Would you believe that once upon a time I was terrified of radio? Which is really weird because I’ve been a fan of radio for as long as I can remember. As a teenager, I absolutely LOVED listening to 630 CHED in Edmonton, Alberta. I would laugh every morning to Bruce Bowie and the Morning Crew. (Now, remember that name because I’m coming back to him in a moment.)
I started my radio career as a board operator at a radio station. Which means I just played the music…but never had to talk. I would turn on the mic for the host and get phone calls on the air.
One day I was put on assignment to call around the country and research gas prices. Then I went on Peter Novak’s noon show and told him what I found out. (Yup these were the days before gasbuddy.com and the internet – not that I’m old!)
I can honestly say I don’t think I have ever been more scared in my entire life as I was in that moment!!!
I was sweating and my heart was pounding so loud I was sure the listeners could hear it. I seriously wanted to RUN!!!
While doing the interview, Peter was looking at me like, “What the hell is wrong with you?”
It was 2 or 3 minutes of pure HELL!!!
In time, I started doing more and more on-air spots and luckily, I learned how to keep the nerves under control. Isn’t that crazy? I was working at a radio station and was scared!
LOL – it seems insane to even share this with you!
Eventually I became the host of a morning show and was having a blast on the air…having fun with listeners and my co-hosts, Roch and Peter. Then the newspaper did a story about me and asked about my influences, to which I said, “Bruce Bowie from 630 CHED.”
A couple of days later I got a call from the Bruce Bowie morning show…and he wanted to have a quick chat with me to discuss my article. The phone rang and the nerves came crashing in once again. I faked it – but I was freaked out being on someone else’s show.
Well, 20 years later I’m still hosting a morning show and it has been a wonderful career! Imagine if I’d quit because of my fear.
I share this story because I understand there is an incredible fear of being on radio.
• There is a fear of sounding like an idiot.
• There is a fear of freezing up or not having an answer.
• There is a fear of not knowing what is going to happen.
• And then, of course, there are all the people listening.
IT’S SCARY!!!
But because I understand the fear, it’s made me a great coach. I know I can make you into a great interview: One who’s prepared, sounds great and knows how to be a resource to radio stations all over!
Drop me a note and let's get you on the radio!
Wayne
