Shadow Stevens Interview 11-4-16
Shadow Stevens
Afternoon Personality
WPOZ
Orlando
Career Capsule: My Dad was an advertiser on local radio in the tri-state area of Ohio/Kentucky/West Virginia while I was a teen (he was in the pizza business); that was my “foot in the door” to a gig at CHR WCMI, Ashland, followed by WGNT, Huntington. Flash forward to mid days at WBNS, Columbus,Ohio and then to Orlando with gigs at CHR WXXL and country WWKA. Came to WPOZ in 2013 and its the best job I’ve ever had.
- Shadow, Tell us what’s new at WPOZ… news, changes, & with YOU… etc?
There’s little in life more humbling than doing a fundraiser. We had an incredible week with ours and are ready to dive head first into 2017. In hindsight, this has been perhaps the most trying year in Orlando history as the city dealt with the horrific tragedy in June and a hurricane just weeks ago. It’s been a great testament to the people here to see how the area has grown together and stronger over the last few months. Suzanne and I were privileged to anchor during both occasions. What an honor to have been a small part of helping the people of our area through such trying times.
2. What is your typical day like regarding getting ready to go on the air?
Hard to believe there was a “time before iPads”! My youngest thinks that I’m just “reading the news” every morning over coffee; truth is, I’m looking at just about anything news/lifestyle related that I can find. Flipboard, MSN, USA Today, and the Orlando Sentinel are daily looks over breakfast. If there’s such a thing as show prep though, it’s “life” – what’s going on with the kids, friends, the neighborhood and around town.
3. What is the best programming advice you’ve been given? The worst?
Quite simply, “be yourself”. Pretty self explanatory.
4. Some say more Christian stations in a market the better, do you agree with that, why or why not?
I can only address that from a distance; in the markets with more than a single Christian station the listener certainly has choices. It’s our job to make sure the first choice is our station and super serve the listener and the community.
5. What is the ONE thing you must have everyday to do your show?
Passion. Without it, there’s nothing.
6. Where will future Christian radio air talent come from?
In the old days it was always knocking on our door. It’s up to us to do the knocking now. The talent is out there somewhere. Will we have something to offer them that’s exciting and compelling? That may be the bigger question.
7. Generally speaking to the industry what are the biggest obstacles facing Christian radio?
It’s nothing that can’t be overcome. I love it when stations invest in a good talent coach. If the company won’t do it, hire one yourself. There are some wonderful consultants that can offer fresh ears and ideas. Be open to them.
8. Who are your radio heroes and influences? and why?
Growing up in the mid west meant Chicago radio. Ellis Feaster and I will sit and listen to airchecks of legendary jocks for hours on end. Jim Hoge and Dean O’Neal love it just as much as we do. I loved John “Records” Landecker. Still do. Influences are many – and I’m afraid I would leave someone important out if I tried naming names. Just know that I’ve learned from everyone I’ve worked with.