As the son of a radio station owner, Tony Renda grew up in broadcasting. His dad, Tony Renda Sr, started with an AM station in East McKeesport, Pennsylvania, before growing the company to many station in several markets.
Growing up near Pitt, Tony Jr. new about the Big East, and of course Syracuse. His dad was an alum. But he didn't go straight from high school to Central New York; he didn't have the grades. So he spent a year at Ohio University before transferring.
Once in the 315, Tony's fraternity brother, Scott Taylor, was VP of Business at the station, and he brought Tony over. Like many of us, Tony was in awe from the moment he walked in - from the jocks, to the sports and news guys, to even the bumper stickers on the wall. He knew he had to be there.
He quickly became development director, then VP of Business, which provided the opportunity to stay in Syracuse for the summer of 1993, when the station gave away a Geo Tracker. You've probably heard that story before, but today, you'll hear Tony tell the story of walking into Billy Fuccillo's office and securing the car.
After graduation, he could have gone straight into the family business, but Tony first wanted some real life experience. He followed Scotty T to Katz Media in New York, where he honed his skills. Eventually he did come to Renda Broadcasting, starting in Jacksonville, and having worked in Pittsburgh and now Fort Myers-Naples, Florida.
In today's episode, you'll also hear what Tony looks for when he interviews a job candidate. It's an important lesson.
To learn more about Renda Broadcasting and career opportunities, visit https://rendabroadcasting.com/
The WJPZ at 50 Podcast Series is produced by Jon Gay, Class of 2002, and his podcast production agency, JAG in Detroit Podcasts.
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