I would like to share the story of the first time I heard my own voice on the radio in full. I sounded terrible! Thankfully, I had a great morning host/mentor at the time that believed airchecking myself consistently was the only way to get better. It was also the best way to make me sulk into a puddle ashamed that I just started doing radio for a living and sounded like that. I remember being like “that’s m...No way!” I was basically in tears thinking I’d lose my fantastic job.
I was able to jump on the number one morning show in the area at 19 as the cohost with a company that had stellar talent, it was an opportunity of a lifetime to me. I heard this little girl that was so pitchy. I sounded like Mickey Mouse. I couldn’t understand why people said I had a voice for radio. That voice? That’s NOT a voice for radio. I was quickly reminded by that morning host that we were not made to hear our own voices and even some of the best singers think they sound terrible because we hear ourselves differently. I also lacked the confidence I needed to speak from the deepest part of my soul. I was a diamond in the rough as my morning partner said and listening back to old airchecks my voice has definitely become more polished and bright. Thanks to "Magic" for seeing this diamond in the rough.
– Charene Herrera | Riverton, Wyo.
Charene Herrera is program director/morning show host with County 10 in Riverton, Wyo.
You were just glued to the screen. That song came on the radio. The best NAB Show you ever attended.
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