A Loyal Reader Writes:
“Several years ago I had the pleasure of attending your air personalities seminar and meeting you personally. At the end of the seminar, you gave a small speech I have since referred to as the ‘It’s OK To Get Out’ speech.
“I knew it was time to get out when I found that postscript to be the most inspiring part of an exceptional seminar. You have a great gift for communication, and you bestowed another gift on me: the permission to admit it was time to leave.
“Oh, it didn’t happen all at once, but after 30 years in a business I had loved, I realized that the love was no longer there. I won’t bore you with comparisons to divorce, but having been through that, too, I feel qualified to say that the feelings and experiences are much the same.
“Your success in a different, though related, field proves that even long-time radio pros can be re-invented, or rather, that we can re-invent OURSELVES if we take the time for proper assessment.
“I am now a successful account manager for a major firm, have an office with a view, a great salary, and no longer work weekends or holidays. In spite of all this, there are still times when I MISS RADIO LIKE CRAZY!!!
“I have, however, found creative outlets that can quell the craving for satisfactions inherent in the radio biz.
“1. I’ve used my talents as a voiceover specialist for commercials, training videos, and other ventures.
“2. I joined a local singing group. I had the chance to sing a solo at a major performing arts center for an audience of over 2,000.
“3. I’ve performed in more local and regional plays than I can count.
“4. I’ve written articles for local newspapers and magazines, and I am working on a novel.
“Also, six months ago, I got word that I’d be the voice of a cartoon character on a locally-produced cable series.
“The point — which I hope you’ll share with other displaced radio pros — is that the end of a radio career is not necessarily the end of creativity and performing.
“It started, however, with your seminar. I’m sure you never dreamed that a seminar designed to help people succeed in radio would also inspire courage in someone to be a success OUT of it, as well. THANK YOU!”
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This says a lot about you tastefully. That is great to hear that this gentlemen/woman is or at least sounds well.Thanks Dan
A retired morning show host/ops/program director I met, had become a consultant for an agency that helps bring people up to par with the FCC regs. He said it helps him with the “i miss radio” crazies, because he’s able to give back to the industry that has gave him so much success in his life.
Then again, i think he makes more retired then he ever did in radio.
Is retiring where the money is hidden?