Recently one of my Idols, announced his retirement from Radio. Don Weeks long time morning host on 810AM WGY last Tuesday brought news I don’t think many could ever fathom. About half a minute later my mom instant messaged me. The moment she told me I was instantly transformed back to where my passion for radio started. Don Weeks had so much to do with where I am today, the passion I feel today, and the resolve I feel today. It brings tears to my eyes of the thought of him not being on-air.

Can you imagine the weakest point in your life? Maybe its right now, maybe it was years ago, or it has yet to come. The weakest point in my life was fourth grade through about seventh. I know seems funny, so young how is it possible? For the child of an abusive home and a little boy just struggling to read and write and keep with dyslexia, it’s possible.

I remember those days vividly, the darkness was so dense it sneaked its way into my nose, the smell, putrid. I hated waking up because I knew there was nothing but sadness for my day, It was a struggle. I felt meek, useless and a waste. Then there was Don Week’s Morning show, with a mix of comedy, entertainment, kindness and warmth Don Weeks from his seat lifted me to take on that day. Many times I could only listen for a few moments, some days I would be even lucky enough to call in. I was in heaven, I had a voice, Don’s laugh cared, I was no long some meak useless waste, I was Paul Varga and my voice was being sent through the air and into the homes of thousands. I was more than just myself. In fourth grade I was expelled from my elementary school for hurting a teacher. I was sent for my fifth and half of my sixth grade year to a special class…That’s right I rode the small bus. I was tortured when I had to leave for school because I could no longer listen. I received a gift that forever changed my life from, Dick and Audrey Tschan members of my church in Saratoga Springs NY, A simple portable Boombox. About the size of a brick, maybe a bit smaller, that boombox was glued to the side of my ear… It would change my days, because I could listen. In the long run Don Weeks changed my life. Radio Changed my life.

This passion you feel is worth it. Are you going into this crazy world of broadcasting just for yourself, to be famous? Phew, If you are its so much more than that. The impact you have on the radio and really everywhere in broadcasting. Might be life changing to someone. Maybe you have some overnight shift, or maybe some off-air gopher role. But the work you are doing IS impacting people. That is why its so important to have your priorities straight. People talk about the death of radio, but they forget the impact it can have, an IPOD will never replace a living breathing soul, that can connect, and elevate someone who may have unspeakable problems, to a level that gets them through just one more day.

Think broader as you keep on with your search. Keep these people in mind as you struggle, maybe even yourself. Yes you may never know your impact or thought/ think you will/would make an impact, but wait until about the 2nd week you are on-air and meet someone who you lift up, daily. They might not even say it but you can see it in their eyes...Its amazing.

I need to go grocery shopping, but let me leave you with a quick tip:
Use LinkdIn to find and to connect with broadcasters on a professional level, show you are serious and ask questions to help your career, remember you aren’t a fan, you are a peer.

Enjoy some life today!
Paul