THE ROUGH AND TUMBLE WORLD OF BROADCASTING
 
I had a rough day yesterday after picking up a cold from my daughter. It just so happens she has now learned to give kisses to her daddy and I love getting them from her. Little did I know, she was using her new-found knowledge and was kissing some boys at the playground the other day and one of them had a cold. I'm still going to have to apply for that license to carry...
 
The job search is on-going, with a few new opportunities popping up here and there. There's a slot just north of the border and one I'm really interested in way up on the furthest corner of the country. It would be an interesting move, considering the size of the market and the opportunity for me to focus on my craft.
 
One of the difficulties in getting that next job after being axed is the fact you're considered "damaged goods"...no matter what the circumstances of your leaving, that's what people are thinking. A number of you have asked me repeatedley why I got released. I honestly don't have a great answer for you...but I was watching 20/20 the other night and lo and behold, there's John Stossel providing a report about our litigious society. He does a great job with his segments, "Give me a break!" and this one just so happens to have included a little something about getting fired.
 
You see, so many companies are becoming much more careful about the firing and hiring process...given the rules we have piled up and court decisions...you can pretty much bet there's a lawyer somewhere who will take the case of someone who thinks they were fired illegally. I've actually gone through the legal training that is required in order to fire or dismiss an employee...and rule number 1 is not to give a reason that could cause a lawsuit...and not to provide references other than a simple work history. In my earlier days, I was actually scolded for telling an employee that he was a good broadcaster...just not right for our format. I was told after the deed had been done that I wasn't to tell someone they were good during the firing process because it might be grounds for a lawsuit. The John Stossel report included a scary case where a person got fired for messing around with an intern or something...but no one at his new employer knew about it because his previous employer couldn't disclose it - it could have inspired a lawsuit. So he messed around with another intern.
 
It's especially difficult when you're coming from a market the size of Charleston (#89 in the US) and want to go up into the top 50...because I'm damaged goods (or at least that's what people think), I have to work especially hard to get their attention and consider me for the job. Believe it or not, some people are like computers and they figure that a guy who was in market 89 and was fired, can't possibly be good enough for market 74...and they won't even listen to the demo or take the risk of spending a few moments on the phone interviewing the guy to see if he might be the diamond in the rough.
 
I promise them (if they happen to stop by and take a read) that I am MORE eager for the new opportunity now than ever...because when you get comfortable in this business...you end up getting burned.
 

ANOTHER FULL DAY OF NOTHING TO DO
 
Not exactly true, but it was a busy day for me and the family. First, I had a cup of coffee with a local radio executive which was nice. Then, we had two showings of the house scheduled today from 1-to-5pm...which meant going to the movies with the little one and wife. She didn't last too long (my daughter) before we had to occupy her time a little more with some other activities. Not wanting to spend the mortgage payment, we went to an appointment my wife had with her military unit.
 
I'm a little worn out today...I seem to have picked up a cold from my daughter and wife and we're all miserable at the moment. Remind me to never schedule 2 showings of the house back to back.
 
Thankfully, I have the Democrat Party Convention that will take the place of some warm milk so I can get a good start on following some leads. It was a good cup of coffee...free, but the information I gathered could be worth a lot.

TIME FLIES WHEN YOU'RE HAVING FUN
 
A very long weekend is done. It was scramble time at the Alan household since Wednesday. We had a number of things to accomplish...prepare for the garage sale, haul stuff, sit around and watch people buy your stuff, and pack things away in preparation for the move. Now, it's back to work on the repairing of the career.
 
The garage sale went pretty well. My wife and I compromised and decided to NOT haul a lot of our furniture we wanted to get rid of over to our friends' house. Instead, we'll take what remained after the sale and have our own garage sale at our house...so I won't have to move the furniture much further than the garage. Whew. We made about 250-dollars getting rid of stuff that we could part with...primarily, my nice Industrial 10" Dewalt Compound Miter Saw. I hated to see that bad boy go, but wherever we go, it won't be a house right away and I'll have little use for it. It contributed 140-dollars to the overall cause.
 
Believe it or not, I've never experienced a house showing before. My wife was left behind at our last outpost on the planet...she sold the house while I did the new job. I almost hope it works out that way here too. We got a message that someone interested in seeing our home would be stopping by at noon on Sunday. So between the hauling of the garage sale stuff, we packed box after box with the items in our home we don't plan to use much in the interim. Then, we removed all of the personal items from view. Realtors suggest you not have pictures hanging, trinkets on the mantle, and window treatments in view of prospective buyers. I guess it's psychological. My wife and I even burned a cookie scented candle because they also say you should bake cookies just before a showing...not for them to eat, but for them to smell. Don't ask.
 
Sure enough, all packed up and...the phone rang. They wouldn't be by the house today, we'll shoot for a reschedule. So yesterday, I crashed...melted...sank into my couch and watched a man finish a 2-thousand mile race around France on a bicycle. Lance Armstrong has always given me a certain goal-post setting feeling. He and I kind of share a few things...he dealt with testicular and brain cancer and ended up winning the Tour de France the following year. I had simple Hodgkin's Disease that ended up in a dangerous relapse before I had to endure a bone-marrow transplant in 1994/1995.
 
I just don't know what race I'm in...or when I expect to finish it.
 
More resumes being sent today: Daytona Beach, Florida had an interesting "future file" they were creating of possible talent. Not that they had any specific openings...so I sent them my info for them to consider for their "very near future file." The other job I spoke of being eligible for in the South...didn't pan out. I sent some information by snail mail today to an opening in the midwest. After what Lance did, I figure I owed it a little to the US Postal Service to use them once in a while. I guess after this year, I don't have to worry about that too much...I'm already watching a lot of the Discovery Channel.
 

