An Opportunity That Surprised Me!

Several years ago, I had the great fortune of having my own radio show.  At first, I was thrilled at the opportunity.  But then, I became nervous.  I began to think it through.  I had Television interviewing experience, but Radio was a whole other story.  To be an interviewer on Radio, you had to be more animated, much more interesting, and you had to tell the story with "theater of the mind!" There weren't any pictures to help the listener "see" what you are talking about.  It was then I realized that I was in "way over my head!"  I thought I could tiptoe out of the situation gracefully, but the station manager was adamant.  "You can do this," he said.  I had my doubts. Taking a deep breath didn't help.  My adrenaline was pumping, heart racing, and  panic attacks set in.  The only thing I could think about was that I had to research my topic and be on top of my game.  The topic:  Regenerative Medicine!  I am laughing now, but at the time I thought to myself, what the hell do I know about this topic? 

Google to the rescue, I researched everything I needed to know about Regenerative Medicine.  Fortunately, there was a connection in my life.  One of the largest research centers on this subject was Duke University.  Living in North Carolina, and knowing about Duke - I had made a connection.  Pages upon pages of research was done.  I felt as though I was writing a thesis on the subject - I could have gone to Grad School if I really wanted to do all this work!  In the end, I felt I was fully prepared.

The day of the Radio Show, I was nervous.  My Production Director calmed my nerves by telling me the beauty in recording a show is that he can edit it.  Music to my ears.  The guest came in.  He is the President of Nevada's Biotechnology and Bioscience Consortium and the Executive Director of Regenerative Medicine Organization.  His title intimidated me! Oh, how I wished I paid attention in my Science classes.  It was not my favorite subject! 


Tape rolled, I was cued to go, the introductions were made, and the interview started. I had a list of questions on a piece of paper, but I didn't even look.  Once I began,  I could see the expressions on my guests face.  I started to feel more comfortable and confident. I felt there was a rhythm to the interview.  Almost as though music was playing in my head.  Each question had a certain tone, and a beat.  I felt like the drummer and the orchestra was following my lead!  Quantum physics couldn't even explain the momentum.  The interview - was flawless!  Twenty minutes felt like five, and I didn't want to stop.  I was bitten by the bug! 

The PR Representative, and my guest were both impressed.  They wanted to know how I knew so much about the subject. They both mentioned that of all the interviews they had done, I was the most versed on the subject.  I smiled, and said:  "This was my first Radio interview!

The look on their faces, was priceless!