TOP NEW TALENT FOR 2018: 10 Questions with Laura ‘Loz’ O’Callaghan

Radio Today has named Laura ‘Loz’ O’Callaghan as a Top New Talent to Watch in 2018 and beyond.

Loz is one of the ‘freshest’ voices on-air at Fresh, and her professional sound has already caught the ear of the likes of Craig Bruce.

Moving from a volunteer at Fresh 92.7 writing copy, co-hosting Wavelength and hosting her own development show (“Loz and Treasure for Your Leisure”), the 26-year-old has been helping Adelaide wake up alongside Mark ‘Thomo’ Thomas for the last three weeks.

But it’s her quick wit, ability to laugh at herself, and a lifetime of listening to Fresh that makes her one to watch.

Below, Loz answers Ten Questions from Radio Today.

• Who/what inspired you to choose a career in radio?

Growing up in a house where storytelling was so important. It was important because my dad is really good at it, and we couldn’t get a word in edgewise unless you were saying something interesting or funny.

• Most memorable on-air moment so far?

I told a story about a really insane date my friend went on with a guy who had an Elmo puppet and serenaded her with an embarrassing song. Then a caller rang through and said she’d been on the exact same date. It was OUTRAGEOUS!

• What was the most awkward moment you had in your early years of radio?

Probably being SO in love with my co-host at Radio Adelaide that I couldn’t speak! I was completely infatuated, we did one show together and I wasn’t asked to do it again!

• What’s one radio skill that you’ve mastered, and what’s one radio skill that you’re currently working on?

The one I am currently working on is making sure I’m actively listening and trying to let go of control in the break and go with the flow.

I like to think I’ve mastered my own turn of phrase. I know how to make a story my own, taking something benign and making it interesting.

• How do you prepare for your shift on-air?

I write down content ideas as they come to me, I imagine the delivery in my mind and then sometimes I might write some dot points for any crucial information I can’t leave out of a story. To lock the show in, we workshop break ideas so they’re on-brand, relevant and relatable, make sure we’re asking a clear and specific question. The majority of our show is locked in the day before, and we fill any topical stuff in on show day.

• How does the person you are on air differ from the person you are off air?

It doesn’t. I’m probably more succinct on-air because there’s less time to elaborate, but other than that, I think it’s really important to be authentic.

I’d say I’m more myself on-air than I am anywhere else. It’s where the weird is encouraged. Your vulnerability is made worthwhile. If you open up, it’s worth it.

• What’s the one piece of advice you were given that you can pass along?

Know who you are and what you stand for and let moments happen. Don’t try to control everything, the best stuff can exist in the spontaneity of the moment.

• Sum up working in radio in three words.

Fun. Challenging. Rewarding.

• What’s your dream radio job?

Breakfast or drive with someone who I’ve got really good chemistry with. That’s all I want!

• If you weren’t working in radio, what would you be doing?

Writing, producing and directing a sitcom. I will still!