With the help of this blog, I’m finding ways to shine a spotlight on some pretty awesome radio chicks that I know personally and have yet to meet; only because I feel as though it’s about time for “us” to get the special attention sometimes!
I’ve grown to meet some extraordinary women in radio, television, theater, community service, and business. I’m floored by their stories as I know you would be too!
I found out that my recent radio chick and I have the same mentors in common. You’ll read about that in her one-on-one.
Today, we turn our dials to Foxie 105 FM in Columbus, GA. Meet Georgia Ellyse, afternoon co-host for the Baby Jay and Georgia show.
Not only is Georgia a radio talent, she’s also a soon to be television star and she currently runs her own blog, Georgia’s Juice.
Here’s Georgia’s story:
Georgia Ellyse
Foxie 105 WFXE – Hip Hop/R&B – Afternoon co-host
How long have you been in the radio business?
6 years
How long were you in the television business?
I am actually just getting my foot in the door with television
What is more enjoyable/different?
I actually enjoy both. I love the freedom to be creative and silly in radio and I love music so I genuinely have a deep passion for Radio. In Television you have very hard deadlines and more structure which is different than what I’ve experienced in radio. A lot of the times you have to impromptu and go of the cusp.
Would you say it’s hard to work with/for women in radio than it is to work with/for men?
I am going to be completely transparent right now. It all depends on the woman. I have had relationships with women I work with who I grew close to like sisters and then I’ve had experiences that weren’t so great. I always try to be open when meeting new people but you can’t control how people are going to treat you. On the other hand I have had the same contrast in my experiences working for men in the business. Some took me under their wings like a little sister and others were disrespectful. At the end of the day no matter how people treat you, you gotta be focused on accomplishing what you set out to achieve.
What do you think is the most challenging being a talent in your career?
I think that being a talent in any industry is difficult. You are the product. You have to have tough skin so that when people say “no” to use you; you don’t credit it to you not being talented or good enough.
Did you (or do you) have a mentor in radio? If so, who are they and what have they helped you on in reference to your career?
There have been many! My former General Manager Kevin Quarrels & PD Candice Breedlove, Jerry Boulding (RIP), George Cook, JT at Q106.5, Anjali “The Queen B” in Tampa and Baby J my current Co-host. They have each helped me with something different ranging from On-Air execution to navigating the politics of the business.
What was it about radio that struck your interest?
I have a deep passion for music so to be involved in the music industry and to be able to listen to new music before it goes out was the best for me!
What makes a good radio talent?
Someone who listens more than they talk! Even though we are in the business of communication, I think a lot of radio talents forget it’s more important to listen than to speak. You have to be able to take feedback!
How do you respond to women in the media who become out of touch from those trying to reach that particular level of success?
I try to treat everyone with respect but when someone doesn’t reciprocate that respect than I just keep it pushing.
What genre of music do you like to listen to the most and why?
I listen to a lot of Hip Hop Gospel actually, it gives me balance since I work at a hip hop station and I listen to hip hop all day at work! I like a variety of music though; jazz, blues, r&b, old school, pop.
What is your LET IT GO song? (one that you would absolutely lose your mind listening to)
Gucci Mane “I think I love her”. I get too turnt up every time that song comes on lol
You’ve interviewed a lot of celebrities, was there ever a time you had an uncomfortable celebrity interview where it went terribly wrong? Describe.
Yea, I won’t say his name but he was very egotistical and he didn’t even have a hit record out at the time. His last hit song was like 15 years old and he just came in the station acting like he was the hottest thing popping. His responses on air were very cocky and even condescending towards me but I’ve learned that that is part of the reason he hasn’t had a record in so long. Producers, writers and labels don’t want to work with people who are hard to work with!
Who was the best celebrity encounter and why?
Mystikal. He was personable, down to earth and very funny!
What’s the biggest misconception about you?
Maybe my name. People think that Georgia is a stage name and that I am from Georgia. I am actually from Minnesota and my real birth name is Georgia, I was named after my grandmother.
What don’t people get about music when it comes to radio?
I would say the business side of it. They don’t get that there is a process and a hierarchy. The Program Director, Music Director and DJ’s are responsible for the music that is played. People like me who are “Radio Personalities” are not the people who put your music in rotation.
Who do you most admire in the radio industry and why?
I would have to say Anjali “The Queen B” & Maria More. I grew up listening to Anjali in Minneapolis way before I ever thought about becoming a Radio Personality. She is thorough. Her breaks are always on point. I was introduced to Maria More after I started in the business and I think that she has a dope brand as far as what she represents.
What was the best advice anyone ever gave you?
Between George Cook grilling me about show prep and Anjali “The Queen B” telling me “one thought per break”.
What’s the biggest misconception about women in radio?
That we are all the life of the party! I am learning most women in radio are mothers and wives. Yes, we can get it poppin’ in the club, but we also have families like any other women.
Where do you see urban radio in the next 10-15 years?
Online. Before you know it, you’ll be able to listen to online broadcasts in your car. Its more efficient & frugal than connecting to transmitters.
What do you think is wrong, if you do, with hip hop and R&B?
The message! These genres are marketed to our youth and unfortunately they are not kid proof.
Who do you think is the most underappreciated artist out there right now?
There are many. I would say Ryan Leslie though. He is a writer, producer, singer and rapper but his name doesn’t have the same recognition as some of the mega artists. Or even someone like Jazmine Sullivan. Her new music is hot, and her vocals are crazy! But will she ever get the same recognition as her female counterparts?
Who’s in your iPod/radar?
The new J Cole, Canton Jones, Erykah Badu, Anthony Hamiliton, Nina Simone, Aaliyah, Tupac, Ray Charles, Drake, David Banner
What do you want your legacy to be?
Philanthropy, Faith & Women’s Empowerment
If you could give advice to someone wanting to be a radio personality, what would you say?
Never give up! Pursue your dreams relentlessly. Be prepared to travel & be willing to make sacrifices. Radio isn’t the easiest business to get into. If you want to get your foot in the door always be willing to go the extra mile.
Biggest regret is….
I don’t believe in regrets. I trust that all things are working together for my greater good!
How can people reach out to you?
Facebook: @GeorgiaEllyse
Twitter/IG: @GeorgiasJuice
Online at GeorgiasJuice.com
FOLLOW ME ON TWITTER/IG @JustKiKIBrown
FAN ME ON FACEBOOK @MsKiKiBrown
Other Radio Chicks You Might Want To Check Out:
ThisRadioChickRocks 
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