Showing posts with label interview. Show all posts
Showing posts with label interview. Show all posts

Wednesday, March 19, 2014

THE BOOTED BLOG INTERVIEW ::: BROOKE WAGNER

This is the Interview you all have been asking for!!
We get to know one of the Blog's Best Friends, 
Brooke Wagner of Fox 31 in Denver.
YOU THOUGHT YOU LOVED Brooke Before? 
JUST WAIT UNTIL AFTER YOU'VE READ THIS INTERVIEW!
You'll Be AN EVEN BIGGER FAN!!!
 Brooke, Thank you VERY MUCH 
for allowing us to interview you!!
What do you think of the Blog?  Have you had a chance to look at it much? If so, have you looked to see what other women in the television industry are wearing, 
not only in boots, but in clothes in general?
I truly enjoy checking out the blog!  It not only highlights current TV style, but gives me a glimpse of what stations around the country are doing.  Booted Blog keeps the comments classy, positive, respectful, and fun.
I know most everyone on Good Day Colorado  
has heard of the Blog, but have any of your 
other colleagues in the business mentioned 
the Blog to you?  
How about Friends and Family?
If so, what are their reactions to the Blog?
Everyone at Good Day loves the blog!  We really get into checking it out each day - we love the headlines and appreciate the kind words.  The Booted Blog has been such a great supporter of our show, with so many fun posts.  It makes our team feel really good.  We are flattered and humbled by the response.  My family is very impressed that I'm "on a blog," however my husband does occasionally make fun of me in a good-natured way!  He's not sure what to think of all the boots!
Have you always been a Boot Lover?
I bought my first pair of cowboy boots when I was a senior in high school, and I was hooked!
Do you always buy new Boots each fall 
when the new fashions come out?
Not really – I’m a bargain hunter, so I prefer to shop at the END of the season for the following year.  I'm not super into trends.
Where are your favorite spots 
to shop for Shoes and Boots?
I love vintage and unusual boots, so I often look on Ebay.  I also like to check Amazon and 6PM (Zappos’ clearance site) for great deals.
Is there a certain pair of boots you wish you had? 
What is the Style, Color, Height, Heel?
Wonder Woman’s boots!!!  Lynda Carter probably has a lot to do with my boot affinity.  Man, she could really spin in those boots!
If price were no object, I’d go for the Gucci Techno horsebit high heel platform boot.  I’m not tall, so I like a little added height.
Is there any style of Boots that women wear 
that you absolutely would NOT wear? Why?
Not really.  I’m not big on mid-calf boots, 
but I do own a couple of pairs.
You work in Denver, Colorado. 
What can you tell us about the city 
and it's surrounding area? 
How is it different than other places 
you have lived and worked?
Why do we want to come visit Colorado?
I love living in Colorado!  I grew up in the Midwest, and I’ve also lived around Texas and in San Diego.  Colorado brings the best of all of those worlds together.  We have great weather, amazing scenery, mountains, all  four seasons, a bit of the old west, and down-to-Earth people.  I love the sunshine, and we have more days of it than almost any other city.  From culture to education to natural monuments and history, you can find everything you’d want or need in Colorado!  It’s such a great place to raise children, too.
Is the news business in Colorado any different 
than other places you have worked?
News viewers in the Denver Metro area and surrounding cities are often well-educated, politically and socially diverse.  Colorado marches to the beat of its own drum.
How old were you when you knew 
this is what you wanted to do?
I used to use a cassette recorder to tape my own “farm report” growing up in Iowa!  That said, I was more interested in politics and speech writing until my later college years.  I went through speech therapy as a child, and was really into the debate team in high school, so those things helped shape my future as a broadcaster.
What advice would you give a young person 
just starting out in the business? 
