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10 Questions with ... Mark McCray
December 7, 2021
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BRIEF CAREER SYNOPSIS:
WCIL-FM/Carbondale IL
WPNT-FM/Chicago IL
KRLD-AM and Texas State Network/Dallas
KKDA-FM/Dallas
KRNB-FM/Dallas
ABC Radio Networks/Dallas
KJCE-AM/Austin
KQBT-FM/Austin
WMBX-FM/West Palm Beach
WNEW-FM/West Palm Beach
KBFB-FM/Dallas
KZMJ-FM/Dallas
1. How did your current business venture come about?
My former GM (Gary Spurgeon) and I noticed that there was a need to serve (the underserved) independent radio ownership; An extremely cost-effective solution for radio owners to receive quality programming for their station(s). Especially with the financial “hit” many operators are feeling because of this pandemic. We are delivering several research driven, 24-7 formats with groundbreaking technology that allows station owners and operators the opportunity to completely localize and customize their stations. It's really the future of 24-7 formats complete with imaging, automation system and more.
Also, I opened podcast studios (Podcast Suites) in Dallas, and they are doing exceptionally well. I have a business model that I think can be a valuable tool for broadcasters who are looking for something fun to do as a side business or their main source of income...just ask me!
2. What’s the best advice you’ve ever been given?
Stop caring so much about what other people think. How you feel about yourself is most important. To expand on that… so many people are crippled and scared to try new things because they are afraid of others’ judgment. In the end, their opinion or criticism (especially if not constructive) will keep you from reaching your goals. If you have an idea…go for it! Try to leave this world with no regrets.
3. How important do you think connect car will be to radio and audio media?
Like with any new technology, I think we educate ourselves to see how it can adversely affect us, positively affect us, or not affect us at all. In my opinion, the larger public is still “in the dark” on the connect car technology, but they are learning, and radio needs to respect this as a potential competitor.
4. What are some of the challenges with everything you are doing?
Time! What an asset. I always wish there were more time in the day so it is up to myself (and all of us that are facing time issues) to find a way to manage it the best way we can. I always love the saying, “don’t mess with anyone’s Family, Money or Time.” Yep, it is that important.
5. Who have been your influences, inspirations, and/or mentors?
So many. Here are a few programming people that have helped shape my career: Michael Spears, Todd Manley, Jay Stevens, Tony Waitekus, and JoJo Davis.
6. How would you describe your first radio job experiences?
My first REAL radio job was WCIL-FM in Carbondale IL. My sophomore year at SIU-C, a friend of mine (Jason Addams) who was working at WCIL suggested I send in my aircheck. It was such a big station, I was not sure if I was ready, but I did anyway. Thankfully, Tony Waitekus hired me to run Casey Kasem’s Weekly Top 40. I was so excited because almost every hour I was able to crack the mic to do a live read! Soon after Tony put me on weekends and some swing shifts. I later went on to be their fulltime night guy. Great times!
7. If you weren't in radio, what do you think you'd be doing professionally?
Sleeping! Seriously, I would continue to operate my podcast studio business and teaching. Teaching and helping others are a passion.
8. What's the biggest misconception about radio?
That its all-free concerts, parties and 4-hour shifts. Nah, it’s a lot of work, takes a lot of passion and a consistent desire to be better from one day to the next.
9. How have you changed since you first got into radio?
My passion for broadcasting has not changed at all. I am still excited about radio, the industry, and the magic of the business. I am just more seasoned and more knowledgeable about the business of broadcasting, and how to navigate the way it is changing.
10. What’s your biggest strength?
I have been told that outside of my on-air skills and programming mindset it is my management style. Over the years I have learned what it takes to build a culture in the building that makes people want to come to work. Expecting the best out of people while being a leader instead of a “boss”. I know the type of leader I would like to work with, and I strive to be that person. Leading with respect instead of fear, empathy instead of judgement and accountability instead of apathy.
Bonus Questions
What are you most proud of?
My son and my reputation.
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