GARAGE SALE TODAY AND SATURDAY - 7AM to 11AM

We're having a garage sale today at a friends house...they have a higher traffic neighborhood. Hope you can come by and buy some good stuff. Here are some of the highlights:

• Collapsible Ladder
• Dewalt 10" Compound Miter Saw
• CD's - lots of them, Country and Alternative
• DVD's - Lord of the Rings, kids movies
• Collectable tins, painting
• Kids stuff like walkers, swing, and more

Here's the address and directions:

616 Oxford Road - take exit 203 off of I-26 on College Park Road toward Ladsen...then left on College Road into subdivision...and immediate right on Oxford Road. Go 0.8 miles down Oxford to 616 (it'll be on your right).

Make an offer on a lot of stuff...other stuff priced pretty reasonably. Buy it before it goes to Goodwill for the tax deduction!

BY THE WAY...I WAS RIGHT, WASN'T I?

From a post on June 22nd. Given the news today about the opening of the movie, I thought I would take the time to say, "See, I told you so..." (with apologies to Rush Limbaugh)

• Drudge Report story
• Variety story - Director: "This is a movie about political brainwashing, and we're right back there again now'

SOME HOLLYWOOD PREDICTIONS

I'm a big fan of the original 1962 thriller starring Frank Sinatra...The Manchurian Candidate. I'm also a big fan of Denzel Washington and Jonathan Demme. I've seen the trailers of the new version of the movie (based on a 1959 book) and I'm impressed...BUT...I have a couple of predictions to make about the film based on the current atmosphere in Hollywood. Of course, I could be wrong (I haven't seen the film), but my experience suggests the following:

1. Korea vs Gulf War - the original movie and book took place in the context of the Korean War and (without giving away too much of the plot) a soldier returning to collect a Medal of Honor only to find that the others who served with him are brainwashed by the "manchurian" communists. According to the teaser, the remake takes place in the Gulf War. I don't know how you get a manchurian (def. - "of or relating to or characteristic of Manchuria or its people or their culture") from an area of the world that has very few Chinese or Asian citizens. How can they change the race of the "villian" and not change the title of the movie? Why not still keep it based in Korea? North Korea is still full of communists last time I checked. That's Hollywood, I guess.

2. Commies vs Right Wing - my guess is that Hollywood wouldn't be able to live with themselves if they left the original villian a commie plot to assassinate and infiltrate the US Government. Based on past experience with other PC-washed villians, this one won't be ethnic or communist. Most likely, it'll be a white guy either influenced by neo-nazi's or right-wing business or political interests (all part of the same group according to the liberals). Those, it seems, are the only kind of villians Hollywood can accept these days. Anyone remember "The Sum of All Fears" and the PC-washing of the Arabic terrorists in favor of some cultish Nazi group in Germany? That's Hollywood, I guess.

I really hate to see re-makes of already classic films, but I like most Hollywood productions these days because we can update the intensity and ability to bring aspects of the plot we weren't able to portray into the mix...primarily because of the better special effects. No one would doubt, for instance, that the re-make of The Lord Of The Rings shouldn't have been done because it already had a movie to it's name. In some sense, I believe Hollywood has been doing re-makes out of laziness or lack of original writing...but there's a hidden reason or two. Some current directors think they can improve on the original with their "vision" - like "Psycho" or "Oceans 11." There's even a rumor that they're re-making "Flight of the Phoenix" - I think an offensive slap at one of Hollywood's greats, Jimmy Stewart.

The other reason is to "update it for our times" which means defend liberalism. And it coming out at the height of the political convention season is no coincidence. Don't forget, the original movie came out in 1962 - and there were some false stories that it was "pulled" from the theatres because Frank Sinatra was so upset by the killing of JFK...(it was never true).Let's face it, Hollywood is embarrassed by their past nods to patriotism and pride in American virtues and values. Hollywood believes both of past movies and of most current voters, that we are somehow all duped by simple messages and patriotic slug lines...if we only had the "vision" of what things "really are like" after careful studying (with liberal glasses) we would see the light.

Remember I posted this...then see the movie, and tell me I was wrong.That's Hollywood, I guess.

I WENT DOWN TO THE CROSSROADS
 
I have come to the fork in the road, and I think I'm going to take Yogi Berra's advice...
 
I am having discussions with a prospective employer for a management position within their company. I know it's in the initial stages, but it does give me some confidence...and something to do between pricing items for a garage sale and writing cryptic notes for all to see. The position is NOT on-air...ouch. I love being on the air, but I also love being around radio and seeing my efforts OFF the air succeed as well. In my last position, I was torn between those two responsibilities...and it was a tough job. Today, the radio industry is consolidating and multi-tasking skill sets to downsize operations and make more money. That's fine, I don't have a problem with that, but sometimes it can be done with a little too much zeal. I see that my former employer is going back to "the way it used to be" with a separate programmer and from what I can tell, they've hired a good guy. I never felt like I could focus on one job or the other...on-air, and programming.
 
I found out something strange happened while I was being interviewed for the job I'm considering...I haven't made the choice completely which I want to do more: on air...or off. So, it took a call to my mother to make things a little more clear. Yes, even people my age see the wisdom in age and experience...
 
She hit me with a plan. Why not take a break from being on the air (minus the occasional fill-in and commercial production) and develop a better handle on the programming side. I realized that I had never done that before. She said that might translate into a better overall value to my employers in the future...and if I see an opportunity I just can't resist, I'll have more going for me in my rise to the top.
 
I airchecked the stations I would be put in charge of...one a sports talker, the other a news talk. Both need a lot of help, but they have a lot of potential. Heritage stations in a very nice community (in the SOUTH, no less). I was brutal in my assessment of the stations, and helpful in recommending what they need to do...hire me, of course...but I gave them a lot of ideas. The station is doing okay (a better overall share of the market than my previous station) and has a good history in the market. A current very popular national radio host began his career there. There are some very simple things that can be done that could make the station even more successful. And being the person to guide that would, of course, make me even more valuable.
 
