We had the good fortune of connecting with Michaela Compton and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Michaela, can you talk to us a bit about the social impact of your business?
As the Radio Content Producer (DJ) of GROUND ZERO, KOCI 101.5 FM, I put the spotlight on Indie Artists / Songwriters. Thus, expanding exposure for original artists who are pounding the pavement to be heard! GROUND ZERO sessions include two hours of original music, interviews, and stories behind the songs. In many cases, artists are invited to perform live during the radio session. KOCI 101.5 FM attracts 70k listeners within Orange County, as well as listeners around the world, streaming live online at www.kociradio.com. KOCI 101.5 FM is a non-profit, community-based radio station located in Newport Beach/Costa Mesa, California. GROUND ZERO airs every Monday from 7:00-9:00 PM PT.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I have been in Radio Broadcasting for eight years. What sets me apart from other broadcasters is my background in the entertainment industry. Growing up in Las Vegas, NV, I was exposed to an entertainment environment that never sleeps. Throughout my life I have been (and still am) a performing vocalist, songwriter, author and entertainment business entrepreneur. My experience as an artist compliments my career as a Radio Content Producer.

Has it been easy to keep going? No! My challenges have included: 1. Moving from the “cover song” environment of Las Vegas to the “songwriter” environment of North Mississippi. 2. Becoming a widow at the age of 38. 4. Losing physical mobility and emotional abilities. 5. Being the single parent of three young children including one with Down syndrome.

Along the way, I have learned that life is short. The healthiest way to deal with that reality is to live life to the fullest, now!

I want the artist and the audience to know how greatly I, GROUND ZERO, appreciate and support the artistic endeavors of original music.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
Most of my friends are musicians or music lovers. If one of them were to visit, we would venture out to the venues that support local music. For example; The Cliffs, The Ranch, and Mozambique in Laguna Beach, Campus Jax in Newport, Writers Round in Los Angeles or San Diego, followed by secluded beaches at sunset!

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I am grateful to these people for the trust and opportunities they have provided me: Tabitha Pitts, UnityTV Broadcasting Network (Booneville/Fulton, MS), Mississippi Radio Group (Tupelo, MS), Rip Morgan and Brent Kahlen, KOCI 101.5FM (Newport Beach/Costa Mesa, CA).

Website: http://www.michaelacomptonmusic.net

Instagram: @michaelacompton_groundzero

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaela-compton-music-1782baa7/

Twitter: @MComptonMusic

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MichaelaComptonMusic/

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JkSHL0_eeoY

Other: “Limey Limericks” by Michaela Compton https://www.amazon.com/Limey-Limericks-Michaela-J-Compton/

Image Credits
Michaela Compton

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