KCRW’s Volunteer of the Month – Mickel Tingley

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Meet Mickel. In this line of work, you come across the most interesting people that have had great experiences. Mickel embodies this idea because his journey so far has been so interesting!  

Where did you grow up and do you have any siblings? Pets?
I am a California native, born and raised in the San Joaquin Valley. The city I am from is the dead center of California, heavy agricultural area and the gateway to Yosemite.
I have had animals all my life growing up but, none at this time.

What 5 things would you wish you had if you were stranded on a deserted island?
My family, chocolate, patients and a sense of humor…

What is your current occupation?
My career has been anchored in international sales and marketing in the footwear and apparel industry but, I am currently unemployed and looking for a new opportunities and beginning the next chapter.

What is your fantasy-occupation?
Isn’t that an oxymoron

When did you first discover KCRW?
To be honest I do not recall exactly but, it was definitely because of the music. This is where it all stated for me when I outgrew the local radio stations – there was no looking back for me.

How did you find your way to our station for volunteering?
The station has given me so much as a listener that I knew I wanted to give more than just my membership, I really wanted to become more involved and explore this interest. Its been one of the best decisions in a long time.

What’s your current volunteer position and how long have you been at it?
I like to consider myself a rover but, I started with the first 2014 summer series Country in the City at the Nikki Lane concert, took my first shift at the Front Desk in May of this year and most recently I have been supporting the wonderful crew in Membership. I am still on call for events and enjoy helping at the events when schedules permit.

Favorite volunteer moment?
There are many for sure. My first personal (selfish) volunteer moment would be while I was working the front desk and I would hear all these familiar voices from the on air programing walk into the Front office and wow I must say this makes me a bit star struck. These folks are legends…
The Volunteer shift moment for me is two parts
1. When I have listeners or members thanking me for helping them.
2. When I feel I have been able to strengthen the team and take something off their plates and their busy schedules.
I am very proud for the opportunity to be a small part of KCRW and all the talent within these magical walls.

Favorite thing to do outside the station ?
Getting crazy!
I am very active outdoors with board sports, mtn biking, travel, exploring new foods, design and most importantly my family Patricia (wife), Cambria (daughter) and Finn (son)

What does KCRW mean to you?
KCRW is a important part of my life as I know it, I rely on it, I depend on it and I enjoy it and sometimes I have a deep connection to a story or interview and cann get emotional. Thanks you KCRW for brightening my day, making Southern California a better place, raising my IQ, and the inspiration…
I hope I can continue to be involved with KCRW and become a bigger part of the team and someday be a part of the history.
I would also like to take this opportunity to thank Danny Sway for the opportunity to volunteer at KCRW and everyone else that continues to help me along the way and learn each and every shift. You guys are rockstars in my book!

And no I didn’t pay him to say those nice words about me or the volunteer program – Mickel’s just a really awesome person. Thanks for all your hard work and help – we’ll see you soon at our events!