Words of Wisdom with Erik Hellum

Name: Erik Hellum

Current Title: Senior Vice President

Company: Townsquare Media

How long with Company: 3 years

How long have you been in the media industry? 24 years

Why did you choose a career in media? Being in media, especially radio, is what I wanted to do since I was 13 years old. There is something to be said for knowing what you want to do early on and going for it.

How did you get your first job in media? I interned at Katz Radio in New York, and based on that experience was able to secure a local sales position back home in Green Bay, WI at WDUZ. A year later, I joined Katz Radio as an AE. That internship paid off twice!

What are some of the biggest challenges you have experienced in your career?
Over the past 10-15 years, the two biggest challenges that most of us have faced have been consolidation of our industry and the rapid acceleration of the digital age. By working hard, being willing to adapt, constantly learning, and not being afraid to try new things, we can make the most of these earth-shaking events, rather than being left behind by them.

What was your favorite job and why? Other than my current job, my favorite job was working with the Bonneville Phoenix team to restore heritage news talk station KTAR to a dominant ratings position, by moving the news/talk content to FM, building a great all sports station on AM, and developing a significant on line news presence.

What words of wisdom would you share with others about a career in media?
Find the job that represents the intersection of what you love doing (your passion) and what you are really good at (your talents), and find a company whose values match yours, and you will be successful and love what you do daily.