10 Questions with ... Corny O'Connell

BRIEF CAREER SYNOPSIS:

WFUV is the only radio station I've worked at. My first regular shift was PM drive in 1993. After a few years I moved to evenings and, also, became the pledge drive producer. I've been doing mornings since 2012.

1. How did you become interested in radio?

I was attending Fordham Law School and wanted to maintain interests outside of law. I had already learned audio production as an undergrad at NYU Film School, so I started working behind the scenes at WFUV, which is owned by Fordham.

2. How long have you been at WFUV?

I started in 1989.

3. Being a noncomm station, what is your approach for the morning show?

Don't take things too seriously, but at the same time respect your listeners and maintain credibility.

4. What do you like best about your job?

Every morning I do a segment called the WFUV Question of the Day. I announce a topic such as songs about coffee, tracks featuring saxophone, or married couples that record together. Then I put together a set based on the requests that come in.

5. What has been your biggest career highlight?

Having WFUV's ratings reach their highest point ever after I started hosting mornings.

6. Do you get involved in the music at all at WFUV?

I did in the first few years, but now I rely heavily on our PD, Rita Houston; MD Russ Norris; and AMD Carmel Holt.

7. Do you represent the station at many events?

Sure, I love hosting concerts at various venues around New York City, deejaying at WFUV dance parties and appearing at the station's annual holiday shows and galas.

8. Best advice for any young folks who might want to get into radio?

When I tell people that I'm a radio deejay, they immediately know what that is. But as you know, there are a lot of misconceptions about the business. So, the first thing I'd suggest is to learn as much as you can about what goes on behind the scenes.

9. Are there any organizations in the New York area you like to support both on-air and off?

I donate blood regularly and whenever there is a shortage, I'll spread the word for the New York Blood Center.

10. If you wanted to completely change careers today, what would you do?

I would write jokes for Stephen Colbert.

Last non-industry job:

Citibank Sales Representative.

First record ever purchased:

The Blues Image "Ride Captain Ride"

First concert:

Jerry Garcia Band at The Capitol Theatre in Passaic, New Jersey 1980

Favorite band of all-time:

The Rolling Stones

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

Playing piano, cycling, baking cookies, playing poker.