Today is the 25th anniversary of the start of my career in broadcast media.
My first day on the radio was July 5, 1987 in Kearney, Nebraska from midnight until 6 a.m. It was a station that was a hybrid of top 40 music and classic rock. My first night on the air at Power 99, I drove there on my motorized scooter after watching fireworks and anchored a show called "The All Night Album Replay". I hadn't gone to school for broadcasting and had no prior skills. But, I apparently interviewed well enough with the Program Director of the station (Jeff Stevens) that I got a shot. I made my debut on the air three days after my 21st birthday.
It was the beginning of an unbelievable 25 year odyssey.
My career has taken me to cities large and small. I was on the air in a variety of dayparts, voiced thousand of commercials, done thousands of personal appearances, and even moved into management including the titles of Music Director, Assistant Program Director, and Program Director.
I have met thousands of interesting people along the way and had the chance to do things most people dream of. From stage announcements in front of crowds of thousands to interviews and meeting some of the world's best known celebrities, its been amazing. I've signed autographs and posed for pictures. It still amazes me that I'm remembered for work I did years ago. Guests who visit the Morning Blend regularly recognize me even though I'm not on the air anymore.
More recently as I've moved into the world of television, I've had to learn new skills and make adjustments to take on roles as news producer and now executive producer. The adventure hasn't stopped. This week I wore a Spiderman suit on TV!
I've also added social networking to my career skills. At more than 11,000 friends and followers on Facebook and Twitter plus readers of this blog, I'm fortunate that I continue to have many people who find my content interesting / entertaining.
I have a long list of people to thank for the chance to learn, grow, and contribute. If you're a person I've worked with, you've listened to me on the radio, or watched on television, you've been a part of my career. I couldn't have done it without you.
Here's to another 25!