Be versatile and flexible.  No one’s completely sure where the industry is headed right now, but the news is still about people, so make sure you don’t lose personal contact with the world around you.
What’s the typical work day for you? 
Is part of the next day’s show planned 
before you leave,  or do you 
only prepare the day of the show? 
My alarm(s) go off at 1:30 AM.  My co-anchor and I meet with our producers and executive producer when we walk in the door to get a snapshot of the day.  Then, we help write, research, and do whatever the producers need help with to make it a great show!  We’re on the air from 5-9 AM, then we follow up with several meetings and talk about the next day.  We all keep in touch throughout the day about new story ideas and coverage plans.
There's a Saturday Night Live skit where three cast members play morning show anchors shooting promos for the week. They're bright and cheery while the cameras are rolling but don't talk in between takes.  There's Definitely GREAT chemistry on Good Day Colorado between you and Kirk, Jen, Ken and everyone else. You all seem to converse, laugh and smile easily, it doesn't appear contrived at all.  Is that chemistry something that can be manufactured or does it just happen organically? And how great is it to work in an environment like that?
I love that skit - the one with Drake?  We all got a good laugh over that.  I have known anchors like that, so it does happen, but not at Good Day Colorado!  I LOVE this team of people - the folks both on and off the air.  We work extremely well together.  With the four of us - Kirk, Jen, Ken, and me - what you see is what you get.  We kid around just as much when the camera's not rolling!  Everyone works hard and brings something unique to the table.  There's no "weak link."  I can't imagine a job I would enjoy more!  I really do look forward to coming to work and seeing everyone every morning.  With a four hour morning show, you have to keep the energy up, so the viewers can count on you to start that day.  That's very difficult to do if you're faking a good mood.  I try to do my part to keep things light, but professional.
During your career in this business what types of reporting have you been most passionate about?
I've always thrived in breaking news situations, and I particularly enjoy field anchoring.  I relish the opportunity to engage with the community, whether in a time of crisis or celebration, in order to tell a story and help deliver information.  Also, I'm thrilled to be heading back to St. Jude for my second trip reporting on that amazing research hospital and the children and families who need it so desperately.  My husband's brother, for whom our son is named, died of leukemia.  He was treated at St. Jude, back in the days when there was a bout a 20% chance of survival.  Now it's more than 80%!  We owe much of that to St. Jude.
I know it’s a broad term but what’s the best part of social media as it relates to your field?  Is there anything about social media that makes it more challenging to do your job?
I get a kick out of "talking" with viewers and sharing news and behind the scenes tidbits.  I think it's great, and we're learning how to use social media more effectively all the time.  It brings us closer to the viewers.  However, it means traditional news organizations are under even more pressure to get accurate news on the air as fast as possible. 
Is there anything that your viewers 
and fans don’t know about you 
that would really surprise them?
I love garage sales.  I can walk on stilts.  I am a total Star Wars geek.  My household revolves around movie quotes. 
Last question. If someone offered you 
the choice of these four jobs, 
which one would you take?  
1) Host of the Today Show      
2) A reporter on 60 Minutes 
3) Cast member on Saturday Night Live 
4) Host of a Travel or Food Network Show
Anchoring mornings in Denver is a dream I wouldn't want to give up!  If I had to pick though, I'd still want to do mornings, so I suppose I'd choose the network AM show gig.  You get to do a little of everything and help people start each day off right - with information and a positive attitude.  That's very fulfilling for me!
THANK YOU Brooke, VERY VERY MUCH, 
for taking the time for this interview.





