10 Questions with ... Ponch

NAME:Ponch POSITION:PD/MD/Mornings STATION:KMXV MARKET:Kansas City OWNER:Wilks

Please outline your radio career so far:

At the age of 17, I started radio in Oklahoma City in early 1992 at KJYO, got fired and moved. Got a better offer, moved. Came to Kansas City in January of 2000. Worked under the brilliance of Mr. Jon Zellner (Hey, Buddy!).

1) What led you to a career in radio?

Working late nights at a fast food joint, I'd call morning shows after work until I got on the air. Finally, Rocket, our morning guy, asked me, "Are you done F'ing around or do you want to do this for a living?" I quit my job the next day. My first paid gig was board opping Joel Denver's Future Hits on vinyl!

2) What makes your station unique? How would you compare it to other stations you've worked at?

It's the people ... hands down, the people.

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

Yes ... I have hat hair.

4) What is your favorite part of the job?

Baby DJs, if you are reading this, please read carefully: THIS IS NOT BRAIN SURGERY! This job is fun and exciting. Sure, there is stress and accountability, but if you aren't having fun at this, radio may not be for you. So my favorite part is having the job.

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

Time management...

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

N.W.A.

7) What's one thing that would surprise many people to learn about you?

I have a Celine Dion tattoo. It is my prize radio battle scar.

8) Could you give us a little insight into your on air staff?

Rocket and Teresa mornings ... it is reality radio at its best. Jenny Matthews middays ... her voice just makes you smile. Kelly Urich afternoons ... he is a market legend; very funny. Steve Serrano nights ... one of the hardest-working young people in the industry. What a kiss-ass! We are a big dysfunctional/functional family. There is a great deal of respect for one another on this staff. You never hear, "That's not my job."

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

It's a tie between Opie and Anthony and Ron and Fez. It's easy to just label them as shock jocks, but there are so many layers on these shows. It just proves you don't have to be nice all of the time just because you are on the radio. Ron Bennington is a radio genius. Check them out on XM Channel 202.

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

Treat people with kindness. Don't burn a bridge unless you have to. You never know who your next boss will be.

What's the best sweeper/liner you've ever heard?

"Turn it up and rip the knob off!" Cheesy, but classic.