10 Questions with ... Vanya Joseph

BRIEF CAREER SYNOPSIS:

In 2000, I landed my first on-air gig in Palm Springs at KKUU where I also ran the Snoop Dogg syndicated show. Before moving on to other radio hosting positions I worked in promotions for two popular Clear Channel owned radio stations in Los Angeles, KIIS-FM and Hot 92 Jamz. After earning my Bachelors degree at the University of La Verne, I moved on to hosting my own weekend and overnight show at KISV (Hot 94.1)/Bakersfield. In 2004, I hosted mid-days at Wild 96.1 in the Inland Empire. I then began hosting red carpet events and artist interviews for "LA X-Large" on KJLA-LATV in Los Angeles. In early 2006, I moved to XMOR/San Diego where I hosted the afternoon drive show and later became Music Director in 2007. Currently, I'm working in promotions for Universal Motown Records, which I've been doing since December 2009.

1. When you were MD at XMOR did you ever think you'd be jumping over to the record promotion side?

Originally, my intent was always to work towards growing in radio specifically in Los Angeles where I started as an intern, however, with a background in college programming and MD/afternoons at XMOR my willingness to learn made it a natural fit to jump to the record side.

2. What have you found to be the toughest part of the transition?

Keeping up with Universal Motown's Sujit Kundu and Dave Ingenloff aka Davey Dee. They keep me on my toes.

3. How has the travel part of the gig been?

It's been so much fun. I'm traveling to markets that I've only heard of and meeting radio programmers that I had only read about in the trades, etc. It's a great opportunity to step into their market and city and get a feel of how they cater to their listeners while seeing everything through the perspective of the label and the artist.

4. What city that you've visited with the job surprised you the most?

Salt Lake City, UT was a big surprise in their love for West Coast hip-hop and Tampa, FL intrigued me with their diversity and love for the community. It kind of reminded me of the 92.3 The Beat "no color lines" days.

5. Is there an aspect of radio that you've missed?

Connecting with listeners in the market. I enjoyed having an impact in listener interaction and music direction. Thanks to the world of social networking I continue to get Twitter and Facebook love.

6. Weren't you doing some TV hosting? Are you still doing that?

Yes, while doing San Diego radio full-time I was also a correspondent at LATV-LAXLARGE. Currently, I have assembled a hosting reel and have trained with Marki Costello (hosting coach and Talent Manager). When my travel schedule permits I do go out on host auditions. I've always had a passion for being in front of the camera.

7. Who do you consider to be your mentor?

University of La Verne Communications professor Mike Laponis.

8. After a long day in the office what do you do to relax?

After a long day working records, I enjoy a glass of red wine and hanging out with family and friends.

9. As a little girl, what did you want to be when you got older?

I wanted to be an actress! I'm always full of drama.

10. Let's play word association. What's the first thing that comes to mind when I say, "Nicki Minaj"?

Female Empowerment...Dope. I love Nicki Minaj!

When Sujit is in his NY office, how many phones, cell phones and smart phones does he have going?

All the above.