10 Questions with ... Mark McCray

BRIEF CAREER SYNOPSIS:

WMBX - WNEW/West Palm Beach 2001-Present
KQBT-KJCE/Austin 1998-2001
KRNB/Dallas/Ft Worth 1996-1998
ABC Radio Networks 1996-1998
K-104/Dallas-Ft Worth 1995-1996
KRLD/Dallas-Ft. Worth 1995-1996
WPNT/Chicago 1993-1994
WCIL/Carbondale 1991-1995

1. What got you interested in Radio?

When I was in High School I took a class at Columbia College one summer. The class gave High School kids college credit. I was just there to keep busy one summer and get a jump on college. Well, the "radio bug" bit me and the rest is history. I have been in the business since I was 16.

2. How do you juggle the morning show and your PD duties at 2 stations?

It is a lot of work, but I love what I do. I also have a lot of good people who are essential in the day-to-day operations of the station. I have 2 great Music Directors and Promotions Directors for each of my stations.

3. Is the business of radio as much fun for you today as it was 10 years ago?

Yes!! Thankfully I'm in a situation where they trust my decisions and me so I enjoy my job. The business has definitely changed, and there is more "red-tape" than before, but I would not want to be doing anything else.

4. What's the highlight of your radio career to date?

Being consistently #1 18-34 in this market is at the top of the list. However, my entire career has been GREAT! My time is Austin was amazing, and being on the air in Dallas and Chicago I wouldn't trade for anything either. I learned so much working there!

5. You've been at WMBX for some time now? What's been biggest change in the market?

The Market is constantly growing, and that is a pleasant change! People that are new to the market constantly confront us and they give us a lot of love. We have noticed a lot of changes to the Miami Market, whom we compete with, but we are blessed enough to constantly be on top.

6. What's the first advice you'd give to students interested in a career in radio?

Don't be arrogant, work hard and be available. Constantly work on your craft and air check yourself. Think of ways to grow and improve. It is a competitive career, and you need to be able to separate yourself from the pack. If you have passion and a good work ethic, you can go far.

7. Who do you consider to be your mentor(s)?

The late Michael Spears, what an amazing programmer and person. Todd Manley (WGN Chicago), Jay Stevens, of course, and I have learned a lot from my GM, Lee Strasser.

8. What can stations and record companies do to better to help each other?

Radio Stations should communicate information, and record labels should understand the mission of the station.

9. You have a pretty jammed schedule. What do you do to relax and recharge?

I like to go to movies and hit amusement parks when I can. I love rollercoasters!!!

10. If you were to leave Radio today and you could choose any other occupation, what would it be?

Teaching

Bonus: You are stuck on a deserted island in the South Pacific with one singer, one actress and TV newscaster/anchor. Who would they be?

Singer: Sade Actress: Halle Barry TV newscaster: Robin Roberts from the GMA (she seems like a cool person to hang out with)