But I might have to change the name of this blog...because I would no longer be a radio host.
 
Today, I have a lunch date with a former local radio show host to discuss the current status of local radio, and possibly develop a plan for a pre-emptive strike in the market. I'm interested, but I don't know how likely it would be to return to the air...now that I have the bug to be the best programmer I can be.
 
Who knows, maybe someone will come along and make me an offer I can't refuse...fortune, fame, stardom...in exchange for...what?

DON'T COUNT YOUR CHICKENS
 
There may be some good news on the horizon. It has been an interesting past 48-hours. First, the news...
 
Is that because of ME?
 
A story in the business section of the Post and Courier today: Tri-county unemployment rate increases
 
The story goes on to highlight the difficulty in finding employment in Charleston once you get fired. Well...that's only difficult to those who aren't willing to uproot themselves and move to a new/different area. And I guess if I can be of some good to you dear readers, I can tell you from my perspective what it's like. Some people have accused me that my posts since July 1 are too self-serving and possibly bordering on self-pity and bitterness. I tell you now: That view is incorrect.
 
This blog and my whole reason for establishing it has been based on the premise set by the title...Confessions of a Radio Talk Show Host...and that's exactly what it is. I give you the inside dope on the workings behind the microphone from my vantage point. It so happens that I don't have a microphone at the moment.
 
Now, on to my advice. America has changed for better or worse...improved travel capabilities, technology, information access, livibility, growth (painful or otherwise), and in a host of other ways. The American people need to change as well...those that have accepted the drawbacks of the above are adapting and overcoming.
 
Some people are workers where they live...others live where there is work. I said it a long time ago, that if you become sedentary and dependent on your surroundings, you'll end up bitter when life throws you a curveball. My wife and I talk about this all the time...taking the risk of leaving the comforts of what you know best is hard to do. You leave family, friends, neighbors and neighborhoods. One interesting statistic I remember reading somewhere is the fact that most people live and work within 50-miles of where they were born. But what is becoming clear to me is that people have to risk falling in the minority of that statistic if they want to better themselves...and live the life (and career) that they want.
 
Take it from someone who has left the nest, so to speak. I am one who upset the balance in some of my family members by moving as far away as I did. That statistic above? About 98-percent of my immediate family fall in the majority...
 
I'll have more tomorrow...including a report on a dinner I had with a former local radio household name. For now, I have to make a call...to see about fixing that unemployment number for George W Bush.

THE SIGNPOST AHEAD
 
The realtor sign goes out front today. I should have mowed again.
 
I had an interesting email exchange with someone in the business. I was seeking employment with his company, and he was moving on himself. We found out kind of accidentally, that it's a very small world indeed. Anyway, we got to exchanging a few things...including some of the stuff I have wanted to get off my chest for a while about my work in the past (I'm being cryptic on purpose). Man, I really let it fly...and it felt good. Good enough to make me come to the meaning of the whole situation...and possibly to give someone else a better understanding too. When it's safe to do so, I'll share.
 
Still more of you are finding out "what happened to Greg Alan" thanks to the piece in the newspaper, and once again, your kind words are appreciated. I know some of you have asked me to post the story rather than the link, but it wouldn't be legal without permission, so you'll have to view the story in the normal way. I try to write personally to each and every one of you and I hope you've received the replies. For a while there, I had to use a script when the initial flurry of emails kept arriving faster than I could respond. But, they're slowing down now and I'm averaging only about 5 or 6 a day. It's as I predicted and understood when it all shook down...that the hubub will soon burn out. I'm actually amazed that it's taken this long...usually, people don't invest a lot of their personal interest in a talk show host (or radio guy). I figured it would last a week, maybe two...and then things would die down and I'd be just another pretty face.
 
And, funnily enough, people are still donating to the cause...so far, about 200-bucks in the kitty. And no one wants to be identified, so I issue once again the blanket...
 
THANK YOU!
 
The family and I are using the money for good...I even used some of it to buy a couple of beers for one of the regular fans of the show. He wanted to say a final goodbye in person (and actually get to meet me within the confines of my personal life), so I had Guiness and he had Sam Adams. Other uses so far are groceries (obviously), and the preparations for the garage sale we'll be having.
 
Damn, I guess I have to help put up those silly signs with the baloons on them, eh? Well, at least it's work...

I JUST CALLED TO SAY...
 
Well, here's the conundrum of the day...do I make the calls? My wife is more nervous than I am...of course, she's 7-months pregnant, but she's understandibly nervous about the lack of action on the part of the job search. Not by me, but by those who are lucky enough to get the package from me...resume and stuff. Virtually all of the postings I find for people in my line of work say "No calls" and some are even what they call, "stealth openings"...let me explain:
 
Stealth openings are positions that are currently filled by someone else and management is secretly looking for someone to replace them...so they can (to use a popular phrase) "move in a different direction." Very little information is displayed by these openings other than what the basic job might be, a general area where it might be, and an anonymous email address to send information to. There's not much to go on in the way of tailoring a resume or audition tape to send...so you just have to rely on your gut instinct when applying for these openings.
 
Email kind of scares me a little too. I love the internet and the immediate availability of information - sending and receiving...but it doesn't give you the kind of security you have with physically mailing something. Often, I'll email something off and wonder - did it go out, did the person receive it, are they reading it, do they have a spam blocker that causes them to delete it before they read it, or do attachments scare them from opening something? I've sent a lot of stuff and I'll never know if I met the qualifications they're seeking or if they even read what I sent.

Now, to the infamous NO CALLS angle. As a former Program Director, and with my 10-years experience in hiring/firing situations, when I posted a job opening on a radio trade website and I said, "No Calls"...I meant it. If someone were to call me after sending me their stuff, I figured they were either stupid or couldn't read. After all, if they can't follow a simple statement like NO CALLS...how do I expect they'll be able to follow simple instructions once they're hired?

BUT...

