10 Questions with ... Katie Barr

BRIEF CAREER SYNOPSIS:

I've been working for Wine Country Radio off and on since 2001, when I started as a wee intern. I left Sonoma County to pursue a broadcasting degree from San Francisco State University. I spent some time in college working for the iconic San Francisco radio station KFRC, in their promotions department, and had a wonderful time there. But I was happy to return to the Krush in 2007. It's an amazing station to be a part of. I recently moved from promotions to programming and I'm enjoying every moment of it.

1. How did you become interested in radio?

I've loved radio since I was a kid. My sister, my friends and I would record all kinds of "radio shows," and sound effects on my old "boom box." It didn't occur to me that I could have a career in the medium until I was in high school ... and then it was full steam ahead!

2. How would you describe the music on the station?

We're a Triple A station that leans toward the Americana/Roots side of the spectrum. We play an eclectic mix of music, and have an incredible lineup of specialty shows.

3. Have you made any adjustments to the mix since taking over?

Very slight adjustments have been made because the Krush has such a signature sound. I've tried to spice things up a bit with more young alternative artists.

4. How do you feel about the current climate of music?

I'm feeling the power from the ladies these days. I also love the soul sounds from people like Mayer Hawthorne, Sharon Jones, Aloe Blacc and Adele. There's some good stuff out there.

5. What do you like best about your job?

The people. Our company is full of characters and we all seem to get along. I also love Krush listeners who are absolutely devoted to our station and the music that we give them.

6. What are some of your biggest challenges as an independent station?

Well, we're not really an independent station, but it has that feel. Our biggest challenge is staying true to what our listeners expect from us, while at the same time challenging them with new and eclectic music.

7. Tell us about your Backyard Concert series and other annual promotions you do at The Krush.

The Backyard Concerts at the Krush are legendary. Listeners love them, artists love them and we love them. We bring artists to our station backyard (literally) to perform for listeners between June and September. Highlights from this summer were Everest, Bob Schneider and The Belle Brigade. Good times!

8. How do you stay in tune with your audience?

Our listeners certainly like their opinions to be heard. We stay in touch with music surveys and talking with our listeners at events and via e-mail.

9. Where do you see yourself in five years?

I hope I'll still be programming the Krush in five years, and I'd love to be a mom!

10. Fill in the blank: I can't make it through the day without ...

... listening to music!

What do you enjoy doing in your spare time away from work?

I absolutely LOVE to cook. Hosting dinner parties is one of my favorite things. I also like riding around town with my husband on our cruiser bicycles, reading (mysteries are my favorite) and checking out live music.

Last non-industry job:

I was a marketing director for a family-owned chocolate business ... mmmm, chocolate!

First record ever purchased:

Uh oh! Caught! It was Paula Abdul's "Forever Your Girl."

First concert:

Bush, when I was 13 years old.

Favorite band of all-time:

I have quite a fondness for ladies like Billie Holiday, Etta James, Blossom Dearie, etc, but I also really love The White Stripes