If you’ve worked in the radio industry for any length of time and achieved a level of success, it’s a good feeling. Even as the business is roiled by the constant pressures posed by new competitive forces, many in radio have made an exceptionally nice living and have enjoyed wonderful, fulfilling careers. But that’s where the onus of paying it forward comes into play.
And so the thing to do is “send the elevator back down” and help support the next generation of radio stars – whether they’re in programming, sales, on-air, or online.
For a litany of reasons, it is essential to find a way in time, money, mentoring – or all of those – to give back to the industry that’s supported you. There’s no better inspiration for this notion than the iconic Kevin Spacey, who has created his own foundation to support up-and-coming writers, actors, directors, and producers in movies, theater, and television. (The inspiration for Spacey, by the way, was legendary actor Jack Lemon who espoused the philosophy during his career.)
In the world of radio, it’s never been more important to support young people who are trying to make it in a business that hasn’t always been the most welcoming and accepting. And given that digital media companies covet young talent, there are both practical and altruistic reasons to send the radio career elevator back down.
There are already many different initiatives that are in place now and/or have been in the past, too numerous to name them all. And there are numerous ways you can support them.
- Dan Valle’s “National Radio Talent System” was showcased in our “innovation” series earlier this year. These are education programs in partnership with affiliate universities that work with groups of students with an interest in radio. Classes and seminars are taught by industry professionals.
- Dan Mason recently announced a scholarship at Syracuse University’s renowned Newhouse School of Public Communications. The first recipient will be named for the upcoming 2015-16 academic year. As Dan noted, “We believe in the future of radio, and our students do, too.”
- There are events like High School Radio Day which we recently showcased in “Radio’s Most Innovative” that introduce young people to the medium while in their teens – probably around the time that most people reading this post started seriously considering a career in radio.
- Conclave is a well-known organization that has a 40 year history of teaching and mentoring young people thinking about radio, as well as entry-levvel employees in the business. Their summer conference is set for July, and features some of radio’s best, brightest, and influential, giving their time for an important mission.
- State Broadcaster Associations have been sending their elevators back down for decades, supporting young people with scholarships, awards programs, and other events and activities. Check in with yours to see how you can become involved. Or learn more at the National Alliance of State Broadcasters Associations.
It is so easy and convenient for us to get caught up in our careers, our companies, and our goals. But the lifeblood and future of the radio industry is dependent on those who have achieved success in the business remembering their early years and struggles. And realizing that young people today have an even tougher time of becoming a part of radio broadcasting.
Now that you’re at the top, don’t forget to push that “L” button.
If you have other examples of initiatives in broadcasting designed to help young broadcasters-to-be, please use the “comments” section below.
Jacobs Media has consistently walked the walk in the digital space, providing insights and guidance through its well-read national Techsurveys.
In 2008, jacapps was launched - a mobile apps company that has designed and built more than 1,300 apps for both the Apple and Android platforms. In 2013, the DASH Conference was created - a mashup of radio and automotive, designed to foster better understanding of the "connected car" and its impact.
Along with providing the creative and intellectual direction for the company, Fred consults many of Jacobs Media's commercial and public radio clients, in addition to media brands looking to thrive in the rapidly changing tech environment.
Fred was inducted into the Radio Hall of Fame in 2018.
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Great piece today, Fred.
I think anyone who HAS made it, is likely to have a story of someone who mentored them when they were starting out. I’m always happy to make myself available for advice, critiques, career advice, contract negotiation discussions for anyone who cares to listen, free of charge.
As far as I know, there really isn’t a “forum” for this kind of dialogue. Perhaps your site is capable of hosting this kind of discussion page where members could ask questions, other members (registered advisors) could respond?
It is a two-way street though…you’ve got to be open for new ideas from “old dogs”. And this requires a clear an open mind. -Jim
That, my friend, is true. but I think old pros like you have a lot to communicate. Dan Vallie’s initiative underscores that point. I appreciate that suggestion. Let’s see how that plays out.
Fred, I’m Dan Vallie’s director of the KBA WKU RADIO TALENT INSTITUTE (NRTS) at Western Kentucky University in Bowling Green, KY. It’s an incredible program. This year Erica Farber (Prez/CEO Radio Adv Bureau) will be one our 35 member guest faculty of professional broadcasters teaching at the institute.
Five years ago, Paul Rotella & I started the student division of learning sessions at the New Jersey Broadcasters Association Conventions held each June in Atlantic City, NJ. What started out with just a sales session for high school and college aged radio students has grown each year to offer additional sessions in management, programming, being an air personality, station branding and more.
I began paying-it-forward in 2010 when I moved from Market Manager for Clear Channel (now iHeartMedia) to Assistant Professor-Broadcasting at WKU’s School of Journalism & Broadcasting (ranked #4 by College Magazine in the United States).
There’s always room in my elevator!
Going UP.
Dick Taylor, CRMC/CDMC
Assistant Professor-Broadcasting
Dick.Taylor@wku.edu
DickTaylorBlog.com
I hope other industry professionals read this, and as I discussed with Dan when we profiled him earlier this year, I’m up for it as well. It’s a great program. Appreciate you taking the time to chime in.
While I’ve been fortunate to make a living and career in this great industry for over 25 years, I’ve had the chance to work with some pretty gifted broadcasters. And while I would say that I have asked my fair share of questions, I’ve also done my fair share of listening. I may have even told you, Fred, that I sometimes feel I learned the most from listening to Drew on the air. You listen to radio differently when you’re “in the business”, and if you keep your ears open, elevators are constantly coming down for you to get on and grow. Doesn’t hurt to share a coffee or two with people you really respect, as well!
True that, Meltdown. The elevator works both ways. Thanks for the great observation and the reminder that we also need to have the openness to jump on that elevator.
Fred we need more people like you and Dick in our industry who care about the future and do give back. A couple of years ago I got involved in a local college’s Radio Program to teach Sales Development. I too wanted to give back what the industry had given to me. BTW nice to hear you speak yesterday at CMW. I was the guy who came up to you at the end to ask about the renewal rate of Serious after the free first year. Best regards,
John
John, thanks for the kind note, and great to meet you at CMW!