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10 Questions with ... Rick Moorten
April 29, 2014
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BRIEF CAREER SYNOPSIS:
- 1987/88 - 1995/99 Am Board op/boom box driver, overnights, Mornings - KPSI (Power 100.5)/Palm Springs
- 2000 - 06: Jeff n Jer Showgram - KFMB (Star 100.7)/San Diego
- 2006-08: Afternoons with Rick & Jen - KMYI (Star 94.1)/San Diego
- 2009-13: Wild Wake Up show - KWYD (Wild 101)/Boise, ID
- 2013-Present: Morton in the Morning - XHTZ (Jammin' Z90)/San Diego
1. What got you into radio?
I used to watch my grandmother do AM radio interviews growing up. She was a botanist and I would accompany her to radio interviews as soon as I could walk. I was fascinated with all of the buttons and that everyone could hear you!! I was hooked!
2. When you were a kid, what did you want to be when you grew up?
A performer of any kind. I was the kid that wanted to do 'skits' from an early age and knew I was someone who just loved having an audience. There is a picture of me at the age of 3 with headphones and a small mic. I just found it a few years ago.
3. You left San Diego and spent a few years working in Boise. What was the biggest adjustment in leaving San Diego?
Being in a two book market. You kind of have to trust that you're on the right course and then wait 6 months with crossed fingers!
4. Now that you've been back in San Diego for nearly a year, what was the biggest surprise upon return?
The abundance of resources in a big market near Los Angeles. From availability to get great guests in studio to having a rich environment for promotions. Because I work for a small private company we also have a generous budget and management that understands that advantage!
5. If you were running for mayor of San Diego, what would your platform be like?
More talking, less touching. Might be a refreshing change!
6. If your morning partner, Sarah was going to dish some dirt on you. Where would she start?
What most people may not know about Rick, is how hilarious it is because he is easily irritated! Big things like a house flooding won't phase him but little things can just frustrate him! And the more you laugh, the more annoyed he gets just makes me laugh even harder! If you really want a good laugh, just give Rick a stapler without any staples in it or a TV remote without any batteries, then just sit back and wait for his reaction! He just quietly gives you that look and you can't help but bust up even harder.
7. If you weren't in radio, what do you think you'd be doing professionally?
I KNOW for a fact I'd be a helicopter pilot. I've been a private pilot and I spent some time flying with San Diego Police Helicopter unit . I can tell you for sure that's the best job next to radio!
8. What do you like to do in your spare time?
I play hockey, do some cycling and I am marrying into a HUGE extended family who has something going on just about every weekend so you'll find me there with all the kids and family and chaos. It's great!
9. If you could be on any TV reality show or game show, which would you want to be on?
Survivor. I think anyone who is trying to navigate the ins and outs of our business can watch that show and relate.
10. Most important lesson learned early in your radio career?
I was working overnight and was caught making out with a girl by our veteran AM newsman who was a legend in Palm Springs. He approached me later and said,"Rick, let me tell you...There are two kinds of guys in this business. Those that chase babes and free pizza and those that act like they bring a briefcase to this job. The ones with the 'briefcase' go to a big market and own a home. The other eventually delivers the pizza. Which one are you going to be?" That has stuck with me to this day and has proven to be 100% true.
Bonus Questions
Who have been some of your mentors in this business?
Tracy Johnson was my first and I'm lucky enough to get him to work with me still. Randy Lane was always willing to lend me advice when I was starting out and trying to find my way, Tommy Sablan taught me everything about persistence and humility and how to be insanely productive and J.B Hager in Austin, TX has always been my soundboard and was my savior when I was out of work.
Who was your favorite celebrity/artist interview?
Sandra Bullock. She is attentive and generous and easy with a laugh and she touched my face. Gently.
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