I'm in that kind of a position...people around me are urging me to call after I sent my stuff...wait a sufficient amount of time, then place a courtesy call. I know that if they just talk to me in person, I can talk myself into a job...

Well? Do I call or not?

I think the only compromise I can come up with is to follow up an email message to each of the places I have sent my stuff to...I'll let you know if it works.

IT WAS A DARK AND SERIOUS NIGHT...
 
Okay, so the word is out now. I know some of you read the Post and Courier article about the changes at my former employer...including the first public response to what reasons were behind my dismissal. I still don't think it's all that fair for me to start ranting and raving about what was said, what was not said, how it may not be all the answers people are seeking. I'm still going to hold to my own values and say what I've said to a number of people who were kind enough to participate in the show...and those that come from the left side of the political spectrum...I'm going to "suck it up, and move on" and not dwell on the past. I have a responsibility to my family not to wallow in self-pity and post-traumatic-historical-analysis...because it will only delay my future success.
 
I am actively seeking employment elsewhere. I hope something comes up very soon, I think that's fairly obvious...but so far, not much has happened in response to my inquiries. Now, I could take the opportunity to respond, and I think I will...although, it will only be to what some of you have written me. I'm trying to have a little fun, here...and not be so serious...
 
I've left off the names and email addresses of those of you who have posted on the comment section and have written personally to me via email. I've also eliminated (edited) some of the more "blue" or "unsafe" language (and helped as best I could on spelling):
 

I am shocked and p***ed that 730 has let you go.  Not just as a talk show host but completely?  I truly feel someone fell down and bumped their damn head.  Just when Charleston gets an informative / interesting format that was both educational and beneficial , some Bozo removes it.  And for what?

 
Well, you'll have to read the article in the Post and Courier for those kind of answers. I don't have any answers myself. I didn't have any indication anyone was unhappy with my performance, I didn't have any indication of a new direction management wanted to take, I didn't have any reason to believe anyone was unhappy with what I was doing. I'm not going to guess because I honestly don't know...next?
 

I cannot tell you how disappointed I am your show has been replaced. I don't have much time to keep up with local and world news. Your show was it every day for me. You also kept me in stitches laughing at some of your crazy listeners calling in. Malcolm and Crazy Steve were at the top of the list. The words, "cutting edge" and "progressive" are how I would describe you and your show. I am sorry the station is turning PC and allowing "Powder Puff" talk on during such an important time slot. I think two weeks is enough time to give this l**ser a chance. I will have to listen to cable news to glean some information about what is going on around me.

 
Seriously? I didn't set out to be cutting edge or using callers to keep you in stitches. I am not a trained professional comedian, so I'm happy you found some entertainment value in what I brought to the airwaves. However, the use of the word "progressive" kind of scares me a little...that's usually reserved for liberals to describe themselves when they don't want to tell you the truth. That was a joke, by the way...get it?...Next...
 

I'm glad I found your site, because I have been very confused by the changes.  When I heard "***phy" on the radio two weeks ago I just assumed it was a joke.  That you must be on vacation or something.  Don't know what happened with the job, but 730 made a HUGE mistake.  To be blunt, this ***phy character S***S!  I have been forced to 1250 a.m. Not only is this guys voice horrible, but he is a flaming liberal who basically talks about nothing. I emailed the program director at 730 to find out just what the hell happened.  Of course he would not say anything except that "you departed on good terms".

 
Yes, we parted on good terms. Tell others about the site...cause there's a DONATION button on the home page for people to express their feelings in more tangible ways. That's a joke, by the way. Okay, another one?
 

I hope you will remain encouraged during this time and have total faith you will be placed in a market where your talents will be used to the best of your ability. Thanks for providing the Charleston market some rather entertaining radio. You did a wonderful job after Mr Graham left. Although I was miffed with the Jeff Lewis situation but then again it's Talk Radio and anything can happen when Management gets an Idea. God bless you and your family.

 
Now, that's more like it. Straightforward, honest...and extremely appreciated. A little dark, but still leaves me an encouraging boost of self-esteem. I can't thank you enough for the nice words...my wife reads these too. Now, one final late entry, folks -- 
 

I just wrote my letter to **ul ***ith, blasting him for his Post & Courier comment that called Greg Alan's political talk "dark and serious". I also told sarcastically congratulated him for WSC "pulling a Spain" and catering to those squeaky anticapitalist wheels that make of the "noisy minority".

 
Lighten up, pal...

WELL, IT'S OFFICIAL
 
This is the longest stint I have had involuntarily unemployed. Today is my two-week anniversary...I'm starting to get a little nervous. The only other time I was released of my duties, I secured a job rather quickly...mostly because it was early in my career and I would have taken anything at that point...and did. I was fired on a Friday back in 1992, applied on a Monday, interviewed on a Wednesday, and hired to start the following Monday. So, as you can imagine, this is a new experience for me. One of the difficulties in this business is deciding where you want to go and what you want to do. Since I limit myself to Talk Radio, and specifically a similar market size, you can see how difficult it can be.
 
One of the most nerve-wracking things is sitting at home waiting for the phone to ring. My wife and I are at the point that we're actually disappointed when the phone rings and it's a friend or relative. Every time it rings, we have that look - "This might be it" - and make sure it rings at least twice before we pick up. We don't want to seem too eager...ha ha.
 
I'm just waiting for that ONE call...because I know that once I get a call from someone expressing interest, the ball is in my court...and I'm a pretty good interviewee. I only want to win in this business...and help my employer make a lot of money (because I'll get a cut eventually). Right now, I'm relying on a lot of intangibles...
 
The Resume - is it brief enough but inclusive? Does it give someone an idea of what I've done? Should I have made it 5-pages like I could have instead of ONE?
 
