10 Questions with ... Justin Wright

NAME:Justin Wright POSITION:PD / Morning show host STATION:WFIZ-FM Z95-5 MARKET:Ithaca, NY OWNER:Roi Broadcasting

Please outline your radio career so far:

WNKS/Charlotte (weekends); WLNK/Charlotte (overnights); WXLK/Roanoke (nights); WNVZ/Norfolk (nights); WSTW/Wilmington, DE (nights); WAZO/Wilmington, NC; WFIZ Ithaca (PD/mornings).

1) How would you describe your first radio gig?

I was an intern at Kiss 95.1 in Charlotte. I remember the first "due paying" experience. Oh no, it wasn't making a pot of coffee ... Luke and Terry were doing a stunt, living on the roof until the Carolina Panthers won a game (they were up there for four weeks or so) and I was responsible for scrubbing the pee off the roof so it didn't stink! The things you do when you want to get your foot in the door!

2) What led you to a career in radio?

I've always wanted to do radio. I used to make fake shows in my bedroom when I was 12 with my best friend. When I was 17, I got an opportunity from Drew Parham at Kiss 95.1 and the rest is history.

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

Z95.5 is the first Top 40 in the Ithaca, NY market in almost 15 years. I was brought in to be the APD/MD under Tommy Frank. He and I were roommates and working together day in and day out to launch this amazing new station. The day after we launched the station I found him dead of an apparent heart attack. The fact that we formed such a bond and shared such a love for radio makes my desire to win and make Z95.5 sound better than Z100 and KIIS. I am making radio history in this market and doing it in remembrance of Tommy Frank.

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

Absolutely. I found these new hats with rims at American Eagle. I never wore those before. I also got a new BUCS hat ... oh, wait... I GET IT ... more hats... ha ha, yes. I am the PD, do mornings, handle the website, imaging, music and more.

5) What is your favorite part of the job?

Watching the station come together and hearing the insane buzz on the streets.

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

Sitting in the studio with Stacy Scott in the morning when she has gas ... it's horrible. I wouldn't wish it on anyone.

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

My APD, Stacy Scott, comes from Youngstown, OH, and brings an incredible energy and passion to our morning show. She also voicetracks middays. Our afternoon guy is some kid named Ryan Seacrest. He's too lazy to come in and do his show so he sends in mp3s ... talented guy, though. He'll be in L.A. one day. My night guy is a superstar in the making. Corey comes from Q100 in Atlanta, where he was an intern and part-timer. His passion and desire to learn and win will land him in a big market within two years. YOU HEARD ME... I SAID TWO YEARS. Other PDs, keep your hands off till then! :-)

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

I'd have to say Danny Meyers at K92 in Roanoke, VA. I worked with him for several years and didn't really realize until I grew more in the business and moved up the ladder just how much knowledge of this business he has. His show is prepped meticulously and executed flawlessly.

9) What was your favorite station to listen to when you were a kid?

I'm from Tampa and grew up listening to The Power Pig, now 93.3 FLZ. What an amazing station.

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

Keep your ego in check, work long hours for no money, love what you do and most importantly, never ask for permission. Ask for forgiveness later.

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

"Hickory dickory dock, Justin has a real small (rooster crowing efx)... Justinnn Wright, on K92." Ha ha, old school ... I love it.