First job: I was so excited to get my first job at 15. I was a telemarketer and sold newspapers. I remember the interview and they asked me why I would be good for the position, and I told them, “I’m a people person, I like to talk on the phone.” Of course I got the job on the spot and hated it! They never wanted to buy, and usually hung up on me. That, of course, didn’t last long, and I thought I could sell a cloud to the sky!
First salary: My first salary was $4.25 an hour plus commission ( I never made commission).
My idol: I was only 6 years old and preferred to watch The Oprah Winfrey Show with my mother rather than cartoons. I understood so much from the shows, even at a young age. Then as I grew older, I began to mimic her and have pretend talk shows with my brother, sister, and friends. So I knew at a young age I wanted to be a voice for people, especially women. She is beautiful, strong, and powerful. I admire her now more than ever as I watched her from the beginning until her final broadcast. I have always been inspired.
Most embarrassing radio moment: Charlie Mack and Tommy Kaye thought it would be a great birthday present to surprise me with a male stripper live on the air during one of our Juice Morning Crew Broadcasts. So, into the studio walks this oily, skinny stripper wearing a pair a cowboy boots and a thong. And I was given a stack of $1 bills. (I’d rather just keep the money). As he walks in, my face turns red as he picks me up live on air and tosses me all over the place, dollar bills flying all over with his mouth going everywhere. I thought he was going to drop me. And that’s all I’m going to say about that embarrassing moment!
Highlight of my career: Was on The Juice Morning Crew, then to my own radio show in 2008.
My favorite thing to do outside of work: I love to spend time with my son and explore new things together. I love to be outdoors.
I think that Toledo’s best-kept secret is: That Toledo is a great place to raise a family. There are so many different activities and events going on all the time for everyone, and some are free.
- Name: Tisha Lee
- Position: Radio personality/production director
- Station: WJUC-FM 107.3 (The Juice); I’m on air from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. weekdays
- Age: 30
- Hometown: Akron
- College: The University of Akron
- Family: I come from a large, close-knit family, and I have an adorable 4-year-old son and Gizmo, our new Shih Tzu puppy.
People may be surprised to know that: I was in an all-female singing group SUEDE back in the day. And we were great! And no, I’m not joking ... even though I really don’t have much proof of that.
In five years I see myself: Owning my own media production company that produces commercials for radio and television along with other services.
My dream job is: Being an on-air radio personality. I’ve also wanted to be an actress.
Contact Kirk Baird at kbaird@theblade.com or 419-724-6734.
First Published October 17, 2011, 4:30 a.m.
