ALEX TEAR
PROGRAM DIRECTOR
WKST 96.1 KISS-FM
(Pittsburgh, PA)

As the programming guru for a hit music station, Alex Tear is always listening, observing, searching and staying one step ahead of his audience. He must know what they like before they do. It's his job.

Whether or not he likes what they do doesn't actually matter. While his is largely a vicarious experience fueled by research and careful study, Alex is known for following his gut. Whether it's selecting music or launching a promotion, his success at the helm these past six years is most likely the result of his instinct. If he wasn't in radio, he'd probably make an excellent profiler.

But above all, Alex is a consummate diplomat, a gentleman. His power is in subtlety and graciousness; he is a guy everybody likes -- even the competition. Alex will often refer to the time he got fired from a station in his early years as the best thing that could've happened to his career because it taught him to be humble. He learned a quiet authority wields the most power and is never above giving back, whether it's to his staff, associates or up and coming broadcasters.

What is the most common mistake made by people just breaking into radio?
The most common mistake made is not paying attention to detail. Students or early broadcasters breaking into the industry also need to have strong persistency and create short and long-term goals. You create your breaks, nobody owes you. Your attitude will determine your altitude. Check your ego at the door, there is always somebody coming up behind you. One thing to remember, broadcasting -- radio is a lifestyle.

What have been some of the highlights of your career?
Programming WGRD, WDRQ & WDVD.

Who is the person who influenced you most?
Many influences, no single person. A collective of persons that I have worked with through the years. I took the positive traits and attitudes from many and created my own vision and ideals. IF there was one huge influence, Scott Shannon and Steve Kingston would be closest. Consultant Mike McVay also gave tremendous insight and support in the beginning of my programming career.

What do you consider the largest challenge in radio today?
Balance. Keeping track of all the small details. If you take care of the small details, the big ones work themselves through.

Alex and WDRQ's Jay Towers pictured with the Stanley Cup.

Links to MORE about Alex Tear:

"Alex Tear Named PD at WKST"
(FMQB, 10/21/05)