Meet Tyler! Her friendly personality and attentiveness made her stand out during our Summer Nights events this year. Besides being part of the Street Team, she was also a volunteer photographer for some events. Tyler’s the kind of volunteer who arrives early and stays a little later just to make sure everything is set. She quickly became friends with her fellow volunteers and got along with everyone who interacted with her. As a production assistant, every DJ she’s worked with only has fantastic reviews. During her time at the front desk, Tyler seamlessly became a part of the office and we all look forward to her help and the funny stories she has to share.
Where did you grow up and do you have any siblings? Pets?
I grew up in Los Angeles, CA with two older sisters and a cute little pup named Mocha. For a time we also had two boa constrictors in the house, but they were my sister’s.
What 5 things would you wish you had if you were stranded on a deserted island?
1) Abbey Road vinyl 2) Record player 3) Guitar 4) James Baldwin anthology 5) a volleyball named Wilson
What is your current occupation / what do you do outside of KCRW?
Currently, I’m a personal assistant for a Canadian-American actress, running errands and babysitting her super adorable 10-year-old.
What is your fantasy occupation?
When I was a kid I wanted to be a meteorologist and study clouds. That’s my fantasy career. However, during college, I realized I wasn’t really up for the math and science, and tried figuring out a field where I can align my love for music and community into a career. I want to be a radio DJ. I have such a strong passion for music that I would love to share it with the world, into people’s stereos and hearts.
When did you first discover KCRW?
I discovered KCRW in middle/high school through my grandparents. They’d pick me up from school and we would listen to Warren Olney on the way to their house.
How did you find your way to our station for volunteering?
After I moved home from college in Boston, I was looking for a way to break into the field of public media here in Los Angeles. My boyfriend always said he could see me working for KCRW. So back in late April, I began doing some online research and considering all my options, and eventually I came across the Summer Marketing Internship. I knew that that would be the perfect place for me to strengthen my experience, advance my skills, and grow, so I applied and have been volunteering with KCRW ever since.
What’s your current volunteer position and how long have you been at it?
Currently, I’m a front desk volunteer answering phones in the main office, as well as a production assistant for Dan Wilcox’s Sunday show. I’ve been on the front desk since July and I began working with Dan at the beginning of this month.
Favorite volunteer moment?
My favorite volunteer moment had to be at the first summer nights event of the season with Sofi Tukker and DJ Valida at One Colorado Way. There was so much summer magic in the air. I remember being so nervous before my shift began, but once I got to know Michelle and the other volunteers I was working alongside, and once I got into the swing of interacting with the audience, I had such a fun time. We clicked as a group and the work felt natural instead of forced. I also remember watching Valida’s set and being completely inspired by her style and swagger. I realized then that I was a part of something really beautiful.
If you could get on the mic and say one sentence on the air, what would it be?
Ladies and gentlemen, we are floating into space.
What song(s) have you hit repeat on lately?
I’ve been so random lately with my music choices. I’ve had Solange’s new album “A Seat at the Table” on repeat at home. But in traffic, I’ve been known to jam out to “Dumpweed” by Blink 182, “Spilling Over” by Bear Salon, “You’re So Last Summer” by Taking Back Sunday, and “Holy Toledo” by Vundabar.
Favorite book, movie?
My favorite book has always been John Steinbeck’s Grapes of Wrath, because it’s one of the most galvanizing books of American history. I couldn’t pick one favorite movie so it’s between “The Godfather” and “Goodfellas.”
Favorite thing to do outside the station ?
I love hanging out with my nephews and showing them my world. Two are toddlers and one is an infant so spending time with them is always a handful of fun and introduces them to a lot of things.
What does KCRW mean to you?
To me, KCRW means community. It means a space in which the public can absorb the latest news, music, and culture without any private incentives. You know, as humans we use communication to evoke ideas and make sense of the ever-changing world around us, and no one tells our national story with a local lens like KCRW.
Tyler is one of a kind. We appreciate all your help and can’t wait what else you’ll bring to new projects!