The Philosophy - I tried to think of everything that I could that would be of interest to a prospective employer...my Programming Philosophy...how to do things to be successful and some of the tips and tricks I learned in my previous 15-years in this crazy business. One of the scary things is a prospective Program Director looking at that for a talk host opening...and feeling a little threatened..."Is this guy gunning for MY job? Can he work FOR me?"...PD's are very protective of their jobs and somewhat insecure...I was. Apparently not enough, though.
 
The Demo - Again, I go back to what I said in a previous post: How in the world do you compress 2-years of what I would consider outstanding moments, into 6-minutes of audio? I've done a lot of things where the tape machine wasn't rolling...and some of what I did have, I don't have access to anymore after I left the building. The April Fools jokes (which were spectacular), the spontaneous brilliance, and the planned and organized things that were really good. I try to explain to everyone I send it to that it's only a SAMPLE of what I'm capable of...that's the reason for wanting that opportunity to talk to someone in person or over the phone...because once they do, I can sell the rest of the 92,034-minutes of airtime over the last two years of shows.
 
One other question, if a job posting says "NO CALLS"...how long should I wait before I ignore that order and call THEM? Or does it mean they won't call me?
 
Applications to: Infinity Broadcasting has a nice searchable website...after narrowing it down from the 180-stations they own to the few News/Talkers...I found ONE job opening in San Antonio, TX. A good market...hope they call.
 
One other note - There will be a somewhat different look to the blog coming soon...there are some changes in font capability, easier links, images, even audio and more...so if it looks a little weird, be patient...

MORE BUSY STUFF

Boy, this being unemployed stuff is hard work. I've received email after email after email...as well as comments some of you dear readers are leaving on the posts. I think I've responded with each and every one of them, but let me know if I miss anyone.

Most of you have been very supportive and wanting questions answered as to how this happened and what may be going on with the station. I wish I could answer all of them with more exact information, but there are a lot of things that prevent me from sharing what I know. Mostly, out of professional courtesy...but also because it would violate an agreement I signed before I left. It will all become clear to you in short order, though. I know that may sound strange to a lot of you considering how I was treated (fairly well, considering), but it's the way I like to do business. For some of you, it's a sense of loss and confusion...but as I've explained, it's just how things are done when a station wants to take a new direction.

My wife is the worst...ranting occasionally (in her pregnant state, it's not that unusual) about what they replaced me with, what she dislikes about the new guy, and all that stuff. But every time she does (and some of you do too), I remind her of some of the emails and criticism I received when I took over. Boy, did I get it! There are still some people today who despise me for "firing Michael Graham" and will never forgive me for it...despite the fact I had nothing to do with him leaving. The same goes for Richard Todd and Jeff Lewis. I had a hand in those two decisions. This new guy is generating a lot of complaints...but remember, I'm only GETTING complaints...the station is probably getting a lot too, but they're also getting positive ones I imagine.

I wish I could be around for a long time to see what shakes out of the changes...and there are more changes to come, believe me. Three months from now, most won't remember what all the dust-ups were about or even who I was. That again, is the nature of the business. Some loyal listeners will abandon the station...that always happens...but some new listeners will enjoy the changes and the station will continue to build. That is, unless they're really making a mistake based on a mis-read of the market...then, those people who made the changes will be held accountable...BUT I STILL WON'T BE BACK! No one is going to give me a call at my future new job site and beg me to return...sorry, it's not going to happen.

More tomorrow...

Applications today for: A station in Portland, Maine sounded interesting to me today. I enjoy the coastal life and figure a switch from fresh Atlantic shrimp to Northern Atlantic lobster wouldn't be all that bad. The quality of life in the Portland area sounded extremely interesting. It's a lovely city (unless the brochures are completely spinned-up). It's a smaller market, but that's okay if the other stuff works out.

OKAY, THE WIFE IS OFFICIALLY GOING NUTS

Being out of the "biz" for a while is forcing my wife to hear my laments at the current status of the political/issues scene. I've always said that being on the air for that 3-hours is theraputic...and this past week has proven it. I'm almost to the point where I can't watch the news and read the paper for fear that my tongue will get me in trouble with the wife. In the past, she could aways say, "Save it for the radio," but not this time. I have to vent to her because she's the only one listening...patiently, I might add. She's a peach.

I mean, just look at what I've missed since then...and a sample of what I would be saying if I were on the air:

1. John Kerry and John Edwards. Boy, where to start. Ever get the feeling that this is an "arranged marriage" between the two? It's like those people in India who set up the weddings and marriages long before their children are old enough to understand what's going on. Don't forget, John Kerry is the one who said at one point early in the campaign, "People always make the MISTAKE of looking SOUTH...Al Gore proved you could be President without winning one southern state." If choosing a southerner as a running mate is all it takes to win the south, the south will NEVER rise again.

2. Ron Reagan Jr at the Democrat convention. So, they LIKE Reagan now? Are the Republicans going to counter-attack with Micheal Reagan at their convention? I'm sure the Democrats are continuing to rely on their constituents' ignorance here...guessing that most people will think that Ron Reagan Jr represents the entire Reagan family opinion. Are they really that dumb? Well, I suppose if that makes up a majority of reasons people still VOTE Democrat - because their daddy did or because they always do - I think it's a safe assumption that's what they're thinking.

3. Is it just me or have the daily run-downs of people dying in Iraq been less dramatic? I've noticed...but perhaps thats because I haven't been listening to the radio much since I lost my job. I'm almost beginning to understand why people outside of the news media go about their lives with a lack of interest in politics and issues until it really matters.

Whew...I feel better. Sure wish I had a microphone, though. It would have sounded a lot better than it reads...

Job update: No call-backs so far...the search continues. I really would like to hear from the station in Indianapolis...it sounds like an ideal position for me. Remember, it's not who you know in this business, it's how you sound.

