10 Questions with ... Sam Nelson

NAME:Sam Nelson TITLE:Former OM, Cumulus/Savannah STATION:E93, Magic 103.9, I95, Kix 96, Z102, 630 WBMQ, AM 900 the Ticket MARKET:Savannah, GA COMPANY:Cumulus Broadcasting BORN:Brooklyn, NY RAISED:Brooklyn, NY

Please outline your career path.

Hit Radio KFM 104.9 Syracuse, NY 82-85; WQDW Kinston, NC 85-87; WOWI & WPDQ-FM Willis Broadcasting 87-89; WHJX, Jacksonville, Fl 89-90; WJMO, Cleveland 90-92; WVKO, Columbus, OH 92-98; WEAS, WJCL, WIXV, WTYB, WZAT, WBMQ-AM & WJLG-AM Savannah Sept 98-December 2007.

1) What was your first job in radio? Early influences?

My first working gig came in college at Syracuse. It has been extremely useful in my career having gotten my start in Top 40 radio. Because the saying is accurate in that the essence of today's radio model continues to be the one developed in Top 40 regardless of format. There is no way to be a native New Yorker and not be influence by everyone from Frankie Crocker to Ken Webb, Vaughn Harper, Gerry B. Carol Ford, the legendary 77 ABC crew, Howard Stern, Imus ... they are all great talents who all worked at great stations.

2) What led you to a career in radio? Was there a defining moment that made you realize "this is it"?

I was attending Syracuse University. I joined some friends and got involved in the college radio station. That led to working several of the commercial stations in the market. The positive reinforcement from friends and full-time staff at the radio stations I was working at convinced me that this hobby I was so passionate about could become my occupation.

3) If you were just starting out in radio, knowing now what you didn't then, would you still do it?

I have no doubt I would want to be a part of this industry. Radio is extremely effective in connecting and reaching out to its audience. Radio does this better than any other media outlet. That includes television, print, Internet, etc. Finally, this is the industry where you find the most interesting and creative people. For me it remains a positive experience to walk into a radio broadcasting facility. .

4) What is going to happen to the training of tomorrow's talent if the current trend continues? How do you feel about syndication and voicetracking?

Syndication knocked me out of a morning job in Kansas, which was a blessing in disguise (really, it was the best blessing ever). But when I saw a big name like Olivia Fox, who was the hottest air talent in her market, being ousted for syndication, it was a rude awakening. I mean being personable and local is not a care anymore for big businesses. It's not about a jock touching the community anymore ... just what is sellable even if it's the same thing in the 20 other states. It's not always relatable.

5) How is the relationship between programmer and record label changing?

For better or worse? It's tougher. I would hate to be on the record side now. The pressure seems louder and more mean-spirited.

6) What do you view as the most important issue facing radio today?

Other than just keeping a job, I would say managing and developing talent. Now more than ever, it is necessary to make sure everyone on the team shares the vision and buys into it. Finding time to teach is difficult; but if left undone the team will never develop or buy into what you are trying to accomplish! And why should they, if they see no investment in their growth?

7) Who is your favorite air personality not on your staff?

My favorite personality continues to be "Carol Ford" -- when she was doing afternoons on "98.7 Kiss" in New York when it was a mainstream Urban. I have yet to hear anyone come close to displaying the wit, personality or enthusiasm she consistently demonstrated in that time slot.

8) What is your favorite radio station outside of the market and why?

WPGC-FM in DC. I have had the opportunity to visit that area frequently and this station has done a masterful job in developing the brand to it audience. They just seem to be functioning on all cylinders -- programming, marketing, etc. I understand why they have been successful.

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

I often listen to Top 40s and AC stations.

10) Favorite artist you have met?

I really enjoyed meeting the Temptations during their reunion concert tour; and Smokey Robinson. In both cases, they made you feel like radio really contributed to their success. Motown knew what they were doing.

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

I would like to be better at production and learn how to put it down on the ones and twos! I see the need but can't spin a lick ... maybe that's my next conquest.

How important do you feel education is for serious broadcasters?

It's very important. I probably would've majored in business or education because one thing about radio, it's like that old UGK song, "One day you're here and ... the next day....!" I went to school for Communications, but learned all that I know from my experiences at WRJH and KSJM by practicing live with flubs and all, networking with different people, and losing a lot of times. Lessons in radio and life.

As you look back over your career so far ... any regrets? Missed opportunities?

No. I wouldn't do anything differently. Like I said, bad times built character and strength in me to carry on and go further today. I'm more humble now and understand radio more and more. Young Quita was ready to do six months at a small station and run the big leagues! Older and wiser Quita wants to tackle this small market, do great things here, and sharpen my skills here. When my time comes to be some huge radio star, I want it to be right, I want to be more than qualified, and I want to win for myself, my son and my station.

Where do you see the industry and yourself five years from now?

I love to organize, plan, create and boss people around -- but most importantly, working in the community! So having a day named after me like the Great Porsche Fox and being honored for my community work. Somewhere between Program Director and Promotions Manager.

What do you like best about your job? Least?

I love being on the air, talking to people, and organizing things for the street team. Least: Finding a date that doesn't want to say my name 40 times loudly just in case all of his buddies and the people in the restaurant didn't hear that he was out with QUITA B!

What's the best piece of advice anyone's ever given you? The worst?

Make the adjustment, move forward, and don't take it personal -- a combination of Hozie Mack and Steve Poston. Also, I learned a long time ago with my first PD, Steve Poston not to engage in extracurricular activities with co-workers. So not only do I save my reputation, but unnecessary emotions as well. The worst advice: "Trust me!" LOL