With National Radio Day this week, we have been chatting about the essence of the biz.  I refer to what I do as storytelling, and it is.  But few are born natural storytellers. And for those who are granted the gift of gab, there are always those who help propel you to another level.

Again, when I was a young broadcaster in Columbus in the early and mid-eighties, at WRMZ doing the morning show,  I ran across some very important people in my career.  Everything happens fast when your young, and as I look back there was a lot to absorb.  I had a Program Director named Rob Ryan.  He worked with me daily and prodded me to story tell more confidently, prepare it more aggressively, and to hold conversations with the listeners on the phone. He taught me to listen to their story first, respect it, and then meld it with mine. He told me then, no listener will turn the radio when one of their own is talking on it.  I've never fogotten that.  Phone skills for radio - gold!  Priceless counseling.

And my great friend of 36 years in this biz, Vic Scott (aka Smokey Rivers now).  An incredible talent, taught me that while story telling, its OK to have a definite take on a subject during a conversation.  But to make sure to be quick to listen and slow to speak  -   is a good thing.  He also showed me how to make a strong point, but not to alienate those who may differ at that moment. That learning how to disagree is vital to telling a story sometimes.  Great lesson.  Great pro, great friend.

I am learning along the way the art of storytelling goes hand in hand with listening to others stories first to be the most effective.  Tomorrow, I will share a few more quick stories and thank others.  I love learning from them, and telling their story.