HUMBLED

Not only is my confidence a little shaken recently, but I have become more humbled by some unbelievable generosity. I was somewhat kidding when I put the donation button on the home page...an experiment, really...and so far, well...I'm really touched. And I mean that. Most people don't want to be listed on the website - I guess THAT was a bad idea. But the total donated is $160. I can tell you it is being put to good use, and not spent on anything we don't need. My wife is going to get a new pair of glasses (spares) before our insurance runs out at the end of the month and we start paying the COBRA (which we're being told is around $900 a month). We'll be having a garage sale one of these days too, so I'll let you know when (and where) that is...who knows, we can make a party out of it.

Oh, one more thing about the donations. It no longer bothers me that when you donate you get to see the real me...the TRUE last name. I forgot that would happen when I used my PayPal account that it would be in my name. As long as I don't give out YOUR names, I ask that you don't share MY last name. Greg Alan is still my real name, just not all of it.

The realtor we have chosen is confident we'll be able to get our money out of the house we purchased a little more than a year ago. We've set a price to cover our expenses, and leave us some negotiating room...and maybe even a little profit. Based on the current trends...most homes in our neighborhood don't last long on the market, so that's a good thing. In one respect, I hope it doesn't sell TOO quickly - we need to know where we're going. My wife is due to give birth in late September, so we're taking a gamble by listing the home this early...but we have to.

I mowed the lawn today...when the realtor takes pictures, we want to make sure it looks the best. We'll also be packing some things this week, but I have to say it's a little difficult with me taking care of the baby at the same time. My wife is still taking outpatient treatment for counseling, but she's usually home now by 3. I swear, I will never - ever - take a poke at women's work at home. She's kind of liking the arrangement...saying goodbye to me in the morning, and me waiting at home for her to come home. Weird. She even said to me today, "I'm glad you got fired." Imagine that...

As for the job search: I got a response from Akron, OH. They have an opening for the #1 station there, WNIR. Not too impressed with their website...looks a little dumpy based on some of the photos. They want a full show sent to them on CD...so I'll give it a shot. No word back from Raleigh or Indianapolis. But I put "Read Receipts" on the emails and so far none of them have come back as being opened...must still be vacation time for some in radio.

It's funny also, not a single station within Clear Channel has responded to a mass mailing to all News Talk stations stating my qualifications and availability...hmmm...they said they would put the word out...wonder what they said?

A DAY OFF, FINALLY

Boy, being out of work is a tough job. I've cared for my child for the past week, giving my wife a break...and I gotta tell you, it's a tough job. But today, she's giving me the day off. Still, I'm going to take my family to the beach and bring some sand back with us. That's what always happens at the beach, doesn't it?

It's still a bit of a scary time for me, though. I talked to my mother and she shocked me a bit with those most hated words, "maybe you should think of doing something else"...HORRORS! Me? I should be one of those guys I get emails from all the time that "used to be in radio and miss the hell out of it"? I swear, everyone who had anything to do with radio and left because the money wasn't good enough or they weren't good enough says the same thing.

I started in the business because I loved what I do...my first job barely afforded me the opportunity to rent a movie once in a while. Money isn't the reason I got into the business, so it shouldn't be the reason I get out. Of course, there's a little voice in the back of my mind that says, "Look pal, you're more than just yourself now...more than just a couple with the freedom to do what you want...you have to be responsible now."

Nope. I'm sticking to it...it's only been a week. I can last about 2 more months...then, I'll have to start paying attention to that voice. But I'm still confident something will come up.

EMailed packages sent to: Gainesville, FL; Akron, OH; Raleigh, NC.

No donations yet...but it's an experiment, so people might think it's a joke. If anyone does donate, I'll let you know who and how much.

OH, ONE MORE THING! I have the dirt on what went down with the changes. I promise, when I get my "divorce papers" response, I'll clue you in. It's big...really big. Bigger than just Charleston radio...

I GOT MY CONFIDENCE BACK

Getting fired in front of a lot of people is tough. I'm not saying literally, but I think most people know now that I was released from my obligation. I mean, really...imagine yourself being fired in front of perhaps a thousand people, most of whom you never met personally...it's very tough. It hurts in a couple of ways.

1. I don't get to explain to anyone LIVE and most people will find out slowly when they realize the show isn't on anymore. I get a mess of emails all wondering why I left, what happened, am I sick, did I die in a car crash, what the hell is going on? And all I can do is simply say, "They decided to move in a different direction"

2. People who liked the show will think I abandoned them because most people won't take the time to ask. They'll think I'm distant and don't value them enough to say goodbye, because they don't understand the nature of the radio business.

3. People who may not have liked the show or the opinion within the show will cheer the news and claim victory for themselves. Perhaps because they've lost many logical arguments on some policy issue.

My wife and I have been having a rough time of it figuring out our next move. Should I leave radio? Move home? Go down a peg in what I can/will do in my career? I mean, we are in a very rough spot...financially and medically. Sure, I got a severence, but my wife is at 7-months and we have a car payment, mortgage, COBRA health insurance will be more than the mortgage, food, another baby...the pressure is incredible. My wife has had a difficult pregnancy too...post partum depression last time around and all the stress this past week has put her in a situation where we need to get her some long-term care. She checked into a facility today.

I even went so far as to put a DONATION button on the homepage. Silly, isn't it? It took me 5-hours to do it...10-seconds of actual programming time, and 4-hours 50-minutes to consider what people would think if I did. So here's my spin and I'm sticking to it:

I can better help the economy and George W Bush by keeping my name off the list the media loves to read on the news: "First time filings for unemployment benefits shot up last month..."

So I lost my confidence for a while. It's back today, though. I got my first call-back for a job opportunity and it looks pretty good at this point. Very encouraging, especially when you consider where it is - location-wise, it's close. I'd be able to manage driving back and forth on weekends while my wife stays here to tend the house and the doctor and for the birth of the new baby. Eventually, we won't have far to move when the situation gets better.

Wish me luck. I'll keep in touch.

THIS COULD ACTUALLY SAVE YOU TAX MONEY

I put a donation button on the home page today. Give until it hurts...because it hurts me to do it.

