Trailblazers

Episode 51: Jay Silvers (Broadcast Veteran, Audio Engineer, Voice Talent | Producer, Music & Operations Leader)

Jay Silvers is a broadcast veteran with over 30 years of experience across on-air, production, music direction, programming, and operations management. Throughout his career, Jay has worn many hats, building a deep understanding of audio storytelling from both the creative and technical sides of the industry. His voice and production work have been heard on major radio and television networks including FOX, NBC, and American Urban Radio Networks. In addition to his broadcast work, Jay has covered some of the most iconic entertainment events in the world, including the Grammy Awards, American Music Awards, Image Awards, SAG Awards, and the Oscars. Recording from red carpets and press rooms, his audio has been featured in specialty shows and news programming nationwide. With specialties spanning audio engineering, producing, voice-over performance, acting, and photography, Jay brings a rare versatility to the craft. In this episode of Trailblazers, Jay shares his journey through decades of industry evolution, what it takes to stay relevant in a changing media landscape, and how passion, adaptability, and technical mastery have shaped his career. This conversation offers valuable insight into what it truly means to be a Trailblazer in sound and broadcast media. Listen in and find out how you can become a trailblazer too!

Episode 50: Rich Boerner (Award-Winning Audio Creator, Producer, Voice Talent | Founder, DumpTruck Media & The SandBox Network)

Rich Boerner is an award-winning audio creator, producer, and voice talent whose career spans New York, Orlando, San Francisco, Los Angeles, and Portland. He has worked with major networks including CBS, Audacy, Spotify, and FOX, and helped build two of the most successful FM talk stations in the country: Real Radio 104.1 in Orlando and 97.1 The FM Talk Station in Los Angeles. As the industry evolved, Rich reinvented himself in the digital space, helping launch PodcastOne and leading the build-out of Cadence13's Los Angeles team and facilities (now Audacy). Along the way, he collaborated with A-list talent such as Gwyneth Paltrow, John Legend, Chrissy Teigen, Oprah Winfrey, Steve Austin, Adam Carolla, Jemele Hill, and many more. His voice has also appeared in national campaigns and audiobooks, including The Not-So Only Child: My True Story. In this episode, Rich shares how podcasting began, the fascination of working with A-list creators, and how resilience and reinvention have shaped his journey. He opens up about his new book, The Not-So Only Child, and the deeply personal story of discovering who his father really is. He also discusses The SandBox Network, an innovative platform empowering students to create their own podcasts and find their voices. Listen to this episode to discover what it truly means to be a Trailblazer—and how you can become one too. Don't miss this empowering conversation.

Episode 49: Shelley Hargis (Vice President Promotion, Syndication & Group Strategy | BBR Music Group)

This month we are excited to have Shelley Hargis, Vice President of Promotion, Syndication and Group Strategy at BBR Music Group, as our guest for Episode 49 of Trailblazers. Shelley brings an incredible 29 years of experience in the music industry. She began her career as an intern at Sony Music Nashville for Epic Records, where her passion and dedication quickly propelled her through the ranks to become Regional Promotion Manager. In 2002, she joined Broken Bow Records as Director of Regional Promotion, eventually advancing to National Director. Her leadership was instrumental in helping BBR launch two new label teams, Stoney Creek Records and later Red Bow Records, where she rose to Vice President of Promotion. In 2018, Shelley returned to BBR as Vice President of Promotion, helping the label achieve the milestone of becoming the number one Country Label in 2022. The following year, she was promoted to Vice President of Promotion, Syndication and Group Strategy for BBR Music Group, overseeing all three of its imprints. Throughout her remarkable career, Shelley has been recognized for her influence and impact in country music, including being named to Country Aircheck's prestigious Power 31 list. We are thrilled to feature Shelley on this month's episode because her drive, leadership and trailblazing career have helped shape the modern country music landscape. Tune in to hear how she has continued to evolve, inspire and lead with excellence in an ever changing industry. Shelley Hargis is a true Trailblazer.

Episode 48: Pete Gustin (Voice Actor, Radio Producer & Inspirational Trailblazer)

Pete Gustin is an award-winning American voice actor, producer, and former radio personality whose voice has defined major media brands. His work spans television commercials, film trailers, promos, and animated series such as Family Guy. Born with Stargardt's Disease, Pete had perfect vision as a child but began losing his sight at age eight. Undeterred, he launched his career in radio production and on-air performance before transitioning full-time into voice acting in 2002, beginning with a campaign for Grand Theft Auto. In 2020, Pete's incredible story was featured in the documentary Blind Surfer with Pete Gustin, which captured his unstoppable drive and his passion for surfing despite vision loss. Beyond his studio work, Pete shares motivational and uplifting content with over 750,000 TikTok followers and over 2.5 million followers on YouTube; inspiring millions worldwide. Originally from Massachusetts, Pete credits his mother for instilling in him the determination to push through challenges and pursue his dreams. His life and career stand as a testament to perseverance, creativity, and the power of the human voice to move and inspire. In this episode, Pete shares his journey of resilience, the lessons he's learned in building a career that breaks barriers, and what it truly means to be a Trailblazer — and find out how you can become one too!

Episode 47: Mark Chase (Production & Program Director | On-Air Talent | Commercial Production Specialist)

Get ready, this week's Trailblazers is packed with energy! 🎙️ In this episode, Ileana Landon sits down with Mark Chase, a true radio pro who's been rocking the airwaves for over 40 years. From Armed Forces Radio and TV overseas to major U.S. markets like San Diego, to his current role at Deer Creek Broadcasting in Chico, CA, Mark has done it all: program director, production wizard, and on-air personality. But Mark's story isn't just about radio. He's also passionate about giving back… mentoring new talent, teaching, and supporting causes close to his heart like St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Wounded Warriors, High Sierra Animal Rescue, and the Butte Humane Society. With awards on his shelf, international experience, and decades of stories to share, Mark brings wisdom, laughs, and a whole lot of heart to this episode. Don't miss this fun and inspiring conversation with someone who truly lives and breathes broadcasting!