Each Monday, we’re giving readers a chance to get to know the media a little better.
With a little flair.
Our goal is to give readers some insight into the work and work style of area journalists, and get to know a little bit about the person behind the byline. Start your week off with an online networking opportunity through our Media Monday blog post.
This Week: Maxine Frost, KING FM
Maxine Frost is Classical KING FM’s midday host and Evergreen Channel announcer. Prior to taking the position in 2008, she worked as a radio host, voice talent and producer in Portland. She studied theater and music in college, and is also a freelance illustrator and cartoonist. Her work was recently exhibited at Cartoonage 2013 in Berlin. Maxine lives with her husband and cat in downtown Seattle.
Q: What’s the best thing about being in the Seattle media scene?
A: The arts-music-culture scene is incredible in Seattle! I love our audience, and knowing that people I’ve never seen are turning on the radio and looking forward to hearing me every day. And I love the music we play! I’m a classical nerd from way back. Another amazing thing about my job is the access we have to music artists, performers, and other celebrities, some of whom I’ve admired for many years and never dreamed I’d meet. As a classical format, we’re a bit different from other radio stations and media. But just like them, we’re all about people. The minute you forget that, you’re toast!
Q: How has social media changed what you do?
A: Radio used to be a one-way medium, but no longer. Social media is vital to radio. I’m an announcer, and that means I have a special responsibility to the audience. These people invite us into their homes and live with our voices. We’re real to them, and it’s important to spend a part of each day chatting with our fans over email and Facebook. Doing public appearances and taking time to connect with people at events is also critical. As a public station, we depend in a very real way on the contributions of our listeners/supporters. And staying in touch with my fans and friends on Facebook is a kick!
Q: If you could have someone else’s job, what would it be?
A: I studied music as a kid and wanted to be a concert pianist – I still wonder what it would have been like. I would love to be a full-time interviewer like NPR’s Terry Gross. And I would really enjoy being an on-air commentator for a symphony orchestra broadcast series.
Q: Press releases: Love them or hate them?
A: I suppose we all get too much promotional email, but occasionally I’ll see something in a press release that I would never have found out about otherwise. Seattle Public Library and Seattle Arts and Lectures have wonderful guests. And I always pay attention to press releases from our regional performers, orchestras and ensembles. You do what you can!
Q: What hidden talent or skill do you have that viewers/readers don’t know about you?
A: I’m a freelance artist and cartoonist. My husband is also in radio – he’s younger than me and much smarter. I love dive bars, and I eat way too many noodles. I’ve never been out of the country, but we’re hoping to make it to Hawaii in a few months. And I’m dying to see Europe!
The PR Pro Takeaway: When you turn on the Evergreen Channel and hear this journalist’s butter-smooth voice, you know why she is where she is. Pay special attention to her thoughts on press releases and look for her in your neighborhood noodle bar. One of her favorite cartoon pieces is below. You can reach Maxine at maxinef@king.org.
