you wanting to do it for a living?
I'm a RADIO GEEK! Plus, I don't think I'm qualified to do anything else.
8) What is the one truth that has held constant throughout your career?
If you work hard and don't let your passion be your undoing, you will be successful.
9) What advice you would give people new to the business?
One thing I've noticed lately is the lack of drive in young people. It might just be this market, but I remember back when I got into this business, everyone I worked with just went to the station to hang out. I've had one person who fits that mold apply here recently, and he's at the point -- in three months being here - where he could get a full-time job in radio if he wanted one. If you want to be in this business for a living, show it! Prove yourself and be willing to take direction and learn. If you can do that, you will be successful.
10) What is the current state of the radio talent pool?
It's shrinking, and so are the jobs. Everyone is consolidating ... the only downside to this business right now.
Bonus Questions
What ringtone do you have on your cell?
My favorite is when my wife calls. She gets the Kinsey voice from Kidd Kraddick In The Morning saying, "What The Hell ... I'm never having babies with you."
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