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10 Questions with ... Chili Walker
August 26, 2019
Have an opinion? Add your comment below. We have lost our training pipeline; we don't groom talent or programmers, for that matter. We, as an industry, just throw someone in there and see what happens. And then wonder where all the good talent is when we need someone
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BRIEF CAREER SYNOPSIS:
I've been jumping around the industry for a long time, too many calls, so how about some of the programming stops:
- WWDX/Lansing, MI
- WQBK/Albany, NY
- WOTT/Watertown, NY
- WZOW/South Bend, IN
- WKLC/Charleston, WV
1. How did you become interested in radio?
Actually, I just kinda fell into it. I took a class at a local community college while I was in high school. It was meant to show us everything about TV with a full hands-on approach. I liked it, so I attended that college (Cayuga Community College) and within a few weeks of my first semester, someone asked if I wanted to be on the radio ... I love music, thought I would give it a try ... the rest is history!
2. I know you have just relocated from one Charleston to one in South Carolina, but what are your first impressions of the city?
Damn it's HOT! And more traffic than I've seen in years. But I love the vibe and the people seem nice (so far).
3. How would you describe your musical vision for the station?
A nice balance of new and old. Trying to keep the cool station vibe while growing the audience.
4. What new artists are you most excited about?
Local Natives, Lana Del Rey, Avett Bros. and Wilder Woods are some of the ones I'm digging right now.
5. Have you made any tweaks to the programming since you have gotten there?
I redesigned the clocks and went through every category to make sure we are playing the right mix.
6. Are there any specialty programs you'd like to add to the weekly schedule?
As I am taking over two stations (sister rocker WYBB, too) there is plenty on my plate right now, so I am just trying to make sure both stations are on point ... then I will look into other things.
7. What do you view as the most important issue facing radio today?
We have lost our training pipeline; we don't groom talent or programmers, for that matter. We, as an industry, just throw someone in there and see what happens. And then wonder where all the good talent is when we need someone.
8. What is the one truth that has held constant throughout your career?
Change happens!
9. What advice would give younger programmers just coming up in the business?
Have a plan, give direction, and pick your battles -- stand up for the important ones (let the others go)
10. And the most important question of all: Do you like chili? And how hot?
No, I'm not really a big chili guy. I used to make a killer pumpkin chili when I was vegetarian (I've since converted back to meat) I do have it a few times a year but prefer flavor to heat.
Bonus Questions
Last non-industry job:
Strip Club DJ
First record ever purchased:
Kiss (Dynasty I believe)
First concert:
Charlie Daniels Band - First Rock was Alice Cooper & Motorhead!
Favorite band of all-time:
Kiss usually get that label since I've listened to them the longest
What do you enjoy doing in your spare time away from work?
Haven't had much spare time with the new gig, but poker is always fun I also like taking the top off the jeep, firing up a cigar and exploring!
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