Morning Show Boot Camp 37 begins tomorrow at the Austin Marriott in Austin, Texas. As attendees make their way to the Lone Star State today, we wrap up our three-part preview series with insights from two well-known industry voices.
Fred, morning host and leader of The Fred Show on 103.5 KISS FM in Chicago, will be part of a featured panel titled “Masters of the Mic“. He’ll be joined by JohnJay & Rich, Roula from Roula, Ryan and Eric on KRBE in Houston, and Young Joc.
Fred Joins “Masters of the Mic” Panel
“Our panel has been described by the host, Dennis Clark, as an opportunity to ‘share success stories while inspiring the audience of morning radio brethren attendees with positive stories of being an integral piece on a major morning show, building a brand, ratings pressures, being competitive to win, and connecting with the audience, and more.’ I’m honored to be on stage with JohnJay & Rich, Roula from Roula, Ryan and Eric on KRBE in Houston and Young Joc. A special thanks to Don Anthony for his hard work in organizing this event for so long.”
Steve Reynolds on the Real Value of Boot Camp
Joining Fred in offering perspective is talent coach Steve Reynolds of The Reynolds Group. While he values the formal sessions, Reynolds emphasizes that some of the most meaningful moments happen outside the panel rooms.
“The atypical panels that will tilt how I look at things — and those that will teach me what I don’t know and challenge my conventional wisdom. Honestly, the best part of Boot Camp is the hallway chats with people I know and others I don’t. I trust that there will be many people who ask me a question or share how they’ve evolved their show that will stimulate me mentally and advance my skillset as a talent coach.”
Spotlight on Emotional Intelligence and Mental Health
Reynolds says the conference has continually tapped into the emotional core of what talent is going through.
“MSBC has always had its finger on the pulse of what’s happening emotionally for talent. Their groundbreaking sessions on mental health are a case in point. This year’s session on becoming independent and fostering new ways to stand out and make money is always well-attended and helps remind creative people of the need to have a business plan, too, for success.”
“For me, the biggest takeaways are learning this stuff so I can help my shows, too. And just reconnecting with some standout ‘we not me’ people who are always looking to elevate everyone in radio is what I look forward to.”
Fred Reflects on Connection and Gratitude
Fred shares that the conference is not just about the sessions—it’s about community.
“MSBC is the one time of year when so many people in the industry that I like and respect are in one place. It is also an opportunity to meet some new faces.”
He continued, “It is an honor to be a panelist and to represent our show in front of so many shows, air talent and executives I admire. It is surreal and humbling that so many people I look up to would be interested in my perspective. (they might really be scrolling on TikTok) But I am grateful to be a part of it.”
Advice for First-Time Attendees
For first-time attendees, Reynolds offers encouraging words and a reminder that MSBC is built around accessibility and connection.
“Regardless of how high up someone might be in a company, how iconic a talent might be in their market, or be someone from a smaller market looking to learn, every single person there is open to talking.”
“If you are a first timer, never, ever, ever hesitate walking up to anyone, extending your hand, and introducing yourself. The talent there are believers in radio, as is every corporate person attending. They want to get to know you, so never fear making that bold move — because you will find your people. And when you do, conversations and relationships happen where we all get better.”
Barrett Media Will Be On Site
Barrett Media Founder Jason Barrett and Stephanie Eads will be attending this year’s Boot Camp. They are among those who look forward to connecting with fellow attendees.
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Jeff Lynn serves as Editor of Barrett Media’s Music Radio coverage. Prior to joining Barrett Media, Jeff spent time programming in Milwaukee, Omaha, Cleveland, Des Moines, and Madison for multiple radio groups, including iHeartMedia, Townsquare Media, NRG Media, and Entercom (now Audacy). He also worked as a Country Format Editor for All Access until the outlet shut down in August 2023.
To get in touch with Jeff by email, reach him at Jeff@BarrettMedia.com.