THE DIVORCE

Well, I did a really dumb thing today. I'm not supposed to be all emotional, but I had to go to the station today and drop off some paperwork. I didn't want to go past the security door, and I almost hoped no one else would be in the lobby. Sure enough, one of my former co-workers at another station in the cluster was there in the lobby...one of the best guys in the business as far as I'm concerned.

I couldn't say anything other than just nod. After I dropped off the paper, I gave the receptionist a hug and I left with the other guy. We talked for a bit outside the building, but I honestly couldn't say much...I was a little shocked I was so emotional. I mean, here's a guy I'm talking to and my hands are shaking and there's a tremble in my radio-trained voice. I did all I could do to stop any water from coming out my eyes. Not much was said...we talked about corporate radio and some other stuff. He's actually thinking of getting out of the business...something that I can't bring myself to do at this point. He's hugely talented and well-loved in the community...so it would be a real loss. I was honored that some of his feelings he shared with me are due to recent events.

The dumb thing? I dropped off the wrong paper...and now I have to go back.

So far, no call backs: It's the time of the year for vacations, though. That's what I'm hanging on to...

OKAY, TIME TO GET BACK TO WORK

It's an interesting process - preparing for and sending resumes for a new job...especially radio. Not only do you have to clean up the resume (which I haven't updated in 2 years), but you have to take what audio you may have stored away and assemble it so that someone pays attention.

So I gathered some old programs and segments of programs and slapped it together. Imagine, converting a show a day for two years with all sorts of things you've done, and squeeze it down to a maximum length of 6-minutes. Reason? Most programmers (including myself) will only listen to the first 2 minutes MAX before they develop an impression about someone's skills. By the way, I'll put the six minute sample on my website soon so you can hear it too...

And yet, it takes about two weeks of programs in a new market for listeners to become accustomed to the "new guy's" style. It's even funnier when a "new guy" arrives and management goes out of their way to tell complainers to give the guy a couple of weeks before forming an opinion about him/her. This is the same management who made their decision on the first two minutes, and an hour long interview and background check.

So I was thinking...when (notice I said 'when') I get to my new position, I think I'll just do a six minute show.

Resume's sent to the following today: Kansas City, Nashville, Milwaukee, and soon Indianapolis. Waiting to hear back from Birmingham.

DISPELLING A FEW MYTHS

Gosh, I know how tough it must be to have to explain to a conspiracy believer that they're wrong. Yikes, it seems no matter how many people ask and I tell, they just don't want to believe the truth. I'm minding my own business the other day and I get a flood of emails from people who seem to believe that some BIG plan is in the works...that something is going to happen and I'll magically appear somewhere unharmed. This ain't the movies, folks...there's bound to be a happy ending, I just don't know what it is at this point.

Let me take care of a few myths:

1. I honestly believe it's just business. Anyone who's been in this as long as I have should understand that...it's a strange monster - radio - that few people who work regular jobs with a punch card and a weekly paycheck understand.

2. I left because I wanted to - WRONG. I was fired, axed, sacked, let go, dismissed, tossed, shown the door. I didn't expect it, and it was a complete surprise to me.

2. I can be brought back with a mass email campaign - NOT TRUE. It's a nice thought, but as I stated before, it won't work. I am gone, and I won't be coming back to Charleston at the same station.

3. I'll show up at another station in Charleston - NOT LIKELY. I'm not applying anywhere in Charleston. If someone wants to make an offer, it would have to be a hefty one for me to consider it...especially at a former competitor. It has to be the right station too, not some 5-watt bulb in the middle of nowhere (hello 950!) and a good company (Citadel is scary). Nothing limits me from entertaining it, but I'd only do it if I were a Charleston lifer...and I'm not. Charleston is market #89 in the country...and my next step should be UP.

I know there are a lot of conspiracy minded weirdos out there (hello Michael Moore!), but it's RADIO people...not a steel plant shutting down and moving to Mexico displacing 400-workers. I'm just ONE guy who had a radio show.

I'll get another one soon...WITHOUT the government retraining services, thank you.

GOSH, IT'S RATHER FLATTERING, BUT...

Okay...I've been on that side of the table too. I've had quite a few people emailing recently asking me what they can do about my job/family situation. My answer? Send cold hard cash.

Seriously, there's nothing you can do about it...and if I were on the other end (and I WAS a few times) I would personally print out the "complaints" we got and pass them around to others. I got hundreds of them...in favor of a firing/hiring I had a hand in, change in programming, switching of shows, changing music, etc. Every single one of them met with a lot of complaints. I passed them around to virtually everyone who needed to see them...and told them to ignore them and they would eventually go away. It was only the nitwits who don't really GET radio that pay attention to them. Ironically, it was my job to calm those people down in a situation where they "felt" like they were getting a lot of complaints...one such person in another situation in particular is one of those who lowered the axe on me.

It's like this folks: On average, a radio show will get 1-2% of the current listeners calling in. These are mostly balanced in favor of what the host is saying. If the radio host were to base his entire structure of the show on those 1-2% of the audience, he/she would be ignoring or risking the favor of 98% of the audience. Stupid, right?

Ask any political pollster, or statistical analyst if 1-2% extrapolations are worth anything.

It's the same thing with complaints. Most people will only write to complain...about 2-percent of the audience will actually set fingers to keyboard and tap out a complaint. So why base decisions on that small percentage who complain? In extraordinary circumstances, this example might be overuled...but that usually involves pain, death, and physical injury...not 1 radio show among 27 others in the same city at the same time.

Nice sentiment, but nothing beats cash.

OKAY FOLKS, GET OVER IT (SAID IN A NICE WAY)

Wow, the reaction has been rather kind...some have kicked me a little and that's okay too...but mostly a positive send-off, and I thank all of you.

