10 Questions with ... Stacy Owen

BRIEF CAREER SYNOPSIS:

Short stints in public television and commercial radio in Cincinnati following graduation solidified my passion for all things public radio! Served as announcer/producer/MD at WNKU. Produced and distributed the nationally syndicated feature, "The 90 Second Naturalist." Hired at WFPK in 2000 as APD.

1. How did you become interested in radio?

I studied Communications in college and always thought I'd do something behind the scenes like produce. I got thrown on the air during my first internship and found I was a natural!

2. Over 15 years in, how is the station different now than when it first signed on?

We've built really strong partnerships within the community over the years. The growth of our WFPK Waterfront Wednesday concert series is a testament to that, with over 12,000 in attendance at the finale last September! We've also done our best to reach out to a younger audience without alienating our core. We may be a bit more daring then some Triple A stations, but it seems to be working here in Louisville.

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

Great tunes for the adventurous music lover!

4. What are the music meetings like at your station?

My MD, Kyle Meredith, sifts through everything to find the "cream of the crop" each week. I meet with Kyle and several of our weekday announcers to listen to 10-15 songs each Friday morning. We discuss, debate and then vote on our favorites. It's a fairly democratic process.

5. What do you like best about your job?

I love nurturing new talent, whether it's a new band to champion, an announcer with promise or an energetic up-and-coming young MD.

6. What is your biggest challenge at the station?

Supervising 16 distinct personalities! Any effective manager will tell you, you can't approach everyone on your staff in the same way. They each have a different learning style and speed in which they take in information.

7. Tell us about Kyle Meredith's syndicated show that originates at WFPK.

The Weekly Feed presents the newest, best, and most discussed tracks making waves across the internet and compiles them into a mixtape bent on keeping you and your listeners up-to-date. We have 15 stations across the country carrying the show!

8. What is your typical day like?

Meetings ... with programming, development, marketing and membership staff, as well as potential community partners. A lot of my time is spent implementing what is discussed in those meetings. I work with staff to develop their skill set. I also book our weekly Live Lunch performance program and WFPK Waterfront Wednesday series, so I'm on the phone a lot and always checking e-mails.

9. Of all the skills you have gained through the years, is there an area you'd like to improve?

I'd love to have a firmer grasp on the latest audio editing programs. I know just enough to get myself into trouble.

10. Tell us about your most recent successful fund drive.

It was our best Fall drive in the history of the station! We've gone to great measures to educate the public radio audience in Louisville. They're realizing our most reliable source of funding comes from our community and they really came through for us.

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

My husband, daughter and I are all music lovers so we attend a lot of shows. I always enjoy checking out a new movie or book. Daily walks with the dog and other general mom duties.

Last Non-Industry Job:

Desk clerk at Days Inn

First Record Ever Purchased:

"Frampton Comes Alive" with my birthday money!

First Concert:

Shawn Cassidy with my BFF who sobbed during the entire show.

Favorite Band Of All-Time:

My Morning Jacket has really stood the test of time for me.