10 Questions with ... Angela Steco

BRIEF CAREER SYNOPSIS:

I started part-time in radio during my senior year in college at Penn State. After graduation, I worked several part-time jobs: radio host/producer, live camera operator with WPSU, live video production crew with Penn State Intercollegiate Athletics, and I also blogged for a music website.

I accepted a job at a local television station as a news photographer several months after I graduated and left my jobs at WPSU and with the music blogging website. Eventually, I switched positions within the company and became a commercial producer and director. During my time at the TV station, I was also still working part-time in radio and part-time with Penn State Athletics.

When Seven Mountains Media took over the radio stations, they offered me a full time position and I have been there ever since. I also still work part-time with Penn State Athletics both behind the scenes and as the Emcee for the Penn State Lady Lions… and I occasionally fill-in as a PA announcer.

That wasn't brief… was it? haha

1. How would you describe your first radio gig?

Very unexpected and incredibly fun. I always wanted to work in television (which I did), but once the radio bug bit me, I needed to explore the wonderful world of radio. I actually disliked my radio courses in school, so I'm so happy I decided to check out a radio internship and truly learned how a radio station operates.

2. What led you to a career in radio?

As a Broadcast Journalism major at Penn State, I was required to have an internship in order to graduate. Since I waited until my senior year to find an internship, I looked into the local radio stations in town and decided to apply. I ended up getting the internship, working part time for several months, and then I was eventually hired full-time!

3. You went to State College and Penn State for school and never left. Does Happy Valley feel like home to you at this point?

Absolutely. I am often asked why I haven't left yet and it's because Happy Valley is such a great place to live no matter what you're into. I love the arts, hiking, sports, good food… you can find all of that and more here. Most of my friends are here and my family is close too. Also, over the years I've gotten involved with organizations like The Centre County United Way and Big Brothers Big Sisters, so I've formed connections with some wonderful people outside the radio station.

4. In addition to programming 3WZ, you also do afternoons, recently seguing from mornings. How does your day play out these days?

I recently switched from doing a morning show to having an afternoon show. I was on mornings for at least 8 years (I lost count), so the transition to a different schedule AND different station was wild. I went from starting my day with the show to ending my day with the show. The later alarm clock is definitely a plus, but I do miss seeing the sunrise in the studio. I arrive at work with enough time to finish all of my other tasks before starting the show, so another plus is being able to completely focus on the show without having to worry about a full day of work ahead.

5. Who would be a dream guest to have on your show?

What gets me pumped is somebody that is making a difference in the world. Maybe somebody in pop culture like Mr. Beast, Ashton Kutcher, or Leonardo DiCaprio.

6. You also program Country sister Legends 98.7. How do you keep all the balls in the air?

It's all about organization. My co-workers make fun of my obsessive organization, but it gets results! I have several calendars and to-do lists, and I like to keep my inbox as empty as possible. If any of that is clouded, then so is my brain. Collaborating and working on tasks with my co-workers is also helpful for my sanity.

7. You're also the on-court emcee for the Penn State Lady Lions basketball team. What is that part of your life like?

So fun! I actually started 10 years ago working behind the scenes supporting the live video board productions at many of the different Penn State sporting events. Eventually, I was asked to PA announce for a season with the Lady Lions and now I'm emceeing on the court, which is so much more my vibe. I get to have fun with people in person and on the court every game. The energy in the Bryce Jordan Center is also electric. I still work behind the scenes from time to time as well because I just love all aspects of the production.

8. How do we become more attractive to the potential Gen Z and Generation Alpha audiences?

We can't look down on them. We can't shake our heads at their trends, music interests, style etc. We need to embrace and encourage their individuality. As a Millennial, I feel like we get made fun of by all generations. I just don't see the point of that. Each generation has their own vibe, so let's have fun and learn from each other.

9. What was your favorite station(s) to listen to when you were a kid? Jock(s)?

FM97 in Lancaster, PA! I grew up in Lancaster and even commuted the first two years of college to Penn State's York campus, so that station was always on. I believe the morning show at the time was Liz and Brian in the mornings. I also listened to 105.7 The X because I'm a Rock baby at heart as well.

10. Who were your mentors? Who would you say has influenced your career the most?

I have so many wonderful people in my life that it would take forever to name all of the folks who had a hand in helping me with my journey.

• Professionally, the Program Director and Morning Show host at the time I started with B94.5, PJ Mullen, gave me my start and then encouraged me to stick with radio after my internship.
• Sara Lauer took over as the PD afterwards and she really helped me break out of my shell. Also, it was inspiring to work with a talented woman in radio.
• Speaking of talented women; our CEO Kristin Cantrell is a shining example I look up to.
• Personally (and this may sound super cheesy), the people who listen to me every day encourage me to keep going.

With the venue of choice at your disposal (Beaver Stadium?) and an unlimited budget, which 6 acts would you pull together to throw a massive listener concert?

I am going to think of myself here and say I would want to throw a female powered show. Lady Gaga, Billie Eilish, Ariana Grande, Miley Cyrus, Taylor Swift, and Rihanna. Tell me that wouldn't be fireeee!