How to Thrive in Radio Without Burning Out

It’s a fact at almost every radio station in 2024. People are wearing more hats than ever. What once was a full-time job on its own is now one of three or four on your plate. According to Fred Jacobs’ recent Air Personality Study, over 80% of talent are heading to burnout due to high stress levels, and I would guess that program directors and managers aren’t far behind. My first thought?

This is unsustainable. 

Or is it? I write about showing up. So what I’m pondering this week is:  How can I help people show up for a busy, high-pressure day in a way that keeps them from burning out? 

Facts about humans and energy: 

• You have finite time, and also finite energy 
• Multi-tasking is a myth
• Giving 100% effort is almost always less effective than giving a solid 85%

So we all need to protect the energy stores we have. What does that look like? 

• Take big breaks. Those vacation days won’t take themselves.
• Take small breaks. Schedule fun things to look forward to. Cat nap. Step outside.
• Take a break before you hit your limit. 

AND, it’s time to reevaluate how we measure the quality of our work given your new workload. 

• For everyone, do A+ work on the stuff that matters. B+ everything else. 
• For perfectionists: I used to be you. Remember, your B+ is other people’s A+. When it’s good enough, move on.
• For imposter syndromers: I see you too. Doubt slows you down. Be decisive and move on. 
• Shore up your weaknesses. Where you feel you need more expertise, find a mentor.

Plot twist: Have you ever felt too tired to do something fun, but then you go and are glad you did? We might think doing nothing when we get home is just what we need. And that can be true. AND, if you add into your life something you are passionate about – a hobby, passion, philanthropy – you will find that have more energy. 

Jumping between projects, emails, texts, alerts turns your brain to mush. This may be next to impossible in our business. Look for small ways to reduce distraction. 

• Decide first thing what the important, impactful items on your to-do list are. Do those. 
• Don’t send an email when you can go talk to the person. 
• Do email in batches when your brain needs a break from more focused work. 
• Hot Take from my husband, VP/Programming Chris Ebbott: If it’s not important, ignore it.
• Turn off unnecessary notifications on your phone. 
• Reduce unnecessary phone use in meetings. 

Consider these adjustments in your office culture: 

• Science has proven that back-to-back meetings fry your brain. Build in a 10-minute buffer. Bonus points for fresh air or a short walk.

Ask for help fiercely protecting productive time windows. Is a sales meeting you’re required to attend scheduled when you meet with your morning show? Is a staff meeting scheduled during crucial show-prep time?