Monday, August 12, 2013

THE BOOTED BLOG INTERVIEW ::: JORDAN CARSON

The Multi Talented and Big Hearted Jordan Carson Brings Her 
Sweet Smile and Engaging Personality to the Blog Interview Stage.
Jordan, Thank you VERY MUCH for allowing us to interview you!!
What were your first thoughts when you found out there was 
a Blog called "The Appreciation of Booted Newswomen"?
At first I laughed! I had never seen a blog that was dedicated 
to women in media that focused on fashion and foot attire. 
What do you think of the Blog?  Have you had a chance to look at it much? If so, have you looked to see what other women in the television industry are wearing, not only in boots, but in clothes in general?
It’s entertaining to see how various newswomen dress and coordinate different outfits with footwear. It’s interesting to see the style difference in various markets.
 Have any of your colleagues in the 
business mentioned the Blog to you? 
If so, what are their reactions to the Blog?
They have never heard of it before. When I mention it to 
my colleagues they are intrigued and pull up the site.
Have you always been a Boot Lover?
Always. Living in Michigan, with lake effects, you never know what the weather will be. I always keep black boots at my desk because the weather could change drastically from day to day.
Do you always buy new Boots every fall 
when the new fashions come out?
I usually buy 1-2 new pair when fall comes around. I like having a variety of black and brown with different sized heels, leather and suede.
Where are your favorite spots to shop for Shoes and Boots?
I love DSW because of their huge selection, but I try to shop local to help boost our economy. We have so many great shops and local boutiques. 
Is there a certain pair of boots you wish you had? 
What is the Style, Color, Height, Heel?
I have quite a few boots now, but when fall hits this year, I will probably look for brown leather heeled boots and a new pair of black leather. 
I’ve always wanted a pair of Louboutins, but 
I can’t bring myself to make the big purchase. 
Is there any style of Boots that women wear 
that you absolutely would NOT wear? Why?
High heeled boots with open toes. Something about 
the open toe I can’t get used to. I’ve seen it 
look great on other ladies, but it’s not really my style.
 You are based in Grand Rapids, Michigan. 
What can you tell us about the city and it's surrounding area? 
Why do we want to come visit West Michigan?
All of West Michigan is really amazing. It’s a big small city! Everything you could ever want is here. We have the most philanthropic community, kind people who make up our city, Lake Michigan, and all four seasons! We’re growing in size and creativity, so you never know what’s exciting and new around the corner!
We see you on WOOD-TV in Grand Rapids 
but also WOTV-TV in Battle Creek. 
I know they are both owned by LIN Media. 
What do you do for each station?
WOOD TV8 is an NBC affiliate. At WOOD TV I work with eightWest, our morning lifestyle show. I work as a fill-in host and also do stories in the field interviewing exciting businesses and feature fun community events. My weekly segment on the show is the Social Sizzle and features charitable events in the community where people can “Live Local-Give Local”. I love that it gives awareness to people who want to give back in a fun way around our community, but don’t know of weekly events they can attend. There’s always a charitable event to attend. On WOTV4-our ABC affiliate I work as the Entertainment Correspondent featuring charitable and entertainment events. I also cover the Academy Awards on the red carpet each year. All of the interviews and events are also added to our web content on WOTV4Women.com as part of the Social Sizzle.
We've seen pictures of you singing with a band.  
What is the name of your band and what type of music do you play?
Ha! I am the lead singer for a great band! They brought me on four years ago as their singer. We play everything from Janis Joplin 
to Carrie Underwood, U2 and Journey. 
How often do you have shows and does the band just play in Grand Rapids or if not, how far away do you travel for gigs?
We play across the country for corporate events and weddings.
I heard somewhere that you're something of a 'gear head'. Is that true?  
Does knowing a lot about cars come naturally in Michigan?
I’m not sure if it comes natural from living in Michigan, but I love talking about cars. I guess you could call me a bit of a gear head. I think it’s funny when someone starts talking about a particular vehicle and I rattle off the engine configurations, horsepower and torque. 
I think people are surprised that I would even know 
the difference between horsepower and torque.
You're involved a lot in the community. 
What do you get out of it?  
What can you say to someone who doesn't volunteer now to 
get them to go out and start doing more in their community?
Growing up my parents always taught me the importance of giving back, so it has stuck with me throughout adulthood. I honestly think it’s the most rewarding feeling. People are so philanthropic in West Michigan, and it’s easy to give back here. All across the country, however, there is always a need whether it’s clothing, food, financial help or just a gesture of kindness. If everyone could help just one person, that kindness would trickle across the globe. 
We've had a few readers request that we ask anyone we interview if they have a favorite charity that we can put a donation link up for.  
It would give readers an option to make a donation 
as a way to say 'Thank You' for being on the Blog. 
Is there a charity you would like us to put up a donation link up for?
In West Michigan we have so many amazing charities. Some of the charities I work with are Kids’ Food Basket, ART-Artists Creating Together, Helen DeVos Childrens’ Hospital and Feeding America West Michigan.
CLICK HERE TO DONATE TO KID'S FOOD BASKET
CLICK HERE TO DONATE TO ARTISTS CREATING TOGETHER
CLICK HERE TO DONATE TO HELEN DEVOS CHILDREN'S HOSPITAL
CLICK HERE TO DONATE TO FEEDING AMERICA WEST MICHIGAN
Note- If you do decide to donate, you could make a note that it is in honor of Jordan Carson - Barry
Last question. If someone offered you 
the choice of these four jobs, 
which one would you take?  
1) Host of the Today Show      
2) A reporter on 60 Minutes 
3) Host of Entertainment Tonight   
4) Host or Coach on NBC's The Voice
That’s a tough one. I love GR, but if I ever had the chance to host the Today Show or Entertainment Tonight, I’d definitely take that opportunity. But Grand Rapids will always be home.

