Today we’d like to introduce you to Jessie Watt.
Hi Jessie, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
Growing up I didn’t know exactly what I wanted to do, I just knew I wanted to make people happy! I decided to study Broadcasting and Cinematic Arts in college and originally fell in love with TV. It wasn’t until I applied for a part time “Promotions Coordinator” position at CBS Radio that I discovered the true magic of radio. There’s always so much craziness in the world, and radio is such a beautiful, happy escape with your favorite music. Being an on-air talent, you get to spread more positivity, more happiness, and more support into people’s lives! You’re their best friend on the ride to work, during Saturday errands, you’re their hype woman while they’re getting ready for the day, it’s so special. Growing up in Metro Detroit, I am so grateful that they were so many amazing Program Directors and on-air talent that were willing to coach me and give me a chance. After training to be a board op and practicing being on-air overnights, I became the morning show producer for “Chuck, Rachael, and Grunwald in the Morning” on 99.5 WYCD. I learned so much during this time and truly loved what I was doing. However after college, my long-time boyfriend got a job with the Houston Texans and we did long distance for about 2 years while I was working for WYCD. My heart was obviously in Texas. So when an on-air talent position opened up on Mix 96.5 KHMX, I jumped at the opportunity! Ever since moving in 2020, I have completely fallen in love with Houston, the people, the food, the lifestyle, and of course Mix 96.5.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Radio often is not a straight road. The boat keeps rocking and I’m just a happy camper to be hanging on for the ride! COVID was obviously a struggle. Not being able to go into the studio, broadcasting from our closets over zoom, it forced us to get creative with how we reached our listeners. Listening habits continue to change, some people listen in their cars while others stream us on the app! Some people listen live and others catch up on the podcast. Some people find us organically, others find us in the digital world. As radio keeps evolving, we have to as well! What I have learned is that shows will shake up, dayparts will change, management will change, but my love for Houston does not, and neither does my gratitude for being able to do what I love for work every day.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
Our focus at Mix 96.5, and my personal focus will always be service to our community. I believe my job is to serve Houstonians! Some days that means serve via volunteer work, some days it means serving positivity and encouragement, and other days it means serving information. For example, when there is a hurricane, you will find me living and sleeping in the studio to provide real time, up to date information on what’s happening, resources, etc. When it’s our neighbors in Hill Country that were struggling, we were helping to put together a fundraiser and supply drive. Some days I’m reading to elementary schools, other days I’m volunteering at MD Anderson Cancer Center. However I can spread happiness, I’m there! I hope when people remember me, they remember that I always show up, no matter what. I’m proud of the way that we show up for our community. From back to school drives, gas money giveaways, toy drives, blood drives, community events, and so much more, we are dedicated to giving back to Houston.
Can you talk to us a bit about the role of luck?
I don’t believe in luck, but I do believe in blessings! I keep finding myself saying “how lucky am I?” Then I have to stop myself and remember that it’s not luck, it’s Jesus! And He continues to bless us every day. Even when it may feel like some “bad luck”… I believe it’s protection. And we are right where He needs us to be!
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.audacy.com/mix965houston
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jessiewattonair/?hl=en
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jessiewattonair/
