As the New Year begins, so does another year for Triscina Grey, the areas longest running midday radio personality and full-time radio host on WHUR 96.3FM. However, her triumphs were not given to her with a silver spoon.
Triscina Grey is a full-time radio host on WHUR 96.3FM. (Courtesy Photo)
“Being at WHUR has been an amazing experience,” she said. “It’s just been a blessing to grow with WHUR since 1991 and connect with my listeners because they mean the world to me.” Grey attributes her success in radio to being able to adjust with the times.
However, it hasn’t always been an easy road.
“I have to move with the times. If I don’t, I would have stayed stuck,” she said, referring to the radio’s move to a digital platform, a new Portable People Meter ratings system and succeeding in a heavily male-dominated industry.
Grey said, throughout her career she had to “perfect her craft” by rotating through several shifts, putting in long hours, relocating to positions on both coasts in the U.S and listening to critiques.
“I have always been open to constructive criticism…and always know that I can get better,” she said, mentioning the radio industry is very competitive and that many aspiring radio personalities, including herself, face the lack of available full time positions.
“Sometimes I had to go backwards to move forwards,” she said. “I never gave up.”
Her determination to be the best at what she does also helps her structure her show by appealing to fans with Cafe 96, a lunch hour segment; “Get Off Your Buns and Move,” a health initiative and a daily inspirational “10:10 a.m. Mini Midday Message”
“I’m so grateful for the loyalty I have from my listeners. I am very humbled by that,” she said. “But my mission is for them.”
Even through the hard areas, Grey said she still has a strong support unit behind her. “I am appreciative for General Manager Jim Watkins…and the belief he has had in me throughout the years,” she said. “He always believed in me and my talent.”
Throughout her career, she recalled traveling to Brazil, China, and Aruba using her social gift to “reach out and touch” people, noting fond experiences that included getting a birthday shout out from Stevie Wonder and conducting interviews with musical legends such as Smokey Robinson, Patti LaBelle, Aretha Franklin, and many others. Grey also said she is scheduled to host a world tour to Italy this year from April 9 to April 19.
She said she doesn’t just joyfully reflect on certain experiences in her career, to her they all had some unique aspect that made them special.
“I think every moment that I go on stage is a highlight for me,” she said. “All the moments are special when out on stage hosting concerts, shows and plays.”
As the “Queen of The Midday,” Grey has consistently ranked as number one with all listeners, including WHUR’s target audience. Her show airs Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
As a next step in her career, Grey said she aspires to transition more into television. “It is something that is on my bucket list.”
“First and foremost I’ve learned how important it is to give all glory and praises to the heavenly father,” she said. “You cannot take anything for granted.”
Part of her advice to aspiring talent is to volunteer in your field. “You have to do it, you have to be, you have to become it,” she said, mentioning that along with getting practical experience, young professionals also need to network and portray a high level of ambition.
Interact with Grey on Twitter @Triscinagrey, Facebook page: Friends of Triscina Grey and on www.TriscinaGrey.com.