THANK YOU Jordan, VERY MUCH, 
for taking the time for this interview.

Friday, August 2, 2013

THE BOOTED BLOG INTERVIEW ::: HOLLY MORGAN

WHAT YOU SEE IS WHAT YOU 
GET WITH HOLLY MORGAN!!!
The HUGE SMILE, the funny facial expressions, the laughter... It's NOT AN ACT,
That IS Who She IS!!
I REALLY APPRECIATE HOLLY'S 
HONESTY in this Interview!!
SHE TELLS IT LIKE IT IS
Holly, Thank you very much for granting us an interview!!!!
What were your first thoughts when you found out there was a Blog called “The Appreciation of Booted Newswomen”?
Honestly?  I was like, "that's sick!"  I'm a huge fan of quirky blogs AND boots, so it felt like Christmas came early when I discovered the site.  I like to spend time checking to see what other hosts and anchors are wearing on air, especially styles I haven't rocked yet.  I've had plenty of fashion fails in this industry and if there's ever a way to avoid looking silly, I'm all for it!

Have any of your colleagues in the 
business mentioned the Blog to you?
Yes, actually.  After the second or third picture was posted, every time I wear a pair of boots, my cohost Oliver Tull says, "There's Holly!  Trying to get on that booted blog again!  Rockin' those boots girl!" 
Holly with Oliver Tull
 Have you always been a Boot Lover?
Yes!  My love of boots goes back to my freshman year at Arizona State University.  It was my first attempt to following fashion trends and, you guessed it, a pair of UGGS is where it all started!
 Do you always buy new Boots every fall 
when the new fashions come out?
 It depends.  I always have to make sure I have a flawless pair of leather boots in tan, black and gray.  Should I see a new style in one of those colors, I'd most likely pick a pair up.  However, I'm somewhat reserved when it comes to what's on my feet.  I follow fashion trends closely, but I've never been a fan of dumping a bunch of cash on a pair of red studded boots, only to wear them once that season, then pull them out two years later for a random Halloween party with a bunch of strangers.
 The boots I buy are like my purses... timeless!
Where are your favorite spots to 
shop for Shoes and Boots?
 Nine West.  Banana Republic.  Nordstrom.  
Is there a certain pair of Boots you wish you had? 
What is the Style, Color, Height, Heel?
I'd like to find a pair of boots for my Mini Doxies.  They have velcro tennis shoes, but I think some boots would look fierce at the dog park.

