10 Questions with ... Jess Phaneuf

BRIEF CAREER SYNOPSIS:

I attended Emerson College in Boston with a Broadcast Journalism major and started working at WERS sophomore year. I began in the newsroom but then became a DJ and eventually the Assistant MD. After graduation, I accepted a full-time position at WMVY on Martha's Vineyard as Promotions Dir. as well as the music programming assistant. I started on-air on overnights, then moved to evenings and finally the morning show. I worked at WMVY for seven years before taking a part time position at WUMB and returning to Boston!

1. How did you become interested in radio?

Radio classes at Emerson College and working at WERS was what sparked my interest in radio.

2. Who were/are your mentors?

I remember Alden Fertig, who was at WERS at the time, was a huge mentor for me. Now I draw inspiration from my amazing co-workers!

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

The sound of WUMB is truly independent public radio ... a diverse mix of genres, spanning both the old and new, the familiar and unknown.

4. WUMB seems to fit a specific niche in the radio landscape of Boston. Tell us about that.

This city is filled with so many talented artists and bands and we love to pluck out who we think are doing GREAT things and spotlight them whenever we can. We also have a two-hour "Local Folk" program on Saturday afternoons.

5. What new artists are you most excited about?

I love Dori Freeman, The Cactus Blossoms, Parker Millsap, Michael Nau, Aidan Knight

6. What do you like best about your job?

My favorite part about this job is being able to pass along that song, artist, or album that inspires or uplifts. When people say "Thank you, you introduced me to _____ (insert awesome band here)," there's nothing like it!

7. What would surprise people most about the station?

We play hillbilly/country folk on Sunday nights! Our weekend programming is super-eclectic.

8. What are some of your biggest challenges as a public station?

Raising the funds we need to operate.

9. Besides your own, what is your favorite radio format?

I would have to say Oldies or Classic Rock.

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

... A "to do" list!

Last non-industry job:

Selling organic chocolate bars :)

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

Working out! Yoga! Watching Bruins hockey!