As long as this is a confession of a radio talk show host, let me tell you how these things happen:

1. Yes, it was a surprise to me as much as most of you. It's how things are done in this business though...secretly, covertly, and behind the scenes. I understand that because I've been on the other side of the table too. For instance, we were secretly dealing for more than a month to secure a big fish (as a previous example). Two things had to be accomplished or the deal we were working on wouldn't have happened. The competition couldn't know, and only a few select people sworn to secrecy could know what we were attempting. As I said, I'm not bitter or angry...I'm disappointed, sure, but that's a very personal reaction related to my family needs and my pride.

2. Once you're gone, you're gone. It is extremely rare for an individual leaving a station for one reason or another to be able to say anything like a goodbye. In some cases, it might violate compensation and severance agreements - in others, it's in bad form. When a station wants to move in a different direction, the WORST thing that could happen is to have reminders and emotional barriers to hurdle. You have to erase the chalkboard or the new direction will take longer to accomplish and be a detriment to the new host who will have to overcome a lot more than the "newness" nervousness. Again, I've been on the other side of the table...most of us have gotten pretty good at identifying station promos, liners, music, website, and other reminders well beforehand for instant deletion once it's done.

3. Listeners don't understand a whole lot of the biz. Even after being married for as long as I have, my wife STILL doesn't get most of why things are the way they are in radio. Longevity is unusual, loyalty is non-existent, business is business, and it's a SHOW. I understand all of that and did when I got into it...sure, some of it you experience along the way, but it's part of the craft. I once got fired for wearing shorts to work on a Saturday while in the middle of Chemo treatments. You'd think that someone would have a heart, but that's just the way it is...so this adventure is no different.

4. Performance is more than just ratings. I happened to be more than just a three hour a day show host. I was also Program Director...and one of the few News Talk Program Directors who was also attempting to do a good three hour talk show. My days were very long...three hours of show prep, and 4-hours to work on Programming issues, then 3-hours of a show. Looking back, I burned out. My first duty was to the radio show in my mind, and I neglected a lot of the programming issues, primarily communicating a plan to the staff. Of course, listeners never knew about any of this outside of an occasional "on-air" goof of some kind. There were days when I only found enough time to prepare for a three hour show 1/2-hour before it aired.

I'll share more in the future, but I wanted to thank everyone who has responded with some very kind words. To those of you who relish the news because of some disagreement or loyalty elsewhere, think about that for a minute.

My family will be fine...I'm confident. While it is severely difficult with another child due in September, we'll manage. I've been through some very tough situations before, but I've got a great family support system and others willing to be there for us.

That which does not destroy you, only makes you stronger.

WHAT'S THE MATTER, CAT GOT YER TONGUE?

Sorry folks, it's the end of the road for the 'ole Greg Alan Show in Charleston...I'm packing up and moving on. Don't know where, for now...but me and my old lady got big plans, ya see?

So, truly, thanks for everything and be good little conservatives. Optimistic, upbeat, daring, confident, and never let them see you sweat.

Give the new guy a chance...it's a good station and good people work there and really care about their craft.

As they used to say in my old wax-spinnin' days - we'll see you on the flip side. Now I gotta go git me some of that gomment money.

Spread the word: I'm FINE!!!

And if you desperately need to...email: greg@gregalan.net

MORE TO COME...I'M OPTIMISTIC

Third post in a row today. It's the end of my employment with the station I was working for.

I'll keep in touch. Refer inquiries to EMAIL (greg@gregalan.net)

TODAY'S REAL POST

I know this is unusual, twice in one day. But I felt that the post below was time-sensitive. Turns out I WAS first with the observation.

Anyway...on with the real post for today:

I have heard for some time now from listeners that we no longer have a two-party system...that Republicans and Democrats are pretty much the same. On some issues, it’s a close tie...but there may be welcome news on the horizon. We ARE seeing a separation of the parties.

One small aside: It’s strange to hear those that complain about how similar the parties are, lament the fact that America is deeply divided.

Anyway...we have a political candidate who is actively courting the conspiracy theory rage against the Bush machine crowd. These are the angered "cafe revolutionaries" who have a litany of grudges against the status quo. We have national party leaders actively cheering Michael Moore during a screening of his Bush-bashing conspiracy laden schlock film Fahrenheit 9/11. It used to be bad news for Republicans to have the likes of David Duke calling himself a Republican when he ran for the US Senate...yet Democrats welcome (or at least avoid confronting) these nutcases to their constituency.

Thankfully, recently the Bush administration dubbed them, "The Coalition of the Wild-Eyed"...very appropriate.

So, I guess I want to say to those members of the above who believe...

--The Republicans impeached Clinton for adultery and nothing more and they want payback

--The Bush Supreme Court stole the election in 2000

--The President KNEW

--It’s a war for oil buddies

--Bush pre-ordained an Iraq invasion prior to September 11th

--Iraq was fine while contained by the UN

--We need France to really make our military better...

Your party members may be paying you lip-service to get your cash and passion invested in their campaign, but your anger isn’t a means to a coherent policy. If Democrat party leaders were smart, they will soon start ignoring you – and maybe even actively disassociating themselves from your weirdness. But here’s the good news...we ARE seeing the separation of the parties for now...and because of it, you’ll always be out of power. The American choice between Democrats and Republicans has always been about smaller vs larger government. Democrats have been losing...a lot. So Democrats must rely on your fears, your anger, and irrational emotion-filled conspiracy theories...and the American people (as we recently saw) appreciate the positive and hopeful vision of a "shining city on a hill"...Ronald Reagan still lives.

ANOTHER MEMBER OF MOVEON.ORG

I can't believe I'm the first and only person to do this, but here's a quick quiz:

Who said it? Saddam? or John Kerry/Ted Kennedy/Al Gore/Micheal Moore/Howard Dean?

"this is all theater, the real criminal is Bush"

and

...U.S. and multinational troops in Iraq were not "coalition troops but invasion troops"

I can't tell the difference, can you?