Rebecca Verdugo Interview
Rebecca Verdugo
Music Director/morning host
WPOS – 102.3 Proclaim FM
Holland, OH
Career Capsule: My career in radio was certainly birthed by God before I ever even imagined this occupation. See, I was a pastor’s wife, worship leader, mother, and aspiring drummer (I never took lessons so that never happened lol) and not once did it cross my mind that I would have a career in radio. I went back to college later in life as my kids were getting older and I had more time to pursue my own personal goals . I thought I wanted to be a nurse which is a great profession, however not for me. I found myself taking elective courses in communications. I loved it! Long story short, I changed majors but still did not know where that was heading. I graduated and not too long after I heard an ad on Proclaim FM in regards to a job opportunity. I had NO idea what it was but I was compelled to call. Within one week I was interviewed by the station manager, Becky Vassar, interviewed by 4 of the board members and offered the job in promotions and sales. Soon after I was hosting a weekend show and soon after that co hosting on The Morning Show. In 2017 I became the official host for The Morning Mix and shortly after took the role as Music Director as well. And here we are today! 7 years in radio at the same station! I LOVE my job!
Rebecca tell us what’s new at Proclaim FM… any news, changes etc… and what’s new with the morning show?
Proclaim FM is an exciting place to work as we have the best listeners and supporters around! We truly have community here and I wouldn’t change a thing! We have won the title of Best Radio Station 3 years in a row for The Toledo City Paper’s “Best of Toledo Contest” and most recently won Favorite Local Radio Station for The Toledo Blade’s Reader’s Choice Award! I also won Favorite Radio Personality for the same contest. What’s new on The Morning Mix? I just continue to create a connection with our listeners through content that’s relatable and fun. Some of my daily and weekly segments are: Rebecca’s School of Learning, New Music Tuesday, New Friends Day, The Morning Mix Birthday Club, and Fun Day Fridays.
How do you balance work & family, how important is it for someone in Christian Radio to ‘have a life”?
It has taken while to learn this. But even if you are working in something as “good” as Christian Radio….you still need time for yourself and family. It’s easy to feel you have to say yes to everything that appears to be the work of the Lord, however if it interferes with your family life, it’s not profitable in the long run. So basically I have learned to say no to some things.
Overall, what is the best advice you could give to someone doing a morning show?
Best advice? Remember your God given purpose. Doing a morning show or any Christian radio show requires setting your feelings and frustrations aside, setting your problems aside (we all have them!) Your listeners are relying on you for starting their morning off right! They are struggling too. They’re in need of an encouraging word or a good laugh. I have been through my share of trials during my time as the morning show host and I have purposed to keep that off the air and confined to my close relationships. I put a smile on my face no matter what and I give it my all no matter how bad my morning was. Is this being fake? Not at all! It’s kicking the enemy in the behind! HA!
What’s something you’ve learned due to the pandemic, about Christian Radio, that you didn’t know before?
I learned the importance what we do! More than ever people were searching for hope during the chaos and Christian Radio provided that! We did not miss a beat here! We showed up and pressed on and adjusted as needed to fulfill the need! God is bigger than a pandemic!
What are your thoughts on AI & how will it impact Christian Radio?
I can honestly say I do not have extensive knowledge of AI as some do but…
I believe AI has its place. I think it’s harmless in regards to assisting in writing spots or some material for shows, ads, or promos. However I personally would not use AI to take on a show, in place of a living, breathing human being. I believe strongly with creating real relationships and connections with our community through radio.
In your Christian Radio career, what’s the most important lesson you’ve learned?
To be authentic. To be myself. It took a bit to learn that but what a relief when you do! Also, there’s always room to grow. I like learning from others and never want to be in a place where I think I know it all. There are so many amazing people to glean from whether in radio shorter or longer than myself!
You’ve interviewed many Christian artists over the years, who’s been your favorite and why?
Wow…this is hard …..Hmmm….probably Bill Gaither! We do not even play the Gaithers! However, we were promoting an event around Christmas time with the Gaithers and Bill called me live on my show. He was in his kitchen just chatting with me like I was his daughter. I felt so special in those moments as he truly was engaged! He was not rushing to get through the interview and gave me his full attention. I remember him calling out to his wife and telling her to get on the phone too. And she did! We had a blast!
Who are your radio heroes and influences? and why?
I have been in radio 7 years. Before that I listened to radio occasionally but never developed a radio hero or someone in specific I was influenced by. However, I want to give a shout out to my fellow team at Proclaim FM! You ALL are the BEST!
I do have a favorite band though….Casting Crowns! You can even ask our listeners. They know this and that I have a slight addiction to Chick Fil A!