APPROPRIATE COOLER TALK QUESTION FOR DAN O’DAY: I'm a network PD with several teams (morning and afternoon) with a penchant for running off at the mouth. I've preached the "one thought per break" principle, but I'm noticing now a problem with what that "thought" is. What is your principle on choice of material content? We've got a couple of guys who talk food -- primarily donuts -- all the time (doesn't make sense to a female audience trying to diet). Another team "preps" on the wire for "water cooler" stories that have minimal relevance or interest from my perspective. My question is: How to chose appropriate material for that "one thought?" DAN REPLIES: I would limit your jocks to one "food talk" break per month. Apparently donuts play a significant role in their lives. But unless you're broadcasting primarily to an audience of police officers, donuts don't often enter the consciousness of your listeners. As for the relevance of the "water cooler" stories, it's impossible for me to judge without knowing their content. For me, a "water cooler" story is one that would interest people standing around the water cooler at work. If that criterion is met, just about any form of content is appropriate unless it contradicts the character of the jock or of the radio station. If those stories truly have no relevance to your listeners, then I wouldn't think those listeners would be interested. And if they're not interested, then I wouldn't describe them as "water cooler" stories. An instant air talent seminar for your entire staff: PERSONALITY RADIO, by Dan O'Day!