Radio lost one of the all-time great performers last week. Radio Hall-of-Famer Jerry Cesak was a star in every sense of the word. I worked with Jeff and Jer for nearly 11 years at two stations in San Diego. Here are eight ways he made me a better programmer, manager, and broadcaster:
Showmanship: Jerry was an entertainer first, a radio personality second. He was the best example of becoming a local celebrity who happens to be on the radio. Radio needs more stars. Jerry was a star.
A Performer: Jerry knew the art of performance included exaggeration. He “turned up the volume” without sacrificing authenticity. He once told me,
“If it’s amusing, laugh like it’s humorous. If it’s humorous, laugh like it’s funny. If it’s funny, laugh like it’s hilarious. If it’s hilarious, laugh like it’s the funniest thing you ever heard.
Here’s an example of Jerry displaying this quality.
The ultimate Team Player: Jerry knew how to make space for his partners and make them better without upstaging them or disrupting their story. His big laugh was contagious, and he used it to enhance segments that featured other players. His masterful technique: Back away from the microphone so it adds ambiance but doesn’t overwhelm the storyteller’s momentum.
Passion: He was one of those personalities who couldn’t wait to get out of the building, and couldn’t wait to come in and do it again tomorrow. He cared deeply about his craft and those around him. He went to war for everyone on his team, and that love was genuine.
Storytelling: Jer knew how to be self-deprecating without being a punching bag. And could he tell stories! He knew how to add the right details and depth at the right time to reel the audience (and his cohosts) into the tale. This is one of the best examples of telling a story with color, drama, and detail you’ll ever hear.
Authenticity: Jerry knew who he was on the air and realized his on-air persona reflected his real-life personality. His on-air character became a larger-than-life version of his real life.
Humble Pride: Jeff and Jer were the driving force of two “worst-to-first” stations I programmed (Q106 and Star 100.7, both in San Diego). After our 22nd-to-1st run in 1997, I asked what he considered their #1 strength. He said,
“The key to our success is sincerity, and when we learned to fake that, we had it made.”
There’s a lot of wisdom in that seemingly flippant, self-deprecating line.
Leadership: He was the heart and soul of the Jeff & Jer Show. He was a leader who looked out for everyone on the show.
I miss you, Jerry. Thank you for being you.
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