Anyone Who Had A Heart

Media teacher Addam Stobbs said in class something that stuck with me, “the best radio presenters wear their hearts on their sleeves”.

Sometimes when I say personal things on air, I’m surprised by the lovely feedback that is sent in. It makes sense; when you offer a deeper, more intimate, highly personal connection to the listener, they respond. Remember, this is often the reason people listen to the radio – for companionship. If you open up, they will be drawn to you.

I work on radio campaigns for West End productions and sometimes in a day I hear up to 20 interviews by leading presenters from all around the country. I feel like I can make a fairly objective call on which are the best. I stand by Addam’s message. Who is a good presenter? Anyone who has a heart and is willing to show it.

Good radio isn’t just about experience and preparation – it’s about how passionate and genuine you are. The listener has a pretty good bullshit detector and don’t want fakes, they like real, decent, honest people. If you want to be the best presenter you can be, just be yourself.