The Road to a Morning Show

            How does a radio personality get that coveted morning show spot? Well Chris Palliser, one of Victoria’s newest morning show hosts, says, “you have to start in small markets and give it time.” Radio is one of the oldest media that still exists today. While many have been predicting the death of radio, it still seems to stick around. Palliser says, “even if it is just for weather and traffic, it’s all about making that personal and local connection.”

            Palliser got his start at Victoria’s own Camosun College by taking the Applied Communication Program. He gained interest in Radio and Television right away. When he was first starting out he had to accept a job in Nanaimo and then he made the move to Fort St. John. He worked in the small market of Fort St. John for a few years to gain experience. From there he was able to make moves to Edmonton and then to Vancouver for radio host positions. With each move he gained more exposure and better radio time slots. He recently was able to move back to his home city of Victoria to help with the re-launch of Kool FM into Virgin Radio. “This launch has been incredibly exciting,” Palliser says. Virgin radio is already doing very well in the Victoria market.

            Palliser’s love for radio shows and so does his joy of community. “We want our community to be a place for everyone. We try to make that personal connection with listeners, that’s why radio is still relevant,” says Palliser. “The community is number one in our eyes, as well as energy.” The local impact of radio is surely why it remains an important media source.

            When discussing his morning show partner Brittany King and how they came to be a team he says it took a long time to make sure they were a good fit. Lots of meetings and phone conversations occurred to make sure that they had the connection to make this thing a hit. “It is important to make sure your two personalities mesh for good and lasting chemistry,” says Palliser. So far the team is seeing success and helping Victorians wake up. You can catch Chris and Brittany on 107.3 Virgin Radio from 5:30 – 10:00am, Monday to Friday.