Today, I’d like to introduce you to Rich Walburg, who I met many years ago when he was an executive producer for 700WLW. Rich actually enjoyed a 25 year career in Cincinnati radio (also for WEBN, 97X and Q102) before stepping out of media for the role of director of communications for the Ohio Valley Chapter of the National MS Society. These days Rich is promoting our entire region as communications director for the Cincinnati USA Regional Chamber.

Let’s learn more about him.

Lisa: In your role with the Chamber, you see a lot of greatness going on in our region. What are some reasons for you of why you are proud of Cincinnati USA?
Rich: As a lifelong resident of Greater Cincinnati, I’ve always been proud of my hometown. The modern renaissance we’re experiencing is reinforcement that our region is a great place to work, live and play. The Cincinnati area is blessed with tremendous arts and culture, great parks and museums, professional sports teams, world-class colleges, incredible dining, a low cost-of-living and most importantly, Cincinnatians – whether they be new or native. A lot of regional organizations, with great leadership, are collaborating to further grow Cincinnati’s vibrancy and prosperity.

Lisa: What is an accomplishment of which you are really proud, and why?
Rich: Since the age of five, I wanted to be on the radio. Because she thought I’d never find a job, my senior high guidance counselor insisted I choose a career other than broadcasting. A few years after high school, I graduated CCM with a bachelor of fine arts in broadcasting and enjoyed 25 years in the field at WEBN, 97X, Q102 and most notably, 700WLW. I left every one of those jobs on my terms and with good relationships intact. That’s something of which I’m very proud.

Lisa: Tell us about an act of kindness you have done, witnessed or been the recipient of and how that made you feel.
Rich: An impromptu team-building exercise happened during my time at the National MS Society. We discovered a brood of ducklings had fallen into a parking lot storm drain. Their mother, next to the grate, was quacking and pacing.

Most every member of the staff was, in business clothes, on the asphalt working to rescue those babies, and we were successful. Fairly new to the job, I felt good to be part of the team and even better to see mama duck waddle away with family behind.

Lisa: Tell us about an activity that you really enjoy.
Rich: I treasure most the time I get with my wife, Cindy. She is a realtor with Comey & Shepherd and I have a crazy commute, so our schedules don’t always jive. Cindy is kind, always finding the best in individuals. No matter what we do together, it’s a nice time.

Lisa: What is one of your life lessons?
Rich: My parents, who encouraged my dreams, gave me, what I consider to be, a strong work ethic. Go to work every day. Do whatever is asked of you – and more. Don’t quit a job until you have another one.

While I was working at Q102, musician John Mellencamp visited the radio station. He, too, shared some “life lessons”, but they can’t be repeated – ever.