How to get the podcast with Shannon Beaver

So, I'm starting to think that 2020 just isn't my year.  Am I right, people?!?  I say this knowing that we're all in this pandemic together, and there are so many individuals that are having a way more difficult year than I am.  For starters, I haven't lost a loved one to Covid-19.  My family is completely healthy and happy, although my two sons have a tendency to whine a lot.  But in this completely divided country, I'm fairly certain we can all agree on one thing:  2020 fucking sucks.  However, despite the frustrating moments, I'm determined to keep my perspective. The older I get, the more I realize that one of the keys to surviving in this world is having a healthy dose of perspective. With that said, I'll ask your forgiveness if I lose it anytime in the next 5 minutes.

On Monday, November 2nd, 2020, a little more than a month shy from celebrating my 11th anniversary with the "Johnjay and Rich" show, IHeartMedia told me not to come in anymore. The official reason given was a "Reduction In Force" that affected not only me, but employees nationwide.  It's already happened twice this year to other former co-workers.  This time, I was the one hit with friendly fire.

I can say unequivocally that being a part of the "Johnjay and Rich" show has been the highlight of my career.  It represents the longest I've ever been with one show in one city, and in this business, that's saying something.  I've been fired twice before in my life, and have experienced work environments so dysfunctional that Netflix should consider a docuseries.  But all of that changed when I arrived in Phoenix.  Both my sons were born here.  I established roots here. For me to be a part of something in radio that lasted more than a decade is nothing short of a miracle.  And in my mind, the last (almost) 11 years has produced my greatest work with moments that I will always be proudest of.

Mind if I get nostalgic for a minute?  I promise, it won't take long.  This is all very therapeutic for me  

I remember the time 5 Seconds of Summer visited our studios and I rented a limo to drive through our parking lot to their great disappointment.  Watch it HERE

There was the time we weren't invited to the iHeartRadio Music Awards and so we took a literal red carpet downtown and interviewed people like the were attending an awards show.  The Random Red Carpet!  Watch it HERE

I'll never forget the time we stuffed Suzette into a suitcase. Watch it HERE

What about the iHeart "Whistleblower", responsible for snitching on his co-workers for all the bad things they were doing?  Watch it HERE

And of course......there was Bad Comedy Guy.  This was one of my faves.  Watch it HERE

My absolute favorite and most fulfilling moments were literally anytime I had a part in helping people.  #LoveUp Moments.  Christmas Wish.  I spent thousands of dollars helping hundreds of people, all made possible because you listen to the show and you've donated your hard-earned money to buy t-shirts. I will forever be humbled by you and grateful for the resources you provided to make a difference in so many lives.  This is an unforgettable Wish. Watch it HERE

Lastly, I worked with some of the most talented broadcast professionals that I've ever encountered. I put my soul and all of my heart into the show until the last day. I will miss them. It's been a pleasure.  

I don't know what happens next.  It's very possible that working on the "Johnjay and Rich" show will be remembered as the pinnacle of my career.  It's a real possibility that my radio career is over, considering the current landscape. The industry continues to shrink and jobs are scarcer than ever.  During this trying year, I had to take a 3 week break to cool down (I struggle with anxiety), but since my return to the show last month, I've been more focused and determined than ever.  It's ironic that at this particular moment in my life I'm feeling refreshed and creative, but now I have no outlet for it.  But it's all going to come down to this: if someone likes my stuff and thinks I'm funny and thinks I'm talented enough to help them, then I'll find a job. If that doesn't happen, then I still can say that I've been luckier than most.  

In the meantime, I'll figure out something to do to keep myself entertained.  I literally applied to Costco and hope I get an interview because I want to know what it's like to have a real job!  Maybe I'll start a podcast (oh, THAT'S original) or maybe I'll keep blogging like it's 2002.  

At least 2002 was a way better year than 2020.

If you’ve made it this far, thank you for reading and keep in touch with me!  @dollabilltre