10 Questions with ... Johnathan Olivarez "Jay-Z Olivarez"

1. What got you into radio?

At 13, I was attending a private school in Lubbock, TX that offered a work study course with a Christian radio station. Being able to experience the inner workings of radio at such a young age solidified my decision to work in radio. From the age of 18, I decided to pursue a career in radio and have been doing it now for over 19 years.

2. What did you dream of becoming when you were a kid?

Growing up I actually wanted to be a police officer. I would pretend to arrest my younger brothers for committing crimes. I was also the judge and the jury! It was fun.

3. When did you know that getting into programming management as a music director was something you wanted to do?

I'm fortunate and grateful to work closely with my boss, Johnny-O. Not only is he a great friend but a wise mentor. He's really nurtured my passion for radio and encouraged me to purse a route in management.

4. What would probably surprise most people about the McAllen-Brownsville market?

This market has strong diversity and culture being so close to Mexico. The area is quickly growing and has changed a lot over time bringing with it new people and a variety of foods.

5. What's your favorite song on the station right now?

DESPACITO! Story of my life...lol

6. If you weren't in radio, what do you think you'd be doing professionally?

Going back to my childhood dream I would have probably pursued something in politics. It's my passion. Who's to say? I could have been the next President.

7. Where do you see yourself in five years?

I hope to be successfully programing my own iHeart radio station and voicetrack for multiple radio stations. I'm currently on three stations, KBFM (Wild 104) and KQXX (KISS FM 105.5) in McAllen-Brownsville and KSAB (Tejano 99.9)/Corpus Christi.

8. We know your radio job keeps you very busy but what do you like to do in spare time you have?

I'm into Reef Keeping (saltwater aquarium with coral and fish), cooking and deep sea fishing off of South Padre Island.

9. If you could be on any TV reality show or game show, which would you want to be on?

The Apprentice because we are going to "Make TV Great Again!"

10. What was the last TV show you "binge watched"?

House Of Cards on Netflix. I couldn't stop myself. I had to finish.

If you had to eat one type of meal everyday for a month, what would it be?

Chinese food all day, every day. My inner soul in Chinese.

Your "go to" romantic spot in McAllen?

Reef Valley, an aquatic pet store in McAllen and my bedroom...LOL!