 Is there any style of Boots that women wear 
that you absolutely would NOT wear? Why?
Over the knee boots.  I'm just not a fan.  I think they look anything but classy OR comfortable.  Boots like that should be worn by the Tin Man on the Yellow Brick Road or something.

What can you tell us about your show Eye Opener?
It's the kind of show I would wake up to if I were on the other side of the TV.  It's news, comedy and drama hosted by three very different people who actually like each other.  If we're laughing or smiling (which is A LOT) it's because we're having a hell of a time at 5:30 a.m.  
Eye Opener is a syndicated show.  
How many markets are you currently in?
The show is on KIAH-TV (Houston, TX), 
KDAF-TV (Dallas, TX), WSFL-TV (Miami, FL), 
WPHL-TV (Philadelphia, PA), 
KRCW-TV (Portland, OR), KFSM-TV (Fort Smith, AR),  and WWMB-TV (Myrtle Beach, SC) 
CLICK HERE TO WATCH PAST 
EYE OPENER SEGMENTS!!!
What’s the typical work day for you? 
Is the next day’s show planned before you leave, or do you prepare the day of the show?
I'm up at 2 a.m. and at work by 3:30 a.m. to read through two hours worth of show scripts.  The show is produced overnight, so all of the copy that I'm responsible for reading, is pretty much written for me when I get in.  We are live from 5 a.m. - 7 a.m., have a post show meeting where we break down the day's production shoot schedule, then I usually have a segment shoot on location somewhere.  Tips From A Pet Owner, What To Wear, Hair Tips and Watch Your Back are just a few of the regular segments built in the show.  My day ends around 11 a.m. and HH hopefully starts at 1 p.m.
In watching Eye Opener videos, I think you have great instincts and facial expressions as a comedic actress. Is that something you have trained in and/or have done professionally? If not, is it something you may ever pursue?
Haha!  A comedic actress huh?  Sounds like trauma or drama to me!  I'm actually not an actress or comedian or a combination of the two.  I made a promise to myself when I started in the industry 7 years ago in a little Wyoming town that I would always be myself.  What's great about Eye Opener is that I've been able show even more of my personality and share honest opinions I chose to keep to myself at other stations.  With that said, my facial expressions and my every move that you see on TV is basically what you could envision going on in the newsroom when the cameras are off.  My thing with facial expressions in general, is when I see someone smile, I want to smile... and I like to think that if you catch me rolling my eyes at Sean or looking cross-eyed in the camera, you're going to laugh or smile too.
 I know it’s a broad term but what’s the best part of social media as it relates to your field?  Is there anything about social media that makes it more challenging to do your job?
I actually hate social media.  Do I think it's a great way to connect and push show content to the fantastic people who watch?  Absolutely.  On the flip side, I'm currently managing 3 Facebook pages and one Vine, Twitter, Instagram and Pinterest account.  There is not much fun in this, but our show is a product and it's my job to push that product to help get new exposure.  But, I rarely take time to check in on family and friends because I'm always working.  
(Working on this though!)
Is there anything that your viewers and fans don’t know 
about you that would really surprise them?
I CANNOT speak in front of large crowds - no seminars, emceeing events, station tours... I have the worst social anxiety and on several occasions black out in the middle of something I'm saying or vomit as soon as I'm finished on stage.  
If someone offered you the choice of these four jobs, 
which one would you take?  
1) Host of the Today Show      
2) A reporter on 60 Minutes 
3) Star in your own Sitcom      
4) Saturday Night Live Cast Member
Today Show... it's more my style than 2-4.
 I have had readers ask me to ask those we interview 
if they have a favorite charity they support 
so that they can send a donation as a way of saying thanks for being interviewed by the Blog.
Is there a favorite charity of yours we can promote?
Cancer is ugly.  It took my best friend at 27 just three years ago.  I'm a huge fan of the American Cancer Society.  Relay For Life.  Anything for cancer research.
for allowing us to interview you Holly!!!