Intro by King Musa
"Yo, you know what it is! It’s your man, King Musa, and welcome to The Cheat Sheet, the podcast where we decode success with creators, professionals, and trailblazers.
Today, I’m joined by Mike Koenig, a proud SFA alumnus and a veteran in the radio industry. He’s the Operations Manager and Program Director for several popular radio stations, and he’s here to share insights into his journey, radio’s evolving landscape, and how students can break into the field. Let’s get started!"
Getting to Know Mike Koenig
King Musa: "Welcome, Mike! For those who don’t know, tell us about your journey into radio and how you’ve built such an impressive career."
Mike Koenig: "Thanks for having me! I started at SFA back in 2003, majoring in Radio and Television. I worked at a hip-hop station called V94.7 Jams—one of the first in the area—then transitioned to country and eventually took on leadership roles. Over the years, I’ve programmed multiple stations and even dabbled in ownership. It’s been a ride!"
Breaking into Radio
KM: "What advice do you have for students who want to get into radio?"
MK: "Start with an internship. That’s the best way to learn the ropes and build a portfolio. Work in smaller markets to gain experience, then take that to bigger stations. You don’t have to start in a major market—build your skills and reputation first."
KM: "How did you balance work and school back in the day?"
MK: "I made the most of my time at the station. I’d study during breaks and use every opportunity to learn. Radio gave me access to events and experiences that made it fun while also helping me grow professionally."
The Role of Hard Work and Passion
KM: "What role did hard work play in your success?"
MK: "It’s everything. I stayed consistent, learned from mentors, and seized opportunities. Even now, I emphasize showing up and doing the work. That’s how you stand out."
KM: "Do you feel like radio has changed over the years?"
MK: "Absolutely. Streaming and podcasts have reshaped the industry, but radio remains relevant. It’s still vital for local news, sports, and emergencies. The key is adapting to what listeners want."
The Future of Radio
KM: "Where do you see radio heading in the future?"
MK: "I think we’ll see more integration with digital platforms. Long-form content, live call-ins, and local programming will keep radio unique. It’s not going anywhere—just evolving to fit new audiences."
KM: "How can students prepare for this evolving industry?"
MK: "Learn sales and programming skills, even if you don’t plan to work in those areas. Understanding the business side helps you navigate the industry better. Also, stay adaptable—new technology is always changing the game."
Outro by King Musa
"Mike, thank you for sharing your journey and insights into the radio world.
To all our listeners, remember that success is about showing up, staying consistent, and embracing growth. Take advantage of internships and start building your portfolio today. Subscribe to The Cheat Sheet for more inspiring stories, and follow us on social media. Until next time, stay tuned and stay inspired!"
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